Don Bosco Guesthouse

I was already hungry when I realized every room had a coffee pot, and the night worker had the keys, so he could have brought one over. When I asked him where to get hot water, he said I should have asked the women earlier because it wasn’t his responsibility. I’d asked them before, since I wanted coffee in the morning, and they’d said there should be an electric kettle in my room. I couldn’t find one, but I said I’d look again. I paid for a third night, then went out to shop, get coffee, and eat. During my two nights there, my room wasn’t cleaned or the bed made while I was out, and I had to request the complimentary bottled water. The night man seemed lazy and useless, just there for the pay, and mostly sat in his chair. I also saw him yell at a customer or worker over a misplaced key. I was covering for my man who got into an accident.

I stumbled across this place about halfway up a street in the red light district. That didn’t cause any trouble for me, though, and nobody hassled me. The people were lovely, and the rooms were great for the price.

The staff were nice and helpful, and it’s within walking distance of the bus terminal, shops, and everything else. My room was spotless, including the bathroom, though there was a slight air-freshener or similar smell. For what you pay, it’s absolutely fabulous, as long as you remember this isn’t a five-star hotel.

The constant megaphone calls from peddlers and the noise through the night made the location hard to put up with. The neighbors were loud and arrogant, and the police are also neighbors of the guesthouse. I felt watched every time I came in, so I didn’t bring any guests back. People smoke despite the no-smoking signs. Half the staff were great, but beware ms. Smiley, who kept laughing and smiling and couldn’t communicate even using translate or be down to earth with me. It’s a nice place in a truly awful spot, maybe fine for a one- or two-night stop. The hotel school is a bit better all around. I think they should relocate, because this is a horrible place to bring tourists in and out. I’m not usually one to complain, but wanted to share my honest experience for anyone it might help. I stayed for over a week.