Sunday, 23 August 2015

Siem Reap Hostel Review

PALM GARDEN LODGE

So whilst we were looking for hostels, we realised it was cheaper for us to get a twin room rather than a hostel room. We knew we were going to have early starts in Siem Reap so we were not complaining. 

Facilities 

The wifi was okay on the first day, we could surf the web but it would never have been strong enough so process payments etc. On the second day, it stopped working completely which was an issue for us because we had to book our next journey and hostel. They made no attempt to help or fix the wifi. In the end, we went to the hostel over the road called Oral Angkor. We explained the situation and they let us use their wifi and booked our bus for us. The reviews for this place on Hostelworld are few and far from complimentary. However, there is a new manager so despite not seeing the rooms it maybe worth checking out. 

Security was really poor here. Anyone could wander in at any time, there was a lock for your door but it would not have necessarily been hard to break in. They don't supply lockers either. They claim to have a safety deposit box...I say claim because I am pretty sure whoever is on shift looks after it for the day. I gave them a lockable bag anyway so I was not too worried.

There is a common area outside but it is always too hot. If I were you, I would make sure wherever you stay has a swimming pool. You will thank me after a long day at Angkor Wat. 

They do provide a pick up from the bus you arrive on although it's unclear who they are. However, as our friends down at Tesco would say...every little helps, right!?

We were supposed to get free bottles of water daily, however this only happened one of the days we were here.

Showers and Toilets

Abysmal. The shower was a drip,the tap was more powerful. It was rarely warm. The toilet seat was broken, there was never enough toilet roll and I could go on. It was awful and I know the showers are similar throughout the guesthouse because I heard other guests complain about them.

Staff

There was one female member of staff who checked us in who was helpful and good at her job. The others were either surly, lazy, unhelpful or a combination of the three. 

Breakfast 

Breakfast was included. There was tea and coffee although I would stick with tea if I was you. One day, there were bananas. Then a selection of different type of eggs; scrambled, fried and a noodle dish. I had the scrambled eggs which was served with toast and it had spices in it that have it a curry twist.i realise this is not to everyone's taste but it was free and I was hungry.

Value for Money 

This was not worth the money we paid. Please do not waste your money, I beg you! 

Dorms 

The actual room was not too bad.  It was quite big and had a mini fridge I'm for water etc. However, anything over 2 bottles of water and the fridge is it as efficient. The room itself was sweltering. All day. Every day. Their pathetic excuse for a fan did nothing and you had to pay nearly double for air con. 

Location 

Location wise this isn't bad. It is close to banks, supermarkets, the bus station we were dropped off at. 

OVERALL, I would not recommend this place. There are better places with better staff and facilities for a similar price. 

Love Imogen xoxo

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