Shoestrings Airport Lodge has a great family feel about it. Situated right next to the airport, the hostel is more of a home than anything. Rob owns and runs the establishment and is always willing to chat and advise on where to go in Johannesburg. Free pick up or drop off from the airport is also a great advantage.
The rooms are very tidy and quite spacious, although you can find cheaper. Whether they are dorms or doubles they are cleaned daily as are the shower areas and bathrooms. Free tea, coffee, and a breakfast (brilliant for early morning flights) are very appreciated and there is always service with a smile. The self-catering kitchen is roomy and there is a well stocked extras cupboard. The internet is reliable and reasonably priced for South Africa.
A sizeable pool lies in the well-maintained garden and in the evening, the cold beers from the fridge and pool table are open to all guests. Johannesburg has a bad reputation but here at Shoestrings you are in a safe neighbourhood in the suburbs and although night-time strolls are still not advisable, the daylight hours are perfectly safe.
It is a quiet little hostel that is well run and managed by friendly people and is perfectly situated for the airport and a night's stop over either as your last or first day in South Africa.
— Exklusive Hostelz.com Übersicht
November 2005