A former cinema situated in the centre of Alice Springs, YHA Pioneer has a fantastic location, just seconds away from the main shopping street, Todd Street Mall.
Most of the dorms are arranged in a motel-style setup, with access from the outside to each room individually. Communal facilities include a fairly small, basic kitchen with a larger dining area and TV / common room. There is also a swimming pool which is quite small, but great for a quick dip to escape the heat!! The dorms are air-conditioned during the summer months and security is very good. Each dorm can be locked and there is a security gate into the hostel itself. This hostel is quite popular with older travellers and lacks the 'party' atmosphere found at others in the area.
Access to the hostel is ok - it's around 10 minutes walk from the bus station (Greyhound) and 20 minutes from the train station. Alternatively, there are plenty of taxis. There are also shuttle buses from the airport. Being so close to the shops, the hostel itself doesn't really sell supplies (except cold drinks), but there are three large supermarkets within a five minute walk of the hostel. The reception area has internet access and will also book tours in the local area or further afield. If you're heading off on a trip to the outback and returning to Alice, they will store your luggage while you're gone.
The only complaint about this hostel is the price. Although not extortionate, there are many other hostels in the area that are much cheaper and just as good, but also offer added incentives such as free pick-ups, etc.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
August 2004
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