Houston International Hostel, Houston, USA

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The Houston International Hostel is conveniently located within walking distance of several museums, light rail and bus service. Other than museum cafes, coffee shops seemed non-existent and other eating establishments were hard to find.

Staff seemed friendly, but the atmosphere wasn't what you expect of a youth hostel. Several people staying there were generally people looking for work in the city or pulling themselves up out of other difficult life circumstances. There were some actual travelers, but not as many in the mix as you might expect. The day I left I found people sleeping in the main lobby on the furniture and on the floor.

The woman in the bunk above me had bed bugs and asked for replacement bedding the first night I arrived. The building is old and not particularly well maintained, but the price fit a very limited budget. Granted, youth hostels aren't meant to be luxury accomodations, but it seemed that the very bare minimum was done to keep it up. I could hear critters of some sort running around above me when I was in the bedroom and the bathroom. The kitchen seemed to be in use by more long term residents most of the time, so it didn't seem particularly welcoming to use.

Security was lacking. The outside lock was supposedly locked at 11pm, unless someone informed the staff they would be coming in after 11pm. Then the door would be left unlocked. There was no option to lock the room yourself if you were going out and noone else was there. I just kept my valuables with me at all times.

They could use more clarification and introduction to the facilities and available services. The info was provided if you asked.

I wouldn't recommend it unless you truly don't have a better affordable option. Be sure to bring your own bedding.

Overall

2

Location

4

Cleanliness

2

Value

3

Facilities

3

Service

3

marykbu stayed here in Mar '09