Booked myself into MIB for a week through the Hostel world website. Needed to confirm my booking with them via email and it was easily and quickly done.
Shared a 6-bed dorm room with others as well as another friend. We arrived far earlier than the 1PM check in time so left our luggage in their many pin-code lockers on one side of the kitchen/ communal space. This was a wide spread, long table set up with a full kitchen- where they have free breakfast every morning- though I didn't take them up on this in order to experience Melbourne's cafe breakfast/ brunch scene (sure it would be a highlight for some other travellers)
They have a well-manned reception desk that is only closed for a one hour block once in the afternoon and once at night. We got a key card and linen, blankets (extra allowed for the Melbourne winter cold) and pillows. Hadn't packed a towel either so paid for one that was changed daily for free (a deposit which I got back later, which was a neat surprise). 3 bunk beds with a lockers on each side of the room (nice to have, though we didn't use it) and a few (2) power outlets (only wish they had a few more for our room of 4/5 travellers).
Had a fair few late nights so was nice to have the come as you go, 24 hour access. Also spent a few hours in their reading room- which had cool event posters up and comfy couches and a decent bookshelf with a range of books. Saw they had washing and drying facilities though I did not need it as well as mail holding/forwarding, faxing and printing services.
Chose this hostel in particular as it was the closest to an exam facility on La Trobe street- but in general it was a great distance from the Melbourne CBD and close to a range of cool things to do and places to eat. Only wish they had free wifi! Though it wasn't too expensive for approx 30 mins of data before it runs out.
Checked out just before 10am but were allowed to stow our luggage in those lockers as well as use the bathrooms again before our shuttle pick up.
Recommend this backpackers for sure- in general, a great one with cool people! read more