V&S Hostel
V&S is a hostel that ticks all the boxes. It’s reasonably priced, clean, and offers a wide range of activities to guests. It is also located in the thick of the action downtown — this could be either a plus or a minus, depending on what you’re after. Most hostels are gathered around the Tango bars and steak houses of San Telmo, or the bars and clubs of Palermo, but the microcentro area offers a happy compromise.
The corner of Viamonte and Suipacha streets lies within walking distance of the pedestrian thoroughfare of Florida and other shopping streets, as well as the Retiro train and bus stations, and numerous bus and subway connections. Getting to San Telmo from the V&S is a trip of less than 30 minutes on foot, and even quicker by public transport. Palermo is slightly further, but still easy to get to. The only problem with being based downtown is the noise and hustle of a typical working day which confront you as soon as you step out the door, but if you can cope with that, you’re in a very convenient spot.
Inside, the V&S is relaxed and comfortable. Typical Argentine early 20th century elegance is reflected in details such as the antique elevator, the cozy library and the French balconies and terrace. The communal area is spacious and decorated with touches of rural Argentina. It’s also dominated by a gigantic TV, perpetually alternating between movies and sports, depending on who has wrestled control of the remote.
The V&S offers all the standard features you would expect from a good hostel, plus a few little perks that really make for a pleasant stay. The price of your room includes a buffet breakfast (until 10:30am), introductory Spanish and tango lessons, and personal lockers (bring your own lock for extra security). Internet access and laundry are available for a fee. Staff are helpful in arranging trips to the usual attractions such as football games, tango and theater shows, and can usually hook you up with discounts. The management also finds a good balance between encouraging a peaceful environment for guests who need their rest, but at the same time providing plenty of opportunities to socialize, with group dinners a couple of times a week and discounts at various recommended nightspots every night of the week. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights the hostel puts on live shows highlighting Argentine genres of music, such as tango and national rock, giving guests the chance to experience the local scene.
Rates vary slightly depending on season and length of stay, but the cheapest option is the 7-8 person room (between US$11–$13 per night). Four-bed rooms ($17-$19 with either external or internal bathrooms) are another alternative, while the private rooms for the solo traveler or couples cost US$65 and feature a small balcony and private bathroom. A huge plus is that all rooms have air conditioning and heating, an important feature during Buenos Aires’ chilly winters and muggy summers.
Book V&S Hostel
Viamonte 887 (corner of Suipacha)
Retiro/Downtown
Tel: (54-11) 4322-0994
