The Fragrance Hotel chain has a hostel in Singapore -- Fragrance Backpackers Hostel. When you first arrive, you may think you are in the wrong place -- the guy at reception is in a suit! If you are not familiar with Singapore, you will need a map. But the locals all speak English and are very helpful. Just catch the subway to Bugas or Little India and walk a few blocks.
The Location
The whole area seems very safe -- everyone speaks English so it is easy to ask directions. The hostel keeps a great supply of maps and potential spots to visit. The streets are narrow and many are one way, so it's a little difficult for parking, but great for atmosphere. The footpaths are narrow, but cars just wait patiently if you are walking on the road.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Just like a motel, the cleaner comes in and cleans the bathrooms and bedrooms. They even change the sheets every few days. Each bed has a locker on the wall. They are a little narrow, ok for a suitcase but not much else. The lockers would have been fine if that is all you need to lock up. If there are six people staying in a six dorm room, it may be a little cramped. But at this value who is complaining!
There is a male and female shower block on each floor. There are at least two showers, which have plenty of room, but they need somewhere to keep things off the floor. There are large mirrors with the washbasin.
Common Spaces
The kitchen is clean and a little small, but not many people use it. Little India has so many great (and cheap!) eating places. The TV room is a little small (seating about eight), but again, it is never crowded. We found that there were so many things to do and see, who has time to watch TV! The laundry has two washers and two dryers, and also an iron -- again plenty of room and no waiting time. The computer room has four computers (they charge for these) and is all set up with headphones for Skype. With international phone calls so easy, it was a bit of a draw card.
Summary
This hostel is a great place to stay.
— Exklusive Hostelz.com Übersicht
February 2009
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