Location
HI - YHA Cardiff Hostel is about a mile or so from the city center. From center of town, head north between the University and Bute Park until you reach Corbett Road. Turn right and take Corbett over the railroad tracks. Follow the bend of the road (now Cathays Terrace) to the left and continue north for half a mile. Cross Whitchurch/Crwys and continue on, keeping the cemetery to your left. Continue to bear left as you go down a small hill and once you reach Wedal Road, the hostel will be visible across the street.
Common Areas
The hostel reception is open between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., but there are keycards for guests and a code for the front door after hours, so no worries there. The common room, self-serve kitchen, and bathrooms are all ok, but be forewarned that bedrooms can be a bit on the warm side. The hostel also has pay internet access -- just inquire at the front desk. The best thing about the hostel is probably its breakfast buffet, included in the price of a night's stay. Cereals, fruit, yogurt, juice, cold cuts, cheese -- you name it, it's probably there!
With many foreign-born staff members as well as foreign visitors, the hostel maintains a distinct air of internationality. The staff are especially friendly, too, so you probably won't feel like some faceless guest. Stumble upon the staff quarters by mistake (it's near the bike storage) and maybe you'll be invited in for some conversation and a glass of wine! For its size, Cardiff can actually be a little on the sleepy side, even with a wealth of attractions. But that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Summary
If you're looking to explore Wales' largest city on a budget, then the YHA Cardiff is definitely a worthwhile option for you! Rates at the YHA Cardiff are very reasonable when compared to other urban centers, especially those in the British Isles. Factoring in the quality of the breakfast spread makes it an even better deal.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
January 2009
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