The Yak- the dream hostel turned reality

Yak excursion to Akumal Beach

I’m sure all travelers have discussed their own version of an ideal hostel over a few drinks- combining all the best parts of each they have stayed at in order to imagine the perfect hostel. But how many of us have actually gone ahead and made this happen? The owner’s of ‘The Yak’ hostel in Playa Del Carmen have done exactly that- starting from scratch in less than two years they have succeeded in creating the traveller’s perfect hostel.

The first impression as you walk through the gate is that of a relaxed atmosphere, with a lovely outside shaded area with hammocks, trees, chairs and tables and the outdoor reception. The perfect place to relax, recover, and meet new people. The reception also doubles as the bar- which results in a very different feel at night with a huge party atmosphere. A free drink ticket on arrival means you can try their amazing pina coladas without paying a cent! Almost every night everyone gathers for the pre-party before heading out to the clubs later on. With organised drinking game nights, beer olympics, beer pong and giant jenga its sure to keep you entertained. Here is where you know the rules have been made by experienced travelers- you can either buy cheap drinks from the bar, or bring your own from the supermarket down the road! Now that’s generous.

After a big night out, it’s great to be able to wake up to a nice breakfast with a range of cereals, toast, fruit and coffee. Of course- all free! Then its time to either relax in the hammocks, mingle with more new people or head to the beach which is just down the road. The hostel’s location is perfect as its only 2 blocks back from the beach and 1 block from the main nightclub street. It also means you can avoid the overpriced restaurants on 5th Ave and try the local, amazing, cheap food around the hostel!

Weekly family dinner at Yak hostel

‘The Yak’ currently consists of 2 buildings, with more to be added this year. The main building is 4 stories high, with dorms and private rooms, 2 kitchens, verandahs, a lounge and rooftop terrace. The latter is a beautiful place to relax with some nibbles in the afternoon and watch the sunset over the buildings of Playa Del Carmen. The kitchens are very well equipped with everything you could need to cook up a storm. The second building is located on the other side of the outdoor area and also has private rooms and a 14 bed dorm. The large dorm is so spacious it doesn’t ever feel like there are 14 beds, there is plenty of floor space, massive lockers, a newly tiled floor and own large bathroom. They definitely have prioritised our space over their own income- there would be room for at least another 6 beds if they were as cramped as some of the other hostels we have all seen!

The cleanliness of the entire place is also incomparible. The cleaners work tirelessly all day scrubbing, polishing and making sure every single inch is spick and span. I would honestly say this place would be clean enough for the queen! I witnessed the oven being cleaned completely two days in a row, and my dorm room floor was thoroughly mopped every single day. The air conditioner is turned on at night and left on until around midday for a nice cool sleep in.

Each day has an activity organised by the hostel- either drinking games, dinner, movie night or an excursion. It really is impossible not to meet new people with so much bonding time and activities. It is their aim to have you knowing everyone in just two days- which definitely happened! The dinners are cooked fresh by the staff and taste amazing. For only 45 pesos this includes your meal and a drink from the bar. Don’t worry- theres plenty of food and enough for seconds! I tried the spaghetti bolognese and the rooftop burgers- delicious!

My favourite activity was the excursion to Akumal to snorkel with the sea turtles! Definitely not a money making scheme, you are guided by a staff member but only have to pay for your transport there and back. All free of charge the hostel lends you snorkels and a mask, takes games for the beach and even an esky with ice if you want to take drinks. Swimming so close to the sea turtles is an amazing experience definitely not to be missed!

Turtle from Akumal Beach excursion

The overall feeling this hostel portrays is ultimately what makes it so good. The staff are so friendly and will go out of their way to help you, even making the effort to learn everyone’s names! With the activities and dinners, your really do get to know everyone like family. Combine that with all of the perfectly designed aspects of the hostel and you really do have the ultimate hostel that all travelers have dreamed of.

Stay here and see for yourself!