Hostal Don Alvaro

For less than €12 per person you get a lovely double room with a shared bathroom in a perfect location in Oaxaca. The host Maria is absolutely lovely - from receiving fresh fruit upon arrival to taking care of all the travel needs one might have, she is making this stay an absolute pleasure. She even reserved two seats in a public bus for us so we could go hiking the next day. And the best thing: If she has the time, she even prepares a decent breakfast FOR FREE. Absolutely amazing, and I am not sure why others here would say "it’s a problem" that there sometimes is breakfast and sometimes there isn’t. I think if someone offers you a meal for free, you should be grateful, not criticise it. Anyway, I’d recommend this place to anyone. The only thing I could criticise is that some of the showers didn't always have hot water. …

Marie made our stay. She ushered us into the basic courtyard, made us feel special and told us everything we needed to know. She felt like a mother and a guardian angel. She made us all breakfast, booked us a taxi and showed us all the pics of her and other guests from around the world on her phone - she obviously loves her job. We had bunkbeds (not ideal - I blame my bad Spanish when booking) and a bathroom for 540 pesos. There was bottled water in the room, free refills downstairs and hot shower water all day. Great location - right in the action. The roof terrace was a big, basic space, with a fabulous view. Lots of space for breakfast eating, yoga and activities. There is a sink for laundry and a covered washing line up there too.