To find Nathan's Villa Hostel from the main train station, turn left out of the front of the building on Pilsudskiego and take your third right onto Swidnicka. You'll see some statues on the corner that look like they're falling into the ground. Continue straight ahead toward the market square, and under a pedestrian underpass. The hostel is located above the KFC on your left. Take the stairs or elevator to the third floor. Being situated above a KFC makes the entire building smell like the Colonel's Secret Recipe. It isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it is nearly omnipresent -- be warned.
You'll find reception straight ahead from the elevator or stairs, along with their two free internet terminals. The hostel is split amongst the third, fourth, and fifth floors of the building, with a common and kitchen on the fifth only. The common room can accommodate twenty people on large comfy couches, and has a big screen TV. The kitchen is well appointed, and serves a free breakfast of toast and jam with tea/coffee from 7 a.m. There is a very spotty wireless signal throughout the building -- reception goes in and out.
There are several bathrooms on each floor, so there is never a queue. There is always plenty of hot water. The hostel is kept in a state of pristine cleanliness -- it's as if they expect the Pope to come by for a visit any time.
Bedrooms are all equipped with large lockers to store valuables. Each bed has its own reading lamp and electrical outlet. The mattresses are superb.
Overall, the staff are pleasant, but upon check-in we were told that their cheap rooms were sold out (the hostel appeared nearly empty). The girl at reception seemed adamant that we take the most expensive room they had. Only by threatening to go elsewhere did we get something cheaper. Be prepared to battle at check-in if you arrive without a reservation.
Nathan's Villa is a good bet -- comfortable beds, a nice common area, and probably the cleanest facilities in Europe. And it smells like fried chicken.
-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
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