YHA Sydney Central

"Big shout out to Karl and Alex working at YHA Sydney central! They made our stay really comfortable and safe ❤️ When we checked in, we were slightly skeptical but Alex and Karl provided so much assurance to us and we’re extremely helpful in clarifying any doubts we had ❤️ Initially, We weren’t comfortable in the first room we were put in, hence we requested for a shift in rooms after and it was done immediately without any fuss. In terms of cleanliness, I feel like the bedsheets/duvet should be changed after checking out as I noticed housekeeping not changing the duvets. Also weren’t comfortable on how the male housekeepers could come in freely into the all women bedrooms as there were instances where we would be changing etc. The toilets were cleaner than I expected but don’t expect hotel level of standard. Overall, it was a good stay and loved loved LOVED the events at the bar downstairs! And LOVED the convenience of the location, everything is nearby (Central station, Chinatown, etc.)"

"The Bad - The check-in process was rather very labored. They require you to provide identity and then they take a photo of your face with their webcams supposedly to use facial recognition in their building to keep a track of your movements (I felt that this was an invasion of my privacy). The keycards that were provided did not work for our room had to be reissued. Additionally you're only allowed to use the bathrooms on your specific floor and not only that they're keyed to your assigned gender so good luck if you identify as anything but binary or you muddle up your keycard with your travel companions. The room was very drab it was clean enough, but the cupboards didn't close properly and there was only 2 power outlets for 4 people so good luck charging your devices. The good - The common areas were quite nice and there was a nice atmosphere to the place so that was nice, the location is amazing as it's right in front of central station so provides very convenient transport options to almost everywhere. Chinatown is also a stones throw away out the door and to your right plenty of food and drink everywhere you turn at all hours of the day. But to be honest with you the staff really let this place down as they weren't very friendly and didn't understand the gravity of the concerns I had or just didn't know how to listen and be empathetic. All in all, the place is a far cry from the YHA at The Rocks, if you get the chance book there instead it's well worth it for a similar price."

"The hostel is in a really great location and the staff are helpful and friendly. There are lots of facilities to use during your stay, a cinema room, a pool and a co-working space, laundry etc. The room I was staying in was REALLY dark, the light was super dim and my bedside light didn’t work. Overall it’s a good place to stay for the amount it costs."

"Great location. Possibly the cheapest location for a stay in Sydney. The building felt safe. No problems with theft. There were many bedbugs. Horrible, but it’s what you get for the price. Sheets were stained with blood and other strange stain. Loud music was heard from other rooms during late night."

"Good value hostel. It's very big so don't expect a super social experience. There is still a nice atmosphere though. Some of the facilities like the movie room and quotes sauna were closed and the pool is cold, but otherwise the facilities were nice."