Poplar Lodge

Poplar Lodge has a very homey feel about it -- from its location on a leafy residential street to its comfy sofas in the lounge. Like Arrowtown itself, the hostel has a very relaxed atmosphere and it's the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of Queenstown, only thirty minutes' drive away.

The hostel dorms are all small dorms with not more than four beds to a room. The beds are a mixture of metal frame bunks and non-bunks. Singles, doubles, and twin rooms are also available, with some rooms en-suite. The communal bathrooms are all modern and spacious with good, hot showers.

The bedrooms are roomy and generally comfortable, though a few of the mattresses may be a little soft for some people. All beds are fully made up with sheets and duvets and there are blankets in all rooms for the cooler months. And, if that isn't enough to keep you toasty warm, hot water bottles are available and at least some beds have electric blankets.

If you're a light sleeper you may want to avoid the downstairs rooms as the kitchen and living room are right above these and you may be kept awake by the noise of footsteps overhead. The internet terminal is also located downstairs and, despite a note asking people not to use it after 9 p.m., you may also be disturbed by people chatting whilst checking their email.

The kitchen may not be the most modern, but is clean, well equipped, and very well maintained. There's plenty of room to prepare meals on the work surfaces or long kitchen table and there are two hobs and an oven/grill for cooking. There is a microwave, too -- though it's not the easiest to operate and some written instructions would be a really good idea. Though there is only one sink in the kitchen there is another sink in the little utility area just off the kitchen.

The lounge is comfortable with plenty of seating and a dining table. As well as a folder full of information there are plenty of books, a few games, and a TV to keep you entertained. Because the communal area is all open plan, it can get a little noisy when people are cooking, watching TV, and having conversations. So, if you're looking for a quiet spot, you'd just better hope there's no one in your dorm. Alternatively you could find some peace and quiet by taking a stroll through the town centre, with its beautiful little buildings and great chocolate shop. In the fall, Arrowtown glows with the colour of the changing leaves and you can enjoy this vibrant display of autumn colours from the hostel garden or the large living room windows.

To get to Poplar Lodge, head into Arrowtown town centre and turn right into Buckingham Street. Follow the road past all the shops and across the junction. Take the first left into Merioneth Street. Poplar Lodge is at the end of the road on your left.

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review