Da Hostel Almaty in Almaty

3/5

The exterior of the hostel looks nice and there is secure gate and ample parking for motorbikes, bicycles and cars. The location is also generally pleasant and is only 15 minutes walk from the cathedral and monument park. The kitchen was also comfortably sized and clean.

Honestly though. This is the most depressing hostel I've ever been too in my life. The curtains in the lobby are always closed; why? and the lights are off, so it is dark and dingy inside. No music plays and the entire place remains permanently soundless. There is 1 shower each for women and men. My bed mattress was completely destroyed and bowed like a sinking ship. The dorm was also very compact and just as depressing as the rest of the hostel. On the last day there was no toilet paper because they were waiting for the delivery (but there is a shop 5 minutes around the corner?). Laundry was also only available with a full-days (or sometimes a day in advance) notice. But the most important thing for tourists is that this is not a tourist hostel. It is populated primarily by 40 plus year-old workers who live there long-term. Though everything was satisfactory, it is extremely downheartening with no positive vibes at all.