This place should be shut down. I arrived before I could check in so I had to lug my suitcases down a spiral staircase that was so narrow I about fell down. I placed my belongings in a locker that I had to pay $4.00 each time I closed it. When I finally checked in my room was next door on the 4th floor. I opened the main door to the building and about gagged. The first thing I smelt was a mix of cat urine and a rotting carcass. I lugged my 2 suitcases and duffel bag up four flights of stairs that sounded light they were about to collapse (un air-conditioned). By the time I arrived to my room the door was wide open and I was sweating. My room was an absolute disappointment. It had a bunk bed, with two sheets and a towel. One of the windows didn't open so the maintenance man arrived shortly there after to fix it. The room was bright yellow without heat or AC. I used the sink in my room to wash my face but the plumbing wasn't connected to the drain so the water went all over the floor. The place was so old the floor squeaked every time I made a step. The bathroom was absolutely gross. The bath tub had a film around it and the toilet was disgusting. The only way I could sleep was drowning myself in liquor at the nearby bar. Spend the extra $20 and stay somewhere nice, you will thank me later.

I don't know why people have been complaining so much about this hostel - I have read reviews calling it "the most wretched place on earth". I did not see one roach or mouse the entire stay - the bathrooms were in fine condition and the water was warm. If you're looking for good food in the area, there's a great 24 hour restaurant 8 blocks away (77th + B'way) called Manhattan Diner - we dined there every morning. Friendly staff night and day, plus 24 hour security. Nights were quiet, but a little bit cold. Fortunately, they have clean linens and laundry service available downstairs plus a great locker facility. Considering the price especially, this is a great hostel! Highly reccommended.