HI - Victoria Hostel

The HI - Victoria is located at 516 Yates Street in downtown Victoria on Vancouver Island. From the bus terminal walk north on Douglas Street for six blocks until you reach Yates Street then turn left on Yates and walk for another three blocks. If arriving by air you can take the Akal Airport Shuttle and for a price they will bring you right downtown.

The Hostel offers female dorms, co-ed dorm rooms, and a limited number of private rooms. There is also a massive forty-four-bed, all-male dorm room which is apparently the biggest in Canada! So you may wish to ask at reception for a free pair of earplugs if you are a light sleeping male. Each guest will also be given a locker to keep their belongings safe. Linen is provided and towels will be offered upon request. The hostel has a huge kitchen which has four stoves, two fridges, and four sinks. There is also ample work surface space and all the regular facilities.

The dining area seats over thirty people. There are two spacious lounge areas -- one contains a large book swap section, so feel free to take a book and leave one. You may also choose to play one of the many available board games. There is also a TV room which has cable TV and there are several movies to choose from. There is also a games room which has a coin-operated pool table and two table football. Coin-operated laundry facilities are also provided. The HI - Victoria also has free wireless internet and two computers with paid internet access.

Reception is open twenty-four hours a day, and the staff will happily book tours, sightseeing packages, and offer tourist information regarding Victoria and the surrounding area. They may even offer you a discounted price on some tourist activities. The hostel has several rules and regulations. Drinking and partying are both highly discouraged. Food and drink are not permitted in the TV lounge and sleeping quarters.

The male washrooms and showers are closed everyday for cleaning between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., which seems a bit excessive. Quiet hours start at 11 p.m., but you will not need to venture far if you wish to go out as there are several clubs, pubs, and bars all within easy walking distance of the hostel.

This HI is incredibly clean, offers great facilities, and has a good central location. It's not the place for those looking to party all night, but others will most likely find this hostel a great base to explore the charming city of Victoria.

— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
April 2007