A TripAdvisor Review From A Past Guest

  I admit that I'm a bit of weary traveller; I haven't taken a vacation for around 6 years and apart from feeling immensely excited that I was visiting San Francisco, I also felt slightly nervous. Although, I had lived in a dorm environment before, I had not stayed in a hostel so I was not sure what to expect when I arrived at the Pacific Tradewinds.    I had a long flight and I was exhausted by the time I arrived. I received a great welcome from one of the staff members who helped me with my bag and offered me some water whilst I checked in - this was much needed and appreciated. I was shown to my dorm and was given a tour of the hostel. The dorm was spacious with four large bunk beds. My bed was freshly made - complete with clean bedding and a fresh towel. I also had a large locker under my bed where I could store my large case and other belongings. I liked that the room was light and airy. I was shown the common area which had a range of useful plug points to charge electronics and two macs where I could browse the web. The kitchen was spacious and well equipped with a great range of utensils and a a shared larder. There was also space to keep personal food items and a large fridge freezer. My floor had tow shower rooms, a toilet and two sinks. There were additional facilities on the third floor of the hostel which one could use if necessary. As the Tradewinds is a small hostel, I never found that I had to cue to use any of the bathroom facilities. I was impressed that was constant hot water and everything was cleaned thoroughly daily.    The amenities were not the only positive of this hostel and in some ways they were not the most important to me. I was struck by the very special energy of this place - it possesses and fosters a real sense of community, friendliness and openness, which even with my limited experience of hostels, I could recognise was unique. I loved that the hostel posted events/ activities that you could do and that they had organised groups events/meals for guests. This meant that you never really felt alone and there was always something to do if you chose to partake. Perhaps, I was lucky, but I found all the staff and guests at the hostel to be very warm friendly people. I was fortunate to establish some firm friendships that made my stay in San Francisco very special and memorable.    I found the hostel was a safe space and there were no instances of theft or inappropriate behaviour. Between 12 - 6 am the hostel went into quiet hours which meant that lights were out and everyone kept noise to a minimum. It was impressive that everyone respected this and were mindful of their fellow guests.   There is a plaque above the reception desk that reads "Be excellent to each other" (or something very close to this!) and this accurately sums up the attitude and approach of this fantastic hostel. The staff and space are truly excellent and I will always remember my time there very fondly.   Thank you to everyone at the Pacific Tradewinds for making my stay special and for the memories.