Hostels in Munroe Island

HostelExp advertises themselves as providing fun and real experiences and to say they exceeded the mark would be an understatement. To begin with I booked one week at Munroe Island as it looked very beautiful, which it was (Also easily accessible by train from Kollam, one stop away!). Property and rooms were clean, bathroom especially. Regularly maintained. The week was very relaxed as it was off-season, but even then I had the opportunity to go swimming, kayaking and cycling at all times (All equipment hire very affordable also. Much cheaper than trying to rent otherwise locally in the area) Adil was hosting when I started my stay and he was very friendly, attentive and social; I felt like a good friend opposed to a guest. Unfortunately near the end of my stay I got a little injured! Thankfully I didn't need to stay in hospital, and both the new host Niraj and Adil helped me through my recovery and were very kind to all of my needs (Helping me visit hospital, buying things locally for me and just being as friendly and social as ever). The food served was very tasty and there were always regular breakfasts and lunches served for cheap. Dinners are a mix of choice between sometimes cooking together and other times, if you're feeling a little lazy, picking up some of the local food (Whose owners are also very friendly, and food is tasty. Somewhat limited veg options if you are only walking, but again they do have cycles.) HostelExp is really well integrated with the locals. The people that live in the immediate small village are very happy to offer their fresh fish, coconuts and medicine (aloe vera!) that they catch/grow for super cheap and are always very smiley when they pass by. I had the opportunity to watch a very popular long boat race, on one of the biggest party boats on the river, partook in painting and joined local sports (volleyball/tug of war) which was very entertaining.

I stayed for one week. Perfect location, clean and comfortable rooms, you can swim in the lake, and overall Naijeen has been a wonderful host !! Thanks for everything !