Suwon Youth Hostel – Affordable Accommodation for Youths

March 1, 2024 114 Views

Operated by the Suwon Youth Foundation, Suwon Youth Hostel is a budget-friendly accommodation designed for youth groups. These hostels, scattered in various locations, offer facilities suitable for group stays, providing a more economical option compared to hotels.

In Suwon, there are several youth training centers or hostels, and among them, Suwon Youth Hostel is located near Suwon Station.

“Located in Suwon’s Kwonseon-gu, Seodun-dong – Suwon Youth Hostel”

Suwon Youth Hostel, situated near Suwon Station, can be found to the west of the station, originating from Suwon Station. It is located on the former site of Seoul National University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, now repurposed as the Gyeonggi Sangsang Campus.

While the hostel occupies a spacious area, it is well-maintained and kept tidy. However, one drawback is its challenging accessibility via public transportation. Despite being in Suwon, it is relatively remote. Taxis are hard to come by in this area, and there are no bus services, making it difficult for visitors without their own vehicles. In fact, our group faced challenges as we unexpectedly found it difficult to secure a taxi when leaving the hostel, eventually requiring assistance from the hostel staff.

“Well-Maintained Facilities at Suwon Youth Hostel”

Despite its remote location, Suwon Youth Hostel boasts well-maintained facilities. Unlike the outdated image one might associate with youth hostels, contemporary youth hostels exhibit clean and modern amenities.

Suwon Youth Hostel was no exception; the facilities were well-kept. Notably, there were soccer and basketball fields in front of the hostel, creating a pleasant atmosphere for students to engage in sports activities on the grassy field.

Additionally, there was a camping site on one side, providing an option for families to escape the routine and spend weekends camping outdoors. We observed families utilizing the camping facilities during our visit.

“Challenges with Internet and Mobile Signal in Guest Rooms”

However, there were some downsides. Although the overall facilities were well-maintained, the lack of internet in guest rooms was a drawback, making it difficult for guests to access the internet. Internet was available in the main lobby, but it was inconvenient for those who needed it in their rooms.

Moreover, the mobile signal was weak, possibly due to the nearby air force base. This added another layer of inconvenience for visitors relying on mobile communication. Being in a location with limited public transportation and poor communication signals, it could pose challenges for those without a vehicle, making visits somewhat inconvenient.

“Utilized as Accommodation for Israel Jamboree Group”

The 2023 Saemangeum Jamboree faced an early conclusion due to operational issues and the approach of a typhoon. Consequently, participants dispersed to various locations to continue their programs. In our case, we urgently provided support to the Israel Jamboree group, helping them secure accommodation.

Fortunately, arrangements were already in place for the Israel Jamboree group to stay at Suwon Youth Hostel for one night and two days. However, due to the unforeseen situation leading to an early arrival, we needed to secure additional accommodation for one more day. Initially, the hostel informed us that an early check-in was not possible, but later, we received a call saying it was feasible, allowing us to secure the additional accommodation.

As a result, we visited Suwon Youth Hostel on a Saturday to greet the Israel Jamboree group, assist with check-in, and provide support for their on-site needs. During the evening meal planning, we faced a sudden need to order meals for around 70 people. Given the abruptness of the situation, language barriers with the Israel Jamboree participants, and limited English proficiency among the on-site staff, I served as an intermediary, helping with translation and identifying a place for dinner orders.

Ultimately, we decided on pizza for dinner. Finding a place that could accommodate such a large order on short notice was challenging. While we could place an order at Pizza School, they couldn’t provide delivery. Consequently, we visited Pizza School, and as it turned out, the owner kindly offered to transport the pizzas to the hostel. This ensured that the Israel Jamboree group’s dinner proceeded smoothly.

While our visit to Suwon Youth Hostel was prompted by the urgent need to support the Israel Jamboree group, it was our first time at the location. Despite the circumstances, upon seeing the facilities and environment, I thought it could be a good place to spend time with a group. However, I recommend having a vehicle when visiting next time.

“Suwon Youth Hostel”