This was my first time staying at a hostel as I wanted a bit of traveller experience and most importantly keep my trip to Cologne cheap and affordable for three days. I read tons of reviews before I opted to stay at a&o and I was convinced this was ideal place in terms of location, affordability and also getting the best experience as a traveller. On my arrival, I was greeted with a warm welcome by there friendly staff at reception, I quickly observed what they had to offer and in honesty not much, a small lounge area with a small bar but they did have a pool table...I didn't mind too much as I knew I would be out most of the day. I was told I be staying in a 6 bed room (mixed) which I was ok with as I wanted to meet people, I had to pay around 5 Euros for sheets and a towel as this is not included to my surprise. There was no locker but a secure cage under the bed and If I wanted to securely lock it I would had to pay a refundable 20 Euro deposit to get a padlock from reception. The room was ok, it was clean and had good lighting but space was limited. There was separate toilet and shower room which I felt was convenient and was kept in a good condition. During the night, I didn't really get the best of sleep as you can hear a lot of people talking and walking up and down the hall way. Also, it's a 24hr check in so therefore anyone could come stay in the room at anytime which sometime kept me restless. It's also worth mentioning, this hostel accommodates pretty much everyone, from couples, big groups, school trips and family which during my stay I saw plenty of. The hostel is in a good location, 10-20 mins walk and you will find yourself surrounded by restaurants, bars, shops and in the central part of Cologne. My overall thoughts of staying at a&o is, it's a good place, friendly staff and pretty much everything at your doorstep. Not the best of sleeps I've had and knowing anyone could come in at any time was not ideal. I didn't always feel that my personal stuff was safe and secured but that's just me and I was a bit let down with the lack of facilities the hostel had to offer. I defiantly would recommend staying there if you come in a group but if alone no more than one night. Would I stay there again or at any hostel for that matter...probably not! If you're a hotel person like me then I would suggest to keep it like that.
