2015 Hostel Reviews

Photo courtesy joblo.com

In my opinion, hostels are the way to go (don't believe what you see in those movies:) I stayed at seven different locations in 2015 with repeat visits at Freehand Chicago. I prefer hostels for the price, camaraderie, and because they are typically located in an area that is convenient to transportation and activities.

Orange Drive Hostel in Hollywood, CA
This hostel was originally a home from the 1920's and is oozing with charm and character. It's located in an ideal location right off Hollywood Blvd in Hollywood, CA. I love their scrumptious free waffles in the morning, friendly staff, and location. I have stayed in a spacious dorm room at this hostel many times, and will continue to do so when I travel to LA. 
http://orangedrivehostel.com/


Apple Hostels in Philadelphia, PA
I knew what I was getting into by securing a dorm room with 27 other females; however, it was worse than I expected. There are two separate rooms with no door, and it's bunk on top of bunk. A male staff person entered the room without announcing himself, and fortunately, I had just finished changing. Not to mention, it was hot, stuffy, pricey, and oh so noisy. I would not stay here again. 
http://applehostels.com/

DC Lofty in Washington, DC
This is another charming property with chandeliers and exposed brick. I stayed in a 4-person dorm with ensuite bath. The hostel was clean with a comfy bed, friendly staff, and a great location. I felt secure walking around, even from the subway late at night. Be sure to check out nearby 14th Street for fantastic bars and restaurants. I would definitely stay here again.
http://www.capitalhostels.net/

Hostel Detroit in Detroit, MI
I wrote an individual post for this hostel (bit.ly/1lAZebX). I had a great visit and would stay here again.

Freehand Chicago in Chicago, IL
Another property that I published an individual post for (bit.ly/1MWdC3T). I'm completely smitten with this hostel, and intend to have many more visits in the future.

Getaway Hostel in Chicago, IL
I always stay at Freehand Chicago when I visit the Windy City; however, I chose this location because it was within walking distance of my Halloween activities. The hostel is located on a lovely, tree-lined street and is aesthetically pleasing; however, I wouldn't stay here again. I base this on the location of the bathrooms being nowhere near the dorm room (you had to walk through two different areas), and the bunk beds are terribly unstable (my bed shifted with the slightest movement from my bunkmate).
http://www.getawayhostel.com/

The Cleveland Hostel in Cleveland, OH
I couldn't have chosen a better place to stay than the Cleveland Hostel. What a gem in a remarkable neighborhood. Immerse yourself in Ohio City for the architecture (especially the homes), phenomenal bars/restaurants, Great Lakes Brewing, and the West Side Market. The hostel is inviting, clean, tastefully decorated, and extremely accommodating. I will return for a summer visit to relish the rooftop deck. View photos here http://bit.ly/1MLnsFP

WASHINGTON DC RECOMMENDATIONS

Did you know Washington, DC is much more than museums? The city is brimming with impressive restaurants, breweries, street art, and architecture. The main attraction for my 4th of July weekend visit was to see the Foo Fighters tear up RFK Stadium. Despite Dave Grohl's broken leg, the Foo did not disappoint (they never do!). It sure was exciting to be in our nation's capital on the 4th for the first time.
               

I also intended to pack in as much food, beer, and sightseeing as possible during my three day adventure. I departed this spectacular destination feeling pretty good about that and here are my recommendations:

Where to Stay
DC Lofty Hostel - I chose a dorm room with four beds and en suite bath. The room was spacious and charming with a comfy bed. I also appreciated the individual night light and outlet. The neighborhood is great and I felt safe, even walking late at night solo. I suggest hitting nearby 14th Street for a plethora of bars, restaurants and shops.

I hit the jackpot with three interesting and personable bunk mates. I highly recommend following two of them, Shelby and Steven (aka Bud and Grits), as they walk their way from Maine to Tennessee through the wilderness on the Appalachian Trail. http://budandgrits.com/

DC Lofty

How to Get Around
While the sidewalk bike rentals are abundant, I chose to use my two feet to get around, because it's my preferred way of really getting to know a city. I obviously rode the Metro a few times, including back and forth to the airport.

I recommend purchasing a SmarTrip card before using the Metro, as it will save you $1/ride. It costs an initial $10 ($2 for the card), but it's worth it if you plan to ride several times. Pay it forward like I did, and give it away to the next person when you are done with it.

Where to Eat
Woodland's Vegan Bistro 
Busboys & Poets Bookstore and Eatery (http://bit.ly/1JWkvWt)
Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Restaurant
Hudson Deli (an amazing veggie burger)
Naan & Beyond Express 

Breakfast burrito and fresh juice at Woodland's

Veggie Combo at Queen of Sheba

Harira Soup at Busboys & Poets

Coconut Tofu Bites at Busboys

Beer Venues (I had others on my list, but ran out of time).
Right Proper Brewing
Capitol City Brewing
Church Key

The remainder of my time was spent wandering aimlessly. Fortunately, flights are always cheap, because I could easily make a return visit in the near future.

A gifted one man show

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STREET ART - WASHINGTON, DC STYLE

There was a level of uncertainty with regard to street art in DC, because I didn't get a chance to do any research before my departure. I also didn't have a lot of time for wandering, so I was concerned about how many murals I would be able to capture. 

My concerns were completely unwarranted, as the spectacular art decided to find me when I least expected it. I'm so grateful for what DC chose to share with me. Enjoy!

BUSBOYS and POETS

Busboys and Poets is impressive on a number of levels, making it worthy of an individual post. I intended to dine at the location nearest to my hostel; however, stumbled upon a different one purely by accident.

While this spot was extremely appealing (especially the patio), I decided to stick with my original plan due to some anticipated imbibing. I couldn't leave without taking a few snaps though (5th Street and K).

Busboys and Poets offers flavorful food, energetic background music, an eclectic decor, fun vibe, and cool events. Drooling on your keyboard is absolutely permitted at this time while viewing my yummy dishes at the flagship location (2021 14th Street NW).

Coconut Tofu Bites

Harira Soup

I also enjoyed a House Salad with baby kale, tomatoes, carrots, jicama and yuzu vinaigrette. All this mouth-watering food was paired with glasses of Pinot Grigio and Chenin Blanc.

Even though I was ready to bust a gut, I couldn't leave without browsing the interesting selection of books. 

 

Oh how I wish I could be a regular at this extraordinary restaurant.  http://bit.ly/1f48r2Q