Stayed here around New Years for a couple nights. Stayed in the 6-bed dorm with three other friends. The room itself was quite spacious, as was the washroom. The location of the lodge was also really good- about 15 minute walk into the downtown centre where the restaurants/pubs/etc were located. Stayed at the hostel on the first night for dinner- the service was poor as it took a very long time to receive our food. The second night my friends and I went down to the bar to get some drinks, however the bar staff seemed much more interested in serving other staff and chatting with them so it took quite awhile to get a drink. It was only our group and one other backpacker in the bar, the rest were staff. I didn't find that this backpackers had the same 'welcoming' atmosphere as other places I have stayed around Canada, and around the world. This was my first time staying at a Samesun, and quite possibly my last. My friends staying with me all thought the same about the actual lodge and the staff. If you are looking for a place just to sleep then it's fine- but the social aspect for us really lacked here. Breakfast was served starting at 7am- note: get there at 7am if you want something more than toast! They had pancake mix, fruit, muffins, toast and cereal at 7am, but one morning we got there after 8am and only cereal remained. Overall pretty average place.

I stayed at the Samesun for a few days over New years. originally the hostel was completely booked for the last few nights i was hoping to stay however they offered me a wait list and called to inform me that I was able to stay for my requested amount of time. The Staff at the Samesun are very friendly and helpful. I love the planned nightly activities ie. Bingo and Trivia which take place at the Beaver Bar conveniently located in the hostel. The Beaver was a great place to hang out with friends and meet new people. They have a $6 dinner every night and drink specials! The common room and kitchen were also a great place to hang out and again, a great place to meet fellow travellers. I’ve stated in many hostels in my day and this one is definitely a Gem!

My first hostel experience, and it was awesome. Staff was friendly, the stay was inexpensive, and the hotel bar, The Beaver, had great drink and food deals daily. Staff was very helpful when it came to finding things to do in the area. Definitely a party hostel if that is what you are looking for, everyone is trying to have a good time.

Positives
-Good place to meet people with the busy beaver bar
-Good cheap food although did take quite a while when busy
-Friendly helpful staff
-Big dorm rooms with TV and fireplace
-Good location
Negatives
-Uncomfortable beds
-Lots of noise at night being a party hostel so not the place to stay if you fancy an early night.
-Kitchen was quite small for the number of guests as was the common room.