Oostel Smart Hostel

The pool and bathroom were clean, and there was hot water. The location is handy, right by the ADO bus station, and the bed was huge and comfortable. Some staff were really nice, though others wouldn't even say good morning. I felt awful staying here. The hostel's atmosphere was so bad, and I left after two nights of a three-night booking, feeling miserable and depressed about the place. I ended up going elsewhere in town so I wouldn't hate Tulum. The shared room was horrible, nothing like the photos. It was tiny, with no window or natural light and nowhere to put luggage. The lockers couldn't fit luggage either. My bed curtain had mold, and the room smelled bad. Someone was living in the bed above mine, surrounded by a huge mess: cigarettes on the floor, dirty shoes and a plate with food inside the bed. There weren't any social activities. Reception had a sign for a movie night, but when I asked, a guy said it wasn't happening. I think there was a Spanish class too. I only found out when I saw some French people, I think, taking it. The teacher didn't talk to me, and staff never told me about the class. I asked to see the cápsulas, the private “rooms,” and that area was much better than the shared room. I guess the positive hostel reviews may be about that kind of accommodation. Even so, it wasn't like the photos: it had mold, was really small, and needed repainting and renovation. For the price, it was okay. I booked through the website, which said the booking was non-refundable, but there was no mention of that online. I lost a night's payment, but at least I got out of that horrible hostel.

With the bus station right behind it, this hostel is easy to reach and a great base for seeing everything Tulum has to offer. Staff under Miguel's leadership were attentive, helpful and gave good advice that made me feel at home. The beds were comfortable, bathrooms were spacious and plentiful, and the facilities were great. I liked working at the bar, then winding down in one of the pools after a day of exploring. Renting a bike straight from the hostel is easy too. I'd definitely stay here again next time I'm in Tulum.

The building has a distinctive look and a vibe I really liked. When we arrived, they gave us welcome drinks, and later the bartender offered us free shots while a DJ party was happening in the lobby. The private suite was clean and quite nice for a hostel room, so it was a good experience overall. I wouldn't want to stay more than one or two nights, though, because the shower was so bad. The water pressure was the lowest I've ever experienced, and rinsing shampoo out took more than two minutes. There was no toilet paper when we entered. Also, despite the booking description clearly saying breakfast was included, the front desk clerk told me it wasn't. I had to argue about it, and still didn't get the breakfast I'd booked.

I didn't stay here, so I can't speak to the rooms. I stopped by the bar for happy hour, which runs every day from 2-7p. The margarita and other drinks were tasty and hit the spot. The pool area is cute, the server was attentive, and the vibe was relaxed. HAPPY HOUR DEALS !!!