December 2018 – Page 2 – Our Fun Journey

My Top 10 Hostels in Sydney

Posted by CoCo on December 24, 2018 in Australia, Sydney

The Sydney Opera House as seen from the water
Posted: 12/24/2018 | December 24th, 2018

Hostels in Sydney are expensive.

Since I started visiting the city, I’ve seen hostel prices skyrocket as just the cost of living in Australia has gone up. Even when you factor in the favorable exchange rate right now, it’s just expensive to get a bed here, especially at some of the larger, more upscale hostels.

However, with a little planning, you can make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck.

The cheapest hostels in Sydney are found in the King’s Cross area. An eight-bed dorm starts around AU$26, while a four-bed dorm starts around AU$33. Private rooms range between AU$80-120 per night, depending on things such as location and whether the bathroom is shared or private.

(Pro Tip: Avoid the Jolly Swagman! It’s a horrible place to stay.)

Below is a list of my favorite hostels in Sydney so you can navigate the hundreds that come up when you search Hostelworld:

The 10 Best Hostels in Sydney

1. Hump Backpackers

I ike this hostel because it’s social. The staff hosts plenty of activities (beer pong, BBQs, pancake breakfasts). There’s free breakfast, all-day coffee and tea, and different activities every night. The beds are comfy and soft, showers are kept clean, and the room lockers are huge. Hump Backpackers is in the Kings Cross area, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and bars so there’s a bunch of things to do in the area. Heads up: you have to be 18-35 years old to stay here.

Beds from 27 AUD/19 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hump Backpackers!

2. Lord Wolseley

Lord Wolseley
This hostel is located on the upper floors of a historic bar and restaurant that has been around since 1881 (which, for Australia, is damn old!). There’s no real common space, and the kitchen is basically a toaster but you’re very near Chinatown so there are cheap eats nearby. The downstairs bar is always lively and they play incredible blues music on Saturday nights. The rooms themselves are pretty small with simple finishings. Its location near Chinatown and Central Station makes it one of the cheaper places to stay in town. Darling Harbour is just a five minute walk.

Beds from 32 AUD/23 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Lord Wolseley!

3. Asylum Sydney Backpackers Hostel

Asylum Sydney Backpackers Hostel
The staff at this hostel are the absolute best! They are always the most friendly and helpful I encounter in the city. Asylum is close to Kings Cross station, and it’s just a 30-minute walk to the Opera House and the Botanic Gardens. Security is first rate, with two locked front doors and security cameras. The dorms are huge (but they fit maximum eight people) and all have their own ensuite bathroom. There are common areas inside and outside and free breakfast each day. Look for the hostel’s rescue dog, Bella. She’s a cutie.

Beds from 33 AUD/24 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Asylum Sydney Backpackers Hostel!

4. Kings Cross Backpackers

Kings Cross Backpackers
This is another fun hostel, with a very lively social scene! There’s a party every night, a movie room, yoga classes, and a rooftop BBQ. Take the spiral staircase to the basement, and you’ll find a fully-equipped chill out zone with pool tables and even a Playstation center. You get a free hot breakfast at the Mad Monkey Restaurant (which is delicious) each morning. Honestly, there’s so much to do at this hostel you might find it difficult to leave – but just beyond the front door is some of Sydney’s best bars, clubs, and restaurants. (The hostel itself is on a quiet street, though.) You have to be 18 to 35 to stay here.

Beds from 35 AUD/25 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Kings Cross Backpackers!

5. Sydney Harbor YHA – The Rocks

Sydney Harbor YHA
This is the only hostel in city’s historic harbourside area (The Rocks), and it has unreal rooftop panoramic views over the city and the famous Opera House. Sydney Harbor Bridge, Sydney Harbor, and Luna Park are also within walking distance. The rooms are incredibly spacious, and each bed comes with its own reading light. There’s also a large kitchen, several communal areas (including the excellent rooftop terrace), and even a grocery store on-site. To me, this is the best hostel in Sydney!

—-> Click here to book your stay at Sydney Harbor YHA!

6. Big Hostel

Sydney Big Hostel
A budget, “boutique” spot in Surry Hills, Big Hostel attracts is centrally located and I love the roof terrace with its super views over the city. They also have sundeck with a beautiful garden. You can BBQ up there as well. There’s 24/7 free coffee and tea, and breakfast is included. The kitchen has lots of space for your groceries. The rooms are are huge and the pillows are super cozy but there’s no lockers and metal frames creak a bit.

Beds from 35 AUD/25 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Big Hostel!

7. Blue Parrot Backpackers

Blue Parrot Backpackers
This hostel in Potts Point (a happening neighborhood) is run by two sisters, Effie and Sasha. The rooms are pretty standard without a lot of ammenities but the hostel is super homey and feels like you’re staying with family. The hostel has a trivia and pancake night too. Potts Point is one of the most cosmopolitan parts of Sydney. I really dig staying here. It’s a lot more relaxed than most of the other hostels in the city.

Beds from 35 AUD/25 AUD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Blue Parrot Backpackers!

8. Mad Monkey Backpackers on Broadway

Mad Monkey Backpackers on Broadway
Soft beds, clean showers with great water pressure, and free breakfasts make Mad Monkey Backpackers awesome. I also like the yoga classes on Wednesdays and access to a local gym you get. The staff organizes activities and nights out (including a traditional Australian BBQ). One of the downsides is that the common areas and kitchen are small. It’s nearly impossible to cook while others are around. But the central location, friendly staff, and awesome ammentities make this one of my favorite places to stay.

Beds from 37 AUD/26 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Mad Monkey Backpackers on Broadway!

9. Wake Up! Sydney

Wake Up! Sydney
Wake Up! is, in many ways, like a backpacker hotel. With its eight floors, hyper-trendy and clean look, and small common areas, you might think it would be hard to meet people. The large size does make it sort of hard to meet people outside the common areas or your room, but the big bar downstairs (biggest night is Monday) lets you meet all the people you see coming and going. I really liked my time there, and I especially enjoyed the high water pressure in the showers and un-creaky beds. The hostel is located just next to the Central Station so it’s easy to get to and from the airport. Book on their directly to save some money as they often have deals.

Beds from 40 AUD/28 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Wake Up! Sydney!

10. Bondi Backpackers

Bondi Backpackers
If you love the beach, you can’t beat this place – it is just seconds from the sand! There’s an awesome rooftop space overlooking Bondi Beach. The hostel offers free surfboards. There are also free yoga classes, walking tours, and other fitness activities. If you’re there Friday night, don’t miss the BBQ party on the rooftop! The rooms are comfy and the showers just fine.

Beds from 44 AUD/31 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Bondi Backpackers!

***

There are a lot of amazing hostels in Sydney, but to me, these places above are the best hostels in the city. They offer all the things that I think are important when picking a great hostel. If you stay in any of these hostels while in Sydney, you won’t go wrong!

If you have any suggestions, leave them in the comments!

Book Your Trip to Sydney: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use it all the time. It’s my favorite website!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use — and I think they will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting Sydney?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to Sydney with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

The post My Top 10 Hostels in Sydney appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

The Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica

Posted by CoCo on December 20, 2018 in best of, cahuita, Central America, costa rica, manuel antonio, puerto viejo

A waterfall in the jungles of Costa Rica
Updated: 12/20/2018 | December 20th, 2018

Costa Rica is one of the most visited countries in Central America. American tourists have been flocking to the country for years, and it’s become a hot spot for retirees and expats due to its cheap living, great weather, amazing beaches, and friendly locals.

I love Costa Rica. It was the first place that inspired me to travel.

It holds a special place in my heart.

I’ve been back to visit Costa Rica many times since then, falling in love with it over and over again.

But, because it’s not as cheap to visit as its neighbors, many budget travelers skip over Costa Rica.

And, while that’s true (but there are many ways to save money in Costa Rica), in my opinion, the beauty of the destinations below is worth the extra price.

Here are some of my favorite destinations in Costa Rica:

1. Puerto Viejo

A sandy beach near Puerto Viejo in Costa Rica
Located on the Caribbean coast near Panama, Puerto Viejo is popular with young people and backpackers because of its great beaches, surfing, and party atmosphere. The town is very lively and you’ll find something going on every night. It’s probably the most popular destination on the Caribbean coast. There are also many quiet beach hotels around for those who are looking for some peace and quiet. There is also a jaguar rescue center nearby that rehabilitates all sorts of local wildlife and releases them back into the wild.

2. Cahuita

A monkey laying in a tree in Costa Rica
Cahuita, a tiny town situated right next to a stunning national park with the same name, is about an hour north of Puerto Viejo. Cahuita is a place to relax. There’s one bar in town that gets lively (sometimes it’s half full!), but for the most part, after a day of hiking, animal spotting, swimming, or surfing, most people just sit around and read. The region is known for its Afro-Caribbean influences, which you might notice in the food and local culture as you chill out with some dessert crepes or grilled chicken.

3. Tortuguero

A tall tree in the jungle near Torteguero, Costa Rica
Tortuguero (which means ‘Land of Turtles’) is the Costa Rican version of the Amazon rainforest. It dominates the northern coast, with Tortuguero National Park spanning over 77,000 acres. This massive area is a series of rivers and canals that crisscross the jungle. The biggest draws to this area are the large numbers of turtles (hence the name) that come to nest along the shoreline. The best time to see them nesting is in April and May, but if you’re visiting during the off-season, you’ll still be able to go hiking and participate in canal cruises. However, there’s lots of wildlife to see year-round.

4. Corcovado

Colorful macaws perched in a tree in Costa Rica
Corcovado National Park is on the remote Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica. Established in 1975, the park covers an area of 424 square kilometers, making it the largest park in the country. Though more popular than it used to be, it’s still a very rugged, quiet, and off-the-beaten-path destination in a country where almost everything is on the beaten path. The peninsula is not easy to get to (which helps keep tourists away), but your efforts will be greatly rewarded with deserted beaches, tons of wildlife, great hiking, camping, and lots of marine life. It’s one of the best places in the country. To me, this is probably one of the best places in the entire country. Try not to miss it!

5. Arenal

The Arenal volcano on a hazy day in Costa Rica
Sitting at an elevation of 1,670m, Arenal is one of Costa Rica’s many volcanoes. It still erupts from time to time, and if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see lava flowing down the volcano. (Though, it’s less likely to happen as the volcano has been dormant for the last seven years). Fun fact: I got lost in the jungle around here.

The area has tons of wonderful activities: there’s awesome waterfall (La Fortuna), the national park with great hiking, sunset views over the lake, caving, rafting options, and famous hot springs. With so much to do, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most visited places in the country.

READ MORE: How to visit and explore Arenal

6. Manuel Antonio

A bright sunset in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
A popular beach destination on the Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio’s wide, white-sand beaches and warm blue waters aren’t the only attractions people come for. The nearby national park, which opened in 1972, sees over 150,000 visitors annually and is home to great hiking trails, a number of secluded beaches, and offers up the chance to view three different kinds of native monkeys. It’s become a lot more crowded and developed over the years. It’s definitely not the park I first visited in 2006. That said, you’ll still see a lot of wildlife and the beaches in the area have been kept surprisingly pristine! Admission to the park is $16 USD per person, though kids under 12 enter for free.

READ MORE: What to see and do in Manuel Antonio

7. Monteverde

Lush green jungles near Monteverde, Costa Rica The nation’s premier cloud forest is the home to the elusive quetzal birds. Most people come to Monteverde for a glimpse of this rare bird. The area is one of the largest eco-tourism hubs in the country, and over 250,000 people visit every year. Monteverde, which rests right on the continental divide, experiences high winds and unusual weather patterns. The entire area is very green and wet. Witness it all on a zip-line adventure through the tree canopy or explore some of the sky bridges in the area. Expect to pay around $50 USD per person for zip-lining.

READ MORE: What to see and do in Monteverde

8. Poas Volcano

Bright water in the Poas Volcao, Costa Rica
A great day trip from San José, Poas Volcano is an active stratovolcano with twin calderas filled with sulfur lakes. The lakes are so still, you’ll look at your picture and think you painted the color on. The volcanos last erupted in 2017, and have actually erupted 40 times since 1828! There are some small trails around the area too. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the clouds closing in and ruining the view.

9. Santa Teresa

Blue sky at the beach near Santa Teresa, Costa Rica At the bottom of the Nicoya coast is the hippie backpacker town of Santa Teresa. This “town” is really nothing more than a beach with a road lined with eateries, yoga centers, surf shops, and hostels. Everyone gets up early to hit the waves, so the overall atmosphere in town is pretty relaxed. You won’t find a lot of crazy parties here. Santa Teresa is a good place to lie on the beach, hang out with people, and relax. Because of the “chill” vibe, many people end up staying in Santa Teresa for weeks, and even months, on end.

***

While everything in Costa Rica is a bit touristy and a wee bit crowded, I think the diversity of wildlife, natural beauty, white-sand beaches, amazing sunsets, and warm, clear water make it worth the price. There’s still so many unexplored and unvisted part of the country. Plus, the locals here are super nice and welcoming.

Be sure to visit Costa Rica – and use this list to start your planning!

Pura Vida!

Book Your Trip to Costa Rica: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
To find the best budget accommodation, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory. Some ofm favorite places to stay in Costa Rica:

Arenal Backpackers Resort – This is a luxurious, laid-back hsotel with a pool that’s great for hanging out and meeting people.
Rocking J’s (Puerto Viejo) – The coolest hostel in all the country. This hostel located on the beach is the prime spot to meet other backpackers.
Hostel Vista Serena (Manuel Antonio) – With great ammenities, staff, and a pime location, it’s the best place in the area.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Want More Information on Costa Rica?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Costa Rica for even more planning tips!

The post The Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

Why the Capital One Venture Card Doesn’t Suck Anymore

Posted by CoCo on December 16, 2018 in credit cards, Travel Advice, travel hacking

a man gazing out at the airplanes in an airport
Posted: 12/16/2018 | December 16th, 2018

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.

I don’t have a dog, so I don’t know if that’s true.

But I do know that an old travel writer can change his mind.

Years ago, I wrote about why I hated the Capital One Venture Card.

While it had a simple points structure and no overseas fees, it wasn’t really good for travel hacking because you couldn’t transfer points anywhere and it didn’t have a great catagory spend bonus structure. You simply got two points per dollar spent, which you could be used as a statement credit – and that was it.

If you spent $100,000 USD on your card, you got 200,000 points, worth $2,000 USD.

With that many points, I can redeem for tons of flights worth way more than $2,000 USD if used them directly with airlines (and, unlike with Chase and American Express, I couldn’t transfer the points to do that).

Moreover, many other credit cards came with perks that also had some value too, like free checked bags, priority boarding, lounge access, or internet at hotels (just to name a few). Capital One gave you nothing.

Capital One was essentially a 2% cash-back card ($50,000 USD = 100,000 points = $1,000 USD = 2% of $50K).

With so many other no-fee cards with better ways to earn points, why would I want that one?

I was not a fan of the card.

The redemption value of Capital One made it a horrible card for a travel hacker.

But, over the years, Capital One has improved the card’s features to the point where now, even I must admit, this card is actually quite good.

First, you get a $100 Global Entry/TSA Precheck credit, which means that if you use the card to apply for the service, they will cover the cost of signing up. Tons of cards have this feature, but the fact this one has it too is a nice addition.

Second, you get 10x points on spending at hotels.com. While I don’t use that site, if you do, that’s a huge deal. You can earn a ton of points this way, and it’s not a feature offered by any other card. If you’re not loyal to any specific hotel brand, having this card provides a great incentive to use hotels.com.

But what really won me over was the recent addition of 14 airline transfer partners:

Aeromexico Club Premier
Air Canada Aeroplan
Air France/KLM Flying Blue
Alitalia MilleMiglia
Avianca LifeMiles
Cathay Pacific Asia Miles
Emirates Skywards
Etihad Airways Guest
EVA Air Infinity MileageLands
Finnair Plus
Hainan Airlines Fortune Wings Club
Qantas Frequent Flyer
Qatar Airways Privilege Club
Singapore Airlines Krisflyer

Sure, many of those are terrible partners (who’s really gonna use Hainan Air or Alitalia points programs?), but Aeroplan, Flying Blue, Krisflyer, and LifeMiles are great programs that made me go “ohhhh”!

The ability to transfer your Capital One points to them makes this card a no-brainer now.

Sure, the points structure hasn’t changed. You’re still only getting two points per dollar spent, which is still only 2% cash back when used as a statement credit, but now that you can transfer the points, those points become a lot more valuable.

With a current 75,000-point sign-up bonus, a yearly fee of $95 (waived for the first year), 2x points on all spending, and these new transfer partners, the card is a super good deal right now.

In travel, the one thing you can always count is that everything is constantly changing. Good becomes bad and bad can become great (or worse). You never know what’s next in such a changing and competitive industry.

This is one instance when we can say something bad became something great.

Therefore, I rescind my old post.

Capital One’s Venture Card doesn’t suck.

It’s pretty great.

I just applied for it.

You should too!

Here’s a (non-affiliate) link: https://www.capitalone.com/credit-cards/venture/

The Ultimate Guide to Travel Hacking

Want to master points and miles and get travel for free? This book shows you how to easily collect and redeem travel points for free airfare and accommodation so you can get you out of your house faster, cheaper, and in comfort.

Click here to learn more about the book and you can start reading it today!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the largest inventory. If you want to stay somewher eother than a hotel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

The post Why the Capital One Venture Card Doesn’t Suck Anymore appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

My Top 11 Hostels in Hong Kong

Posted by CoCo on December 16, 2018 in Asia, hong kong

aerial view of Hong Kong from Victoria Peak
Posted: 12/16/2018 | December 16th, 2018

What’s not to love about Hong Kong? The bright lights, the amazing markets, shopping, temples, hiking, food, the view from Victoria Peak. I could go on and on.

Hong Kong is one of my favorite cities in the world. It has everything you could ever want and more. (Be sure to check out my guide to the city!)

Hong Kong, a city of 7.3 million people, has a ton of accommodation options. There are literally thousands of places to stay.

And hundreds of cheap hostels in Hong Kong!

Dorm room prices do vary widely. They start around 125 HKD/15 USD per night but, on average for a decent and clean room, expect to pay closer to 150 HKD/20 USD (smaller rooms are usually more expensive). Private rooms in hostels start at around 250 HKD/30 USD per night and go as high as 500 HKD/65 USD for a double room. Free WiFi is standard at almost all of the hostels in the city, as are shared kitchens.

Out of all the places to stay in the city, what are some of the best hostels in Hong Kong?

How do you choose from that endless list on Hostelworld?

Having visited enough times to write a guidebook on the city, I can tell you that it’s easy to find accommodation in Hong Kong – it’s less easy to find awesome accommodation that’s cheap, fun, and clean.

Here is my list of the best hostels in Hong Kong that accomplish this:

11 Best Hostels in Hong Kong

1. Hong Kong Hostel

Hong Kong Hostel
This is my favorite hostel in Hong Kong! The common area is perfect for meeting other travelers, and there’s always a really diverse crowd hanging out here. A majority of the rooms come with a TV, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. It’s one of the cheapest places to stay! Plus there’s free coffee and tea in the mornings.

Beds from 129 HKD/15 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hong Kong Hostel!

2. Hop Inn

Hop Inn, Hong Kong
A modern hostel with a unique touch – each room is designed by a different local artist. This kid-friendly accommodation has 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning, with towels and linens included. There are two locations in Hong Kong, with the first being the larger. Carnarvon also has a better common area and laundry as well as an awesome rooftop patio with stunning views. If you stay at one of the locations, you can use the facilities at both!

Hop Inn on Carnarvon – Beds from 150 HKD/20 USD.
Hop Inn on Mody – Beds from 195 HKD/25 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hop Inn on Carnarvon!

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hop Inn on Mody!

3. Urban Pack

Urban Pack, Hong Kong
Urban Pack is a cozy hostel owned by two Canadians and located on Kowloon Island. It’s decorated in a very stylistic way with murals, maps, and funky furniture giving it a lively atmosphere. Catering to budget travelers, it offers free Wi-Fi, Nintendo Wii, board games, books, coffee and tea all day, irons, hairdryers, and a kitchen to cook your own food in. It offers a variety of accommodation, from single rooms and small dorms to eight-person dormitories and serviced apartments. It’s one of the cheaper hostels in town.

Beds from 150 HKD/20 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Urban Pack!

4. Yesinn @ Causeway Bay

Yesinn @ Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
One of the better-value hostels in the city, this place has a nice sized common room and a rooftop garden. The beds are big, the rooms are clean, and the linens are free. Each bed comes with a side curtain for privacy, built-in universal adapter sockets, and a bedside lamp. They also have free coffee and tea, free local calls, a massage chair, iPad lending, and Wi-Fi.

Beds from 159 HKD/21 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Yesinn @ Causeway Bay!

5. Jockey Club Mt. Davis Youth Hostel

Jockey Club Mt. Davis Youth Hostel, Hong Kong
This hostel has a spectacular view of Mount Davis and Victoria Harbor. It’s also close to the buzzing center of clubs, bars, and restaurants and has free Wi-Fi, backpack-sized lockers with power sockets, a common room equipped with a pool table, board games, a canteen/ multipurpose room, a TV room, barbecue sites, and a self-serve laundry service. There’s also a hiking path next to the hostel that will take you straight up to Victoria Road!

Beds from 180 HKD/23 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Jockey Club Mt. Davis Youth Hostel!

6. Rainbow Lodge HK

Rainbow Lodge, Hong Kong
What I love that the staff at this hostel organize tons of activities for guests. There are cooking classes, walking tours, and bar crawls, as well as a well equipped game room. The hostel is clean and quiet and provides everything you need for a comfortable stay. The beds have curtains for maximum privacy.

Beds from 185 HKD/24 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Rainbow Lodge HK!

7. Chungking Mansions

Australia Guesthouse, Hong Kong
Chungking Mansions offers some of cheapest lodging in Hong Kong. If you’re on a tight budget, stay here. The mansions is really the name for a huge shopping and dining complex where you can buy the knocked off version of anything you want. On the top floors, there are a variety of guesthouses that you can choose from. I mean there are dozens in this building! Two of my favorites are:

New Peking Guest House – Beds from 180 HKD/23 USD.
Marrigold Hostel – Beds from 199 HKD/26 USD.
Australian Guesthouse – Beds from 432 HKD/55 USD.
Super 7 Hostel – Beds from 540 HKD/70 USD.

8. The Mahjong

The Mahjong, Hong Kong
This is a new and clean boutique hostel. The neighborhood is quiet and you’re close to both the mountains and coast here. There’s no metro (it’s coming soon, though), so you need to learn the bus system. Still, it’s just a 15-minute bus ride to downtown. The deluxe beds are comfy, cozy, and spacious, and the dorm beds are pod-style so you can have a good night’s rest. There are events hosted here daily – including city walks!

Beds from 255 HKD/33 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at The Mahjong!

9. YHA Mei Ho House

Mei Ho House, Hong Kong
Part of the YHA global chain, this hostel located in Sham Shui Po is wonderful for families and those looking for a quiet place to stay. All of the rooms have en-suite bathrooms, and the hostel has massive common areas, like a courtyard, garden, guest pantry, café, mini-store, and laundry. They serve free breakfast every morning in the cafe.

Beds from 300 HKD/38 USD; YHA members can get a reduced rate on rooms.

—-> Click here to book your stay at YHA Mei Ho House!

10. Y-Loft

Y Loft, Hong Kong
Y-Loft has great amenities: each room has an en-suite shower, there are common areas on each floor, there’s a gym, Wi-Fi, linens are included, and it’s located close to shopping, delicious places to eat in the city, and a metro station. The dorm rooms have all be designed by local artists, making for some beautifully colorful and interesting spaces. This hostel is huge and has 148 rooms of varying sizes (including handicapped accessible rooms!). It’s kid-friendly too.

Beds from 400 HKD/51 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Y-Loft!

11. Studio Studio HK

Studio Studio, Hong Kong
Studio offers long-term rentals for visitors, students on internships, travelers on extended tours, or others living in Hong Kong. There are common-access full kitchens (stoves, sinks, refrigerators, cookware, and utensils) and living rooms. This is one of the best places for people staying long-term.

Beds from 6,000 HKD/770 USD per month.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Studio Studio!

****

There are a lot of amazing hostels in Hong Kong but, to me, these places are the best. They offer all things that I think are important in picking a great hostel. If you stay in any of these hostels while in town, you won’t go wrong!

If you have any suggestions, leave them in the comments!

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Hong Kong!

Want to plan the perfect trip to Hong Kong? Check out my comprehensive guide to Hong Kong written for budget travelers like yourself! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and exciting in the world. You’ll find suggested itineraries tips budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, and my favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars, and much more!! Click here to learn more and get started.

Book Your Trip to Hong Kong: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time. They’re my favorite website!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for more information on visiting Hong Kong?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to Hong Kong with more tips on what to see, do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13

The post My Top 11 Hostels in Hong Kong appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

The Best Neighborhoods in Boston: Where to Stay on Your Visit

Posted by CoCo on December 16, 2018 in America, Boston, united states, usa

Boston all lit up at night
Posted: 12/16/2018 | December 16th, 2018

Boston. Beantown. The town. My hometown.

I love the city. I’m probably biased since I grew up here but I think it’s one of the most underappreciated cities in the entire country. It’s just a wonderful, friendly place to live and visit!

The history, the food, the sports, the community. Boston is like a big small town. It’s one of the best places in the country to visit.

And all the college students here help give the city a permanent youthful energy!

But where is the best place to stay while you’re visiting Boston?

Well, that depends.

On a lot of factors.

So, today, let me break down the best neighborhoods in Boston from a local’s point of view and give you suggested places to stay in each part of town:

Back Bay/Copley

Boston's Copley neighborhood
Back Bay is one of the best areas in the city. It an area that covers the happening Copley Square, home to the Boston Public Library and Trinity Church, as well as the beautiful homes on the surrounding streets near the river, the shops and restaurants on Newbury and Boylston, and the shops at Copley Place. It’s one of the most beautiful (and upscale) areas of the city. Fun tip: There’s a farmer’s market in Copley Plaza on Tuesday and Friday afternoons.

Best Places to Stay in Back Bay/Copley

BUDGET: Garrison Street Apartment – It’s hard to find a super cheap place to say in this neighborhood. This is as close as they come. Located in a historic brick building, these beautiful serviced apartments are just like staying in Airbnb and come with all the amenities of home. There’s also a beautiful rooftop.
MID-RANGE: Boston Copley House – Copley House is actually a set of studio apartments located in traditional brick row houses, each with fully equipped kitchens and cable TV. The building also has a beautiful rooftop.
LUXURY:

Downtown

Downtown Boston is the city’s commercial and financial center. It’s one of the oldest parts of the city and is a maze of cobblestone streets and historic buildings against a backdrop of giant modern skyscrapers. The area has really become “hot” the last few years (it was run down when I grew up here) and you’ll find tons of hip cocktail bars and restaurants here. You’ll find lots tourist attractions that make up a section of the Freedom Trail (like the Old South Meeting House, Faneuil Hall, and the Old State House). Plus, it’s right next to Chinatown (good food) and the Commons (the city’s main park!).

Best Places to Stay in Downtown

BUDGET: Hostelling International Boston – The HI Boston is one of the best in the HI chain. It only opened 6 years ago so it’s still pretty new! It has a kitchen and common area as well as rooms for meetings. The beds come with a personal shelf, a reading light, and power outlets. It’s the best hostel in the city.
BUDGET #2: Found Hotel Boston Commons – This hotel offers dorm rooms in addition to privates, so it’s a great option if you’re on a budget. You’ll get a bunk bed with a curtain for privacy and your own locker. The private rooms are pretty small, but they’re clean and newly renovated and come with a desk. I love all the wood finishings throughout the building.
MID-RANGE: The Godfrey Hotel Boston – This boutique hotel has a stylish lobby as well as a fun bar serving up delicious drinks. The rooms have everything you need, include a desk area and have lots of natural light.
LUXURY: The Langham – This is a traditional-style hotel with a gorgeous ballroom, a chocolate bar on Saturdays in Café Fleuri, huge opulant rooms with super plush beds and pillows, incredible staff, and a gran entrance way. It’s a splurge!

Brighton/Allston

Boston's Allston; Photo by Tim Sackton (flickr:@sackton)
Brighton and Allston are two neighborhoods known for their large student and recent graduate populations. I group them together because….well, they’re super close and we locals tend to group them together as one area! Because of this, the restaurants and bars cater mostly to the 20-something crowd. There’s not a lot of “things to do” in this part of town It’s just more a cool neighborhood to stay in with cheaper nightlife and dining options than elsewhere. You won’t find a lot of tourists here.

Best Places to Stay in Brighton/Allston

BUDGET: The Farrington Inn – This small guesthouse also has dorm rooms, making it one of the most affordable options in Brighton/Allston. All the rooms are air-conditioned and some come with kitchenettes. There’s free wifi too.
MID-RANGE: Studio Allston Hotel Boston – This ultra artsy hotel appeals to young travelers, who like making use of the common areas and the outdoor patio (complete with a rum bar). Each room comes with its own unique artwork! It’s fun place to stay, even if the rooms are kind of small!
LUXURY: AC Hotel by Marriott Boston Cleveland Circle – This hotel has convenient access to all of the city via the MBTA line and the GreenLine. It’s home to a nice business center and a 24-hour fitness center as well. It’s your standard chain hotel really but I like it for the location and lounge.

Fenway

Boston's Fenway Park
This area is home of the Red Sox and Fenway Park. However, Fenway is also one of the city’s most academic and cultural areas, with nearly a dozen colleges and universities located around here. In recent years, it’s beacon the yuppie capital of the city and tons of condos, new restaurants, and restaruant options have opened up. It’s a nightlife mecca, especially for the clubs and bars along Lansdowne Street. Nearby, there’s Kenmore Square, where you’ll find some pretty great museums like the Museum of Fine Arts and Symphony Hall.

Best Places to Stay in Fenway

BUDGET HOTEL: Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway – This is an extended-stay location near Fenway Park, with studio suites, one bedroom suites, and two bedroom suites. Each one has a kitchenette where you can save money cooking at home rather than eating out. Perfect for when you’re traveling with groups!
MID-RANGE: The Verb – This might be the hippest place to stay in Boston’s city center, complete with a large vinyl library exclusively for guests. There’s definitely a party vibe around the pool in the summer. It has wonderful rooms with natural life, art, and modern fixtures; free WiFi; and a fantastic fitness center.
LUXURY: Hotel Commonwealth – This swanky spot is the official hotel of the Boston Red Sox. The rooms are modern and ultra-luxurious coming with plush covers and usually a couch. The on site restaurant is the swanky Eastern Standard too. The hotel also has a great lounge overlooking the city.

North End

Boston's North End; photo by Michael Hicks (flickr@mulad)
The North End neighborhood is the oldest in the city and is commonly referred to as “Little Italy” since it’s where all the Italian immigrants in the 19th century settled (as such it has the best Italian food in the city). This waterfront community has cobblestone streets and plenty of good reasons to visit, including the Paul Revere House and Christ Church, with the oldest set of ringing bells in North America.

Best Places to Stay in North End

MID-RANGE: Battery Wharf Hotel – This place isn’t exactly budget, but the North End doesn’t really do budget. The rooms come with large TVs, free WiFi, and impressively comfortable beds. The Aragosta Bar and Bistro serves a fantastic Italian breakfast, and the Lobby Lounge does cocktails and candy (seriously). Even better: The spa is top-notch.
LUXURY: Boston Yacht Haven – If you want a room with a view, this is it. The Boston Yacht Haven is right on the water, and it even has its own marina (where you’ll definitely see a few super yachts around). The rooms are crazy posh, and if you can, request one with a harbor view and balcony. There’s free breakfast here and other perks include free WiFi, board games, and in-room microwave and fridge.

Cambridge/Harvard Square

Boston's Cambridge
Home to Harvard and MIT, Cambridge is a quintessential student town along the Charles River. With its grassy parks and tidy town squares, it might seem like a quiet place, but there’s a great arts scene, plenty of museums, and lots of live music. There’s a restaurant for every desire in this part of town and I think it’s one of the most culturally diverse parts of the city. This is the hip spot to be.

Best Places to Stay in Cambridge/Harvard Square

BUDGET: Irving House at Harvard – This is more a B&B than anything else with a cute and cozy atomosphre, comfy beds, desk, couches, a shared kitchen space, and onsite laundry facilities. It’s a peaceful place to stay.
MID-RANGE: Porter Square Hotel – Near Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Porter Square Hotel has a lovely patio and garden during the summer months. Other than that, it’s a pretty standard hotel with spacious rooms and lots of natural light. It’s clean, has friendly staff, and is one of the more affordable hotels in the area.
LUXURY: The Kendall Hotel – This gorgeous Victorian-style boutique hotel was built in 1894 and is located next to the MIT campus. Each room is decorated individually with unique art. The beds are wonderfully soft. The breakfast buffet is great, and there’s a “wine hour” each night on the rooftop. Splurge here!

Seaport

Boston's Seaport neighborhood; Photo by Sarah Nichols (flickr:@pocheco
The Seaport is home high-end restaurants and fancy cocktail lounges. When I grew up in the city, there was nothing here but the Children’s museum and a lot of empty space. Now it’s one of the coolest parts of the city with tons of condos, restaurants, museums, the awesome outdoor space Lawn on D, and the Harpoon Brewery. Every time I come back here, I’m just shocked by the change that’s happened!

Best Places to Stay in Seaport

BUDGET: Staypineapple at the Alise Boston – A trendy spot for young travelers, the Staypineapple has a lot of fun perks, like dog-friendly rooms and bicycle rentals. Fluffy towels and bathrobes are a nice touch.
MID-RANGE: Encore Bed & Breakfast – Every contemporary room at this B&B has wonderful views of Boston’s skyline, as well as queen-sized beds and great in-room sound systems. A nice breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee is served each morning! Free WiFi.
LUXURY: Aloft Boston Seaport District – Aloft hotels are always a good idea, and this one is no exception. All rooms have their signature beds and large walk-in showers, and the WXYZ Bar is an awesome spot to grab an evening drink.

Brookline

Victorian homes in Brookline, Boston
Brookline is a big town but part of it buttresses right against Boston and that area has a quiet, small-town feel. It’s not overly touristy and mostly a residential area with quiet streets, brick apartment buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants. Walk around and visit the many small shops and cafes, or grab lunch at one of the many amazing restaurants (like yummy quesadillas at El Centro). There’s a T line that runs through the area so it’s easy to get downtown!

Best Places to Stay in Brookline

BUDGET: Coolidge Corner Guest House – This little place is a gem! It’s in a quiet neighborhood, it’s comfortable and the owners are friendly. The rooms have very traditional décor, and they are all different. It includes free breakfast too.
MID-RANGE: Courtyard by Marriott Boston Brookline – All the rooms at the Courtyard come with a work desk, a nice seating area complete with a sofa, and a coffee maker. The fitness center has cardio machines and free weights.
LUXURY: The Bertram Inn – This small Inn has just 14 rooms. Each room is different – some are decorated with fancy beds (they even have old fashioned bed posts on them), curtains, and luxury leather chairs. Others are simple and floral. But, they are all “old school” and antique. It’s super cozy…and super luxurious. The hotel also has massage services onsite and free WiFi as well as a lovely patio overlooking the garden.

***

Boston is one of the best places in the country. Not only does it have picturesque neighborhoods, top-notch dining and bars, but it is steeped in history. There’s also a ton of free things to do in Boston so it won’t hit your wallet hard. One of the things I love so much about Boston is that, for one of the biggest cities in the country, each little neighborhood has its own small-town feel and you feel like this city is a collection of small towns more than a giant metropolis.

Book Your Trip to Boston: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for more information on visiting Boston?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to Boston with more tips on what to see, do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 4, 6, 8

The post The Best Neighborhoods in Boston: Where to Stay on Your Visit appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.