Ana Inés Urrutia
Overall: I had a mixed experience at Selina Athens. The location is fantastic, the rooftop is a highlight, and the value for money on food is great. However, there are some areas for improvement, particularly with cleanliness and communication. Pros: Amazing Rooftop: The view from the rooftop is unbeatable, directly overlooking Athens. The food was delicious and very affordable. Comfortable Room: My room (though without a private bathroom) was comfortable with air conditioning and a balcony. It was great to have access to snacks and drinks at reception for late-night cravings. Convenient Location: The hostel is close to cool restaurants, with an easy walk-in from Monastiraki. There are shops nearby for essentials, and even a fantastic deal across the street (€3.5 for a large fresh orange juice and a double cheese sandwich!). Cons: Noise: As expected from a hostel, there can be a lot of noise. The rooftop has parties most nights, so be prepared if you're a light sleeper. Limited Breakfast Options: While the rooftop has great food, there's no breakfast option downstairs despite its potential. Inconsistent Cleaning: There was no cleaning service until the night before I left, and even then, it was just a quick floor sweep without changing bedsheets or towels. Unfriendly Security Guard: The night security guard could be friendlier, particularly considering his role involves interacting with guests. His demeanor wasn't welcoming when I was simply looking at a cat. Shared Bathroom Issues: The shared bathrooms were consistently dirty and wet, with no cleaning supplies available for guests to tidy up. Additionally, it seemed there weren't enough staff to clean them regularly. Neighborhood Vibe: While the location is convenient, being in the old town means it's surrounded by abandoned buildings. However, I personally didn't experience any safety concerns. Suggestions: Consider offering breakfast downstairs, especially given the rooftop's popularity. Increase cleaning frequency, especially in shared bathrooms. Provide cleaning supplies for guests if necessary. Train security staff on guest interaction and customer service. I hope this feedback is helpful. Despite the cons, the location and rooftop made for a memorable stay.