Haven Backpackers Resort

There aren’t an abundance of hostels in Alice Springs since it is a small town, but most serve as a place to stay for one night before leaving for an outback tour -- and Haven Backpackers Resort is no exception. There isn't much of a social atmosphere here, since guests must wake up at 6 a.m. The hostel claims to have free breakfast, which is only tea and toast with jam, butter, and vegemite. But this is one factor that keeps the prices cheap.

The Location

Haven is located a short drive from the Alice Springs Airport. The hostel offers free airport pickup, but you may have to wait an hour or more before the driver actually takes you to the hostel. If you are driving from the airport, you go down the Stuart Highway for fifteen minutes, turn left on Larapinta Drive, and you have arrived. There is plenty of parking if you are driving. The bus station is a fifteen-minute walk, near Todd Street Mall. Located on Larapinta Drive, the hostel is a short walk from K-Mart, across the Stuart Highway, but further out from the few tourist attractions, like Anzac Hill and Todd Street Mall.

Rooms and Bathrooms

Dorm rooms have keycard access and range in size from four- to eight-bed dorms. Most are ensuite and have hairdryers and wire baskets instead of lockers. Bathrooms have a toilet, sink, and shower. The shower isn't enclosed on all sides, so the floors can get very wet. There are two hooks to hang your clothes. There are plenty of electrical outlets in the rooms, as well as reading lamps. Beds are comfortable and come with linens, but you have to rent blankets. Family and female-only rooms are also available.

Common Spaces

Downstairs there are a few couches in the lobby as well as an outdoor pool and picnic area. Upstairs there is a television above the computer area, fitted with Global Gossip Internet. There is also a deck for smokers or anyone else who wants to get some air. Luggage storage is in a giant metal locker outside and the key is stored at reception. Most guests keep to themselves, either sitting outside smoking or using the computers. It's not very social because almost all guests are short-term, staying for one night before leaving for tours.

Summary

This is not the worst hostel to stay in, especially if only for one night before leaving for your tour. The facilities in the hostel are good, but there’s no atmosphere to speak of, since most guests are short-term. There are no rules about outside alcohol, but common areas close at 10 p.m., as does the reception desk.

— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
September 2011