AAA Happy Hostel

Everything! This place is the best hostel I’ve ever stayed at. I love the concept and privacy that the rooms offer. It feels like your own little space while still being a hostel. The beds and sheets are so incredibly comfortable and shower towels are included. There’s a full size mirror in every room as well as a drawer that locks to secure some belongings. What really made my stay was the owner Hansam. I arrived in the middle of the night around 3am and he went out of his way to make sure I reached safely. As a solo female traveller his care was much appreciated. He goes above and beyond to make sure guests are comfortable and taken care of. He’s the only one working there and does not have any staff and is incredibly passionate about the property. He’s only been open for 5 months and has already done so much with the place. He mentioned some plans about future renovations and I’m eager to see what he does with the place. There are a few cats (and now baby kittens) that stay on the property and Hansam takes care of them so well. It is very clear that Hansam is a genuinely good guy. He’s always wanting to help his guests as much as possible, and always helps find the best price for things around town. Overall, I am incredibly pleased with the accommodation and hospitality at AAA. Next time I am in Arugam Bay I will be back.

The value for money is excellent. The location is great - 1 minute from the main road and 3 minutes from the beach. There’s an open kitchen with everything you need, as well as a nice outdoor common area where you can relax and socialise. Very very comfortable bed. Hansam is a very kind host, looking for constructive feedback and making sure to make your stay pleasant. He takes great care of his cat(s).

Disclaimer : this is not something we did not like, but beware that the mosque is near and that you might hear the prayer calling during the night.

Great location in the middle of Arugam bay. Very nice staff and clean.

Poor lighting and no AC unfortunately because very hot in the time we were there

The rooms are so comfortable, everything is clean around the property, quietness rules are enforced, and the owner is friendly and stayed up late to receive me for a very early morning check in. I also met some really good people here. If you’re a privacy conscious budget traveller, this is the place to be.