Cat´s Hostel Madrid

When I first found the hostel I felt it was in a rough neighborhood.  It is just off of Calle de Atocha which is a major street you can find easily from the train station.  I took the metro subway up and finding the hostel was's too difficult.

They use an electronic key system that is unlike any I've seen elsewhere.  It's about the size of a small watch and it comes with a band that you could put around your wrist if you wanted to.  Like hotel keys it will only allow you in certain places.  Obviously it lets you in the main door and your room but it also locks your locker which is nice so you don't have to think about a key.  The actual mechinisms are a bit strange but once you get used to them they're nice.

There are 4 internet computers for free, a bar that opens at night, breakfast, and vending machines that serve water, beer, and sodas at great prices. 

The hostel provides all of your bed linen but you have to request the top sheet.  Its free just ask.  They will loan you a towel for 1€.

The rooms are air conditioned but the one in my room made a strange vibrating noise that made it difficult to sleep.

The hostel, I found out, is located very close to a lot of night life.  There's a movie theater just up the street and a lot of bars, resturants, and dance clubs, very close.  The hostel itself is just off the beaten track though and even I started looking over my shoulder as I made my way back home after dinner.

For wash facilities if you're in a dorm then there are bathrooms for men and women.  The showers are small stalls with closing doors but barelyl enough space to wash, let alone towel dry so do not expect a lot of privacy.  I actually found myself changing in the dorm room when the girls were away as they are mixed dorms. 

All and all I don't mind this hostel but based on my previous expriences I would be suprised if there wasn't better at around the same price.  I would suggest that travellers look for other options and use this as a back up.