Berlin Hostel Review

BAXPAX DOWNTOWN HOSTEL 

We found out about the Baxpax Downtown Hostel through an app called Hostelworld which provides lists of Hostels accompanied with reviews, directions, prices and the ability to book. 

Facilities 

There was a common room equipped with a pool table, plugs and computer. As well as a bar called Cosmos which served food and drinks. The common areas of the hostel were decorated really nicely. The wifi in the hostel was not good, we were only able to get it in the common areas and even then, each day or sometimes every time we would leave the hostel we would have to re-enter password details. Often we would be thrown off the wifi and it personally could only get wifi in certain places within the common room.

Breakfast 

Breakfast was not included in the price you pay for the room. So we would often buy pastries once we left the hostel. I would recommend where possible to try and get breakfast included in the price of your hostel because it's less to worry about. 

Showers/Toilets 

We stayed in an ensuite dorm this time. There were male and female showers however there were no locks on the doors of the showers themselves. The pressure and temperature of the showers were good although on a timer. Despite having male toilets in huge dorms there were no female ones which was slightly odd.

Staff 

On arrival we were met by the 24 hour reception staff who could never be described as service with a smile maybe a grimace at best. I would go as far as to say that any issue or problem was too much for them and they would often be less than helpful. An example...When we were given our bed numbers we went to our dorm and saw that although in the same overall room they were separated in to two therefore in reality we were not together. There was a spare bunk above me so we asked the lady on reception if this could be changed. She rudely informed us that if the bed had been free she obviously would have given us that bed. Fair enough we thought...bit rude but fair enough. However, throughout our stay no one stayed in that bed. 

The only saving grace was that their bar staff were polite and one of the reception staff was helpful. When I inquired regarding the easiest route to the East Side Gallery, he provided instructions and an annotated map for me.

Value for Money 

This was a cheaper hostel ranging from €10 to €17 per night which maybe highlights that you really do get what you pay for regarding the service. 

Dorms 

Although larger than the flying pig rooms, the rooms seemed very empty although it did mean bags could be stored easily. In the basement K studio, apart from the lamps beside your beds there was no additional light which meant that we had no choice but to get ready in the shower rooms just for light. We were provided with lockers which again you provide your own lock for. Plugs were few and hidden so often we had to rely on the plugs in the common room, which wasn't exactly ideal.

Location 

The hostel was perfect for exploring the main sites and had great transport links to explore nearby ones. Due to there not being a main bar area in Berlin everything was a bit spread out but we took advantage of what we could!

Extras 

The directions provided on Hostelworld were very informative especially because our train was delayed at the border between Holland and Germany. It is of note that when you book this hostel if you pay the deposit by card you are expected to email ahead to notify them you still plan to stay there. 

OVERALL

Despite the rudeness of staff, lack of plugs and wifi, I did enjoy my stay in Berlin. If you could find a better hostel for a similar price I would advise booking elsewhere. However, if you are aware and are able to factor these issues in, then you will have a great stay!

Imogen xoxo