Lazy Lizard Hostel

A lazy-looking lizard adorns the sign of Lazy Lizard Hostel in Moab, UT, giving the place a leisurely state of mind. Upon arrival, one may find guests and staff lounging out front at the picnic table, having a smoke and sharing a story. Walk inside and find a kitchen, an internet machine, and a living room nestled next to the front desk on the small amount of square feet on the first floor. Although limited in space, the coaches are comfortable and serve as an unavoidable place to meet guests and talk about the day's hiking and biking explorations. The hostel also has a video collection and cable TV.

The $9 a night it costs to stay in the hostel dorm rooms is cheap, and their website reads, "people wonder how we do it." Although the bedrooms, kitchen, and living room are sparse but clean, the bathroom has bugs in the windowsills and some dirty areas, and the outdoor bathrooms are campground-like. The lockers are dirty and go unused. The hot tub is not working. No sheets or towels are offered to guests, but the beds do have blankets, although they don't appear to be washed regularly. The building itself is slightly run-down.

Seeing the staff hanging around, reading, or talking most of the time is a clue to how the place runs. However, it is a livable place, and the un-kept areas suggest an inviting go-at-your-own-pace atmosphere. The staff is generally friendly and helpful, willing to invite guests to join their evening picnic table socializing. Other guests participate in the low-key state of mind, saying hi, sharing stories, and telling each other the best places to go. There are other economy places to stay in Moab, probably worth a few extra bucks for the cleanliness, but lacking in atmosphere.

The hostel is a short walk from downtown, no more than two miles. Located along Highway 191, it is not visible from the road because it is located behind A-1 storage units. However, there are signs that clearly label the hostel's driveway. Private cabins and rooms are available. For day travelers, showers are available for $2 a use.

Review by Nina Weiss

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