Hostelling Colonial

Uruguay, a country often forgotten by the gringos who roam around South America. Ok, the country does not have many sites that would make the top 5 on the continent, but it is definitely worth a visit. From Buenos Aires (Argentina) there are buses and fast ferries to both Colonia and Montevideo. Colonia is a very small but lovely city of 30.000 and is officially called Colonia del Sacramento and worth the hop across the Rio Plata from the Argentinean capital.

This hostel, easily found on General Flores, one of the only five parallel street that run the length of the small peninsula, where the city is situated on. It used to be Hotel Colonial but was converted in a hostel in 2002. If lost, ask directions for the post office and it is right across from there.

The rooms are situated on two levels around a small uncovered patio and are roomy enough. There are four beds per dormitory and a few single or double rooms are availble. The beds have excellent mattresses and good pillows, and the blankets and sheets are new and spotless. There is a fan in the room for some ventilation on hot days. Most rooms only have windows in the colonial doors, so there is not too much daylight coming in.

The two showers and toilets are simple but functional and clean. Hot water was always available. The common room with tv and free internet has about the most uncomfortable chairs I have ever sat on, unless you are behind the internet.

The staff is helpful and friendly, and the hostel is one of the more popular ones in town and therefore often full. Even when full, the place is quiet and not a party place at all, so everybody gets a good night rest without complaints.

All in all I recommend this hostel if you happen to visit Colonia. Be different, go Uruguay.

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