Best of the Backpackers at Sydney Harbour YHA

I’ve never really been one for “roughing it.” While the other kids at school begged their parents to take them camping, I’d stipulate that our accommodation needed a spa. Even today I won’t look at anything if it’s not at least rated four stars. And I’d never stepped into a hostel.

That is, until yesterday.

I admit, I had many misconceptions about hostels. I imagined they were rowdy places filled with foreign backpackers happy to settle for substandard accommodation. But after bunkering down at Sydney Harbour YHA at The Rocks, I’ve had to change my tune.

As my husband and I wandered the corridors to our room it was in fact pleasantly quiet. As we stepped into our room I was again shocked. Yes, it was a little small and basic but the place almost sparkled. The bathroom was on a par with most 4-star motels, and the view was a great deal better. Who’d imagine you’d see the Opera House clearly from a hostel window? The 5-star motels are charging big bucks for that kind of vista, but backpackers here can enjoy it from their rooms or the rooftop terrace!

The bed was a little hard for my tastes, but it wasn’t the most uncomfortable I’ve slept on by a long shot. The shower the next morning was also refreshing. I would have appreciated more pressure, but in these days of water savers and eco-friendly practices I’m not going to complain too much.

I checked out of Sydney Harbour YHA feeling strangely refreshed, and a little sheepish. It seems I’ve misjudged hostels. The accommodation may be basic, but how often do you spend time in your hotel using all of those mod cons? All I ever need is somewhere clean, comfortable, and convenient and the Sydney Harbour YHA delivers on all scores.

Note: I received a complimentary stay for the purposes of this review.

Location: Sydney Harbour YHA
Address: 110 Cumberland Street, The Rocks
Public transport: Catch a train to Wynyard or Circular Quay station. This .pdf has great step-by-step instructions and maps for getting there from these stations
Parking: There is limited paid parking nearby. Consult this .pdf for full instructions
Cost: Shared rooms start from $37.50
Website: http://www.yha.com.au/hostels/nsw/sydney-surrounds/sydney-harbour/

Image source: Lauren Katulka