Once in Cape Town is an “all-star” hostel for the young at heart. No matter who you are or how you like to travel, if you like a dash of quirk without compromising on comfort then you’ll love creating your own tailor-made experience at this fun-loving backpackers and hostel in the Mother City.

If you’re straining your cranium wondering what on earth “all-star” means, Once in Cape Town offers a “Breakfast on the Go” from Yours Truly café, free internet, access to the self-catering kitchen, and 24-hour reception to all guests, whether you’re staying in a backpackers dorm or classic budget room.

We decided this little all-star needed some checking out. Here’s what some of our booking agents had to say about their Once in Cape Town experience:

Once in Cape Town is very original. The individual themes of each room, draping lights at the entrance, and the decor made out of recycled material really stood out for me. – Zuhaa

I loved the look of the place. It was something different from what you would expect from a backpackers. – Jurgens

I loved the fact that there is FREE uncapped internet as well as a separate “Skype Room”. In the dorm, at the top of the bed, is a box where you can charge your cell phone and lock valuables away, which I thought was pretty snazzy and convenient.  – Jess

Once in Cape Town has a wonderful outside area with a herb garden, as well as a communal braai area where you can light up a bonfire.  – Tanya

They have a very cool vibe for young people. Everyone there is friendly and it feels like you have your own little community. – Jurgens

The big calendar board tells you what’s hot and happening in Cape Town from Monday to Sunday – including what shows are on, when the Hop-on-Hop-off bus is arriving, and what the weather is doing. – Jess

It was clean and modern, with a bit of an old school feel. There were lots of social areas where people could meet.  – Chantell

There is a lounge where they play movies at night with a projector. The lounge can also be converted into a conference room for meetings. – Tanya

I love the fact that their café/bar/restaurant, Yours Truly, is open to the public so locals can mix with travellers staying at the hostel. We enjoyed a delicious breakfast there, with a choice of muesli and yoghurt or croissants and preserves. The cappuccinos are made with a lot of love, and you’ll also find a selection of pizzas, sandwiches, and hamburgers. Beer flows on tap until the bar closes at 11pm. – Tanya

Their bar comes alive on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, often with live bands playing. – Jess

A great money saver is that, instead of eating at expensive restaurants, you can pop across the road to buy groceries at the shopping mall and then make your own food in the communal kitchen. You get your own storage box and there is a security camera to stop anyone from stealing food. – Jess

You would think a place in the middle of town would be small and compact, but it is very spacious inside. What surprised me the most was the size of the rooms for the price you pay. And it’s great that you can choose self-catering AND breakfast instead of just one option, which is usually the case with accommodations. – Chantell

The units were basic but clean, with cool custom made, extra-length beds. Each room has an en-suite bathroom, which you seldom find at backpackers. It definitely seems more like a hotel than a backpackers. – Tanya

Next time you’re looking for some fun and adventure in the Mother City, we have one piece of advice for you: Don’t hesitate, stay at Once!