Akinabalu Youth Hostel

Akinabalu Youth Hostel is a clean, spacious, and kindly run hostel. Situated in the center of Kota Kinabalu, and amongst a handful of other backpacker type hostels, Akinabalu provides a comfortable retreat from the heat of the city and a welcoming atmosphere after a day of island hopping. The staff are organized and quick to assist with guest inquiries. This moderately sized hostel is secure and well monitored, with a staffer always available. A simple breakfast of toast with jam, instant coffee, and tea is provided.

The Location

Kota Kinabalu is a modest town and often the first stop for many travelers seeking to explore Borneo -- it's an easy, eight-kilometer taxi ride from the airport to the doorstep of Akinabalu. Catching a bus from the airport is possible, but will require a near two-kilometer walk to the station from the airport (while city traffic can be swift, drivers are considerate and drive on the left). Just outside the hostel's door are several restaurants and a supermarket is a few blocks away. While the town is very walkable, taxis and bus service is readily available, and Akinabalu is ideally situated.

Rooms and Bathrooms

Dorm rooms are clean, mixed-sex, double bunks with the option for air condition or fan only rooms. Metal-framed beds can be a bit squeaky, while mattresses run on the thin side. Linens are good and included in the rate. There is traffic noise present from the nearby thoroughfare. Travelers are provided their own room key, and entry into the hostel is by electronic numeric code.

Rooms are not wheelchair accessible and many rooms require climbing a few flights of stairs. There are no lockers in the rooms, however a secure room for luggage and valuables is located at reception. Shared showers are spacious with good pressure and hot water, and the restrooms are well maintained as the hostel is cleaned daily.

Common Spaces

In lieu of a full kitchen, the common room is large, comfortable, and a great place to meet other travelers with several tabletops, chairs, and couches about where you can have a snack, work with a laptop, or simply read a book. Two computers are provided free for guests and internet service, including Wi-Fi, is reliable. There is also a decently sized television with DVD player but channels are limited. Nearby is a hot-water dispenser with complimentary tea and coffee. Snacks and cold beverages, including beer and soft drinks, are available for purchase. There is also dining and silverware for guest use.

Summary

This is a clean and well-run hostel that provides a good value for the budget minded traveler in a secure and spacious setting. Easily accessible in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Akinabalu Youth Hostel provides comfortable accommodation with a friendly and knowledgeable staff to assist the novice traveler and the seasoned expatriate.

— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
February 2011