Having stayed in many hostels in Europe, I felt that Avalon House was in keeping with the basic standards. Rooms were clean but cramped, bathroom clean but bumped my elbows on the shower walls everytime I tried to shower. It did seem expensive for a hostel, but I also did not look into hotel prices so perhaps it was far less than a hotel would have cost. I was with two other friends in a four-some room -- both nights we were there the fourth bed was filled by a loner, the first time at 3 in the morning, which wasn't so pleasant. The lift is STILL broken -- reportedly they now have to buy a whole new one, so expect it to be broken for a long while to come. We were on the fourth floor and climbing up the steps is certainly no fun. The first night we got towels for free, the second night the receptionist tried to charge us 2E each for a towel -- these nights were ten days apart, by the way. Reception was helpful enough otherwise. Computers for the free internet were frustratingly slow -- couldn't stand to check my email there. Breakfast was basic but I've stayed in hostels without any breakfast, so no complaints really. Next time I go to Dublin I would likely "shop around" a little more, but would be fine with staying here again -- location is unbeatable, really.













