Botanik Hostel

Pretty much everything, except some exclusions. Definitely value for money.

Communication issue, this part has large room for development

Hostel did not provide breakfast - it was clearly stated, but there were clean utensils (plates, glasses, knives etc) an facilities (electric kettle, stove etc) to prepare one. Coffee and tea were provided!

Nothing to dislike.

- The location is really good - it is easy to get to the town center from here - The staff was impressively quick to respond to my questions

The mattress was a bit too soft for my personal liking. However, if you prefer a plush, soft bed, you’ll likely find it very comfortable!

I aim at detailed reviews which are helpful. It's obvious some effort has been put into the place. The bed, pillow, cover, desk, they are fine. The general layout of the building works. It's relatively quiet outside in the night. The price was ok (can be great depending on when you book). The place looks generally fine. There's a kitchen but I only took a look at it through the door. The location is good if you aim at that part of the city. Some more communication from the receptionists would help them leave a better impression. They were responsive (minimally but sufficiently) and sent the needed info on time. I would suggest communicating over Booking instead of SMS -- international travellers might appreciate both, as a matter of fact. I prefer Booking's chat.

For me, it was borderline comfortable. The doors... They can't be closed quietly. Even with special effort (using the card to unlock electronically and then close the door), they still shut kind of noisily. Simply closing the doors seems to be possible with bang only. I could not sleep because of guests shutting their doors. The floor and the bed under the mattress need better cleaning. There is an unpleasant smell in the room. The bathrooms are mixed m+f and on top of this, toilets and showers and sinks are all together, split by thin separators (not walls), which additionally restricts the privacy. No place to leave washing liquids etc. Pretty narrow toilet boxes. The shower with the button... It's been a while since I've seen one of those. They are not convenient. The location did not work that well for me although it was a conscious choice, a place near the Botanical garden. The weather plays a role too if it's rainy. Then there is nowhere to go without taking a longish trip. I know location is what it is and the place can't do much about it. The check-in hours as announced on the website are too narrow. I am sure the place is flexible but still, guests can feel pressured. It's an easy fix. The cameras everywhere are intrusive. There was one looking straight into my room when I opened the door. Also, they generate a sense of insecurity -- either there is a certain risk coming from guests, or a risk coming from the owners. This is not good. I don't think it's suitable for families with young kids.