Pink House Backpackers Hostel

Hidden behind trees and the seedy nightlife of King's Cross is the oddly named Pink House. It's actually in a great location, given that it's not actually on Kings Cross main street, so it's away from that hustle and bustle. However, it is quite within an easy walking distance to the train station. To get here, one has to merely turn left out of the Kings Cross Station and proceed up Kings Cross Road until you reach the spherical fountain. Turn right down the small road here (An ANZ cashpoint is there) and walk down. Pink House is hidden behind some trees.

The hostel is a large, old converted pink Victorian house, with high ceilings and plenty of room. Dorms are large and comfortable, spread over three floors, with sinks and wardrobes. There appear to be many six-bed dorms and a couple four-bed dorms. One gripe here -- when we reserved, we asked for a four-bed dorm. On check in, we were asked if a six was okay, as there were no fours available. Rooms are relatively clean and each floor is cleaned on a different day. The bathrooms are small and cramped, but sufficient. They appear to be cleaned once a day, but there is a significant buildup of mould on the shower walls.

Downstairs, there is largish TV room, with sofas to get comfy in. A huge, overloaded book exchange cabinet resides here also. The kitchen is adequate, but it appears crockery resides in the rooms. This wasn't explained to us. There are also three outdoor seating areas, which are rather pleasant. Pink House also offers free internet access and breakfast, which is always a welcome relief.

The only real downside to the hostel is the overwhelming presence of long-termers. There are a good few people here who have been there for some time and obviously know each other well. This adds to a sense of cliquiness about the place that is a bit hostile to newcomers. If you must stay in Kings Cross, stay at the Pink House, probably the best in the area.

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