Dolce Vita Hostel

Dolce Vita Hostel is owned by the same people that have the Derry Independent Hostel. It caters to couples that like the socialization of a hostel but don't want to be in a dorm and feels more like a bed and breakfast than a hostel. The owners are not on-site but are available by phone for any problems. The condition of the building itself is very nice -- it is either well maintained or updated or both. It is a lovely place to stay.

The Location

The location is excellent. It is just around the corner from the Derry Independent Hostel. It is a few minutes' walk from the center of town and the bus station and it is very easy to find. Nearby are restaurants and pubs. There is free parking available.

Rooms and Bathrooms

They have five twin/double rooms and one four-bed dorm, all of which share three bathrooms. All the rooms are good sized, cheerful, and clean with plenty of personal space and natural light. The beds are comfortable. The bathrooms are clean and there is plenty of hot water. When traveling alone, the room is expensive because there is no price reduction for singles -- you must pay the same as when two people share a room.

Common Spaces

The kitchen and dining room are lovely and so is the garden. The kitchen is very well set up, spotless, and easy to use. The dining room is inviting for sharing meals and guests cook and eat together in a comfortable setting. The lounge is just ok, but it is a good place to meet people and hang out or watch television. While there is no party atmosphere here -- it is quiet and very relaxing after a full day of seeing the sites of Derry -- it does have a very friendly social environment. There is free breakfast and free internet as well. The decor is a bright Indian or Moroccan style -- you may even forget you're in Northern Ireland.

Summary

This hostel is really nice, especially if you are traveling as a couple and like the hostel environment for meeting people and socialization but not the dorm sleeping arrangement. As a single traveler, we don't find it to be as good of a value, since there is no price reduction for only one person in a room. The owners are very helpful with tour information, bus schedules, and restaurant recommendations. Best of all, the hostel is non-smoking.

Review by S. Topf

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