Anchorage is a Hostel Town, Denali too
Spenard Hostel International is everything that a hostel should be and more. It is a do-it-yourself kind of place. For example, there is no airport shuttle directly to and from the airport which is just 1.5 miles away. But, they do have easy to follow instructions to get there on our local bus line or by car.
I liked the open common rooms. I was surprised to find, not just two, but three fully equipped kitchens. The benefits in staying at a hostel include the tempting price of just $21 a night. And, if you are willing to put in three hours of work a day, you can get that same night for free. This is not a "youth" hostel, so there is no age limit and there are no membership requirements to stay there either.
One huge bonus is the internet kiosk. At just $1.00 for 10 minutes, it is the darn best deal in town. The large yard had room for tents or barbeques. There were even bikes to rent. In a semi-flat and trail happy town like Anchorage, a bike can be your best friend.
You have to take your shoes off at the front door, but that just gives you an idea of how they care for the place and keep it tidy. And there is no tolerence for drugs or alcohol (all the better for a quiet nights sleep in your bunk in your shared room.) They also have a hostel in Denali Park and a bus that goes to and from Homer. Their website has links to other recommended hostels up here in Alaska. If you are looking for an inexpensive place to stay in Anchorage, this place is a winner.
Spenard Hostel International
2845 W 42nd Avenue
Anchorage, AK 99517
Phone/Fax: 907-248-5036
Email: Stay@AlaskaHostel.Org
Web: http://www.alaskahostel.org
