I had heard through the grape-vine about the Generator Hostel collection on a recent trip to the United Kingdom. As soon as I heard about it, I knew I had to visit one of their unique hostels. I wanted to see if it added a bit of gypset travel to the mix of lodging in traditional must-see destinations. I had the opportunity to check out the Generator Hostel on my trip to Italy last month.
I was in Milan for work and decided to take the train to Venice. This breathtaking city consists of a network of canals, where there are no cars– travel by boat is the only option. To get to the Generator, I had to take the water bus, which is directly outside of the Venice train station; and it brought me to a convenient stop just steps away from the hostel.
The building is beautiful– it was at one time a grain house, and it’s full of exposed timber beams, stone columns, and other period architectural elements. Designer Anwar Mekhayech did a phenomenal job with the interior design. There are many locally sourced antiques that make you feel as if you are stepping back in time. One of the focal points is the gorgeous stone fireplace from Verona.
Rooms at the Generator offer amazing views of Venice. You can choose from dorm rooms, female-only dorm rooms, and private rooms (twins, triples, and quads). There are some great amenities that come with a stay at the Generator including 24 laundry, amazing showers (see my pic!), fabulous dinners, 24 hour reception, and a happening bar open from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. Fees are nominal in comparison to most other lodging in Venice; costs for things like luggage storage, Wifi, drinks, and snacks are only a few euros.
After speaking with the director of the hostel I learned that in the off season they provide residences for local up and coming artists, in order to support and inspire their creative direction. Their art is displayed throughout the hostel.
The food at the Generator as well is worth mentioning. With typical delicious Italian dishes like pizza, pasta and panini, your appetite and taste buds will be more than satisfied upon your departure for a day of sightseeing or on your return, hungry for a nice Spaghetti Carbonara and a glass of wine. With prices like €5,50 for a panino, orange juice and an espresso how can you go wrong?
The Generator in Venice opened in June of 2013 and features 260 beds. The hostel is located in a beautiful Venetian Palazzo built in 1850. It’s located on the island of Guidecca (just 200 meters from the Cipriani Hotel). There is 24 hour access via water bus to St. Mark’s Square. When you arrive, you can check in any time from 7 a.m. to midnight (check-out is by 10 a.m).
I had a wonderful experience at this hostel come boutique hotel that provides an amazing travel encounter for every size wallet, and I was impressed with the design and hospitality I received there. If you are planning a trip to Venice and looking for an alternative to overpriced hotels, check out the Generator Venice–it’s not your typical hostel experience!
You have found the most amazing hostels!!! Beautiful!