The Highlands

The Highlands is a central, river-facing hostel run by the owner and full-time manager. Both are personable, knowledgeable and helpful -- they run tours, arrange transport, and have even translated menus for the nearby restaurants. The hostel is newly decorated and furnished, the building in good repair, and is cleaned thoroughly everyday.

The communal area has internet access, stereo, DVDs, TV, books, and lots of comfy sofas. It has a very laid back, friendly atmosphere and attracts travelers of all ages. There is a laundry service (ours was ready within two hours of arrival!), breakfast is included in the room rate, and throughout the day there are baskets of fruit, fresh coffee brewing, filtered water, and daily newspapers. All rooms are spacious, five out of the six private rooms (double/triple) have air-con, although one private room is a windowless fan room. The large, very spacious dorm has safety lockers and its own seating area and toilet.

Arriving from certain directions it can be tricky to spot the hostel's sign, high up on the side of the building. Look for the doorway to the left of Wheels bar, adjacent to the river. There is a paper sign at the entrance, and the hostel is on the third floor. A taxi is necessary from the long distance bus terminal.

We found the intimate nature of this hostel one of the best we have stayed in. David, the owner, drove us around the city at no cost to help with some errands, and we were presented with a full size cake on a birthday to share with the other guests. It's highly recommended and for obvious reasons, extremely busy -- so do book ahead!

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review