I've stayed in the Oasis Hostel many times before. In fact, it's the only hostel I've patronized when in Vallarta because, until a few months ago, it was the only hostel in town. I ought to have reviewed it last year because now I risk appearing vengeful. Oh well.
Owing to the new management, the Oasis is not the pleasant stay it used to be. Now the eldest son, Guillermo, has returned from his world travels to take over from his parents. Admirable. Unfortunately he runs it like "his" hostel as opposed to a hostel, foregoing the patience and flexibility of the father in lieu of a take-it-or-take-a-hike policy. There are so many "reglas" rules, rules, rules.
One morning a trio of German girls came down for breakfast (in time) and finding none asked for a coffee. Reasonable enough. Well! He not only refused them coffee but wondered if they thought they were in a hotel? Ouch. And of course came his customer service policy: Leave if you don't like it. They did. No less than three times he reminded me I could also leave; but with a virtually non-existent refund policy I stayed my black ass in place and argued the case. After all, I was there for the affordable, clean lodgings not his likability. Still, you don't stay in business for long with that range of hospitality. Especially not one dependent on foreign tourism.
Thanks to the free market system there are now finally other options for hostelers: Vallarta Sun (H.I. affiliate) and Viva La Vida. From what guests have told me, the other places are still finding their footing but, y'know, no one likes to be dissed and what those hostels presently lack in facilities or space is compensated for by kindness and good vibes. That makes a difference.
he runs it like "his" hostel as opposed to a hostel. There are so many "reglas" rules, rules, rules
But, like a few of the other guests, I've been a repeat customer because, apart from Guillermo, the hostel has a lot going for it. There are mixed and female dorms, and single rooms. I've slept in two different dorm rooms and both times the beds were comfortable and the bed frames, not so squeaky. Each bed comes with linen, blanket, and padlock for the private locker. The rooms have effective ceiling fans. The cleaning lady does a great job keeping the place and rooms clean and clean-smelling, and also serves the breakfast which includes scrambled eggs and cafe de Olla (it's worth trying but I prefer Nescafe). There is hot water and three principal commons areas: TV lounge, the kitchen, rooftop terrace plus a front porch. Surprisingly, the Internet is still FREE (two computers) and Guillermo has yet to replace FREE water bottle refills (filtrated water) with water for sale. Super cool. Oasis is a muy sociable hostel where people actually do engage with their fellow travellers! Discussions over, say, breakfast are inclusive and a gas! I've made a few friends with whom I still email.
Dorm rates run from $150 to180 pesos with a hundred peso key deposit.
It's not a bad hostel. But, hey, if you don't like it you can always leave.
Libramiento (Hwy) 222
Oasishostel.com
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