NotSo Hostel is the globe trotter’s hub of Charleston, SC. Travelers from all over the world gather together for an inexpensive stay. With free breakfast, wifi, and luggage storage NotSo Hostel makes backpacking a breeze.
The Community
Within the first night staying at NotSo Hostel I made a new friend and for the rest of my time in Charleston we traveled together. As an extroverted solo traveler it can get lonely when I am all by myself. However, if you stay in a hostel it’s a safe bet you will never alone. For $25 a night travel addicts enjoy a stay in the regal and historic city close to many of the world famous attractions Charleston has to offer. Travelers from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Japan, and many more countries visit the hostel.
Buis-Wiz
Running a hostel is not an easy task, and there is no other hostel in the area. The manager Vikki Matsis modeled NotSo Hostel after Hostels she has visited in Europe. She calls it, “Simple things that make a big difference. Like free breakfast, luggage storage, wifi.” Vikki took over NotSo Hostel in 2006. Before taking over the business was failing. The front half of the house was a hostel, and the back half was apartments for rent. This approach just wasn’t working, and it needed big changes. “I basically fired everyone and redid everything”. Her changes were successful as the hostel is a popular location for through-travelers.
The Location
When venturing off to a new city, how far your stay is from the main attractions is important. Located near the historic downtown Charleston NotSo Hostel is in an ideal spot. It is within walking distance of delicious eateries, bars, attractions and a short drive from downtown Charleston city market.
Cafes & Restaurants near NotSoHostel:
Gnome Cafe
Bon Banh Mi
132 Spring Coffee & Kitchen Bar
Nana’s Seafood & Soul
Semilla Restaurant
Daps Breakfast & Imbibe
Purlieu
Xiao Bao Biscuit
Dellz Uptown
Sugar Bakeshop
The Rooms
NotSoHostel is a 200 year old home with a gorgeous interior. Vikki’s approach to in the decor is intended to feel comfortable. She said, “I want people to feel at home when they come here”. The hostel does have a homey feel, and many of its guest aren’t there for only a few nights. Several travelers have taken advantage of the work trade options offered and have been staying at NotSo Hostel for a week or more. After I stayed there a couple of nights it certainly felt like a home away from home.
Single Room
The single room offers a bit more privacy than the dorm rooms and are a great option if you are traveling with a partner.
Dorm Room
The cozy dorm rooms house four people a night and are a great way for solo travelers to make new friends on the road.
Charleston on the cheap
I appreciate that this hostel gives travelers an opportunity to enjoy Charleston while staying within a tight budget. With two large kitchens there is plenty of room to cook for yourself instead of dining out, which saves a lot of money.
Dorm room- $30 (depending on season)
Single room- $72-80
Everything NotSoHostel Offers:
- Parking on the premises
- Breakfast & coffee
- Wifi
- Luggage storage
- Comfy & clean beds
- Shampoo, soap, & showers
- Shared Kitchen
- Connections with other travelers
At the end of my stay I am sad to leave because NotSo Hostel feels like home and there is never enough time to see all Charleston has to offer.
Other articles about Charleston on the cheap:
A Regal Weekend Trip To Charleston, SC Under $50
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