I was so excited about finally being in St. Kilda. The beach house was highly recommended to me by a friend because of the bar/party scene on the 1st floor and the superb location. So I went for it. Aaaaaaaaand I got bed bugs. :)
Don't stop reading! It gets much much better!
I can't really blame the Beach House though. They do have a no-sleeping bags rule, which I failed to remember after switching to a bottom bunk that had been previously occupied by a dude who snuck a sleeping bag into the hostel the night before. The staff were very supportive and understanding through the whole process. I of course moved out of the hostel, but they only charged me for 1 of my 2 nights stay and also paid for my over the counter medications. I've never heard of a hostel doing that anywhere else. They also quarantined the room once I left, which I think shows a genuine concern for their business and guests. All class.
I've learned not to trust hostel reviews regarding bed bugs. Every hostel eventually gets bed bugs. It's a common problem with traveling from place to place. The difference is how the hostel handles the situation once it has happened. And the Beach House passed the test with flying colors.
Give this place a shot! Before the mishap, I was having a blast! Great food, very convenient location and great social scene, and most of all - they care! read more