Over the years we discovered that Hostels can be a fun and inexpensive way to spend a night during an overnight layover (Copenhagen) or a short-term stay prior to moving to a more permanent location (Kona). Knowing we would arrive relatively late into Lagos Portugal prior to starting our hike along the Fisherman’s Trail, we figured why not start our backpacking journey by staying in a hostel. The location was great, the price was right and we were able to book a private room with ensuite bath.
Well this particular hostel was very different than our previous experiences. First we should point out that Lagos is known as a party town and very popular with the 20-something set. We arrived about 8pm and learned they were having a grill out and a bottomless bucket of sangria on the rooftop terrace. Why not. When we arrived there were about a dozen “kids” on the terrace. The hostel staffer working the grill was over-the-top polite and proudly pointed out a dish he prepared for the cookout (Beet Root and Chick Pea — similar to hummus). We grabbed a cup of sangria (good batch) and later a plate of meats (southern Portugal is known for their grilled meats). We sat down on bean bags that were on wooden pallets. It was interesting observing the reactions of some of the other guests when “the parents” showed up to their party. Actually, they were very polite and mostly indifferent. We made a point of not hanging around too long.
We had been traveling since early that morning and were ready to hit the rack around 11pm. Little did we know that pretty much all of the other guests were planning to party until 4am. It also didn’t help that our room was two floors directly above the hostel entrance, which was across the street from a rooftop bar. Needless to say, Julie had some difficulty getting some sleep (Joe can sleep through anything). We hit the beach the following day and were able to get some rest. Ironically, the next night (Sunday), the place was as quiet as a church mouse until a group came back from the bars around 2am. I guess most everyone else was wiped out from the previous night. The lesson learned for us is to not hesitate to book another hostel, however make sure we understand the environment we are entering.