Helsinki Accommodation - Hostel Academica
 

We are spending a few days in Helsinki summer 2003 and would like to hear from anyone who has stayed at the university accommodation known as Hostel Academica.

Hi Garrick<BR>I've stayed here on two occasions.The reason we chose it in the first place was its price back in 1985 when we were a bit strapped for cash and Finland was more expensive than it is now.Also, it had 3 (and 4 )bedded rooms.<BR>We returned last year because even though we have a little more cash now, a 3 bedded room anywhere else was out of proportion.<BR>The advantages are that it has a 24 hour reception- useful as our Manchester flight arrives in Helsinki at 11.59- yes on the nail!The breakfast is copious and the staff allow you to leave your bags there. In 1985 we went off to St. Petersburg for 4 days and last year we went to Tallina overnight.<BR>The staff are also very helpful with fairly excellent English<BR>The drawbacks?It is a university hostel for the rest of the year and it feels like one .The lift broke as we were checking out and we were on the 6th floor- I was glad we weren't checking in then.The proof of the pudding though is that I would stay there again.<BR>Can I help you with any more queries?

Hi Frances<BR><BR>Many thanks for your response. Would you consider the accomnmodation OK for a couple in their 60's?

That's tricky- especially as you ask whether it's "O.K." not whether you should stay there.<BR>If you've not been to Finland before you may not know that matresses on beds tend to be much thinner than I am used to elsewhere. If you have back problems this may be significant as the matresses in the Academica are thin.However I can't tell you which hotels would be any different.<BR>I think that the point I made above about the lift(or are they called elevators in N.Z.)could be important.In a hotel you would expect a porter to take your baggage in this sort of situation.<BR>It also depends on your experience and what you want. If you are familiar with university hostels then its fine.If not and you are expecting a small hotel you will find it basic.<BR>I think the bottom line-having written all this is ,if the price is really important then try it.There certainly were people your age there.<BR>On the other hand if you are fond of your comforts then try elsewhere.<BR>Good luck

Thanks Frances. You have been very helpful.