Duo Nomad - Hostel

The hostel itself was okay, just a hostel, but the staff are what stuck with me. I went about three years ago. Helen was at the front, and I barely remember the names. They were intensely rude, but also had really good vibes, and I liked them a lot. There was a shorter guy who called me Kenny from South Park. They seemed like good people in what I assume is a somewhat risky job, living around strangers all the time. I wonder if the staff have changed since then, probably, but I’d go back just to hang out with them again, even if they wouldn’t remember me. I’d recommend staying two or three nights at most.

There’s a small rooftop patio, and they give you a tour of the house, which is nice. You can cook or heat your own food in the kitchen, and they’ll store your luggage for free after checkout. The two people I met who manage the place were friendly and well spoken. Breakfast is just pancakes. Wi-Fi was strong, the bathrooms and showers were clean, and there’s a nearby park. The wharf is a great place to hang out, about a 20-minute walk away. Eastern Markets metro is around a five-minute walk. The main drawback is the bathroom ratio: three unisex washrooms for the whole house, plus two men’s showers and two women’s showers for roughly 20 dorm beds. You may have to wait. They don’t supply shower gel or shampoo, so bring your own. The lockers are tiny, really only big enough for a backpack. The mattresses aren’t great and creak a lot when you turn. At $72, I expected a better mattress.

Kerry was so kind and hospitable. I had a great time traveling on my own, and felt well looked after. The hotel is cute, and the common areas have lots of lovely features. I’ll remember this trip fondly because of this place. The beds felt awkward and could be sturdier. Even though I’m used to international hostels, I expected a little better quality for such a luxurious road. Curtains on each bed, or some other bit of privacy, would help. Thanks!

The location saved me money, with lots of places to eat within walking distance. The big guy running the dorm was friendly and gave helpful suggestions for food and things to see. The price felt well worth it. Maria checked me in on my first night and followed the identity check procedure. I was caught off guard because I’d come from another state and didn’t have my passport, but the check made me feel safer. The rooms were nice and had AC, and the bunk beds were comfortable. Breakfast was pancakes with lemonade and coffee, a lovely way to wake up.