When in comes to Portugal’s unprecedented charm, Porto fits right in, and is a must see. Himali from the Tattva Design Hostel, shared some of her thoughts with us, before we all get the chance to meet at HostelSkills #2 conference this in Barcelona.
How did you decide to open a hostel?
My husband and I never had the dream to open a hostel, because we are in different fields, nothing to do with hospitality, but we had 2 family buildings in the heart of Porto city and we were wondering what should we do with these buildings. We started researching and here, in Porto, we only had 3 hostels back then (2008), so we thought “why not?” and started doing our “homework”: what does it take? what do we need? and here we are… after 4,5 years!
What is the biggest challenge you are facing in running/managing your hostel?
To maintain our quality and good service!
What makes your hostel unique?
Our design and our facilities.
What is the one thing that your guests like the most in your hostel?
Tough question. Can’t say only one, but I would say our terrace and the rooms!
What makes your destination/city a place everyone should visit?
It is a small town (even being the 2nd largest in Portugal), where you can have it all: good food, good people, good quality and cheap prices! I normally say to my guests that Porto has its own charm, it is a historical city, it is a romantic city and also it is growing so fast that you even have the hip part!
What is the best time of the year to visit you?
Spring and summer! Personally, because I hate winter (rain and cold!)
What would you recommend to your guests as a must see/must do in your city?
Oh! So many things. First, Tattva Design Hostel, of course! Ahaha, just kidding! We have the Clerigos Tower, the Lello Library, the riverside, the wine cellars, and so many cute and beautiful churches… So much to see in Porto!
