Wednesday, 8 October 2014

Pisa Hostel Review

HOTEL LA TORRE


The selection of hostels on Hostelworld wasn't great so we ended up using Hostelbookers and found ourselves this place.



Facilities 

Hotel La Torre has a nice lounge area to chill and a really nice breakfast area too. Due to this not being a hostel there is not such a concentration in group interaction but after being on a sleeper train, the last thing I wanted was interaction! Wifi was okay here but it was a hotspot so it would often be temperamental. 


Breakfast 

Breakfast was included and was the best yet. There was a large selection of croissants, cakes and bread, with yogurts, fruit and a variety of spreads, as well as juice and the option of coffee. Real coffee! I have never welcomed a cappuccino so happily in my life. I was in my element, it's the first decent breakfast I have had in about 3 weeks!


Showers/Toilets 

Although there was the option of ensuite, we picked a room where bathing facilities were out of the room because it was significantly cheaper and had not done us any harm thus far. The bathroom itself was fine although it could get stuffy and some times you would have to wait for it. Also, beware as many guests think that by opening the window people will be unaware that they have smoked in there, so sometimes there is a smokey aroma but nothing major. The shower itself was very small, I don't know how they expected broader people to be able to close the doors but the temperature and pressure was good.  

Staff 

Staff were really nice and helpful on arrival especially because we arrived really early and they let us check in at around 8 in the morning when it should have been significantly later. The reception is only manned between 7 till 11 but we did not need them beyond these times, so for us this was not an issue. Staff at breakfast were also attentive but not too intrusive which is perfect for me as I am not always what you would class as a morning person..so to speak. 

Value for Money 

This was on the more expensive side costing around £15 each per night but I would prefer to have paid slightly more and not have had the prospect of bed bugs and rude staff! 

Dorms 

The room was nice, there was a large double bed which could be split in to two, a large wardrobe, a sink, plenty of plugs and a balcony. Lockers were not provided so to be safe we travelled around with our valuables but we did feel safe here. Plus after a few weeks of hostels it was nice to have our own space.



Location 

The hostel was perfect location for an interrailer because it was about 5 minutes away from Pisa Centrale and after a sleeper train you do not want to be walking around for ages trying to find a hostel! The main attractions like the Leaning Tower and Cathedral etc are about a 15/20 minute walk and these are very well signposted. 


Extras 

The directions provided on were good however the streets in Pisa aren't exactly well labelled so that is a bit confusing. 

Staff allowed us to print our boarding passes off free off charge aswell which was such a huge help!

OVERALL

I would really recommend splurging that but extra and getting a decent place to stay whilst in Pisa and would definitely recommend Hotel La Torre!


Imogen xoxo

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