500 West Hotel & Hostel (San Diego)

This commercial hotel once served as an Army Navy "Y" way back in the days when people actually wrote letters and the country was fighting a winning war. The hostel's name is a (+) and a (--); Plus: The address is its name. Minus: The address is its name so if you ask a local for "West Broadway" you'll get a quizzical look as no West Broadway exists, only Broadway. The hostel happens to be on the west end at direction 500.

While I'm on the subject of confusing names, the place is actually AAE San Diego 500 West Hotel & Hostel. Had I known this truth I would have bought a 'hostel' bed in a dormitory/shared room and saved lots of money, which, after all, is the gist of budget travelling instead of the 'hotel' room I thought myself lucky to snag. Bitch.

$100 deposit is a big reason for not patronizing the place

The beds in private rooms like the one I unwittingly bought are flat bed style---which I find comfortable---and bunk style in shared rooms. A flat screen television was in my room along with an armario, desk, large mirror, and ottoman. Wi-fi is available in rooms but without a working laptop I couldn't take advantage of it, and I did not bother to be taken advantage of by the two computers downstairs. One, they are not free and two, not property of the hotel so good luck trying to get help if the computers freeze or flat out steal your money. Instead, I went to the local public library which gives free Internet access for 15 minutes at a time. After your 15 minutes are up simply get back in line for the next available computer. (Note: You cannot enter the San Diego library with large luggage. We can probably thank the surplus of stray tramps for that inconvenience.)

The YMCA still has a big red symbol on the roof and operates a fitness facility in the basement/lower level. With a spa (pool was down during my stay), free weights and machines, cardio room and basketball court the digs are quite modern and practical. What isn't cool is having to pay an additional fee to use the facilities ($5 day pass; $13 weekly pass).

As the building was built with soldiers in mind the bathrooms and showers are public but not communal. The 500 employs electronic keys which you use to access---and close---the bathrooms for privacy. There is a full kitchen and television room however no dish ware or utensils are stocked.

This oversight blows and is rather inconsiderate of backpackers and long-term guests.

Staff are professional and nice, an aspect which can never be overlooked. Location is central to everything, including the Greyhound Bus Terminal and tram line which takes you to U.S./Mexico border (Tijuana). That explains one way so many get over here! Be sure to retain your ticket as proof of purchase. The 500 is quiet, close to San Diego (expensive)night life attractions, and clean. Like most greedy American hostels, though, a hefty key deposit is required.

At $100 the deposit is a big reason for not patronizing the place, especially since I wasn't informed of it until I went to check-in.

500 W.Broadway Street
619.234.5252