Batavia Backpackers

Batavia Backpackers is right next to the town information center and the drop-off point of the greyhound bus. On entering the reception, we realised that it doubled as a barber shop, with the receptionist cutting hair.

We chose to stay in a double room here as the dorm rooms look a little cramped. The place has recently changed hands and is currently undergoing some form of renovation or rebuilding.

There appear to be a shortage of facilities for females on the upstairs floor, but there are enough for the males. This problem is rectified with just a short walk down the stairs, as there are more facilities there.

Most areas are generally clean, but the kitchen could do with a little more attention. There are places to eat in the kitchen area and also outside. The television area is within the kitchen complex and therefore can be a little noisy if you are trying to watch something. Within the kitchen there are enough hobs and plates for cooking. It is lacking in cutlery though. There are lots of fridges, which is good, as many places do lack enough space for everyone's food. There are also some freezer compartments. They had a free BBQ whilst we were there and on talking to some others staying there, it appears that happens regularly.

The atmosphere is reasonable and most residents are quite chatty. Many workers use this hostel, so be prepared to potentially have some early morning noise. Shops are really close by at about a five-minute walk. We would stay here again if we were in the area.

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