The Hostelz.com Review - Genuine, independent review you can trust.
ABC Hostel is one of the budget choices of the Inle Lake region, yet it's surprisingly pleasant for the price. It is situated a ten-minute walk out of the center, looking out onto beautiful, countryside surroundings. If you're looking for a party hostel, look elsewhere. However, if you wish to chill out away from the touristy town center, then this wouldn't be too bad choice, but don't have high expectations as things are very basic here. The price includes a great breakfast, though, which changes frequently.
The Location
All forms of arrival will drop you off near the river where the town center is located. There is one main bridge that crosses this. You will need to head away from the town and across the bridge to the less-developed side. Follow this road for five minutes as it bends round to the left. When the road bends right, carry on straight down the dirt path. You'll then see the hostel across the field on your right.
Rooms and Bathrooms
All dorm rooms -- especially the ten-bed dorm -- are cramped with little space for anything other than beds and your bags. However, the beds are large and extremely comfy. There are also plug sockets and reading lights for each one. The bathroom area is disappointing, as the six cubicles contain both showers and toilets. Furthermore, some of these showers are hand-held. The big negative, however, is that the hot water -- as well as the electric -- can potentially cut out; this was quickly resolved, however, and the hostel has a backup generator. Wi-Fi is also painfully slow, so you may have to go to a restaurant if you desperately need a fast connection.
Common Spaces
The common area is essentially an outside bar with four high-seated tables. It's unlikely you'll see anyone going crazy here, but you might meet people having a few pre-drinks before heading into town. Relaxing with a book or just chilling out doesn't seem to be common, as it's not very cozy area. Also, despite the large umbrellas, it's unlikely you'll see anyone there if it's raining.
Summary
Considering that at the time of writing this is by far the cheapest hostel, if you're on a tight budget then it's a great option, despite its flaws. It may be difficult to meet people in the outside common area, especially in the monsoon season! But with little space to move in the dorms without bumping into someone, you can easily strike up a conversation with someone there instead.
Photos taken by the Hostelz.com reviewer — Genuine photos you can trust.
Chris
Hostelz.com Staff Reviewer
Published on Sep 23, 2018
Location and Contact
Location
• Address: Yone Gyi Street, Nyaung Shwe, Inle Lake. • JJ bus ticket station from ABC Hostel is only 12 minutes by walking, and Boat station is 3 minutes. Heho Airport is 17 km away. • For more details, please contact the hostel directly. You can find the information in your booking email.