I don't actually even know where to begin with my experience here. I stayed for 11 nights and 12 days.
The staff are the warmest, friendliest, kindest, most helpful people I have ever met. They genuinely want everyone to enjoy their stay and will do anything they can to help. They gave me maps, directions, tips, offered advice on everything from culture, to food, to night life, and so on. I love all of them!
There was a situation in my dorm where these three guys were drunk all the time, being really rude, loud, making a mess, etc. I asked to switch rooms, and the manager went to talk with them to ask them to behave. One of the guys then dumped a bottle of water into my backpack, so the hostel asked them to leave. The hostel employees were so nice, and even found them somewhere else to stay. They said they won't allow anyone to treat other guests that way, or compromise anyone's safety or belongings. It made me feel so safe and so valued as a guest here, although in the end they made me feel more like family.
At the end of my stay an older guest had a medical emergency and they called the ambulance, gave CPR, etc. They handled a very tough situation the best they could and did everything they could to protect not only the guest with the problem, but the rest of us as well, making sure everyone was okay, etc. They all did a great job in a very hard and upsetting situation.
The hostel itself is clean, comfortable, and inviting. I met a lot of nice people and we sat in the common rooms chatting, drinking wine, etc. The hostel hosts a dinner every night that is ten euros. It is four courses of delicious food and unlimited sangria. You can't beat the price, the food and sangria are awesome, and it was so much fun meeting travelers and talking with the local people at the hostel. I didn't try until the last few days of my trip, but I wish I would have done it every night!! Trust me on this one, this is a do not miss!
The location is perfect. You are right next to the train station, 15 minute walk from the churches and castle, 5 minute walk from the ocean, etc. It is a little noisy, so bring ear plugs just in case, but I didn't have a problem. Must have been all the sangria! :)
I don't know how else to explain my love for this place and the staff here. They treated me and all the other guests like we were family. There is so much love and laughter and kindness inside these walls, I can't begin to explain it. I will absolutely come stay here next time I am in Portugal, and want all of them to come visit me in the states! My trip was that much better because of these awesome people and I hope this review is at least a small thank you for everything they did and everything they are.
I highly recommend! read more