Relaxed Atmosphere Hostel (HI Honolulu Hostel (Honolulu, USA))

Member Name: rebenectomy

Product:	HI Honolulu Hostel (Honolulu, USA)
Date:	31/07/09 (20 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Quiet, lovely garden/outdoor dining area

Disadvantages: Somewhat isolated, no internet

Bed price (per night) from: 20.00 USD/ 12.00 GBP
Single Room (per night): 46.00 USD/ 28.00 GBP

While by no means a complete washout, this hostel was somewhat of a disappointment compared to it's sister Hostel HI Waikiki where I also stayed for part of my trip. This was certainly not a reflection of the establishment with regards to its presentation and upkeep, which were of a very high standard in terms of cleanliness and comfort, but rather a result of a poor location. Situated in the residential area of Honolulu University, the hostel was fairly isolated. For those seeking peace and quiet this would be ideal, but it should be noted that nearest beach was a considerable walk, in an area that is not particularly pedestrian friendly. There didn't appear to be much happening locally either, during the day or in the evenings, though there were fairly regular buses in and out of Honolulu Centre and Waikiki (if you were prepared to pay for a taxi back at night i.e. after 10pm). This may have been due in part to the fact that although a student area, when I visited at Easter most of the students were away and as a result the area was very subdued. This would certainly be worth bearing in mind for those visiting at Christmas or in the summer months.

Tours and activities were offered, though you may find yourself being re-directed to HI Waikiki for some of these, including the Airport Shuttle. Staff were friendly, though not as informative as their counterparts in Waikiki and a lot more difficult to locate, which was surprising given that the hostel was much smaller.

The hostels main appeals were a beautiful garden, ideal for eating meals (complete with friendly lizards) and a great Asian supermarket in the area, which was both cheap and varied. If you're looking for a more rustic and relaxed atmosphere, a break from the overtly touristy and tackier aspects of the Waikiki and Honolulu Centres, this would be the place for you. I could imagine this appealing to a more mature customer who isn't looking for anything in terms of pubs and clubs, or the lone traveler. This would also be more suited to those with their own mode of transport as it is great spot to head out to see the rest of the island from, though parking within the hostel was limited and on a first come first served basis. There is also no internet facilities, so you'd be well advised investing in a phone card for communications back home.

Summary: Pleasant, but not for everyone