HOSTELLING INTERNATIONAL NYC
Accommodation in New York City is expensive – there is no two ways about it. And this place is no exception but after signing up to Hostelling International and receiving a coupon for a 3rd night free I saved a lot of money on my NY stay! This is a fantastic hostel with everything you could possibly need and is in a great location. Read on for more information!
Location:
- The hostel is not exactly central, but neither is any affordable bed in New York. It is, however, right next to Central Park, approximately two thirds of the way up.
- It took me an hour to walk to Times Square or you can hop on the metro and it’s only 20 minutes.
- The street is quiet and pretty and is very close to a lot of amenities including supermarkets and restaurants.
- In terms of attractions, it’s on the same side of the park as the Natural History Museum which is a 25 minute walk, and across the park is the Metropolitan Museum of Art which is a 35 minute walk.
- The hostel is a 10 minute walk down the road to the Cathedral of St John the Divine (well worth a visit).
- You can easily spend a day or two exploring the amazing park that’s on your doorstep.
Facilities
- Accommodation: there is a huge range of rooms available, with the cheapest at $40 for a mixed 12 bed room. Smaller dorms are around $50 and there are also premium dorms which include breakfast for a slightly higher price.
- I believe the prices are best if you reserve a bed far in advance. I paid $60 per night after booking a couple of weeks in advance. I did have a night free though.
- The rooms are very comfortable with a huge locker per bed and plug for chargers and light over the bed.
- Kitchen: there is a fantastic kitchen in the basement which has everything you could possibly need. Massive fridges, lots of cooking equipment, crockery and cutlery and a seating area to eat and socialise.
- Common rooms: there are lots of spaces to sit/socialise around the hostel and they are all really nicely decorated and very comfortable to spend time in. There’s also a stunning terrace with fairy lights.
- Events: the hostel runs walking tours and other events daily which I think are mostly free to go on. It’s a fab idea if you want to meet people. There’s also welcome drinks and food once a week with a live band.
Prices:
- Between $40 and $70 per night – not a cheap hostel!
- If you are not a member of Hostelling International there is a fee of $3 per night extra.
I thought this hostel was amazing! One of the best I’ve stayed in and is great if you’re looking to meet people. I also loved the location. Just the price I didn’t like so much, but that’s New York for you! (I’m sorry, I forgot to take photos!)
Letters from Lou 