Thuis bij Schell

This accommodation is primarily recognized for its exceptionally central location, making it a convenient base for budget travelers and short-stay guests eager to explore the city's main attractions. While some guests appreciate the affordability, the overall experience is significantly marred by pervasive issues, particularly concerning cleanliness and management. The property often falls short of basic expectations for a hostel, leading many to describe it as more akin to a temporary shelter than a typical traveler's lodging. To navigate a stay here, guests should be prepared for very basic conditions, consider bringing their own padlock for lockers, and be aware that staff presence is limited, especially overnight.

Facilities & Amenities
The property is notably lacking in common areas, with guests frequently mentioning the absence of a kitchen, microwave, or any dedicated space for social interaction, which is unusual for a hostel. Access to rooms is often challenging due to very steep stairs and the complete lack of an elevator, posing a significant hurdle for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage. While some rooms include a small fridge, kettle, and a fan, many guests report insufficient ventilation, leading to uncomfortably hot and stuffy conditions. Shared lockers are available, but they are frequently broken or require guests to supply their own padlock. Furthermore, the Wi-Fi connection is sometimes described as unreliable, and there are consistent complaints about the absence of heating and a reliable supply of hot water in the showers.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
A recurring and severe issue highlighted by numerous guests is the alarming presence of bed bugs, with many reporting bites and visible infestations, leading to premature departures. Beyond this, the general cleanliness of rooms and shared spaces is frequently criticized, with mentions of dirty sheets, mold on walls, and a pervasive damp, musty smell. Rooms are often described as small and cramped, sometimes lacking proper ventilation or even windows, contributing to an uncomfortable atmosphere. Noise levels are a significant concern, with thin walls allowing sounds from the street, nearby pubs, and other guests to easily penetrate, compounded by squeaky beds, doors, and stairs. Shared bathrooms are consistently reported as unhygienic and poorly maintained, often lacking toilet paper or hand soap, and some guests have even encountered mice or rats.

Location & Accessibility
The property's most significant advantage is its central location, which is highly praised by nearly all guests. It is conveniently situated within easy walking distance of the main train station, metro stops, and numerous attractions, making it an ideal spot for exploring the city. The immediate surroundings are vibrant, offering a wide array of bars, restaurants, and shops. However, this prime location comes with accessibility challenges, primarily due to the extremely steep stairs and the complete absence of an elevator. This makes navigating the building particularly difficult for guests with luggage, mobility concerns, or those simply unaccustomed to such architectural features.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding staff and service is notably mixed. While some guests commend the friendly staff and their helpfulness with issues like late check-ins, a significant number of reviews describe the management as rude and unprofessional. There are multiple reports of guests being threatened with eviction or actually being asked to leave, often over minor issues or misunderstandings. A major point of contention involves extra charges and deposit issues, with several guests reporting double billing or difficulty retrieving their security deposits. The reception operates with limited hours, and staff are often not present overnight, which creates a sense of insecurity and lack of support for guests. Disturbingly, there are also isolated but serious allegations of staff members engaging in inappropriate behavior, including theft.

Additional Information
Many guests express disappointment that the property's online images are not accurate, leading to a mismatch between expectations and reality. The lack of sound insulation is a common complaint, contributing to a noisy environment from both inside and outside the building. Several reviews highlight the absence of a common room or any social spaces, which detracts from the typical hostel experience and makes it less suitable for travelers seeking interaction. The property is also criticized for its lack of wheelchair access due to the steep stairs. Despite often being marketed as a budget option, many guests feel it is overpriced given the poor condition and numerous issues, frequently comparing it unfavorably to a temporary shelter rather than a legitimate hostel.