The Downtowner has been getting rave reviews from its guests since its opening. The building is, however, still a ‘masterpiece in progress’ as more renovations are planned for the future. Two floors of the three-floor building have been completed with brand-new dorm rooms, and several private rooms, each with en suite bathrooms – the Downtowner follows the trend towards private accommodation in hostels.
Sarah Albanese, manager of the hostel, says she recommends guests visit the award-winning Manitoba Museum, “the diverse mixture of cultures in our Osbourne Village with its collection of cultural shops restaurants, and the amazing festivals throughout the year – the Winnipeg Folk Festival, the Festival des Voyageurs, the Fringe Festival, and the Winnipeg Jazz Festival.”
As well as the attractions there, Winnipeg is the main jumping-off point (by train or plane) to see the wild polar bears at Churchill, Manitoba on Hudson Bay, some 1700 km north.
Located right in the heart of Winnipeg’s vibrant downtown, the brand new hostel is close to the city’s finest attractions. Bed price: from $29.00 per night.
When travelling in Canada, don’t forget that IYHF members (including SYHA cardholders) receive a discount of 25% with Greyhound Canada (see www.greyhound.ca for details)