We had a double ensuite, not new but clean and functional. The common kitchen and dining area were stressful because they got loud and overcrowded. Kitchen equipment was missing or dirty thanks to other fellow guests who did not tidy up after themselves. The hostel is in a quiet area, so we got a good night's sleep.

I stayed here a few weeks ago, I hate to rate it down because it has great rooftop view, great extra facilities and awesome staff! however, I found it pretty inconvenient as far as location goes. I had to transfer at two different trains/trams to get to central, and once you get off the tram it's difficult to find! I ended up getting lost and walking the wrong way with only an hour or so to go 'till my concert and no one seemed to no where it was! I got there in the end fortunately! Because of the location and being at that time of night I had to get a taxi and was very expensive! Also, not many shops or anything around. Hostel was also not the cheapest, stayed in a 8 dorm room (very plain) and was more expensive than a 6 bed dorm at a more convenient location. Good that it's quiet and out of the way, but hard to find! I like the facilities and the staff were the friendliest I've experienced, so it's a shame that the location and price is a let down for me.

We stayed in an ensuite double which was comfy but more expensive than the more modern st kilda hotel we had just left. Room had a fan which was used as the temps reached 37 whilst we were here. The rooftop terrace was a great place to hang out and see the city light up at night. we even saw fruit bats flying over at twilight. The first night we didn't sleep so well as the family next to us had screaming children awake so acoustics were not a strong point. Functional vibe to the communal areas. Lots of school trips using the pace. We did wander down to North Melbourne shops one evening which was a really pleasant place to be on a summer's evening. wide leafy streets and tables out under verandahs and plenty of dining options.

We spent 6 nights in an ensuite double. These rooms are in a separate area on the ground floor ao noise wasn't an issue even though 3 or 4 school groups stayed while we were there. Room is small but adequate, queen size bed, tiny analog TV, all linen, kettle, tea and coffee provided.

After cleanliness and security I rate hostels on their common areas and these were very good: ground floor lounge with comfy couches, large dining area, two separate TV lounges and a rooftop lounge and outdoor bbq as well. Very pleasant. Kitchen ok, can get crowded at peak times (and never any teaspoons, must be a hostel thing). There's also a coffee shop that does cheap & cheerful breakfasts (beans on toast $5) and dinners (schnitzel & chips $10).

Staff helpful & happy to chat but usually very busy. Guests apart from school groups were mostly young overseas backpackers with a fair few baby boomers like us mixed in ( very common at YHA these days).

Wi-fi $7.95 per day (I think), $19.95 for 3 days or $39.95 for 7. Good connection & speed.