Getting your hostel or hotel room
right can make the difference between a relaxed, chilled out traveler
and a tired, moody one. Particularly at the start of your backpacking
adventure you need a place of refuge to escape the persistent touts and
probably the heat of the sun. Bear the following in mind if you're
serious about finding the right pad:
1. Location, location, location: some like it in the heart of the
backpacker ghetto whilst others aim to get among the local folk. Decide
on your location criteria beforehand and head straight there. Is it
worth paying more to be in the heart of the backpacker ghetto if this
means you don't get any sleep? On the other hand, a room in a tourist
hotel serving familiar food can sometimes be all you can handle when
it's all getting too much.
2. Cleanliness is close to godliness, well a good night's kip at
least. It'll be hard to rest your peepers if you're worried about
cockroaches crawling into your pjs! Ask to view a room first. Then take a
good look under the bed. And check the toilet flushes.
3. Learn the phrase "do you have hot water?" in the local lingo. An
ice-cold shower may be invigorating but it's generally not good-mood
enhancing. Having hot water to clean your hands will also ward off nasty
bacteria. In our opinion, steamy showers are most definitely worth the
extra pennies.
4. Check what's included - the room may look smart but unless it
comes with covers and towels you're unlikely to end up a happy bunny.
5. Bargain - aka agree on a price you are happy with. If you are
staying for more than two nights you should be able to wangle a
discount. Don't be afraid to say no then go back later if you can't find
anywhere else.
6. Check the walls go right to
the ceiling. There can be nothing worse than your party animal
room-neighbours rolling in and you hearing every word because the
partition isn't complete. Sounds obvious, but believe me, it's worth
checking!
7. Turn out the light, snuggle down and enjoy!
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