Urban Hive Backpackers

It was easy to find and convenient for my Cape Town trip, but be ready for a lot of stairs. My room didn’t have a locker, and the only explanation I got was that they were all in use. Nobody offered another place to store my things, so they had to stay on my bed. I was shocked by how rude and dismissive the hostess was. At check-in, a gentleman helped carry my suitcase downstairs, but at checkout she wouldn’t let him help, saying he wasn’t working then. When I asked if I couldn’t ask him myself, she brushed me off and said I could go that way if I wanted. If you’ve been there, you’ll know the balcony entrance is behind the reception desk. I hadn’t even spoken to her until that morning. The gentleman had always been the one helping me.

It felt like a little escape from the city I know so well. The community atmosphere was sociable, yet there was plenty of privacy and it stayed peaceful. I’m from the Cape and used it as a discreet love nest.

I spent two and a half weeks here in a private room and had a great time. The hostel brought together locals and visitors, and I made a lot of friends in the balcony meeting area. The Sunday barbecue there was a fun get-together, with some pre-drinks too. You can hear music because it’s on Long Street, as you would elsewhere along the street, but it didn’t bother me. The people and staff were amazing. I’ll keep coming back.

I can’t find anything positive to say. The place was full of sour moods, noise, and people behaving badly, whether they were there for a short time or staying longer. I agree with the honest opinions in earlier reviews. I’m glad I didn’t put off making my decision. Never again 🙏