You have to know the environment you're about to enter when you stay at a hostel. I think I just forgot. It had been over five years since my last stay in one, so this was a bit of a shock.
I don't think I really have the right personality for sleeping with strangers. I had some random girl above me in a bunk-bed format (she seemed nice, but it was still too weird for me!), and there's no privacy aside from a curtain that you can put up around your bed. Unless, of course, you book a private room....which I should have done!
Shared bathrooms are down the hall. For a hostel, they're quite clean and tidy. They even stock hair dryers! Many of the budget properties we stayed in this month did NOT have such lush accommodations.
A light breakfast is included in the rate, but you do need to pay 2 euro to rent a towel. You'll get a locker for your belongings.
Staff here was very friendly. One of the current staffers is even from Philly!
Keep in mind that this hostel is situated right on the main square in Catania. You'll have beautiful views from their rooftop terrace, but you'll also deal with a crapton of noise in the middle of the night. Bring earplugs.
I'd always prefer a hotel to a hostel, but if you're trying to keep to a budget, this property is a good option in Catania. read more