Tuesday 31 March 2015

Airlie Beach Hostel Review

BASE HOSTEL 



Facilities 

Surprise surprise there was no free wifi! We didn't purchase it from Base either because Airlie Beach is packed full of travel agents who will let you use their wifi for free. 

The reception is open between 6:30 and 10 however if you arrive later or earlier than that, arrangements are made for you. It is quite easy to just wander in to the complex as we found on the first night as there were people who were staying in our room who only paid for a camper an space. This was rectified in the end but still a bit of a mess! There was also no lockers at the property which was just abit annoying if honest. 

There is a swimming pool and hammocks around the lodges which are great if you can't be bothered to walk to the lagoon etc. Plus every lodge has chairs outside it so you can chill.

There is a bar attached to the hostel called Down Under. Drinks are quite cheap especially in their happy hours. We didn't try the food here so wouldn't be able to comment on it but like the drinks you get 20% off at anytime. 

The kitchen is of an alright size. You will always need more hobs realistically in hostels. It was quite clean, probably the cleanest base kitchen we have seen. There is plenty of fridge space aswell. An added bonus is that you can use the kitchen even when you had checked out. However, it is locked after 10 so if you are a snacker remember this! 

Breakfast 

Breakfast is not included at this hostel. 

Showers and Toilets 

We stayed in an ensuite which was quite nice although the set up of this was quite odd. Furthermore, after someone has showered it took a long time for the bathroom to dry even with the windows open. Although, the bathroom in our second room was nicer overall.

Staff 

The staff here were really friendly and helpful. They showed us where places were on the map etc. Like many hostels there was a bit of a difference on rules between staff but nothing major! Also, big tip if you book travel activities with base regardless of which one you can get free luggage storage here for when you are on Whitsundays! Save yourself some money today!

However, when we came to check out I was informed that I had no more nights left on the base jumper card we had purchased. I knew this was incorrect however was made to feel that I was in the wrong. When a manager got involved she was rude and not helpful. The original girl who served us then tried to help after she found out we had a bus to catch imminently. It was sorted out in the end but I always think that if you have a hostel stay with no bumps in the road then you don't see the staff for what they are and see if they can actually help. 

Value for Money 

Again, we were using the base jumper card so accommodation was covered however it's not a particularly expensive hostel anyway! 

Dorms 

Instead of being in rooms, you were in a lodge which was outside and a little bit different from what we were used to. I really liked this change up though! We were in a dorm of 6 which was just the right size for the room. There weren't that many plugs in here but you win some you lose some! 

Location 

In relation to Airlie beach itself, the hostel was in a good position. However, in relation to the greyhound station it's quite a walk a way I am afraid. There is no pick up service until after 7 at night. Not ideal! 

OVERALL The hostel was nice and the facilities were good. A great place to get ready and recover from your Whitsundays tour!!

Love Imogen xoxo












No comments:

Post a Comment