Wow, what a concept and what an experience ! I've stayed in just under 50 hostels (17 to be exact) and this certainly is one. I wasn't sure what to make of it when I arrived but as soon as I met the managers (Nathan and Daniel if I recall correctly), everything fell into place -- these guys are so invested in making you feel at home. They went out of their way to guide me round the local area, the beach, and hiking trails. They also take great care of the property itself (which has seen too many winters) -- there's a wonderful garden, a beautiful mural, an area for having a little campfire. And the staff are all involved in making sure you have everything you need. I liked that the Olympics were on in the background as it gave it a very homely feel. (France did v well in the pool. They were deserving of a gold in basketball but the US just have one play of giving the ball to Curry which kind of spoiled the fun. Could Gobert have done more ? I'm not so sure, but the French are a solid unit and I enjoyed watching them. In track and field, it was quite surprising with Botswana winning the sprint gold!)
Anyway, this property would probably be pretty run-down and disappointing if it wasn't for all the effort from Nate and Dan. Thanks for making it a great experience! They also look remarkably similar and easy...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreYou must understand this is not the Shilo or Holiday inn. This is a Hostel that offers dorms and private rooms. The staff was very helpful and courteous. The Seaside Lodge and Hostel offers a very nice hostel environment with additional amities. There is a chill room/music room where you can play a piano, guitar, bongos or an organ. There is a communal kitchen where you can cook your own food. They do offer FREE BREAKFAST of pancakes and eggs. You will need to make them yourself and clean up after yourself as well. They have a coffee bar, however I did not order anything. They have canoes and kayaks available as well as a great outdoor space with a very nice view. The location is still very nice. You are with-in walking distance to the beach and the great Seaside shops. My daughter and I stayed in a small private room and was pleased with our experience. We did come prepared with extra towels, blankets and toiletries. There is no AC in the rooms, but being on the coast, there really wasn't much need. Just had our window open for a few and we cooled off just fine. My recommendations is bring your own pillow, as the ones provided to us were a pretty flat as well as towels, toiletries and additional blankets if you like having more than just one. Overall a very good experience. I will most likely stay...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreI had stayed here previously and had a good experience. I booked the same type of room as before. A week before my stay, they called an informed me that they had overbooked but they could put myself and those with me in a dorm instead but it would have a shared bathroom. But they would give me a night for free in compensation. It was a week before the volleyball tournament, and I knew I could not find housing at that point, so I conceded. Get the tour, okay it will work and we would discuss the adjusted payment at checkout (owner was not there at the time). Great. I went to checkout at 7:30 am on Sunday, no one was there and I called the number at the desk no answer. Left a voicemail. Didn't hear anything. Called a couple days later. Voicemail. Sent message on airbnb. Finally got a call 3 days later. Said they would have owner call me to get it settled but have been very busy. Okay. 2 weeks later, still trying to get the owner on the phone for my refunded night. Will not be staying here again and will warm everyone I know who goes to seaside each year to steer clear. I have been very patient and understanding, but the customer service here...
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