Hostal La Casa de Paco

I kept extending my stay and ended up doing it three times. Hostal de Paco is a great spot, with friendly, knowledgeable staff, kolibries in the garden, a well-equipped kitchen, and a place to do sports or meditate out back. The beds are clean. 100% recommended.

Paco’s helpful, friendly service is what made us love the place. He let us keep our motorcycle in the courtyard, which was a huge plus, and took time to explain the city map, where to go, how to get there, and what to pay. There’s a basic continental breakfast included, with some fruit, a piece of toast, and coffee or tea. We’re hardcore carnivores, so we went to a nearby cafe for a $2 breakfast, but the hostel’s offering should suit people who eat lightly in the morning. Our private room cost $20 a night and was spacious, with one large bed and a set of bunks. It was a little run down but very comfortable. The hostel is cozy and centrally located, about a 5-10 minute walk from the main parts of town. The showers have hot water, and they provide free filtered water. My only complaint, which is why I gave it 4/5, is that there was mold in the room and bathrooms that really needs cleaning.

There’s plenty of communal space and the bedrooms are nice and big. The kitchen is the best equipped one I’ve come across in a hostel, and breakfast is included for free. It’s a laid-back place, a short walk from the center, with lots of tours available and friendly, helpful staff.

The owner helped us with everything, from figuring out the bus and market to finding a restaurant. We felt welcome from the moment we walked in, and that made it hard to leave. We had a great stay, and he was the nicest. I want to come back to San Cristobal just to return «home» to this hostel.