Irving, New York, USA
Lighthouse Inn
965 Main Rd, Irving, NY 14081
(716) 934-3877
GPS: 42.558122,-79.131392
Price: $60 (king)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: In front of room
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Hotel is outdated (think a visit to grandma’s house), but room was spacious and comfortable. Located on a busy 4-lane street with a few restaurants close by.
Columbus, Ohio, USA
Red Roof Inn
7480 High Street, Columbus, OH 43235
(614) 846-3001
redroof.com
GPS: 40.1164,-83.015324
Price: $40 (accessible suite)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: In lot surrounding hotel
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Average Red Roof room, acceptably clean, but could use an update. In an area with many upscale hotels and steakhouses. Nearby Mexican restaurant is tasty but also pricey.
Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Red Roof Inn
110 Northgate Drive, Goodlettsville, TN 37072
615-859-2537
redroof.com
GPS: -36.324427,-86.702864
Price: $60 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Outside of room
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Room was in ‘old’ part of hotel and was small, cramped, and dingy. Redneck neighbours. Refrigerator and microwave in room. Room was very pricey for what you got. Desk staff were crusty and unfriendly. Many other hotels in the area; choose one of them first.
North Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
Regal Inn
2508 Jacksonville Hwy (Hwy 161)
GPS: 34.77702,-92.200068
Price: $45 (double)
Wi-Fi: Yes
Parking: Outside of room
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Hotel has on-going renovations (we didn’t notice any noise) and is family-run. Refrigerator and microwave in room. Area is a little barren, near a major highway, with a few fast food restaurants nearby. More dining and shopping options are available at the next exit off the highway.
Mt Pleasant, Texas, USA
KOA
2322 Greenhill Road
http://koa.com/campgrounds/mount-pleasant/
GPS: 33.185404,-94.969795 (approximate)
Price: $25 (to put a tent on an RV pad)
Wi-fi: Yes, but best if used near main office
Parking: On RV pad
Bathroom: Common showers and bathrooms at main office compound
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Extremely expensive for tenting, but it rained and opted for an RV pad rather than the waking up in a puddle option. Staff charged us for full RV site even though we didn’t use hook-up and campground was nowhere near filled to capacity. Bathrooms were newly renovated and very clean. No restaurants on site, but a short walk to a BBQ joint and an Appleby’s.
Fort Worth, Texas, USA
American’s Best Value Inn
8345 West Freeway
americasbestvalueinn.com
GPS: 32.737509,-97.463025
Price: $50 (king)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Outside of room
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: A very nice room, spacious, and clean, and friendly staff. Not a very nice area through, with not much around. Neighbouring hotel is more of a ghetto residence. Buffet breakfast included.
San Angelo, Texas, USA
Dun Bar East Motel
1728 Pulliam Street
dunbarsanangelo.com
GPS: -31.471388,-100.411051
Price: $60 (queen)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Outside of room
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Not even the friendly staff could make this shithole attractive. The place looked like a prison with small windows. Spacious but like being in someone’s old cottage in need of a major renovation. Motel doubles as housing for oil workers. When we checked in there was blood on the bed sheets and room was not cleaned. Refrigerator and microwave in room. The restaurant next door, however, is fantastic – good home cooked meals at reasonable prices – we ate there every day.
San Angelo, Texas, USA
Holiday Inn Express
4613 W Houston Harte Expy
igh.com
GPS: 31.443163,-100.499695
Price: Free (king)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: In hotel lot (aboveground)
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Hell, yes!
Notes: Comped to us by a generous Texan. Probably the most luxurious room for our entire trip. Comfortable, with all the amenities that you could want. Kitchenette, desk, flat-screen tv, king bed, big bathtub – I wanted to move in. Buffet breakfast included.
Kempner, Texas, USA
Marquez Residence
Fort Stockton, Texas, USA
Super 8
3200 W Dickinson Blvd
super8.com
GPS: 30.896185,-102.916502
Price: $60 (queen)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: In hotel lot
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Your basic Super 8 motel, although a little rundown. The spacious room had a TV and refrigerator. Laundry facilities in the vending machine area. Make sure you ask what the exact total of the room is; we got burned on hidden taxes and fees.
Las Cruces, New Mexico, USA
Century 21 Motel
2454 N Main St.
century21motel.com
GPS: 32.330585,-106.783186
Price: $35 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes, but sketchy
Parking: In front of room
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Friendly staff, but motel is outdated. Refrigerator and microwave in room. Could have been cleaner, and needs a good renovation. Ok area with lots of food, and grocery stores around.
Vail, Arizona, USA
John’s House (free)
El Centro, California, USA
Budget Inn Suites
1212 Adams Avenue
http://budgetinnelcentro.magnusonhotels.com/
GPS: 32.79743,-115.565768
Price: $35 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: In front of room
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Room was small and dated. Inn was undergoing renovations at the time, and hopefully has made some improvements other than exterior paint. Included breakfast was nowhere to be seen in the morning, even though we inquired the night before. Refrigerator and microwave in room.
Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico
Presidente Motel
Rayon y Lopez Mateos, 22830 BJC
GPS: 31.858387,-116.611851
Price: $37 (2 double beds)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: In front of room
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Sort of
Notes: Avoid this place like the plague. Although we didn’t see any bugs, I slept fully clothed and in my sleeping bag. Many other guests were long-term residents. Broken down and abandoned cars in the parking lot should have been our first clue. Bars on the windows for added security. Bathroom was one of the worst we have seen all trip: rusty, mildewy, and dirty?? Television programming switches to soft-core porn during the late hours.
San Quintín, BC, Mexico
Motel Uruapan
Crr Transpeninsular 5, 22940 BJC
GPS: 30.555129,-115.940058
Price: $30 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes, but very poor
Parking: In front of room
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Notes: Basic room but decorated by someone’s grandmother. A very busy place, and lot filled up very quickly (packed to the brim). The al pastor taco stand around the corner is some of the best food that we have ever eaten. Friendly staff. Terrible water pressure in the shower.
Guerrero Negro, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Cowboy Inn
GPS: 27.967489,-114.026376
Price: $30 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: In front of room
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Tastefully decorated and under renovations to expand. Our room was full of mosquitoes but miraculously didn’t suffer one bite (our neighbours didn’t have any so it seemed to be a one-off). Large room with ample room for lots of luggage.
Mulegé, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Hotel Serenidad
GPS: 26.89865,-111.95897, approximate
Price: $15 (to camp)
Wi-fi: Yes, but very poor and only available in the main part of the hotel
Parking: Hotel lot
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Sort of
Notes: Beautiful resort with swimming pool, lounge, and restaurant with fireplace. Airstrip nearby allows for private planes to land. Allows RVs and camping in the parking lot. Shared baths could use a lot of work and a good cleaning. Bright lights in parking lot kept tent lit up like daylight.
Ciudad Constitución, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Misiones RV Park
Hwy 1 KM 213 Ciudad Constitucion 23600
GPS: N 25*02.902, W 111*40.827
Price: $17 (to camp)
Wi-fi: Yes, but poor, slightly better close to main office
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: No
Notes: Very friendly staff and dogs roaming the grounds. We camped underneath the palapa next to the swimming pool. The grounds are covered in tropical plants and lots of trees for some much needed shade. Sort of at the edge of town and not really within walking distance to stores or restaurants. The bathrooms were in bad need of attention – very dingy and rundown – and one of the worst the entire trip.
La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Campestre Maranatha
GPS: 24° 5’52.62″N, 110°23’13.13″W
Price: $15 (to camp)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Owners are very friendly and helpful. Grounds are well-maintained. Some of the best baths in BJCS. Opt to camp in the teepee, if it’s available. It’s on the edge of town so you will be driving to find food.
Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico
Esgar Motel
International KM 560, Miguel Hidalgo, Ahome C.P. 81210
GPS: 25.832226,-108.973413, approximate
Price: $50 (king)
Wi-fi: No
Parking: Yes, in closed garage attached to room
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: A love motel of the most luxurious kind. One of the fanciest places that we stayed in, sort of reminiscent of sleeping in some sort of kingpin’s love nest. It was very clean but smelled like lube.
Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
Motel Oasis
Carretera Internacional 5101 Norte El Venadillo 82129
GPS: 23.265634,-106.416861
Price: $30 (queen)
Wi-fi: No
Parking: Yes, in garage underneath room
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Sort of
Notes: A little scuzzy but a spacious room. It also had a pole and stage in the room, and mirrors on the ceiling above the bed. A bit of an ant infestation.
San Blas, Nayarit, Mexico
Los Cocos RV Park
GPS: N 21*31.911, W 105*17.013
Price: $15 (to camp)
Wi-fi: Yes, better closer to office
Parking: Yes
Bathrooom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: No
Notes: Home to every mosquito on earth, Los Cocos campground was a bit of a disappointment. Close to the beach but not close to town. VERY VERY BUGGY. Bathrooms were a disgrace with no lights, no locks on stall doors, and no privacy – some of the worst so far. Bright lights on grounds kept tent lit up at night. Lots of coconut palms. Bar and restaurant on site.
La Manzanilla, Jalisco, Mexico
Manuel’s Camping
GPS: 19.289768,-104.790249, approximate
Price: $17 (to camp)
Wi-fi: No
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, outdoor showers, bucket toilets
Hot Water: Warmish
Notes: A beach paradise, camping right on the beach underneath a palapa. Owners used kitchen as their own and would show up to cook at all hours of the day. They were also very loud and displayed little regard for their customers. A short walk to town. Beautiful beach.
Maruata, Michoacán, Mexico
Camping at Playa Maruata
GPS: 18.39623,-103.343754, very approximate
Price: $4 (per person, to camp)
Wi-fi: No
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: No
Notes: A truthful beach paradise. Beauty beyond belief. Camped at a restaurant with camping on the right beach. Restaurant serves fresh fish and great meals; a little pricey, but not outrageous. Also houses a small tienda. Far left beach was ok, but seemed more for fishing. Hang out at the middle beach; deep roughish water, but ok for wading or bobbing in the waves.
Troncones, Guerrero, Mexico
Troncones RV Park
GPS: 17.776744,-101.716685, approximate
Price: $17 (camp)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, outdoor shower
Hot Water: No
Notes: A very small RV park on the outskirts of town, but within walking distance to the centre. Beach is directly across the road. We were the only tenters in the complex. Simply a place to rest one’s head.
San Marcos, Guerrero, Mexico
Blue and white hotel on the edge of town
GPS: 16.791014,-99.392626
Price: $17 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes, out front of hotel, or in the lobby if you’re a motorcycle
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Notes: Swimming pool in the centre courtyard. Bathroom could use a bit of work, but the shower was refreshing with great water pressure. Probably the best option in town. Quite clean.
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico
Edda’s Cabanas
Callejon del Morro s/n, Col. Marinero, 71980
GPS: 15.858605,-97.058208, approximate
Price: $30 to $45 (holiday pricing) for private cabana with bathroom
Wi-fi: Yes, but poor
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Notes: Beds come with mosquito nets as cabana is not totally sealed. Beach is close by but quite a walk up some steep stairs. A few cockroaches to keep us company. The hammock on the porch was nice. Kitchen could hardly be called a kitchen and was in need of a good cleaning. Very expensive for what you got.
Salina Cruz (La Noria), Oaxaca, Mexico
love motel
GPS: 16.24667,-95.216642, approximate
Price: $30 (double)
Wi-fi: No
Parking: Yes, private paddock outside room
Bathroom: Private, with see through window into shower
Hot Water: Warmish
Notes: Quaint and colourful, one would be confused as to whether this establishment is a love motel, once inside. Decorated with homemade curtains and bedspreads with brightly coloured walls, this place screams more doll house rather than ‘play’ house. If it weren’t for the signs asking customers to swallow rather than spit, one would think they were in a nice family-run establishment.
Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico
Hotel Fenix
4 Avenida Norte No. 19, CP 30700
http://www.fenix.com.mx/
GPS: 16.24667,-95.216642
Price: $27 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes, in gated hotel lot
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Notes: Located in the downtown core, this hotel was a find and filled up quickly. Clean with high ceilings but a little on the small size. Nice gardens. Uncomfortable furniture in common areas.
San Marcos, Guatemala
Hotel Villa Astur
9a Calle Zona 1, Calzada Justo Rufino Barrios 2-25
GPS:
Price: $30 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes, but not great, better near main desk
Parking: Yes, in lot in rear
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: A nice place, and family-owned with very friendly owners. A very nice restaurant with free coffee – partake if it’s available. A beautiful room with an amazing shower: I didn’t want to get out. Breakfast included.
Panajachel, Guatemala
Hotel Posada de Don Carlos
GPS: 14.744598,-91.156871, approximate
Price: $25 (2 double beds)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes, in courtyard
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Notes: Although the owners were very friendly and gave us a good rate (we were there during New Year’s and everyone else was boosting their prices), the hotel was riddled with roaches, and there was a very loud banging from behind the hotel every night for the duration of our stay. It’s down a dark alley, which proved to be safe enough, but might be enough to drive customers away. Not recommended. There are a whole lot of other places in town. Go there instead.
Antigua, Guatemala
Hotel Maria (or something like that)
Near La Merced on 7a Avenida, above 1a Calle Poniente
GPS: 14.562427,-90.73623, approximate
Price: $37 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes, in courtyard
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: The room was cute, a little rough around the edges in places, but clean. Rooms are surrounding a courtyard with a few tables and chairs and lots of lush plants. Owner was very accommodating and friendly.
Cobán, Guatemala
Hotel La Paz
6a Avenida between 2a Calle y 3a Calle
GPS: 15.471952,-90.37712
Price: $8 (2 single beds)
Wi-fi: No
Parking: Yes, in gated lot on hotel grounds
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: A basic but very affordable choice. Rooms were clean, and staff were very friendly and attentive. Bright rooms in the front. A variety of accommodations available that include shared bath options, as well. Close to restaurants, and stores. Highly recommended.
Tikal, Guatemala
Jaguar Inn
Inside the gates of Tikal National Park
http://www.jaguartikal.com/
GPS: 17.229185,-89.610527
Price: $14 (to camp)
Wi-fi: Yes, but sketchy
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Toilets are shared with restaurant, showers are of the outdoor variety
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Nice bathrooms (toilets) as they are shared with the restaurant, but the showers are outdoors and behind the gazebo and are open to the elements (doors that don’t close properly, leaves and twigs falling inside all the time, etc.). Nice restaurant but a bit pricey – we ate at the comida typico restaurants just down the road. A great place to stay to get an early start to explore the ruins in the morning. We recommend sleeping here the night before so you can go into the park at 6 a.m., spend the day at the ruins, then crash here for the night. Also a hotel here (about $60 per night), and tents for rent. It had been raining so the ground was quite muddy and squishy; the staff let us tent on top of the gazebo. Same price as the Park’s camping, but with better amenities.
Semuc Champey, Guatemala
Posada Las Marias
GPS: 15.542387,-89.949406
Price: $15 (to camp)
Wi-fi: Yes, but sketchy and only available during certain hours
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared and terrible
Hot Water: ??
Notes: Quite possibly the worst bathrooms we have used during our whole trip. They were dirty and most of the toilets did not have seats. Nor did the toilets flush very well. A healthy cockroach population to keep you company. And they smelled even worse. Didn’t even attempt to shower. Electricity was also limited; lights out at 9:30 p.m. even in the bathrooms. Otherwise, a beautiful location on the terrible road to Semuc Champey. But well worth it to visit the pools since the ticket is good for the whole day allowing you to come and go. The posada is across the road from a turquoise river; opt to camp riverside as it is very picturesque and quiet at night. Restaurant serves good meals for a fair price. Rooms are also available.
Antigua, Guatemala
Tourist Police Compound
GPS: N14 33.347, W90 44.379
Price: Free (camp)
Wi-fi: No
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared with police, showers
Hot Water: No
Notes: It’s free, but then I would laugh in someone’s face if they tried to charge me for this. No questioning the security of the place – who would be stupid enough to mess with tourists on a tourist police compound?? But the facilities were terrible: the bathrooms were a few falling apart stalls with ramshackle showers. The doors didn’t fit properly and they were filthy. No access to electricity. Best if you are driving an RV.
Santa Ana, El Salvador
Hotel Centro
GPS: 13.996595,-89.556734, very approximate
Price: $27 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes, shared with owner’s car lot
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Warm
Notes: Downtown centre, great location. Secure parking behind a locked steel gate. Owner is very friendly and even took us to get the best pupusas in El Salvador. The room was simple, but had a broken glass slate in the window which let in a lot of mosquitoes during the night. Also cobwebs in the bath.
Choluteca, Honduras
Hotel Rivera
Bulevar Chorotega, on main drag across from KFC
GPS: 13.309879,-87.185596
Price: $30 of a $60 (room with 4 beds)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Hotel parking lot, aboveground
Bathroom: Shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: An upscale hotel on the main drag with many ameneties. A lovely swimming pool, and onsite restaurant, although you won’t need it with so many nearby options. The room and bathroom were both large and comfortable. We only stayed here by chance as we ran into 2 other motorcycle travellers (Canadians!) who were already in the room, and offered to share in an otherwise full hotel.
Leon, Nicaragua
Hostal LazyBones
Avenida 2a Poniente
http://www.lazyboneshostelnicaragua.com/
GPS: 12.442842,-86.879908
Price: $25 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: No, but an inside corridor works for motorcycles
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Warm
Notes: Swimming pool, courtyard, and hammocks. Our room was located on the second floor overlooking the swimming pool. Great breeze from second floor and awesome views of the city. A fan in the bedroom also helped cool the room down. Breakfast served poolside. Good downtown location.
Granada, Nicaragua
Hostel Oasis
Bistro Estrada, Calle El Arsenal
nicaraguahostel.com
GPS: 11.932356,-85.953451
Price: $25 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: In corridor, motorcycles only
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Gorgeous swimming pool and common areas. Great rooftop laundry with nice views. Courtyard garden with hammocks. Fan in bedroom to help cool down the room. There is a renovated side and an unrenovated side of this hostel. We were in the ghetto again. Walls were very thin, and we could hear the shinanigans (snoring, sex, conversations) of every one of our neighbours. A good night’s sleep was not to be had. Good downtown location.
San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua
Hostel Beach Fun/Casa 28
Avenida Vanderbuilt
http://beachfunrentals.net/
GPS: 11.254058,-85.871381
Price: $8 (per person, 2 single beds)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: In gated lot behind hostel
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Warm
Notes: Bathrooms were cleaned fairly often, but there weren’t enough of them. Only one with a toilet seat. Laundry tub and line for hanging. Kitchen was the grossest one that we’ve seen with a refrigerator that should have been condemned. Good central location. Close to beach. Because it’s so cheap it attracts a certain type of clientele, and thanks to the thin walls we were able to hear most things that were going on. But it was cheap, and fun, with great staff.
Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
La Bruja Verde
Calle Guanacaste, 430 metres from the beach, uphill
GPS: 11.254058,-85.871381, very approximate
Price: $30 (for an entire dorm room with 2 bunks)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: No
Notes: Room was very small and overpriced, but that is what Tamarindo has become, buying into what Costa Rica is supposed to be. Trust me, I would take SJDS any day of the week. The baths were ok, but the shower was one of the scariest I have seen. Also the biggest bugs I have seen live here. Common kitchen. Howler monkeys in the trees above. Our room had air conditioning which was much needed.
Orosi, Costa Rica
Montana Linda
www.montanalinda.com
GPS: 9.795244,-83.856613, approximate to main street
Price: $33 (double with bunk)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes, but cramped
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Try to get a room upstairs; they are big and bright. The bathrooms are tastefully decorated and lovely. Nice seating area. Kitchen was very clean.
David, Panama
The Purple House
Calle C Sur y Avenida Sexta Oeste – San Mateo District
www.purplehousehostel.com
Price: $33 (double with bunk)
GPS: 8.431897,-82.435981
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: This wasn’t our first visit to The Purple House, and we were happy to return, as it still had retained all of its charm. Our room came with a fan and a/c. Very clean and quiet. Close to main drag with restaurants, and stores.
Boquete, Panama
Pension Topas
Avenida A Este
GPS: 8.772815,-82.431252
Price: $12 (to camp)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: The biggest selling feature of this place was its grounds: bright, colourful flowers everywhere. A nice seating area and close to town. Eat at Sugar & Spice (baked goods, and great sandwiches). The shower had great pressure and very hot water, but it was not kept very clean. The bathroom was not shared by too many guests but was also used by the owner’s kids and their friends. The cleaning staff also took ages to get around to clean it – sometimes not until 4 in the afternoon.
Santa Clara, Las Guías Occidente, Panama
Camped on beach at private residence
GPS: 8.374562,-80.106708
Price: $10 (to camp)
Wi-fi: No
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared with day users, shower
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: As far as we know this place doesn’t have a name, but the owners are hoping to drudge up more camping business. It certainly was a pleasure to stay here with our tent and belongings secure and fenced from the public beach, even though we were still on the sand. The bathrooms were a treat, very surprising for a beach location, and very clean. Not much nearby – a small tienda and one or two pricey restaurants. The owner took us to the local fisherman to buy a fish and showed us how to prepare it. Very relaxing. Owners also rent out beach palapas and hammocks for day use.
Panama City, Panama
Hostel Mamallena
Calle 1a 7-62
http://www.mamallena.com/
GPS: 8.974441,-79.536513
Price: $33 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: No, motorcycles can park in garden area
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Yes, sometimes
Notes: Another revisit. The matrimonial rooms are very small but come with fan and a/c. Nice grounds and garden area. Bathrooms, especially the showers could use more frequent cleaning. A very busy hostel and the kitchen always seems to be crowded.
Bogotá, Colombia
The Cranky Croc
Calle 15 # 3-46
www.crankycroc.com
GPS: 4.600487,-74.070042
Price: $25 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: No. Public lot next door.
Bathroom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Rooms off the courtyard are nice and bright, but on the smallish side. We were “upgraded” to a room with private bath but preferred the one with shared bath (although the shower in the private bath was heavenly). Laundry facilities. Restaurant. Good location close to centre of activity. Check out the Bogota Brewing Company brew pub.
Villa De Leyva, Colombia
Hostel Renacer
http://colombianhighlands.com/
GPS: 5.643148,-73.516352, approximate
Price: $15 (to camp)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Lots of different types of accommodations from rooms, to camping, to RVing. Restaurant serves good food but it’s pricey. Kitchen is available for cooking. Nice bathrooms. Also a wood-fired pizza over and fireplace but they were never lit while we were there. Great views. Nice common areas.
San Gil, Colombia
Sam’s VIP Hostel Hotel Mansion
Calle 12 near Carrera 9
www.samshostel.com
GPS: 6.555453,-73.132618
Price: $30 (for an entire dorm)
Wi-fi: Yes
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot water: Yes
Parking: Yes, in courtyard
Notes: Central location close to park, and very Clean. They gave us an entire 8 bed dorm to ourselves with private bath and balcony. Door to the room didn’t lock very well.
Aguachica, Colombia
La Hosteleria del Viajero
Calle 3, 16-42
GPS: N8.31110, W73.61773
Price: $25 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, in affiliated lot next door or in indoor courtyard
Notes: Not much to do in Aguachica but the city is not without its charms. If you want a slice of normalcy, it’s a great place to set up camp for a while. Great food available at food carts in nearby square, and at food stalls along side streets. Our room had a very hard bed, almost uncomfortably hard. Amazing staff, very friendly, and very welcoming. Attached restaurant serves good, cheap meals. Rooftop available for catching some cool breezes at night.
Valledupar, Cesar, Colombia
Hotel Provincia
Calle 16A #5-25
provinciavalledupar.com
GPS: 10.476503,-73.243523
Price: $40 (queen)
Wi-fi: Yes
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, in courtyard
Notes: Room was quite pricey but more like a boutique hotel rather than a hostel. Room had a big comfy bed with nice duvet, a flat screen tv, ‘leather’ sofa, a/c, and a ceiling fan. There was a also a common kitchen with separate cupboards and refrigerator for staff. Unfortunately it was also commandeered in the morning by the staff so that they could make their own breakfast – using up all the counter space, many of the pans, and all the burners on the stove. Another case of a family living in the hostel space and not wanting to share it with outsiders. We never really felt welcome here and wonder if the owners understood what they were getting into.
Palomino, Colombia
Finca Escondida
http://www.chillandsurfcolombia.com/
GPS: 11°15’43.1″N 73°24’46.5″W
Price: $17 (to camp)
Wi-fi: No
Bathroom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: No
Parking: Yes
Notes: Very nice grounds and some of the best camping bathrooms that we have seen, as well as right on the beach. Rooms inside were also available but a little pricey for our budget. Restaurant on site is also a little pricey and the food wasn’t very good – our fish was overcooked and more like jerky. Breakfasts were economical but hit and miss. Daily cocktail specials in the bar. Nice beach with lots of clean sand. The water was a little rough but ok for wading. Advanced surf waves.
Minca, Magdalena, Colombia
Sans Souci
Along the main street through town and up the hill
GPS: 11.143919,-74.111123
Price: $10 (to camp)
Wi-fi: No
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: No
Parking: Yes
Notes: An out of the way paradise where we saw toucans, monkeys, and hummingbirds. We also arrived right in the middle of cicada mating season, so they were making quite a ruckus and keeping us showered with pheromones. A kitchen is available for use, and they have a games room. Rustic and a little rough around the edges, but the owners were super-friendly. They also have a swimming pool but it looked a little murky. The bathroom was shared amongst all the campers (about 6 of us in total) and sported your average simple facilities with no hooks, a spout from the wall for a shower, toilet and sink. Adam loved it; it was a little rustic for me, and perhaps the wrong time of year for a visit.
Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Amber Hostel
Calle 31 #10-103, Getsemani district
GPS: 10.400259,-75.511582, approximate
Price: $30 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Parking: Yes, in courtyard
Notes: Pushy staff but a good location and they let us drag our motorcycles into the courtyard. Our room had a/c which was excellent because it was pretty hot. Good seating areas for guests, although the staff and their children kept much of it occupied. Lots of mosquitoes so keep your room door closed. Kitchen was somewhat gross and mostly commandeered by staff. Good location in the Getsemani neighbourhood and close to the old town and waterfront.
Caucasia, Colombia
Hotel Chambacu
KM 5 on the Ruta de la Costa
GPS: 7.951542,-75.207781, very approximate
Price: $30 (2 double beds)
Wi-fi: Yes, near restaurant
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Parking: Yes, in front of room
Notes: A roadside resort that had a swimming pool (heavenly!), restaurant, and an attached love motel. Lots of parking. Grounds had a lot of trees and had a very jungle-y feel. The pool was warmed by the sun and wasn’t as refreshing as we had hoped but was still amazing after a long, sweaty ride. The restaurant served good meals for every budget. Our room had a tv, screens on the windows, and a private bath.
Medellin, Colombia
Casa Kiwi
Carrera 36 #7-10, Zona Rosa
http://www.casakiwi.net/
GPS: N 06* 12.394′ W 075* 33.953′
Price: $30 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: No
Parking: Yes, garage
Notes: A party hostel without a doubt. There seemed to be two sides to this hostel – the nice, chill, renovated side, and the unrenovated ghetto which is where we stayed. Our room as directly facing the street and directly above the bar and very, very loud. Our bed was also broken and when we reported it to staff they were unconcerned and claimed that they couldn’t do anything about it. The renovated side was very nice with great ambience, a bar that served craft brews, a swimming pool, hammocks, water fountains, and a theatre-style room for viewing tv. It was also very clean. Our side was like the forgotten child, with bathrooms that needed an upgrade and rooms that were crying for attention. They claim that they are “the new concept in hosteling” but really it’s just another party hostel with a fancy reno so that they can increase their prices. Staff were rude and dismissive.
Manizales, Colombia
Hacienda Valencia
http://www.haciendavenecia.com/
GPS: 5°02’17.4″N 75°33’49.0″W
Price: $12 (per person, to camp)
Wi-fi: No
Bathroom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes
Notes: A beautiful location on a working coffee plantation with tropical plants, various kinds of birds, lizards, and an awesome swimming pool. If you stay in the hostel the price includes breakfast. Hammocks on the porch make for a nice place to relax. Beautiful bathrooms, free coffee, and friendly staff who will let you use the kitchen to cook your meals (since their menu is a little pricey). The coffee tour is amazing. The road in is a single lane dirt road that can be a little tricky on the way out. Careful of the curves.
Salento, Colombia
La Serrana Eco Farm and Hostel
Via Palestina KM 1.5
http://laserrana.com.co/
GPS:
Price: $12 per person to camp
Wi-fi: Yes, in main house
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes
Notes: A very popular place with high turnover. Located in most likely the prettiest spot that we have stayed in so far. Nice common areas that promotes being social. A beautiful restaurant that serves amazing food with nightly dinners served community style. We opted for the BBQ night and the burger night and were very happy with the quality of the food (finally a REAL burger in Latin America!). But there is also a kitchen for use. There was a real shortage of baths – even though each dorm had their own, there were only 2 common baths and they were always full. Hot water in the showers was a real treat, but the toilets were often clogged. Breakfast included.
Cali, Colombia
Casa Blanca
Avenida 6 Bis, Calle 26N #57, Santa Monica Residencial
http://casablancahostel.com/
GPS: 03°28’09″N, 076°31’47″W
Price: $24 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Sometimes
Parking: No
Notes: We stayed at Casa Blanca because the owner runs a successful motorcycle shop and touring company, Motolombia, and the photo shows a garage in the front of the hostel for parking bikes. When we arrived we learned that while it was under the same ownership, the hostel was for sale, and the parking had been removed to add another bedroom. Strike out. It seems as though their touring company had really taken off and they were unable to devote as much time to the hostel which really showed. Handles fell off of toilets, the hot water in the showers were hit and miss (mine had none, Adam’s had lots), and there appeared to be a general lack of care. The area is also a tricky one with seemingly lots around but not a very good place to get a budget friendly meal.
Popayan, Colombia
Hostel Caracol
Calle 4 #2-21, Centro Historico
http://www.hostelcaracol.com/
GPS: 2.441594,-76.602562, approximate
Price: $27 (2 beds)
Wi-fi: Yes
Bathroom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: No
Notes: Colonial towns are beautiful but the parking situation is very tricky. Another instance where we had to park off-site in a public lot. The hostel itself was lovely, tastefully decorated with nice seating areas (although the chairs were pilfered from a kindergarten class), and a cafe (which wasn’t open while we were there). The bathrooms were clean and well-kept. Within walking distance to most things in the old town. Bedding felt damp.
Pasto, Colombia
Nogal Suite Hotel
Carrera 29 #16B-75 Centro
http://www.hotelnogalsuite.com/
GPS: 1.218017,-77.282063
Price: $60 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Supposedly
Parking: Yes, underground garage
Notes: A very pricey hotel but we were tired of driving around a city to places that didn’t have parking or were $70-$100 for a room. We appeared to be the only guests staying here. Breakfast was included in the price but there wasn’t any hot water. The staff tried to rectify the problem but the shower was pretty icy. For $60 it was unacceptable. No elevator so be prepared to climb a lot of stairs.
Pasto, Colombia
Premier Hotel
Calle 17 #19-54
http://www.hotelpremierpasto.com/
GPS: 1.209136,-77.276977
Price: $27 (double)
Wi-fi: Yes
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, in attached affiliated parking garage
Notes: We ended up here after our previous night’s stay was too far out of our budget. A giant room with an amazing shower an amazing hot water. The staff was fantastic and helped us settle in, made us feel very welcome. A bit of a seedier area but we never felt unsafe walking even at night. The strip is jam-packed with clothing stores, bakeries, and places to eat. Pasto is an average city but an ok place to cool your heels from traveler’s overload.
Otavalo, Ecuador
Hotel Flores
http://www.hotelesfloresotavalo.com/
GPS:
Price: $30 (2 single beds)
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: No (lot across the street)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Notes: Stumbled across this place because of close proximity to parking. Another colonial town with no parking on-site. The room was quite small but included a private bath – no hot water the first night due to issues with water heater but lots when the issue was resolved. The hotel is nicely decorated and has a restaurant (didn’t eat here). Big windows in street facing rooms let in lots of light. Close to main square and market. Lots of places to choose from, though, so you might want to shop around; you can probably do better.
Quito, Ecuador
Backpackers Inn
Juan Rodriguez E7-48 y Reina Victoria, Sector La Mariscal
www.backpackersinn.net/
GPS: -0.201916,-78.489615
Price: $22 (2 single beds)
Bathroom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes, but the worst we have seen
Parking: Yes
Notes: This dated hostel is kind of a ghetto with a stinky fridge in the kitchen and the worst wi-fi we have had. The rooms were alright with slap-dash children’s beds, and a closet that was full of the hostel’s stuff so we couldn’t use it. The big windows let in a lot of light but made it a bit noisy from the street. No laundry facilities even though there is a wash tub out in plain view. A drastic shortage of bathrooms – one upstairs (and the only one with a shower) and one downstairs – so there were always line-ups in the mornings and evenings. The Mariscal neighbourhood is quite jumping with lots of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, and a healthy young crowd but a plethora of signs around the hostel warn of frequent muggings and robberies in the vicinity.
Baños, Ecuador
Santa Cruz Backpacker’s
www.santacruzbackpackers.com/
GPS: -1.398386,-78.421143
Price: $10 (per person, double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes
Parking: Yes, on site and gated
Notes: One of the nicest places to date. A private room with big windows (although they let in a lot of noise), a nice covered seating area with chimney fireplace. Very quiet location but close to downtown centre. Banos has a lot to offer in terms of food, shopping, and outdoor adventure. Kitchen for guest usage.
Cuenca, Ecuador
Hostal Yakumama
http://en.hostalyakumama.com/
Luis Cordero 5-66y Honorato Vasquez
GPS: -2.900138,-79.004363
Price: $29 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes, but terrible
Parking: No but staff will let you park a bike in the corridor
Notes: Another giant room facing a courtyard. The hostel has a bar and restaurant. Price for room includes breakfast. A good location with nice decor but the worst wi-fi so far. The staff were also very indifferent about the internet problems, acknowledging them but mostly unconcerned. The bed was very comfortable, though, and I had very good sleep here. Watch out for the giant earwigs. Try the La Compania brew pub located a few blocks away for good beer.
Guayaquil, Ecuador
Mi Casa Hotel
1ero de Mayo #1010 entre Carchi y Tulcan, near metro station
GPS: -2.189201,-79.895005, approximate
Price: $25 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Parking: Yes, in lot off of reception
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Entrance is through the parking garage off of Carchi in a busy area. It’s walking distance to Malecon 2000 and Iguana Park but it is a bit of a distance. There were some carpenter ants living in the door jamb but they weren’t really a nuisance. The room otherwise was spotless, very clean, a little dated, but comfortable enough, with a/c. A refrigerator was a nice touch to keep our beer cold. A few restaurants around the back of the hotel and quite a few on the main drag. A good, cheap option in Guayaquil.
Montanita, Ecuador
Alto Montanita Hostal
GPS: -1.825599,-80.752367, approximate but should be close
Price: $10 (per person, double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes?
Parking: Yes, in front of room
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Located on the ‘quiet side of town’ but on the main road this place offered an affordable option with parking. The swimming pool is pretty rough and only really suitable for undiscerning children. Camping with the hippies is also an option. The road was a little lousy with traffic and the trucks made quite a rukus when passing by. The bathroom was smelly and we couldn’t figure out if it was sewage out back, or something with the toilet but it was pretty rank. A kitchen was a available but we didn’t use it since it was pretty dingy. The room was basic, but clean and had screens on the windows. They advertise having hot water and there was an electric heater on the shower head but it didn’t appear to be working.
Puerto Lopez, Ecuador
Hostal Maxima
Calle Gonzales Suarez y Av. Machalilla
http://www.hotelmaxima.org/
GPS: -1.558348,-80.810576
Price: $9 (per person, double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, in courtyard
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Lots of rooms surrounding a lush courtyard. Our room was on the third floor so the breezes coming off the ocean were amazing. Mosquito net over the bed let more mosquitoes in than kept them out. But it was necessary to sleep with the windows open because it was so warm in the room. A small kitchen for guest use available and plenty of seating areas. The owners also have a lot of pets: a dog, a cat, an inguana, a few birds, and a kinkajou. Laundry service. Under renovations at the time so the resturant was closed down. Rooms facing the street were noisy.
Machala, Ecuador
Hostal Saloah
Colon 1818
GPS:
Price: $29 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, in free hotel lot next door
Wi-fi: Yes, but not in rooms
Notes: A central location across from a bus station. Room was tastefully decorated and seemed clean enough. Air conditioning in room was much needed in Machala’s heat. There were a lot of cockroaches though both in the room (mainly the bathroom) and common areas. An ok stopover but wouldn’t recommend staying for much longer.
Mancora, Peru
Mancora del Sol Hosteria
Extension Arequipa (although none of the streets have posted names)
GPS: -4.103802,-81.052093
Price: S/ 50 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Parking: Yes, in gated courtyard
Wi-fi: Yes, better outside in common areas
Notes: One of the nicest places we stayed. Rooms were basic but clean and friendly. Owner was always available. Grounds were covered in palm trees, and tropical plants. Hostel felt like new even though it had been there for a few years. Room was a little hot and only had a ceiling fan, so sleeps were very warm. Within walking distance to the beach.
Piura, Peru
Los Cocos Inn
Jose Olaya 197, Miraflores
http://www.hospedajeloscocos.com/
GPS: -5.190887,-80.634114
Price: S/ 30 (2 beds) + S/ 5 for parking
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No
Parking: Yes, a small gated area with room for 2 cars, max
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Los Cocos has definitely seen better days but appears to be the cheapest place in town. A nice location within walking distance to restaurants, and the main plaza. The beds were saggy and uncomfortable and the bathroom needed a renovation job (stained and broken tiles, a pretty sad shower head, kind of scuzzy). Big windows looked out onto the courtyard. Owners have many animals who look pretty unhappy and as if their cages need a cleaning. Games room, and an unstocked bar. Pretty sad, actually.
Huanchaco, Peru
My Friend Surf Hospedaje
Los Pinos 158
GPS: -8.08214,-79.121586
Price: S/ 15 (per person)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: No, but owner let us park in restaurant after closing
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: A very basic hostel geared toward your average surf bum. Great restaurant with very tasty food and an amazing daily spaghetti special. Room was a little rough around the edges and home to many cockroaches. Shower curtain was mostly tore off its hooks and mouldy. Staff were friendly. Nice rooftop patio.
Chimbote, Peru
Ivonne’s Motorcycle Posada
GPS:
Price: Free
Bathroom: Shared with family and other travellers, shower only
Parking: Yes, out front
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Only by chance did we end up at Ivonne’s posada in her private home. She opens it up to motorcycle travellers, gives them a place to sleep, and feeds them all at her own cost.
Huaraz, Peru
Jo’s Place Lodging House
Calle Daniel Villaizan
http://www.hosteltrail.com/hostels/josplace/
GPS: -9.520369, -77.527662
Price: S/45 (double with ensuite)
Bathroom: Private
Hot Water: Sort of
Parking: For motorcycles only, probably too small for a car
Wi-fi: Yes but weak, best in office
Notes: A very vertical lodging house surrounded by lush gardens with great views of the mountains (from the top floor). Our room was comfortable, a bit chilly at night and in the shadows, but warmed up with the sun. The bathroom was clean but hot water in the shower was hit or miss. The towels never seemed to dry. Handwash laundry facilities, and ample room for camping. Located within walking distance to the centre of it all but not in the heart of the action. The bakery across the street offers coffee and pastries; try the Chifa restaurant at the end of the street on the main drag for some tasty aeropuerto and giant soups.
Barranca, Peru
Piel de Angel Hospedaje
Near Saenz Pena on Av. Francisca Vidal
GPS: -10.746484,-77.760376
Price: S/ 40 (triple)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Sort of
Parking: Yes, in hotel lot
Wi-fi: No
Notes: A love motel but so much more. A basic hotel with a big room. We had to request the hot water be turned on and it was still only so-so hot. Our room had a double and a single bed and was quite large. A mirror alongside the bed provided amusement. Located in a area that might seem scary (dimly lit dirt road), but is really just a typical side street in Chimbote. The owner was super friendly and went out of his way to make sure we had everything that we needed. Clean, quiet.
Lima, Peru
Hitchhikers Backpackers Inn
Bolognesi 400, Miraflores
http://www.hhikersperu.com/
GPS: -12.122275,-77.036027
Price: $34 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, in hostel lot
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: We splurged for the room with the private bath but turns out that these rooms face the common bathrooms anyway. Everything can be heard from these baths including post-binge drinking vomiting, and episodes of explosive diarrhea. Charming. Rooms are around back away from the common areas but located next to the kitchen and near the staff cleaning area, so it was very loud early in the morning. The room was comfortable with a comfy bed, and a big bathroom. Pricey for Peru but cheap for Miraflores, Lima. Sheets had lost their elastic so it was a constant battle with a loosey-goosey sheet all night. Included breakfast is cheap and unfulfilling. Very secure but constant buzzing in and out is a bit annoying.
Huacachina, Peru
Hospedaje Claudia
On the main road
GPS: -14.08865,-75.762729
Price: S/ 110 (double)
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes, but often slow
Notes: One the most beautiful and classy places that we stayed. Airy and large room with big windows looking out onto the dunes. Very clean and comfortable; one of our best sleeps. Every room has a balcony overlooking the pool area. Yes, it has a swimming pool and it’s divine! Hot water was a little intermittent but enough to fill a bathtub for a bit of a soak. Hostel also offers buggy/boarding tours.
Nazca, Peru
Hostal Las Tinajas
Simon Bolivar 400
GPS: -14.826404,-74.94178
Price: S/ 45 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Warm
Parking: Yes, in hotel lot
Wi-fi: Yes, but not in rooms
Notes: A good budget option in Nasca with ample secure parking. Our room was very clean and tastefully decorated. The owner was friendly and helpful. Hot water didn’t really materialize in the shower, but it wasn’t freezing cold either. Hostal is under renovations but no work was being done at the time.
Puquio, Peru
Hostal Josuef
Jiron Bolognesi
GPS: -14.694095,-74.124523, approximate
Price: S/ 45 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, in gated lot
Wi-fi: No
Notes: Close to the main square, this place won out because it had its own parking lot. Our room was clean, but a little cramped with a tiny window that made it feel cell-like. Hot water in the shower was amazing which is good because it was cold at night. Lots of heavy blankets on the bed.
Abancay, Peru
Hotel Imperial
Av Diaz Barcenas 110
GPS: -13.635519,-72.87975
Price: S/ 80 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, in gated lot
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: A cheaper option than the Hotel Turista (across the street), but a nice place. It was under renovation while we were there and work started early in the morning. We opted for a room with two twin beds since Adam was feeling slightly under the weather. Beds were comfortable, and the room was super clean and comfortable. Wi-fi was pretty good in the room but better outside. Ample storage room for luggage and a large window let in lots of air and light. Close to streets with plenty of action.
Cusco, Peru
Leo’s Pad
Puno, Peru
Hostal Tumi Inn
Jr. Cajamarca 243
GPS: -15.840832,-70.026117, approximate
Price: S/ 60 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: No (but will let bikes park in lobby)
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: We found this place thanks to another motorcycle traveller’s blog stating that they allowed them to park their bikes in the lobby. This turned out to be true, and a glorious time saver. Close to the central square and walkable distance to the lake. Our room (101) was huge and clean. The bed sagged in the middle, a bit, but it was comfortable enough. Wi-fi was good the first night but not so great the second, and the hot water was come and go, but good when it was working.
Copacabana, Bolivia
Suma Sumawi
Av. Costanera, out of town
GPS: -16.176842,-69.097015
Price: BS 25 (per person, double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: No (even though there are electric heaters on the shower heads)
Parking: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Located approximately 10 minutes outside of Copacabana town proper, Suma Sumawi is situated in a lovely location on the shores of Lake Titicaca, and offering camping, rooms, and cabins. The room was basic and somewhat reminiscent of being at summer camp with shoddy wooden doors, and sheets for curtains. The bathroom was somewhat of a mystery with new tile on the walls but no light making nighttime bathroom trips a bit tricky. There was also no toilet seat (much like every place in Copacabana) and no hot water even though there was a heater on the shower head. Water would also disappear at various times throughout the day. Despite this, owners were very friendly, grounds were well-kept, and it’s only a short walk to town. Did we mention the view??
La Paz, Bolivia
Oberland Hotel
Avenida Costanera, Mallasa
http://www.h-oberland.com/index.php?lang=en
GPS: -16.546367,-68.074232
Price: BS 50 (per person, to camp)
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Sort of
Parking: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Located approximately 15 minutes outside of La Paz, Oberland Hotel has a bit of reputation amongst overlanders for being quiet, comfortable, and accommodating. Indeed, the camping space was quite good with very good bathroom facilities. The hot water was a bit illusive but the removable, snake-type shower head was a pleasant surprise. The spa facilities were a bit tired, the pool quite cold, the jacuzzi never warmed up to proper temperature, and the sauna (the best of the bunch) still didn’t induce much of a sweat. Buffet breakfast is convenient but a little pricey at BS 48 per person. A great location with stunning scenery.
Oruro, Bolivia
Residencial Vergara
Calle Pagador 5527 (between Montecinos and Caro)
GPS: -17.967905,-67.110051
Price: BS 140 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes
Wi-fi: No
Notes: A tired and rundown place with super friendly owners. Very secure parking through two sets of locked doors, in a courtyard. The room was clean enough and pretty comfortable, but it’s hey-day was probably 50 years ago or so. Lots of water damage in the room with crumbling plaster and peeling paint, and a smell of mildew. Good location. Owners were almost bubbling over with pride to have guests. Don’t discount it if you’re stuck for a place with parking in the market area.
Potosí, Bolivia
Hotel San Antonio
Calle Oruro #136
http://www.bolivia-online.net/en/potosi/135/san-antonio-hotel-potosi-bolivia
GPS: -22.088414,-65.5922, approximate
Price: BS 200 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: An overpriced stay conveniently located close to the central market, plaza, and many churches. Our room was large and came with a private bath (which hadn’t been cleaned since the last guest). The bathroom window, when open, filled the room with a strong sewage smell. Comfortable bed, good tv reception, and breakfast included (rolls, and coffee).
Sucre, Bolivia
Wasi Masi
Calle Urcullo #233
http://www.wasi-masi.com/
GPS: -19.043905,-65.257505
Price: BS 140 (apartment)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: We once again ended up with the most expensive room in the place, but it was very nice and comfortable. Room came with private kitchen, bathroom, and balcony. Very clean. Wi-fi worked very well. Very good location, downtown in historic district, close to main square.
Potosí, Bolivia
Hotel San Antonio
(see above)
Despite not being completely satisfied with our previous stay here, we returned due to lack of options (i.e. laziness) but opted for the shared bath option in an effort to save money (BS 120). If you happen to stay here, don’t cheap out. Fork out the extra money for the private bath. The cell-like tomb, I mean room, was tiny and dark and cold. The shared bath was filthy, and lacked toilet paper. Bathrooms are also not closed off from the outside, so visits after dark were pretty frigid. A real disappointment.
Uyuni, Bolivia
Hotel Avenida
Av. Ferroviaria #11
GPS: -20.463435,-66.823044
Price: BS 120 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: No, but bikes can park in the courtyard
Wi-fi: Yes, but poor when too many users
Notes: Very clean hotel on the main drag. Close to everything with a great restaurant next door. The rooms were cold at night (like most hotels in Uyuni, no heat in the rooms), but plenty of heavy blankets on the large bed made it one of the most comfortable of the entire trip. Electric heaters on the showers meant low pressure but very hot water.
Tupiza, Bolivia
Hostal Horizonte Colorado
Av. Santa Cruz # 320
GPS: -21.443682,-65.719664
Price: BS 110 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: In some rooms
Parking: No, but bikes can park in lobby
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: We were promised wi-fi and hot water when we checked in, but were dismayed to discover that we had neither. Staff were very accommodating though, and opened up another room so that we could shower in a properly functioning shower (ours spewed water in every direction, didn’t heat up, and was somewhat of an electrical shock hazard). They also eventually fixed the wi-fi, after 3 hours and 2 complaints. Bed was a bit saggy but comfortable enough. Breakfast included.
Tilcara, Argentina
Inti Tampu Hospedaje
Alverro 101-199
GPS: -23.574431,-65.391186
Price: AR 200 (apartment)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: We visited in off-season, so got a great deal on the room (AR 200 for a 2 bedroom, 5 bed, private bath with kichenette). Big and spacious room, one of the nicest of entire trip. Good hot water and pressure in the shower. Located slightly out of the main centre, it was quiet and serene, with 4 llamas to keep us company on the property. Very friendly owner. Breakfast included.
Salta, Argentina
Andino Hostal
332 Urquiza
GPS: -24.792403, -65.407616
Price: AR 220 (double with 1 bunk)
Bathroom: Private, Shower only, German-style toilet
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: No
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Terrible. Our room was musty and dirty, and while the staff were personable and helpful, at first, their all night loud party directly across from our room was less than considerate. A definite skip.
Termas de Rio Hondo, Argentina
Hotel Candela
Juan B. Alberdi 852 (Rt. 9)
GPS: -27.493353, -64.865892
Price: AR 300 (double with bunk)
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, secure
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: A really great place with secure parking right outside of the room. Very clean, very quiet with climate controlled rooms. Amazingly friendly owner and staff. Breakfast included. Swimming pool, and outdoor seating area. Deep bathtub with thermal waters was great for relaxing and soaking sore muscles. Close to town and within walking distance to central, parks, casinos, shops, and restaurants. One of the best yet!
Cordoba, Argentina
Tango International Hostel
Fructuoso Rivera 70
http://tangohostelcordoba.com/en/
GPS: -31.426185, -64.189784
Price: AR 250 (double)
Bathroom: Shared, shower only
Hot Water: Not really
Parking: Yes, sort of
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Pretty cruddy, actually, and a regular party hostel. Quiet hours don’t start until 1 a.m., and sometimes not until 2 on weekends. The staff were helpful enough but pretty wishy-washy about parking the bikes (some said yes, some said no, others seemed very put out by our presence). Our room was small and located behind reception so it was very loud. Water was barely lukewarm in shower. But it was quite clean and bathrooms had been recently renovated.
Rosario, Argentina
Hotel Viena
Ovidio Lagos 555
http://www.rosario.com.ar/hotelviena/
GPS: -32.939093, -60.660936
Price: AR 420 (double)
Bathroom: Private, shower only
Hot Water: Yes (oh, yes!)
Parking: Yes (AR 6, per space)
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Beautiful lobby and restaurant but the room was a little run down. Despite this, it was very clean, wi-fi worked great, and the hot water couldn’t be beat. The whole building was a little on the hot side (26 degrees celcius in the lobby!) but I have learned that this is better than being cold. A little on the far side of ‘the action’ but affordable and comfortable.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Kilca Hostel
Mexico 1545
http://www.kilcabackpacker.com/
GPS: -34.615185, -58.388193
Price: AR 2800 (online booking price), double
Bathroom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: No, but will let bikes park in the courtyard
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: We showed up at the hostel since it is a well-known place for motorcycle travellers with parking in the downtown area of B.A. Unfortunately, we were unaware that a reservation was required, or so we were told. Problem solved by heading to the nearest Starbucks to use their wi-fi to make a reservation. The room smelled a bit musty (like most hostels) and was a bit rundown, but the price for the location can’t really be beat. Good common areas, kitchen for public use, and very quiet. Note: in the end, we spoke with the manager about the “reservation” policy and it turned out that one of the staff was misinformed. They ‘like’ to have reservations for general backpacker types to prevent hassles and keep security up but absolutely will accept (if they have room) motorcyclists without a reservation. Keep in mind that while there is ample parking in the back court yard (and convenient room access), you may have to take your panniers off to get passed a planter near the front gate. Really, a great, relaxed played to stay in BA. It will be cheaper if you pay in cash.
Miami, Florida, USA
Suntan Villa
#915 19th Avenue West
Hialeah, FL
GPS: 25.840232, -80.263571
Price: $30 for a tent with air mattress, linens, fan, and lantern
Bathroom: Shared, honeymoon showers
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: Staying with Aldo at his home was like staying with family (well-liked family, that is). He opened his home to us from the moment we arrived and made sure that we felt comfortable. We opted for the tent accommodations which was one of 5 tents set up in his yard, outfitted with an inflatable mattress, linens, towels, a fan, and a battery-powered lantern. The tent was clean, airy, and comfortable with ample space for luggage inside. He opened his house to us and invited us to make his house our own, with use of the kitchen, and all other rooms in the house. Aldo lives with his mother and 3 dogs, all of whom are very charming and friendly. He is happy to drive you anywhere, and is more than excited to show you around Miami’s hottest attractions. He has great suggestions for food, and will pick you up from the airport. Parking available on-site.
St. Augustine Beach, Florida, USA
KOA
525 West Pope Road
GPS: 29.859184, -81.282047
Price: $41.41 for a tent site with water and electricity
Bathroom: Shared, showers only
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes, but sketchy, and even bad close to the office
Notes: A terrible night. Thunderstormed out, and yes, I realize that KOA can’t control the weather but they could provide shelter in case of severe weather emergency. Our site, once it started raining, turned to mush and bikes sank into the ground. Site did not have a lot of trees for shade or shelter. New policies state that nothing is to be hung from trees so hanging a tarp or clothesline was extremely difficult. Cooking pit was welded into position and virtually unusable. I have seen gas station bathrooms that were nicer.
Richburg, South Carolina, USA
Econo Lodge
3190 Lancaster Hwy
GPS: 34.744221, -81.032439
Price: $55
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes, outside of room
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes: A great hotel alongside the highway with a variety of amenities nearby. Very clean, very quiet, and very comfortable. Our room was very big with ample room for all of our gear and staff didn’t complain when we pulled out our camp chairs to drink beer outside of our room, or hang clothes up in the parking lot to dry. Desk staff were very friendly and stay was hassle-free. Continental breakfast included; fridge and microwave in room.
Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
Econo Lodge
15 Commerce Drive
GPS: 39.628927, -79.986295
Price: $70
Bathroom: Full
Hot Water: Yes
Parking: Yes
Wi-fi: Yes
Notes:
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