Hostel Bailando

I booked a room for two nights, and communication with the owner or contact person was smooth. The trouble started when I got inside the “hostel.” I know a hostel isn’t a hotel, and I’ve stayed in plenty around the world, but there should still be basic standards, especially when they charge so much for a spot right on the Market Square. The shower stall and bathroom ceiling had mold. There were dirty cracks, and electrical outlets were loose and unsecured, not up to basic health and safety standards. The towels were old and full of holes, more like rags. I can accept basic conditions when the price matches, but charging the minimum for the maximum feels sly. I strongly advise against staying here.

The best thing here is the location, just steps from the pedestrian area, cafes, restaurants and nightlife, and close to the Old Market Square. Paid parking is right outside, though it can be hard to find. Mr. Józef at the parking lot was very helpful, and his directions got us there easily. The kitchen equipment was okay, but the place needs to be cleaner. It’s stuffy and poorly ventilated, which bothered us most. A stay with friends should be manageable, but I wouldn’t bring children. If you just need somewhere near the square to explore or party, it’ll do.

For this price, you can find much better. This “pseudo-hostel” was the worst I’ve stayed in in Poznań, and the photos don’t show how bad it is. The kitchen was 11°C, and switching on the heater only brought it up to 13°C. The room was tiny, 2.5 by 2.5 metres, with no TV and just one 220V socket, already occupied by an old oil radiator. The kettle in the kitchen was full of limescale. The bathroom would have been okay if the hot water lasted longer than enough for one and a half people. It was cold there too. The towels were tiny, probably just for your face, and the Wi-Fi kept cutting in and out. Reception hours were unclear. And to top it off, there wasn’t even a wastebasket in the room. Standard: minus 100 :D

I had fond memories of my stay, and the description is accurate, so I’m leaving it as it is. The hostel has three rooms, which meant the kitchen and bathroom weren’t crowded. The double room was small, but at 89 PLN in December 2015, the price was reasonable. There are no TVs or bathrooms in the rooms, but there’s a kitchen with a fridge and a large flat-screen TV, plus coffee and tea. Reception closes at 9:00 PM, as guests are told when booking, and after collecting the key you can come and go 24/7. It’s probably best not to offend the cleaning lady.