If you’re not affluent or haven’t amassed substantial savings, embarking on a journey to Singapore might not be the wisest choice. This diminutive yet highly developed nation boasts a notably exorbitant cost of living, particularly evident in the pricey accommodations. With the prohibitive rates of upscale hotels reaching into the thousands or even hundreds of Singaporean dollars on Airbnb, I found myself unable to afford such luxuries. Consequently, I turned to the more economical alternative of staying at a hostel.

Betel Box Hostel markets itself as a renowned haven for foreign visitors seeking a home away from home experience.

Encouraged by numerous favorable reviews on Hostelworld, I took a leap of faith and booked a three-week stay, anticipating a comforting and familiar atmosphere upon arrival. However, reality failed to align with my expectations.

How was my check-in at the hostel?

Upon checking in, I encountered a few staff members who displayed inexplicable disrespect and, at times, even demonstrated hints of racism. I wondered why.

Despite this disappointing initial encounter, the undeniable fact remained that Betel Box hostel offered the most budget-friendly accommodations in the entire country, priced at a mere $23 SGD per night last year. Prices have increased now in 2024.

While my personal experience may have been marred by indifferent staff, I feel compelled to acknowledge the financial relief it provided.

Upon arrival, guests are promptly provided with a brochure containing a map, offering detailed directions to the hostel as well as highlighting various nearby attractions and activities. This thoughtful gesture ensures that visitors have access to essential information and resources to make the most of their stay. From city maps to clear instructions on local sights and experiences, Betel Box Hostel prioritizes meeting the basic needs of its guests.

One of the standout features of this hostel is the complimentary breakfast served every morning. Guests can enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal consisting of bread, milk, and an assortment of spreads such as butter, nutella, and mustard. While the menu remains consistent each day,

it provides a convenient and nourishing start to the day’s adventures. It’s worth noting, however, that breakfast hours are limited from 7:00 am to 10:30 am.

What is inside the hostel?

Tucked away amidst the bustling thoroughfares of Singapore, Betel Box Hostel was inconspicuously nestled among a myriad of businesses.

Marked by a modest green signpost, the hostel’s entrance led guests to a bustling reception area. It doubles as a communal space for meals and relaxation. Regrettably, this space was often teeming with noise and activity, making it less than ideal for unwinding.

Furthermore, the hostel’s Wi-Fi access was limited to this common area. This rendered connectivity virtually non-existent once one ascended the steep staircase to the dormitories.

In light of this inconvenience, I opted to purchase a SIM card for $15 SGD. That secured 100GB of data for seamless browsing on my mobile phone.

Venturing into the inner sanctum of Betel Box Hostel revealed a layout divided into various dormitory configurations. Each accommodating a specific number of occupants. Among these were four separate 8-bed dormitories catering to both mixed-gender and female-only guests, alongside a smaller 5-bed dormitory option.

While rumors circulated of a single-bed, luxury option, the reality of communal living proved to be far less glamorous. Despite my preference for a female-only dormitory, I was arbitrarily assigned to a mixed-gender dormitory, much to my dismay. Nights were punctuated by the incessant snoring of some male occupants. Unfortunately, that left me sleep-deprived and longing for respite for a few days until they left. If you are a light sleeper, a hostel is not an option.

What I didn’t like and like

The hostel features a bookshelf filled with a variety of books, offering guests the opportunity to indulge in reading during their stay, although time constraints may limit this option. Additionally, a pool table is available for guests interested in playing games and socializing. Furthermore, the hostel owner offers guided tours around the city, providing guests with an opportunity to explore Singapore’s attractions. Although the price for these tours was not inquired about, they offer a convenient option for experiencing the city’s highlights.

Due to the disorderliness of personal items left strewn around the dormitory, I refrained from capturing images of the hostel bedroom.

Despite the small size of the bathroom, the provision of hot and cold water during every shower was greatly appreciated. The worst part is almost 20 people had to share a single toilet. However, it was reassuring that the cleaner diligently cleaned the bathroom every day.

You can check out the website or book via other accommodation platforms.

Before finalizing your travel arrangements, be sure to explore additional activities and attractions available in the area, here.