YHA Youth Hostel Review | Where to stay in Hong Kong

Summary

In this video, Hazel takes viewers on a tour of a unique hostel in Kowloon, Hong Kong, offering a glimpse into its rich history and local culture. The hostel, known for its security, artistic atmosphere, and historical significance, is perfect for budget travelers interested in experiencing authentic Hong Kong life. With a museum on-site showcasing the neighborhood's past, the hostel is a standout for those eager to dive into the cultural and historical side of the city. Hazel also highlights practical details, like dorm arrangements and amenities, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an immersive, low-cost stay.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kowloon, Hong Kong, is known for its rich history and cultural significance, especially the contrast between the old Chinese heritage and British influence.
• 😀 Despite its historical reputation for poverty, Kowloon is safe to visit today and offers a unique, authentic experience.
• 😀 The hostel in Kowloon provides easy check-in and a secure environment, with a key card required for entrance and access to rooms.
• 😀 The hostel has a variety of facilities, including lockers (without locks), power outlets, a cafeteria, and a museum about Hong Kong's history.
• 😀 The hostel layout is a bit tricky to navigate, with the check-in area, cafeteria, and laundry all located on the ground floor, while dorm rooms are on higher levels.
• 😀 The artwork in the hostel is a notable feature, with murals and drawings throughout the space, including in stairwells and the lobby.
• 😀 The dorm rooms are equipped with basic amenities, but the lack of assigned bunks and power outlets by top bunks can be inconvenient for some.
• 😀 The hostel lacks a full kitchen but offers a cafeteria with both Western and traditional Hong Kong breakfast options.
• 😀 There is a bean bag lounge area where guests can relax and enjoy the view of the mountains, providing a peaceful escape from the hostel's busier areas.
• 😀 The hostel is a piece of history, located in one of the last remaining old buildings in Hong Kong, and features a museum dedicated to the area's past.
• 😀 This hostel is best suited for budget travelers who are interested in Hong Kong's local culture and history, rather than luxury or tourist hotspots.

Q & A

What makes Kowloon an interesting location for travelers?

Kowloon offers a deep dive into Hong Kong's history and culture. It is often referred to as the older side of Hong Kong and has a rich, sometimes dark history, which draws travelers interested in exploring beyond the modern tourist spots.

Is Kowloon a safe place for travelers, especially solo travelers?

Yes, Kowloon is generally safe for travelers, including solo travelers. The hostel mentioned in the video is secure, with a security guard and key card access. It also attracts many female solo travelers, adding to the sense of safety.

What are some of the key facilities offered at the hostel in Kowloon?

The hostel offers basic amenities such as check-in desks, lockers, a cafeteria, outdoor seating, laundry facilities, a convenience store, and a museum dedicated to the history of the neighborhood.

How is the hostel's layout and what are some unique features?

The hostel has a complex layout with various floors that include dorms, a cafeteria, laundry facilities, and a museum. One unique feature is the abundance of art found on the stairs and walls throughout the building.

What is the significance of the hostel's location in terms of Hong Kong's history?

The hostel is located in one of the last remaining old buildings from historical Hong Kong. It preserves the culture and offers a museum that details the story of the neighborhood, providing a living piece of history.

What should travelers know about the room layout and amenities at the hostel?

Rooms are dorm-style with matching beds, and there's no designated bed numbering, allowing guests to choose where to sleep. The beds are small but comfortable, and each has a power outlet, though some have limited space for charging devices.

Are there any challenges with the hostel's room setup?

One challenge is the open dorm layout, where the schedule of other guests can affect your rest. For instance, light disturbances and people opening and closing curtains can be an issue, especially for those who prefer privacy.

How does the hostel handle bathroom facilities?

The hostel has a few bathrooms, with two to three stalls in the dorm area. There may be lines in the mornings, but additional restrooms are available downstairs for convenience.

Who would benefit from staying at this particular hostel?

This hostel is ideal for travelers on a budget who are more interested in experiencing the culture and history of Hong Kong rather than the luxury shopping and dining experiences found on the other side of the city.

What is the primary atmosphere of the Kowloon neighborhood, and who is it suited for?

Kowloon gives a glimpse into the daily life of local Hong Kong residents, especially those from older generations. It’s suited for travelers interested in authentic cultural experiences, though it may not be the best choice for those unfamiliar with or intimidated by such environments.