Amsterdam Hostel Review

UPTOWN FLYING PIG

We found out about the Flying Pig through a friend's recommendation. 

Facilities 

There was a smoking room in our hostel and although I don't smoke, thought it was a good idea. The hostel also had a bar which stayed open till about 3ish every night which was always popular and most importantly to those on a budget, quite cheap! The hostel also provided a great wifi service which was available in all rooms in the hostel. 

Breakfast 

Breakfast was included in the price you pay for the room. It consisted of cereal, both brown and white bread which could be toasted, a variety of spreads, jams and butters aswell as hard boiled eggs and apples. Juice and hot drinks were also provided. Do not get me wrong this is not the best breakfast in the world but it starts you off for the day! 

Showers/Toilets 

For a first time interrailer, I was unsure of what to expect about the hostel bathrooms. I was pleasantly surprised because the showers had good pressure although were very very hot! There were 3 showers on our floor and I never had to wait around to shower so no complaints there. The toilets were kept in surprisingly good condition considering how many people were using them!

Staff 

On arrival we were met by the 24 hour reception staff who were friendly and informative. Throughout our stay, staff helped us with directions etc whenever necessary. Unfortunately, due to staff error I was given the wrong bed number which was awkward when I ended up asleep in someone else's bed! The situation was quickly rectified however could and should have been avoided. 

Value for Money 

This is on the pricier side of hostels, costing on average around €25 per night depending on dorm size and what days you plan to stay. Although, I would not pay this for the remainding hostels on the trip for our first hostel and ultimately, trip in to the unknown we were willing to pay slightly more. 

Dorms 

This was my first staying in a dorm since school trips so I wasn't really sure what to expect. We were in a 12 bed mixed room, which was fine and people were friendly. We were provided with under bed lockers and additional lockers. You are expected to bring locks but we already knew this from the website. 

Location 

The hostel is very close to Vondelpark and the Rijksmuseum which was perfect location for us but if honest Amsterdam is not a particularly large city so as long as you are not on the outskirts location is not necessarily as important as it would be in other European cities. 

Extras 

One really good thing about the Flying Pig hostel is their website, before arrival we knew exactly how to get to get hostel from the airport. If you are planning on staying there, it's a €5 bus ride which drops you off a 2 minute walk away. This information helped us out so much especially because our flight was delayed.

OVERALL

I enjoyed my stay at the Flying Pig and although on the expensive side for a hostel is perfect for a first time traveller! 

Imogen xoxo