The Hostelz.com Review
A paloma is a tasty tequila-based drink, but if a crazy party is what you’re looking for, Las Palomas probably isn’t your spot. This hostel has a homey feel with a welcoming and friendly local staff that truly wants you to enjoy your stay. But perhaps the name is suitable after all -- “paloma” means “dove” in Spanish, and this hostel definitely provides a peaceful stay.
The Location
A five-minute taxi ride from the main bus terminal or a five- to ten-minute walk from the town center down the street Guadalupe-Victoria takes you to Las Palomas. It's camouflaged among similar colorful concrete exteriors, so look for the hostel sign, or else you might mistakenly walk right by. To find the hippies, ex-pats, good coffee, and fun bars this town is known for, you will need to walk back toward the center. A taxi ride is not necessary.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Las Palomas offers several room options, although they’re all rather basic. Dorm rooms have the standard hostel bunk beds and there is the option to stay in a room with or without a bathroom. However, this makes little difference as there is only one floor and the rooms are all centered around an open area, so nothing is too far away. There are a few private rooms with the option of a double bed or a double bed and a single bed. The rooms are rustic, but very clean and well maintained. The bathrooms (though sometime lacking hot water) are modern and very clean.
Common Spaces
The beautifully landscaped and colorful patio is the main social attraction. With several tables off to the side, a fireplace, plants, and a tiny pond with a turtle (how cute!), this is where the action happens. The patio is large enough to kick a soccer ball around or participate in the offered salsa lessons. If the weather is bad, there is also a lounge room with a large TV and DVD player (there is a movie store across the street from the hostel) and free internet access (they also offer free Wi-Fi). This is also where they store luggage for the day if requested. There is a sign that says a small fee will be charge to store luggage and use hostel facilities after checkout time (11 a.m.), but enforcement is not strict.
The kitchen is small but well stocked with plates, cups, and silverware. The free breakfast includes bread (nothing to write home about) and coffee. There is also purified water available, convenient since drinking tap water in Mexico is not recommended.
Summary
Las Palomas is a small, cute hostel with a local feel. Though not the cheapest option, it isn’t expensive and is definitely worth the while.
The Location
A five-minute taxi ride from the main bus terminal or a five- to ten-minute walk from the town center down the street Guadalupe-Victoria takes you to Las Palomas. It's camouflaged among similar colorful concrete exteriors, so look for the hostel sign, or else you might mistakenly walk right by. To find the hippies, ex-pats, good coffee, and fun bars this town is known for, you will need to walk back toward the center. A taxi ride is not necessary.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Las Palomas offers several room options, although they’re all rather basic. Dorm rooms have the standard hostel bunk beds and there is the option to stay in a room with or without a bathroom. However, this makes little difference as there is only one floor and the rooms are all centered around an open area, so nothing is too far away. There are a few private rooms with the option of a double bed or a double bed and a single bed. The rooms are rustic, but very clean and well maintained. The bathrooms (though sometime lacking hot water) are modern and very clean.
Common Spaces
The beautifully landscaped and colorful patio is the main social attraction. With several tables off to the side, a fireplace, plants, and a tiny pond with a turtle (how cute!), this is where the action happens. The patio is large enough to kick a soccer ball around or participate in the offered salsa lessons. If the weather is bad, there is also a lounge room with a large TV and DVD player (there is a movie store across the street from the hostel) and free internet access (they also offer free Wi-Fi). This is also where they store luggage for the day if requested. There is a sign that says a small fee will be charge to store luggage and use hostel facilities after checkout time (11 a.m.), but enforcement is not strict.
The kitchen is small but well stocked with plates, cups, and silverware. The free breakfast includes bread (nothing to write home about) and coffee. There is also purified water available, convenient since drinking tap water in Mexico is not recommended.
Summary
Las Palomas is a small, cute hostel with a local feel. Though not the cheapest option, it isn’t expensive and is definitely worth the while.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
April 2009
Their Description
Hostel Las Palomas Details
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Hostel Las Palomas Reviews on Other WebsitesHostelz.com Guest Reviews
Best place we have stayed in Mexico This was an epic hostel. We arrived at night and were greeted by the friendly family that runs the place. They set us up with a map of town and a list of things to visit. The place was immaculately clean with a really large open courtyard where you could read or get on their Wi-Fi internet. They also have a little common room with a TV. The rooms remind you of being in a mountain cabin and are very basic but comfortable. The kitchen is very nice, and there is free toast and coffee in the morning. I parked my car on the street outside at night and had no problems. The location is excellent as well being about a five-minute walk from the absolute center of town. Most of all, the staff were really nice and hard working and cool. If you go to Mexico, you have to go to San Cristobal de las Casas, and you have to stay at Hostel las Palomas. My buddy and I have driven from San Francisco, California, down through Guatemala, and this hostel has been the highlight of our trip. — David , United States (2008-05-13)