“The Finest City” in America has the finest Hostel in San Diego.
Michelle Aftimos Owner of Lucky D’s Hostel in downtown, San Diego tells us why.
Lucky D’s Hostel in the Historic Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, CA is becoming a trendy spot for International Travelers and American Travelers. Owner Michelle Aftimos grew up in New Zealand. She studied Hotel Management and then traveled and lived in Europe for almost three years. She moved to America in 2001 and ended up in San Diego in 2003 to help a friend who had just purchased a Hostel in Pacific Beach. This led her to open Lucky D’s Hostel in 2007 and then buying the business in 2013.
There are many misconceptions about Hostels. Tell about your thoughts.
Hostels are not shelters. They are economical temporary housing options for many different types of travelers. Just as hotels vary in style and standards so can hostels. A well-run Hostel should be clean, safe and fun at the least. We have people from all walks of life staying with us. We have the typical student/backpacker group and many people staying with us who attend conventions at the San Diego Convention Center within walking distance.
2. Why are Hostels the best choice for International Travelers?
Hostels are generally well located, which means that you can enjoy all the benefits of being in a top location without the hefty price tag that goes along with it. We have many social common areas and run nightly social events which makes it very easy for guests to meet and interact with their fellow guests. It helps travelers learn about different cultures, as well as getting to know the area that you are staying in.
3. Tell about Lucky D’s Hostel in downtown San Diego in the Gaslamp District.
Lucky D’s location is great for young travelers who want to party. It’s only three blocks away from The Historic Gaslamp Quarter on Fifth Avenue where you can find different types of bars and restaurants. Moreover, the Hostel is close to the Convention Center which is convenient for the travelers coming to attend a conference. Lucky D’s Hostel is also surrounded by many stores and markets within walking distance which saves you from spending time and money on public transportation.
4. What is the day and a life of “Lucky D’s” travelers experience?
There are daily activities planned throughout the week where guests get to experience the San Diego nightlife at affordable prices, offering discounts on nightclubs such as Omnia and ParQ.
The first few nights of the week guests can enjoy happy hours in different bars and restaurants such as good deals on Mexican food during Taco Tuesdays. We also offer discounts on tickets for the San Diego Zoo one of the largest zoos in the country.
5. What would surprise Travelers about “Lucky D’s?”
Lucky D’s Hostel welcomes American travelers traveling throughout the US but is mainly a hub for International Travelers. Guests get to meet one another and learn more about different cultures and in some cases end up traveling together.
6. Share with us the amenities at the Hostel.
Breakfast is free in the morning from 7 AM to 10:30 AM in our fully equipped kitchen. This includes different types of bagels, granola bars, and fruit. Free coffee and tea are available for guests all day. At check-in, guests are provided with sheets and are given access to our wifi. They can also enjoy the use of our TV’s and computers.
7. When a traveler steps through the door, what should they expect?
The colorful decor of the Hostel gives a warm welcoming feeling. The pictures and paintings on the walls and the decoration for each holiday creates a fun and artistic environment. All of the creative holiday decor are from our talented staff member Jackie.
We also have different common areas like our reading room and computer room where guests can relax and study without being disturbed. We have a common room where they can meet up, have a drink or watch TV. Guests can also rent bikes here at the Hostel to explore the city.
8. What can you recommend for someone who has never visited San Diego?
San Diego is the best of both worlds mixing city life with the beach. Visitors can move around the city during the whole day for only $5 taking the bus or trolley or rent a bike and use the bike lanes spread out over the city.
A great place to visit is Ocean Beach where you can take a walk up the pier or check out the farmers market. Another highlight of the city is Coronado Island and its historic Hotel del Coronado accessible by ferry.
9. When people leave Lucky D’s what will they say?
Guests are often pleased by their stay here in the Hostel they like the unique environment and its convenient location. Most guests say that if they return to San Diego they would come back to Lucky D’s.
10. To learn more visit http://luckydshostel.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/luckydshostel