The Location
A new kid on the block, Carpe Diem Hostel is run by a team of young and passionate people who believe in creating a lifestyle, not just a business. Situated in the leafy burbs of Zagreb, it is a ten-minute walk from the main square (Trg Ban Jelacic), passing Zagreb Cathedral, bars, restaurants, and supermarkets. The hostel's website has detailed directions for you to follow, so you cannot get lost. There are a number of buses and trams that go towards Carpe Diem.
Rooms and Bathrooms
The mixed dorms are average but colourful, heated, and softly lit. Bunk beds are prepared with cozy duvets, fitted sheets, and small foam pillows. Mattresses are springy and comfortable to a Goldilock standard. While there are small wardrobes in each room, the staff notes that there will be lockers in the near future. A safety deposit box is available at reception to store small valuables. There are two bathrooms and toilets periodically cleaned and stocked with toilet paper that seem to mysteriously disappear. Piping hot water is always available and the pressure is fine. There are some hooks on doors to hang up gear. Towels are available on request. Each guest receives a key to the hostel's front door.
Common Spaces
There is a little secret location of the common room, also called the Chill Out Zone, that staff point out to you upon arrival. A little smoky, a little sneaky, the Zone is a cool place to hang out on comfy couches and not see daylight for a while. Cable television and a few books and brochures are on offer. Free internet is available at reception and Wi-Fi access in all rooms. Next to reception is a tiny kitchen kitted out with pots, pans, plates, mugs, cutlery, an electric stove, and a microwave. All too often these are left dirty for someone else to clean. Step through the back door and you will meet a large, landscaped backyard with enough room to host an acrobatic workshop. There are cane chairs to chill in and washing lines to watch your laundry dry. If you cannot be bothered doing your own washing and drying, staff are more than happy to do it for you at a reasonable price. The atmosphere is casual, relaxed, and cheerful. A guest commented that it is more like crashing at somebody's house than a hostel.
Summary
It is obvious that the guys are enthusiastic in running the hostel and have fun at the same time. They provide loads of information on things to see and do in and around Zagreb. With lively conversations, genuine friendliness, and a little wine, they made us feel right at home. Be warned -- their laughter is infectious.
— Exklusive Hostelz.com Übersicht
April 2008
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