On My Way Hualien Hostel

Dumbo Hostel is just a three-minute walk from Hualien Train Station, so getting there and catching public transport, including for places like Taroko Gorge, is easy. It’s a friendly, social, budget-conscious place where it’s easy to meet other travelers, swap tips, and feel at home with the hosts. The staff can help in English with maps and local suggestions. Breakfast is free and is often praised for being delicious, with traditional Taiwanese dishes such as congee and Taiwanese fruits. They offer bicycle rentals for exploring Hualien City and nearby coastal bikeways. Sometimes independent guests may get the first two hours free; otherwise, a day rate of NT$150TWD is often offered for a daily or longer rental, or through a tour package, so check when you arrive. Dumbo Hostel is well regarded for its warm welcome, social atmosphere, value, and convenient location.

I had a lot of fun here and made friends. I hung out and explored with other guests, and I’d definitely come back next time I’m in Hualien. It’s a family-run hostel with a great atmosphere; the hosts are friendly, helpful, and give good tips about tours and food. The train station is just a few minutes away on foot. Breakfast is free, sometimes self-serve and sometimes freshly made, depending on the day. The traditional Taiwanese breakfast was so good. There are bike rentals too, along with lots of books and board games. This is probably the best hostel I’ve stayed at so far.

I paid TWD5,800 for six nights in a 10-person mixed dorm, and I don’t think that was reasonable for what was offered. The bunks were poor quality, the curtains were attached with pins, the sockets wouldn’t hold adapters, it got extremely hot at night, and the hostel was by a very loud street. I found hostels in Hualien without those problems for half the price, and I later got a six-person female dorm for half the cost, with great internet and lovely staff. I don’t think the price is justified, especially since the hostel relies on volunteers who work there in exchange for free accommodation. The staff are lovely and listened to me and tried to make up for the inconveniences, but I still don’t think the high rating is deserved or that the price matches what they offer. I’m sorry to leave this review.

The common area is arranged in a way that gets you talking to other guests, and it was very social when I stayed. Staff were helpful and had plenty of suggestions for activities and places to eat. The rooms and bathrooms were basic but very clean, and they provided some toiletries, including body wash, shampoo and conditioner, and face wash. I had a great time at Dumbo!