Chac Mool Hostel

At Chac Mool Hostel, you get a free welcome beer upon your arrival, which makes for a great first impression.

The Location

Located close to the bus station, it is neatly tucked a few blocks away from Tulum Avenue and sits at the corner of wide open plaza. There are abundant restaurants and cheap food stands close by. Local bus transportation is also just a few blocks away, which makes it easy to get to the main strip. Walmart is also within walking distance.

Rooms and Bathrooms

There is a mixture of co-ed and single sex dorm rooms along with private rooms. All dorms are located on the second floor above the restaurant. The dorms consist of bunk beds with varying mattress quality. Inside the rooms are metal lockers large enough to store a medium-sized pack (or a large one if you push really hard). There are plenty of showers and toilets to go around -- however, with the open layout it is hard to get a feeling of privacy. The toilet stalls themselves are a bit cramped and you will find that you are banging your knees against the door. Gymnasium-type showers have hot and cold water. Some of them have hooks and enough room to create a changing area.

Common Spaces

The main common area is the restaurant and bar downstairs. The food at the restaurant is comparable to other restaurants surrounding the area, but cheaper food is available across the plaza at the food stands. The computer area also makes for a great area to meet other travelers. However, with the restaurant downstairs and the main plaza right outside of your window, don't expect to fall asleep too early. There is also a kitchen but all the appliances are rather old and rusting.

Summary

If you're in Cancun and need a place to stay, this hostel is definitely one to consider. While the free breakfast is a bit meager (toast, jam, and coffee), and the interior a bit dark, the overall atmosphere makes up for it. American money is accepted but better exchange rates are given by money change vendors on the streets.

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review