Hostal Casa Mazeta, Juayua | Hostel Review

$20 per night, private twin room with shared bathroom, 11th - 16th September 2014

Vibe 

We stayed at Casa Mazeta in low season, so it was a very laid-back and homey environment. Lots of space, real attention to detail and quality throughout. We've experienced a lot of hostels on our travels and this is definitely one of our favourites.

 

Location

Juayua ('why-ooh-a') is a very small place, so it's difficult to be far from the centre. Mazeta is in a nice quiet secure spot, around two minutes walk to the best papuserias, main supermarkets and town square. 

 

Best thing

So so many great things about this hostel! As foodies, this is the best kitchen we have had on our six-months on the road. Large, with a six-burner cooker with oven, big fridge and good equipment and lots of communal oils, spices and herbs. We were in dreamland. 

The English owner has also put real thought into what travellers want in a chill-out hostel: an entertainment station with 500+ DVDs, board games, excellent playlist, Spanish flash cards, artwork throughout, great books, bean bags and an excellent homemade guide to the area and its activities. When the rain kicks in of an afternoon, you really wouldn't want to be anywhere else. 

And there's a free beer upon arrival!

 

Worst thing 

We really have to scratch our heads for this one, but at a push - the bedrooms can be a bit noisy in the mornings for late-risers. 

 

Value for money 

Excellent value. We opted for a cheaper two person room, however there are double rooms with a private bathroom for $25.   

To check availability an latest prices, click here or if you'd like to read other glowing reviews, be sure to check out Tripadvisor.

Recommended for 

Animal lovers will rejoice at playing with the two dogs (one much more excitable than the other), but this hostel should be the first (and only) choice for anyone travelling the Ruta de Las Flores. Base yourself here and take day-trips to the surrounding towns. 

 

Top tips

The owner has a wealth of information on travel in El Salvador, so make sure to pick his brains. If he's not around, pick up his excellent quidebook on things to do in the local area - such as the famous weekend food festival. 

 

Amenities 

Wi-fi (extremely quick), hot showers, excellent kitchen, outside garden space, TV with extensive DVD collection, dining area, doggies, book exchange, tours and shuttles, beer chiller.

Heading to El Salvador?

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