Unbelievable Amman Adventure: Carob Hostel Awaits!
Unbelievable Amman Adventure: Carob Hostel Awaits! (Honestly, It's a Trip) - A Hot Mess Review
(Metadata: Amman, Jordan, Hostel, Carob Hostel, Accessibility, Review, Honest, Budget Travel, Middle East, Adventure, Wi-Fi, Cleanliness, Amenities)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Amman, and let me tell you, Carob Hostel was…an experience. Let's just say, this isn't your polished, perfectly curated five-star review. This is raw. Real. And probably needs a good scrub-down. 😉
First Impressions (and a Near-Disaster): The website, which I'd poured over for weeks, painted a picture of Bohemian bliss. Think sun-drenched terraces, friendly locals (apparently!), and…accessibility. This was important for me, as I need to be able to comfortably navigate with a cane, and the website claimed to cater to guests with mobility issues.
Here’s where things went sideways IMMEDIATELY. My airport transfer, arranged by… (I should probably not mention the name to protect the innocent) was, let's just say, “late.” Like, three hours late. After a twelve-hour flight, the wait was an exercise in patience I didn't possess. Thankfully, the front desk (24-hour, bless their souls) was a lifesaver, offering a warm (and very much needed) welcome. Finding the hostel itself at 2 a.m. was tricky, as the signs are…subtle. Let's just say I did a lap.
Once INSIDE (and that was a challenge, the entry isn't very accessible- a step-up there, a narrow entryway. Not ideal), the vibe was… definitely vibrant. Lots of young travelers, a cacophony of languages, and a general air of "we're all here to have a good time… eventually."
Accessibility: Let's Be Real. The website LIED. Okay, maybe that's harsh. But it definitely overpromised. While they claimed facilities for disabled guests, in reality, it was… well, let's call it "aspirational". There was an elevator (a win!), but the hallways were narrow, and getting around with my cane felt like an obstacle course. The few accessible rooms were booked, so I was stuck in a room on the second floor, with a tiny bathroom and a shower that was…well, let's just say it wasn't exactly designed for ease of use. I'd give it a C-. They tried.
Rooms: Cozy…ish. My room (Available in all rooms)was clean (thank goodness!), and had a functional, slightly worn, feel. Air conditioning (a godsend in Amman), a mini-bar (stocking was a bit light, but hey!), and a comfy bed (Extra long bed, bonus!) were welcome. But…the lighting! It was…dim. Like, "romantic getaway with your significant other in a cave" dim. Reading at night (a must!) involved my flashlight app. The bathroom was… okay. Basic. The complimentary toiletries were…well, they were there. The internet (Internet access – wireless, and…Internet access – LAN, whatever that is.) was a lifesaver, and Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! meant I could at least update my Instagram feed with some gritty travel photos.
Cleanliness and Safety: Spotty… but Trying. Daily housekeeping was there, and I even had my used bathrobes collected, and fresh towels were nice! The common areas looked reasonably clean, but I did see a rogue bit of…something questionable… in the corner of the lounge. The staff did seem to be diligently sanitizing (Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas), and there were Hand sanitizer stations everywhere. Security (Security [24-hour], CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms, all of it) seemed tight. They even had a Doctor/nurse on call! (didn’t need it, thankfully).
The Dining, Drinking and Snacking Dilemma: Okay, here’s where things get interesting. They offered a lot! Restaurants! Asian cuisine in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, with a la carte menus (which I could barely read in the dim lighting!) And breakfast was available (Breakfast [buffet], Western breakfast, Asian breakfast). I tried the breakfast buffet once. Ugh. It's hard to say, but it's not like the food was bad, but it certainly was lukewarm, and the coffee tasted like rusty water. On a positive note, there was a Breakfast takeaway service!. After that, I stuck to the coffee shop (Coffee shop). And the snack bar. I did hit happy hour!
The Poolside bar looked inviting, but… the Pool with view was… a view. It was the view of the surrounding buildings and some water sitting in the pool. I never did take a dip.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax… or Not. This is where Carob Hostel really shines. On the flip side, Massage, Spa, Spa/sauna, Sauna, Steamroom, Body wrap, Body scrub, all of them were available (technically). But when I inquired, suddenly "the therapist is unavailable", or "the spa is closed right now." So I didn't get a massage. I didn't have a body scrub, and that's a bummer. The gym/fitness area (Fitness center, Gym/fitness) looked… well… let’s just say it looked like it hadn't been used in a while. As for the swimming pool… don’t bother.
Services and Conveniences: A Mixed Bag. Okay, here's where the hostel tries to make up for its shortcomings. They had a Currency exchange, Cash withdrawal, a Convenience store (stocked with essentials), a Laundry service (I got my mud-caked travel clothes cleaned!), and even a Gift/souvenir shop (which, by the way, had some truly hideous t-shirts). There was a Concierge, a Doorman (sometimes), and a Daily housekeeping. There were also Business facilities, Meeting/banquet facilities, Facilities for disabled guests, and even some Indoor venue for special events. But all of it sounded better than it actually was.
I made use of the Luggage storage and the Ironing service (thank goodness for that!). They offered an Airport transfer, but after my initial experience, I just used a Taxi service and I recommend you do the same.
The “Unbelievable” Amman Adventure:
I had to laugh when I read the Carob Hostel advertising again "Unbelievable Amman Adventure". The hostel itself wasn’t unbelievable. Amman? Now that was truly unbelievable. The souk, the Citadel, the Roman Theatre… all were magnificent, but with the hostel, it's like this:
Here's the thing: Carob Hostel has potential. It's affordable, it's in a decent location, and the staff (staff trained in safety protocol) were mostly friendly and helpful. (Staff trained in safety protocol), and they were often willing to help even in the most frustrating moments. It just needs… a lot of refining.
The Verdict:
Would I recommend Carob Hostel? Hmm… if you're on a SUPER tight budget, you’re young, you don't mind a little chaos, and you can take a joke about accessibility… then yeah, maybe. But, manage your expectations. Bring your own lightbulb. And maybe pack a small, portable footbath, so you can enjoy a foot bath after a long day of sightseeing.
Final Score: 3 out of 5 stars. It’s got heart… but it needs a whole lot more than just a fresh coat of paint.
**Escape to Paradise: Stunning J-Bedroom Suite in Lagos' Casa do Farol**
Okay, buckle up, buttercup, because this isn't your grandma's travel itinerary. This is Carob Hostel - Amman unfiltered. Prepare for a whirlwind of shawarma dreams, questionable decisions, and probably a fair amount of jet lag-induced existential dread.
Carob Hostel - Amman: The Messy, Emotional, Occasionally Delicious Adventure
Day 1: Arrival & Umm… Orientation (aka, "Where's the freaking WiFi?")
- Afternoon (ish): Land at Queen Alia International Airport. Breathe. The Jordanian sun hits different, let me tell you. Immediately subjected to the chaos of baggage claim (which, naturally, involves a lot of staring, some frantic gesturing, and possibly a near-miss with a rogue suitcase). Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I emerge victorious (and slightly sweaty) with my backpack.
- Taxi Debacle: Negotiating with a taxi driver. Oh, the joy. "You need a good price, friend!" he'll probably tell you, while eyeing you like a lamb chop. Eventually, a somewhat reasonable deal is struck. The drive into Amman is… well, it's Amman. A glorious, honking mess of traffic, dusty buildings, and intense smells. I love it already.
- Check-in at Carob Hostel: The hostel itself. It’s charming! Okay, it's a little rustic. But the vibe is good. The dorm room is already a symphony of snoring, rustling, and the gentle aroma of unwashed travel clothes. Finding my assigned bunk and figuring out how to use the locker is a small victory.
- WiFi Hunt: This is a crucial mission, and my biggest disappointment in the moment. Free wifi is good, but slow wifi is evil. This is the first test of my patience, and I fail.
- Evening: Street Food Reconnaissance: Wandering the streets nearby. Smell of spices in the air hits me with joy. I get lost (duh). I find a tiny shawarma stand. It's the best shawarma I've ever had. I now understand why people rave about Jordanian food. I spend my small amount of cash and order another one. I regret nothing.
- Bedtime: The snoring in the dorm is now full swing. I pray for earplugs.
Day 2: Roman Ruins, Ruined Plans, and Regrets (but mostly good stuff)
- Morning: Okay, attempt at the Roman Theatre. Get lost. I ask directions. This is the true start of my Jordanian adventure. Learn to embrace the chaos because let's be honest, I have no idea where I'm going.
- The Citadel: This place is majestic. History just oozing from every crumbling stone. I stumble upon some ruins and contemplate the meaning of life. Maybe it's the sun, maybe it's the ancient stones, or maybe it's just that I haven't had enough coffee, but I get a little too emotional about the sheer passage of time right now.
- Lunch: Back to that shawarma place. Because. Just because.
- Afternoon: The Jebel al-Webdeh Neighborhood. I explore the street art, shop, and soak up the atmosphere. This place is a treat. The smell of the coffee, the energy of the people, the vibrant colours.
- Evening: Drinks and Deep Conversations (or at least, loud attempts at conversation): The hostel's common area. You meet people, you drink cheap beer, and suddenly you're having the most profound conversations with someone you just met about the existential dread of modern existence. Or maybe that was just me. Anyway, I make friends with someone who's been traveling for a year. I am deeply jealous and also terrified.
- Bedtime: More snoring. More prayers. Wondering how long I can survive on shawarma alone.
Day 3: The Dead Sea Dip (and Potential Regret)
- Morning: Wake up with a slightly fuzzy head and a deep-seated desire for strong coffee. Planning the trip to the Dead Sea. Getting there seems like a logistical nightmare. I finally agree to a day trip with a group from the hostel. I hope it’s not too touristy.
- The Dead Sea: Floating and Flailing: The Dead Sea is incredible, but a bit bizarre. My skin immediately feels like I've been slathered in the best lotion ever. I try to pose for the classic photo, but end up looking like a beached whale. Salt gets in my eye. I shriek. A small child points and laughs. Worth it.
- Lunch: Lunch buffet at the resort is meh. I'm starting to miss the cheap food.
- Afternoon: Back in Amman. Exhausted. Maybe I should have stayed at the Dead Sea longer. I'm kind of regretting not getting a mud bath… but also, maybe I should just embrace the fact that I'm a mess.
Day 4: Souk Shopping & the Aftermath
- Morning: I attempt to navigate the Souk. Good lord. The chaos! The smells! The relentless bartering! I get completely lost. I buy a scarf I don't need (but it's beautiful!).
- Afternoon: I have no idea what to do. I'm at my wits end. I sit in a cafe and stare at the people. I have a mental breakdown over the price of baklava. Maybe the adventure is starting to get to me. Maybe I need a vacation from my vacation.
- Evening: I eat more shawarma. I talk to some people.
- Bedtime: I finally have a good night sleep and don’t hear any snoring. This is the best moment of my travel.
Day 5: Departure (and Emotional Black Hole)
- Morning: Wake up. My sadness is starting to build. I need to leave. This trip happened so fast.
- Departure: Check out time. I feel a bizarre sense of nostalgia for the hostel, even though I was definitely over the snoring. I say goodbye to the friends I've made, promising (and hoping) to stay in touch.
- Airport Chaos: The airport is a blur. Goodbye Amman. I promise myself to come back someday.
Post-Trip Thoughts:
- I learned a lot. I learned that I can survive on shawarma. I learned that I'm capable of navigating some chaos, even if I get lost 98% of the time. I learned that I need to pack better earplugs. I learned that sometimes, the best travel memories are the ones you didn't plan.
- I made memories here. I will remember the warmth of the people, the beauty of the history, and the sheer, unadulterated joy of eating shawarma.
Final Verdict: Go to Carob Hostel - Amman. Go to Jordan. Embrace the mess. Embrace the emotions. Eat all the shawarma. And most importantly, prepare for an adventure you won't forget.
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Unbelievable Amman Adventure: Carob Hostel Awaits! - Or Does It? A Messy FAQ
Okay, Carob Hostel... Is it ANY Good? (Let's Be Real, People)
Alright, buckle up. The Carob Hostel. It's… well, it's an experience. Look, I'm not gonna lie, when I saw the photos online I was picturing some Instagram-perfect oasis. You know, gleaming white walls, everyone looking effortlessly hip and happy, the whole shebang. Turns out, that's not *exactly* how Amman rolls.
It’s a bit… lived in. Maybe “charmingly dilapidated” is the official PR line. I’d say “character-filled” with a hefty dose of "needs a new lick of paint". But... and this is a BIG but... the *vibe* is good. Like, genuinely good. You meet people. You share questionable street food. You end up debating politics with a guy from Belgium while sipping mint tea and watching the call to prayer. It’s messy, it’s imperfect, but the community made it worthwhile
What's the DEAL with the Location? Is it actually… accessible? (And safe?)
Okay, location, location, location! The Carob's *basically* in downtown Amman. Which means… well, Amman. It's chaotic, honestly. Lots of honking (prepare your ears!), steep hills (get ready for your calves to burn!), and amazing smells (spices, mostly, but also… other things). Walking around at night is generally fine, but, cmon, use common sense in the way you walk around any place at night. Just don't be stupid.
It's definitely not a pristine, manicured tourist zone. You might see a stray cat or two. Or ten. And getting around without a car can be… an adventure. Taxis are plentiful, but learn to haggle. Or just download Careem. Walking is *doable* to some key sites, but be prepared for uphill battles. Literally.
Diving into the Deep End: The Rooms – What's the Deal?
Alright, let's talk the rooms. This is where the "lived-in charm" *really* starts to kick in. I was in a dorm, and… it was a dorm. You know what dorms are like, right? Random roommates, the ever-present faint smell of whatever someone spilled on the floor last week, and the constant threat of a snorer unleashing a sonic boom.
My first night, I swear, a dude coughed so hard, I thought the building was going to collapse. But then, I met him the next day. Guy from Germany. Really chill. We ended up exploring the Roman Amphitheater together. You adjust. You embrace the chaos. You learn to love earplugs (seriously, bring earplugs!). And you realize it’s all part of the experience, and that's part of the fun of travel, isn't it? The beds were comfy enough, and the sheets… okay, they were clean. That’s all that matters, right?
Food, Glorious Food! Is the Hostel's Kitchen Worth a Damn? (Because I'm ALWAYS Hungry)
Okay, food. Right. Because when you're traveling, you're basically just eating, aren't you? Carob Hostel has a small kitchen. It’s… serviceable. Don’t expect Michelin-star cooking facilities.
The fridge situation can get dicey. Like, "Is that a week-old mystery meat?" dicey. So, use it at your own risk. However, the real magic is outside. Amman is a FEAST. Street food is incredible and CHEAP. Falafel, shawarma, hummus… my stomach is rumbling just thinking about it. Do yourself a favor and explore the local eateries. You won't regret it. Seriously. I am now permanently craving shawarma.
What's the Vibe Like, Anyway? (Am I Gonna Be Stuck with Clueless Tourists?)
The vibe at the Carob is… relaxed, eclectic, and generally pretty cool. You meet people from all over the world. I hung out with a group from Australia one night, and we talked for hours. There are always people hanging out in the common areas.
It's not a party hostel, per se. More like, a place where you can chill, share travel stories, and actually *connect* with other travelers. You're likely to end up doing a group outing or finding travel buddies. You could meet everyone and nobody. It depends how sociable you are. But from my experience, it's pretty impossible to avoid meeting other people.
Showers: The Most Important Question (Let's Be Honest)
The showers. Ah, the showers. This is where things get… interesting. The water pressure is… variable. Sometimes it's a gentle trickle. Sometimes it's a firehose. I experienced it all in the 3 showers I took, haha. My morning shower during rush hour was a trickle. Late night shower was a firehose.
Hot water… well, it’s there. Usually. Be prepared for the possibility of an icy blast. Especially if you're showering after a bunch of other people. It’s all part of the adventure, right? (I say, through chattering teeth).
The Staff - Are They Helpful or Do They Secretly Hate Tourists? (Important for Survival)
The staff? Overall, they are pretty good. They are helpful and friendly, and they seem genuinely interested in making your stay a good one.
They can help you find the best places to eat. They will help you book a taxi. However, be warned: expect to learn some Arabic. If you don’t speak Arabic, you might experience some language barrier. I didn't know a lick of Arabic, but I was able to get by. The staff, however, were able to speak some english.
The Biggest Surprise of the Trip?
Okay, hands down? The PEOPLE. I mean, I knew I'd meet people, but I wasn't prepared for the genuine connections I made. There was this one girl, Sarah, from Scotland. We ended up exploring the Citadel together. We spent the entire day cracking jokes. We are still keeping in touch. Roam And Rests
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