Description: Like all Youth Hostel International accommodations, this place was pretty standard and had a college dorm room feel. The staff was helpful and the place was packed with information about things to do. The building itself was once a school so it gave it a really great atmosphere...however, it was not that homey and could be a little more sterile. The room I stayed in was a bright, open bay of about 20 or so beds, in general it was pretty quiet, but if you are a light sleeper you will not be able to rest...I recommend earplugs.
In the dorm room each person is assigned a bed and a wall locker. Remember to bring a lock. In the larger dorms there are two bathrooms, each with one shower, one toilet, and two sinks. During my stay there was never a problem with the bathrooms being crowded since everyone was working and playing on a different schedule.
One great thing about this place was how clean it was. I was impressed. The complementary breakfast was also very nice. There was a healthy selection and it was just what I needed to start a day filled with walking.
The location of this hostel was the best part. Everything was so close. The trams were right out the front door, the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum were down the street, and shopping was just a few minutes walk away.
The most interesting part of my stay was when I walked into the dorm for the first time. The area to the right of my bed was a little messy and there was something that looked like an incense burner on the floor. However, when I went over to investigate I realized it was a bong. The friend I was with started to freak out. She used to work for counter-drug. However, didn't worry...the hostel is a drug free zone...but that doesn't mean that an "incense burner" or two won't find its way in.
How to get there:
By train:
From Central Station you take tramnumber 1, 2 or 5. You get off at Leidseplein. From Leidseplein you walk towards the Marriott Hotel. In front of the Marriott Hotel you turn left. Zandpad is the 2nd street to the right.
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