SMHostel - Complete Review
If you're considering staying at SMHostel in Reykjavík, it's important to know what to expect. It serves as a budget-friendly option for travelers wanting to explore Iceland's capital without breaking the bank.
Located at Skógarhlíð 20, this hostel offers a practical base for seeing the city and surrounding areas. While the staff are known to be welcoming and the location is convenient for public transport, there are some drawbacks to be aware of. The cleanliness has been a common concern among guests, and the basic room conditions might not suit everyone. Despite these issues, SMHostel remains a viable choice for those prioritizing affordability and location over luxury.
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Why We Recommend It
- Staff are known for being very friendly and helpful, often going out of their way to assist guests and make them feel welcome.
- The hostel offers good value for money, with essential facilities like laundry services included at no extra cost, which is not common in other accommodations.
Downsides
- The hostel's cleanliness is a major issue, with some guests finding it very poor and uncomfortable. One review even compared it to a sewer.
- The hostel is situated directly under a mosque, which means guests will hear prayers throughout the day and evening, which may not be ideal for everyone.
- Room conditions can be disappointing, as some rooms are basic and not as advertised. Issues like dusty environments, non-functioning electric sockets, and missing blinds have been reported.
Our Review of SMHostel
When you stay at SMHostel in Reykjavík, the location is one of its stronger points. It's pretty close to public transport, which makes getting around the city easier. You can explore Reykjavík without being right in the hustle and bustle, as the hostel is set a bit away from the main tourist areas. This gives you a balance of accessibility and a quieter setting to retreat to after a day out.
The staff at SMHostel are generally friendly and helpful, which is a definite plus. It's nice when the people at the place you're staying make an effort to ensure you feel welcome. They seem to be willing to go the extra mile to accommodate guests, which can make a big difference in your overall experience. But there are quite a few things where SMHostel could improve.
Cleanliness is a notable issue, with some guests finding the conditions less than satisfactory. This can be a real downside, especially if you're someone who values a clean and comfortable space. Additionally, being situated under a mosque means you'll hear prayers throughout the day, which might not be ideal for everyone. The rooms themselves are quite basic, and there have been reports of issues like non-functioning sockets and dusty environments.
These things can add up and affect your stay. While the price might be appealing to budget travelers, the overall condition of the hostel leaves room for improvement. If you're considering staying here, it's worth weighing these pros and cons carefully. In this SMHostel review, it's clear that while the hostel has potential, there are several factors that might make you think twice before booking.
Services Offered by SMHostel
- Affordable accommodation near Reykjavík city center
- Shared kitchen and common areas for socializing
- Laundry services available at no extra cost
- Friendly and helpful staff on site
Experiences to check out in Reykjavik
When to Visit
Visiting Reykjavik and staying at SM Hostel can be a great experience, especially during the summer months when the weather is milder and you can enjoy longer daylight hours. This is also a good time to explore the nearby attractions without the hassle of harsh winter conditions. For those interested in the Northern Lights, visiting in the winter months might be worth considering, as you can catch a glimpse of the aurora on clear nights right outside the hostel.
Who It's Best For
If you're someone who doesn't mind basic amenities and is on a budget, SM Hostel might work for you. It's the kind of place where you get what you pay for, so it's best suited for travelers who can handle a bit of discomfort in exchange for a lower price. The hostel's location is convenient if you want to be close to public transport and the city center without spending too much.
SMHostel Review Wrap Up
Finally, SMHostel in Reykjavík offers a mixed experience that might suit some travelers but leave others wanting more. The location is handy for getting around, and the staff is generally friendly, which are definite positives.
The cleanliness and basic room conditions aren't great. The noise from the nearby mosque and occasional issues with room maintenance add to the concerns. If you're traveling on a budget and can overlook these issues, SMHostel might be a suitable choice for the price. If you care about comfort and cleanliness, you might want to check out other places. In this SMHostel review, it's clear that while the hostel has its advantages, there are plenty of areas where it could improve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
From what I've seen, SMHostel is priced a bit higher than other budget hostels in the area, which is surprising given its 2.7-star rating and some of the issues guests have mentioned. While it does offer some perks like free laundry services, the overall experience might not justify the cost for everyone. If you're on a tight budget, you might want to look at other nearby places that could give you more value for your money.
At SMHostel, the social scene is pretty laid-back. You'll often find a few people hanging out in the lounge or kitchen, mostly just doing their own thing. It's not a party hostel, so if you're into a more relaxed vibe where you can chill and maybe chat with fellow travelers, this place might suit you.
During local festivals or events in Reykjavik, SMHostel can get a bit busier, but it's generally not overwhelming. The hostel's quieter atmosphere tends to stay the same, with a few more guests appearing in common areas. It's a decent place to stay if you're trying to save money, but it's probably best to book ahead just to be safe.
People who prefer a quieter place to stay would likely appreciate SMHostel. It's not a party spot, so if you're someone who just wants a peaceful environment to relax after a day of exploring, this could suit you. It's also good for travelers who don't mind a simple, no-frills setting and are okay with some noise from the nearby mosque.
The internet connectivity at SMHostel is generally pretty reliable, which is a nice perk if you need to stay connected during your trip. But when it's busy, the service can get a bit slow, especially when more people are using it. It's not a huge issue but something to be aware of if you need to do anything data-heavy online.