Chelsea Center East

Bedbugs
Swayed by mostly positive reviews, I booked a nine-night stay at the Chelsea Centre East. I ended up leaving on my third. First, the dorm advertised as containing six to twelve people actually contained fourteen. Another "private room" in the back was actually just a hastily curtained off section containing even more beds. On my second night, I had found my bed pushed aside and my things knocked over in order for them to fit another bed. The hostel's biggest problem is its cleanliness. Along the crevices of the walls you immediately see tiny insects crawl. Then the best part. Following my second night at the hostel, I found bites over my feet, arms, and legs. I originally thought they were from the parks in NY and not the hostel, but either way I had enough of my stay at the Chelsea East and made reservations to move out the next day. Due to the short notice, I had to stay another night at the Chelsea East and my suspicions were confirmed when I awoke the next day with even more red bumps along my arms, feet, legs, hands, and even my ears. The manager of the hostel, a young gentleman named Reese, was not at all sympathetic when I informed him about my problem and would only offer one night's refund ($35). Picking a hostel to stay in in NYC may be tough, but the choice where not to stay isn't.

I adored this place! The most awesome party hostel ever!
Ok, if you're a clean freak or a princess, don't bother. This place is budget but it is the most awesome party hostel where you will make the most amazing friends. I didn't want to leave! The staff are so friendly, everyone is living on top of one another and they're all having a great time! You can go out drinking or stay in drinking or just hang out -- there is always someone around to be your friend. Being cooped up in a communal space is the most brilliant thing any solo traveler could ask for! A must if you're traveling alone.