Talal Hostel

The manager dealt with the problems quickly and apologized for the mix-up. I think the place is usually well run, and the location is great. He was also helpful with explaining cheap bus travel around Lebanon, and would write destinations and maps in Arabic so you could show them to drivers who don’t always speak English. There were a few issues during my stay. The computer system apparently broke, so they initially misplaced my reservation. My airport pickup scheduled for 2:20am never arrived, and when I got to the hotel it was locked, so I had to buzz and wake someone. My email booking said $40 per night for a double room with private bathroom, but at checkout I was almost charged $45 per night, which they said was the current correct price. The room was cozy and good value at $40 a night.

The staff were especially friendly and helpful. I had trouble getting cash from the ATMs, and they did their best to help me. The hotel has a very good atmosphere, and it’s within walking distance of the city center and most landmarks.

It’s cheap, but the owner is a terrible person, and I wouldn’t stay here if you want to enjoy your holiday. Female travelers told me the owner had sexually harassed them, and said it had happened more than once. The owner seems to care only about money. Wi-Fi isn’t free, and you have to mop the toilet yourself after bathing. The owner also has no integrity about prices. It was almost impossible to pay the amount shown on the booking website. I really recommend finding somewhere else, because this place can ruin your whole holiday.

We had a good time here. The owner and employee were kind and really helpful, and the hostel is very cheap and close to the city center. We chose the cheapest option, a room for three, and even during the hot August weather it stayed fresh and comfortable. Shops and Lebanese restaurants are nearby. The restaurants are very cheap and still open at midnight if you get a little hungry. There’s also a station close by with buses or minibuses connecting to northern cities like Tripoli and Byblos, plus some awesome rooftops nearby. The cheapest option has a shared bathroom. They kept it clean, but of course guests need to follow the shared rules to make things easier for everyone.