Enjoy the wonderful atmosphere in Durres, Albania and help in our hostel

Albania

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Favourited 1020 times

Host rating
Feedback
104
Last activity
27/11/2020
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Availability

2020

Min stay requested: at least 3 weeks

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Description
We have started a hostel for backpackers and bar/cafe in the middle of Durres city in the summer of 2014. The hostel is located in an old Italian villa from 1930, located on the main square. We have restored everything and are now up and running. But we always need some handy people who can help improve our place! It is the first and only hostel for backpackers in town.
l New alert : We have closed the hostel during this period and re-open on February 1st.
Stay safe!
Types of help and learning opportunities
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Hospitality/Tourism
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Durres is a city that is not crowded with tourists like Tirana. It is calm, peaceful, and full of local people. It is a wonderful atmosphere to go on an evening stroll through city center, or along the boardwalk. The local fresh market is a wonderful experience. Local, organic, and also imported vegetables, fruit, dairy, spices, teas, beans, meat, etc. Durres is a good base for taking day trips to nearby towns of interest. There are several beaches close by. And small mountains around too. With an easy hike, you can get to a high point with amazing views of the sea and city.
Help
Hi!

We need a few volunteers to help us out at our very special hostel during the next months.
More and more guests are coming to beautiful Albania. We manage a hostel, and in the adjacent garden we have a (local) summer bar, open between June and October, with entrance on the main square.

We can use helpers with a variety of skills. Most important reception help, keeping the guests happy and keep the place clean.

Do you have any fix-it, handy-man, or construction abilities? We are looking into some changes in our bar, and help is needed! There are always few repairs to do as well, if you are willing and able.

Do any of those sound good to you?

We will provide you with accommodation in one of our comfortable dorms, wifi, use of the washing machine, and breakfast.
Life here is relaxed, happy, and peaceful. and we should enjoy every aspect of life. The seaside is a couple of minutes from the hostel, too. And you can use the hostel bicycles.

Let us know if you are interested!!
We would prefer a commitment of 3/4 weeks stay. During the winter months it would be nice if you can stay even longer. It is helpful to have people who can notice things that could be improved and who can do things with their own volition.

We expect you to help max 5 hours a day, 5 days a week.

Let us know if you are interested!! We are looking forward to hearing from you.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Italian: Fluent
Dutch: Fluent
Albanian: Fluent
Accommodation
We offer a bed in one of our dorms including breakfast, coffee and tea during the day, Wi-Fi, use of laundry, and our hospitality!
What else ...
if you come to Durres, you can also enjoy your time on the beach, enjoy great seafood, spend some time in Tirana (only 30 min by bus), or play football on the beaches. It is also a great place to start to go for some day trips to south or north of Albania. Or go to Italy, the ferries leave/arrive here. It is is after Tirana the second largest city of Albania, and has a great Mediterranean vibe.
A little more information
- Internet access
- Limited internet access
- We have pets
- We are smokers
- Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
5 hours a day 5 days a week

Photos

Feedback left by and about host (104)

These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.

Accuracy of profile:
(4.9)

Cultural exchange:
(5.0)

Communication:
(5.0)

15/02/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah & Marcus)

Sarah and Marcus were polite, friendly and self sufficient. It was a good experience and I would be happy to recommend them to other hosts.

(Excellent )

10/12/2019

Left by Workawayer (Sarah & Marcus) for host

Our stay at the hostel was a great experience. The shifts were either morning to 3 or 3 to 10. The work is pretty simple: check ins, breakfast, clean up, and socialize with guests. It’s a great place to make your time what you want it to be. AKA you can cook family dinners, have barbecues, or do a creative project during your free time. The dorm… read more

(Excellent )

15/02/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Robin)

Robin is an excellent guy who helped us a lot. He is a great human being and was a pleasure to have him in the Hostel.
He helped me a lot with reception and taking care of the guests. Also worked without a timetable. I couldn't stay all the time in the hostel in that period so i trusted him everything. He did everything that was asked with a… read more

(Excellent )

14/12/2019

Left by Workawayer (Robin) for host

Wonderfull experience in the Hostel. The family owner of the hostel is very kind and caring. I really enjoyed my daily life here, which is a city full of interesting places. I had a great meeting there and already wanted to come back !

(Excellent )

30/10/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Nicola)

Nicola arrived with great enthusiasm and great will to help at all times and in all the work in the hostel. He is also very intelligent to understand all the work procedures and he helped me a lot with computer reparation. He has a great capacity for concentration and responsibility. His passion is Yoga, so he did some yoga classes during the stay… read more

(Excellent )

21/10/2019

Left by Workawayer (Nicola) for host

This was my first experience with Workaway and I must say that it was really interesting
the place is beautiful, with a touch of art, and a relaxed atmosphere.
the job is easy and not demanding, but at the same time there is the possibility to learn a lot and to meet good friends.
Merli, the manager, and her family, are really friendly and helpful… read more

(Excellent )

30/10/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Rostislav & Monika)

Such a lovely young couple who worked very hard and fitted in nicely with our daily routine. Nothing was too hard, and they turned their hand to almost any task. They were such a great help. An absolute pleasure to have.
You are always welcome to stay at my place one day :) !

(Excellent )

26/10/2019

Left by Workawayer (Rostislav & Monika) for host

We took care of the hosts of the hostel. We did check-in, check-out, simple cleaning and we helped the hosts to feel comfortable. The town of Durres is located close to Tirana so it is well connected to the rest of Albania which is great for trips. The atmosphere of the hostel was amazing and we had a great time staying there.

(Excellent )

23/10/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Amber)

It was a pleasure to have Amber with us for 6 weeks. She was very easy to be with, has a lot of interests and enjoys conversation. She was very adaptable to our hostel customs. She helped us mainly in reception desk, very patient and always kind.It didn't matter the task, the time or the situation Amber was always willing to help, If any hostel is… read more

(Excellent )

13/10/2019

Left by Workawayer (Amber) for host

I spent about six weeks in total in this place, and what a time it was. There was so much cohesion between the staff and the volunteers, and our needs were always cared for. I met such amazing people, Durres really began to feel like home very quickly. It was really sad for my time to come to an end, but I know the next volunteers will have just… read more

(Excellent )

23/10/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Elena)

Elena! Such a sweetheart. So happy we got to meet you. Elena ia a very positive person. Appreciating everything around her. She did a wonderful job in every task. Although she had no experience, she had a great attitude that helped her pick up on anything needed. She got along with everybody in the staff, very respectfull and easy going person. We… read more

(Excellent )

26/09/2019

Left by Workawayer (Elena) for host

One of the most interesting experiences of my life. It was my fist experience as a workaway and I couldn't have made e a better choice both for the hostel and the country. Albania is a beautiful balcanian country the people are kind and helpful. The hostel is situated next to the beach in an excellent location in the center of Durres. I also had… read more

(Excellent )

07/10/2019

Left by Workawayer (Florian & Melisa) for host

We stayed here this winter for our first workaway and we had the best time. Honestly there was not that much to do in the cold season, so we mainly hung out with the other workaway people in the lobby and went to get shawarma, but it left us the opportunity to take on self organized projects to which Ben (the former host) was open and welcoming… read more

(Excellent )

24/09/2019

Left by Workawayer (Fabian & Diana) for host

Una experiencia mágica, nos encanto el hostel desde el primer momento que llegamos. Que lindo es llegar y ser recibido con los brazos abiertos; nos sentimos como en casa por esto nos apasiono tanto, dedicamos tiempo y trabajo con mucho amor.
Merli, Kiti y su Familia son grandes personas, gracias por la oportunidad tan linda que nos brindaron y… read more

(Excellent )

10/09/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Fabian & Diana)

What a pleasure it was to have Diana and Fabian in our team. They stayed with us for 1 month and half and I have to say that was a great experience.
The both started to work in the reception desk, Diana was a manager in another hostel in Colombia so she knew pretty much the work with the sites and our system. Fabian is a masterchef from 10… read more

(Excellent )

06/09/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Oriol & Marc)

Oriol and Marc were definitely wonderful volunteers! The time we spent together was great! They did a lot of good jobs! Even that they are so young, they have a lot of skills. They were very helpful in the reception, in the garden, with guests and keeping always the place clean and tidy. Always focused on responsibilities :) They always tried to… read more

(Excellent )

23/08/2019

Left by Workawayer (Oriol & Marc) for host

It was our first volunteering experience and it was unforgettable. The hostel is really nice and very well located, right in the centre of Durres. Merli made us feel at home from the very beginning, and besides, the atmosphere at the hostel is so cool and relaxing. The other volunteers were excellent people, and we helped each other when… read more

(Excellent )

06/09/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Angelica & Vanessa)

Fist of all I want to thank you Angelica and Vanessa for the great help and good spirit you have transmit in our hostel.
This was their first workaway experience and they did it perfectly. They helped me and the others with all the things we needed. They created such a good atmosphere, always smiling, taking care of everything. Interacting with… read more

(Excellent )

18/08/2019

Left by Workawayer (Angelica & Vanessa) for host

This was our first Workaway! I can only say that it was an unforgettable experience. We spent 3 weeks helping at the front desk, shopping for breakfast, keeping the place clean, and then just enjoying our time with the guests. We met awesome people here. Merli and Kiti were amazing, they made us feel part of the family. They made our stay very… read more

(Excellent )

14/08/2019

Left by Workawayer (Claire) for host

I worked at the hostel for three weeks in June and had a wonderful time with the volunteers and guests. The shifts were flexible and you get plenty of time off to explore Albania and the Balkans. Work was enjoyable and easy, volunteers are responsible for the reception desk which was very easy to learn as well as shopping for groceries for… read more

(Excellent )

04/07/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Claire)

Claire was a magnificent piece to an ongoing puzzle that is our Hostel. She fit right into place. Always eager to learn, never hesitant to work. She made our lives easier and more enjoyable with her work ethic and unique sensibility. This hostel is worse off without her here. Anybody who has the opportunity to work with her should seize the… read more

(Excellent )

05/08/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Víctor)

Victor has been a great help for us. Very friendly and very sociable with guests.
He helped in reception and other tasks around the hostel and always willing to help extra when needed.
Would truly reccomend him, he is easy going and quite person with positive vibes.
All the best from Durres.

(Excellent )

26/07/2019

Left by Workawayer (Víctor) for host

I have to admit that this was my first experience in a hostel like Workaway, and I must say that it was all very easy and easy going thanks to Merli.Merli is a very intelligent, reasonable and fun person. She always made things very easy, and I think the Hostel will work very well with her as a manager.The hostel offers the possibility of meeting… read more

(Excellent )

05/08/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Alma & Justin)

It has been a great pleasure to have Alma and Justin in our hostel.

They stayed 2 months with us and the experience was incredible. Extremely friendly, polite and great to have around. A very responsible couple of doing the work very well.
They helped in everything from reception to maintenance , keeping the place always clean, interacting with… read more

(Excellent )

31/07/2019

Left by Workawayer (Alma & Justin) for host

We had the best experience while staying and working here. The manager, Merli was great, always trying to make our stay comfortable and as easy as possible. She was always open to suggestions to better the place.
At first we were supposed to stay for one month, but we ended up staying for two. We helped her create a new booking system for the… read more

(Excellent )

05/07/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Cory)

Cory was exceptional. He embraced Albanian culture with open arms and was a valuable member to our team! He took on additional tasks like caring for the hostel puppy. He always had great recommendations for the guests.

(Excellent )

06/05/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (victor)

Victor is a marvelous person. He started helping out the first moment he arrived at the hostel. Even if he stayed with us just a couple of weeks, Victor was very responsible at doing his job very well. During the time, he worked at the reception, moving a lot of things because we were renovating the hostel and kept always the place clean. He is a… read more

(Excellent )

04/05/2019

Left by Workawayer (victor) for host

Well, many good things to say about this place, let’s start :)

I was in Durres only for a couple of weeks before the summer and I really had a great time over there, the hostel has a chill and nice atmosphere, the job is quite simply, volunteers in general ar in charge of reception and keep the place clean, tidy and of course hang out with… read more

(Excellent )

28/04/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Stephanie & laura)

Laura, Stephanie and Khali,

This was a fantastic experience for us with the girls and the dog Khali. Laura and Stephanie have been amazing! They took care of everything and more. Friendly, helpful, taking initiatives. They create such a good energy around people. The stayed with us for 1 month and worked at the reception desk, check in and check… read more

(Excellent )

24/04/2019

Left by Workawayer (Stephanie & laura) for host

Nous avons passé 4 semaines à l'auberge avec notre chien.
L'ambiance était géniale et les personnes chaleureuses.
Ben et Merli sont les proprietaire et manager de l'auberge. Ils nous ont accueilli à bras ouverts, nous ont fait confiance et on s'est senti comme a la maison.
Notre principal travail était d'accueillir et enregistrer les voyageurs,… read more

(Excellent )

13/04/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (James & Rebecca )

I had a great experience with James and Bex! Such a lovely couple! So happy to had them stay at our hostel even for a couple of weeks. They helped us in everything we need in reception and also they did some repair and painted some tables in the garden. Lovely people, always helpul and always ready to have a good conversation. Together with other… read more

(Excellent )

02/04/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Lea)

It has been a great pleasure to have Lea stay with us. She helped us in reception desk, kept the common area clean and other tasks around the hostel. She is a free spirit, lovely girl and always with a smile in her face. Lea was a positive energy in our hostel, she was very friendly with guests and made their stay comfortable. Always willing to… read more

(Excellent )

01/04/2019

Left by Workawayer (Lea) for host

I stayed for five weeks in this hostel and had a wonderful time. We were 5-6 volunteers who worked rotating whole day shifts (7:00-22:00) and like that we had always a couple of days off in a row. The tasks included taking care of the breakfast, managing check-ins and check-outs, making sure that the communal areas are tidy and clean all day and… read more

(Excellent )

13/01/2019

Left by Workawayer (Vytautas) for host

I stayed at the hostel for two months and they were truly amazing! Everyone: hosts, other volunteers were full of respect and always ready to help. I also felt helpful and appreciated. I left with hands full of beautiful memories. I will for sure miss our dinner times with other volunteers and sometimes guests, freedom to go for a walk by the sea… read more

(Excellent )

02/01/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Marie)

It has been a pleasure to have Marie with us! She is a very hard and good worker. Always in a good mood and very social person.
Highly recommended to let her stay at your place

(Excellent )

14/11/2018

Left by Workawayer (Marie) for host

This was my first workaway and I somehow ended up spending 6 weeks here. It was an amazing experience; There's alway something going on, but in a relaxed and enjoyable way. The work in the bar is an interesting way to experience Albanian culture, and the reception shifts are very easy. You can spend many hours getting lost in the interesting city… read more

(Excellent )

19/12/2018

Left by Workawayer (Ana) for host

I ve stayed in hostel for 6 weeks,
As soon as you enter the hostel
You have great feeling, you truly feel
Home, the ambient is relax and confortable, the bar next to the hostel has a beautiful atmosphere and music.
Ben and Ellen were really nice and helpful,

Thank you for the espace and time here!

(Excellent )

05/11/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Sadie)

Sadie has been a great help for us. Stayed quite long and has been extremely helpful in setting up some things on booking engines, google drive etc.
Furthermore she is very friendly, always willing to help extra when needed, and very sociable with guests.
Would truly recommend her, she is easy going and a quiet person, though hard working!
All… read more

(Excellent )

28/08/2018

Left by Workawayer (Kevin) for host

I spent over 3 weeks in the Hostel and it surpassed my expectations. I really enjoyed the experience. Such a nice energy and vibe there. As with almost everything, it was the people there who made it. Staff and volunteers. The more energy and good vibes you bring, the more you'll get back. Amazing way to meet people from all walks of life. I found… read more

(Excellent )

22/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Nikos)

Nikos stayed with us for 2 weeks, he helped in reception, the bar, and other tasks around the hostel. On his shifts he kept the common area clean and the kitchen always stocked for breakfast! It was a pleasure to have you stay with us, and you are welcome to come back anytime!

(Excellent )

17/07/2018

Left by Workawayer (Nikos) for host

I stayed a little over two weeks at the hostel ! The family is very relaxed and welcoming, you are with other volunteers and often times everyone cooks together in the evenings. The hostel is very spacious and comfortable with everything you need, the atmosphere is very relaxing that you feel like home! There is a nice roof top to view the town… read more

(Excellent )

22/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (George)

George stayed with us for over a month where he worked at our bar. He is a very friendly and hardworking guy keeping the bar organized and clean! We were very happy to have him stay with us. Thank you George!

(Excellent )

22/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Anouk)

Anouk stayed with us for about a month working in reception and the bar, she was very friendly with all the other volunteers and staff. She helped paint some beautiful designs on our flower pots in the bar and always joined in cooking delicious meals for the volunteers. Thank you Anouk!

(Excellent )

22/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Zofia )

Zofia was a very friendly worker helping us in the bar, she spent her evenings cooking for all the other volunteers very delicious foods! We were very happy to have her stay with us and would welcome here back anytime!

(Excellent )

17/07/2018

Left by Workawayer (Andrés & Lucia) for host

Our stay in the Hostel was amazing! It was our first workaway experience in a hostel and we felt like at home. Ben and Ellen and really good hosts, always looking after volunteers being happy and available for spending time together. Ben is always around and ready to teach and explain new things and he let the volunteers organize the shifts by… read more

(Excellent )

09/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Andrés & Lucia)

Lucia and Andres have been a great help during the month of June. very reliable, always checking on forehand and informing us when they would come. That was much appreciated as well by us. During the stay they have been very helpful making our place nicer and more beautiful with the art they have made. Lucia and Andres are very friendly and taking… read more

(Excellent )

16/07/2018

Left by Workawayer (Juan Cruz) for host

Incredible place! I really felt at home. the energy in this hostel is wonderful. Ben and Ellen were two great hosts. The coexistence with the other volunteers was very good and fun. I was only two weeks, but I hope to be able to return. Thanks for everything!

(Excellent )

09/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Juan Cruz)

Juan stayed a couple of weeks with us with another volunteer from Argentina. Juan is a very social guy, a great help to have in the hostel. Taking care of guests, reception and helping out with other daily issues we have running a hostel. Independent and responsible, are important values for us as a host, and it was great having him around!

(Excellent )

09/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Lucie)

Lucie stayed with us in the winter months, while it was quiet, and came back in the spring. Lucie is a quiet person, but very helpful and honest. She has been a great help in the time we could take some more time off, as she is very responsible. Independent and nice in socializing with the guests and other volunteers. Guess she will come back… read more

(Excellent )

15/04/2018

Left by Workawayer (Lucie) for host

It has now been almost four weeks since I parted ways with Hostel after two months of volunteering there and still I haven’t found the words to sum up my experience! Now I realize I'd better just write what I can because I'll probably never quite achieve the level of expression I have in mind.
To begin, the hostel is a magic sort of place… read more

(Excellent )

09/07/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Franciele)

It has been a great pleasure hosting Fran! Always there to help out, independent, very friendly and fun to hang out with.
In these couple of weeks we have worked hard to get everything ready for the summer season. All tasks were taken without any problem, definitely recommend her to stay with you!

(Excellent )

12/06/2018

Left by Workawayer (Franciele) for host

I have no words for the Hostel, truly a gem when it comes to workaway. You'll get to experience the real Albanian culture in a veyr chilled place, where you have a lot of time and freedom to work on your own stuff and suggest projects. The group of volunteers was formed by amazing people, and we had a lot of autonomy to organize ourselves and our… read more

(Excellent )

31/05/2018

Left by Workawayer (Robbe ) for host

This hostel is an amazing place to volunteer, it’s not just a hostel it’s more. The atmosphere is unique and the place to hang out at the evening is wonderfull! The hosts are also verry friendly and open people. I volunteerd 3 and a half week but you feel at home in no time. The perfect place to meet people and make beautiful memories :)

(Excellent )

09/04/2018

Left by Workawayer (Simon) for host

I didn't know much about Albania before coming to Durres, but after hanging out with Ben and other workawayers I fell in love. I was there from March to April and the people, atmosphere, and general attitude at the hostel is great. I would definitely go back and help with more projects!

(Excellent )

05/04/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Gabriel )

Gabriel was funny and a hard working guy! funny because of placing a tattoo of the Durres city logo :) Always happy to hear people have amazing memories of the hostel, and we hope he will be back in the summer! If he decide to go somewhere else, do not hesitate to have him on board in your team! Thanks Gabriel!

(Excellent )

02/04/2018

Left by Workawayer (Gabriel ) for host

This was my first Workaway experience and it was amazing! I spent a little over 3 weeks working at the hostel and it was not long enough! I wish i could have stayed much longer but i had to go back to University. Albania is an amazing country with the nicest people and Durres is a great city. Ben is a very nice guy and very funny. I only met Ellen… read more

(Excellent )

22/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (Tamena) for host

(Sorry for the delayed review)
I worked at Hostel Dürres for the month of November and had a very comfortable and pleasant experience. The accommodation is comfortable, the kitchen is huge and very well equipped and the work is easy and straight-forward. November was quite slow but Ben made sure that myself, the other volunteers and guests were… read more

(Excellent )

06/02/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Monique)

Monique stayed about a month with us in quiet December month. She is a very lovely person, always helpful and always ready to have a good discussion with on interesting topics. How we live our lives, animals or just any other topic. In the hostel she took care of general reception duties and keeping the guests entertained. The staff was preparing… read more

(Excellent )

04/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (Monique) for host

I had a great experience with Ellen and Ben. They are very laid back and gave me a lot of freedom to do what needed to be done. It was a quiet time (December 2017) at the hostel but our team of volunteers was inspiring and joyful. Taking care of the guests, the social media accounts and the Hostel website was fun. I loved the talks and… read more

(Excellent )

05/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (Caleb) for host

Volunteering at Hostel felt like coming home and being welcomed by old friends. Although I was only there for a couple weeks, I enjoyed helping with the first half of the bathroom renovation and doing some painting. Ben allowed me to do what I was comfortable with and trusted me to complete the work on my own. Because there was a small number of… read more

(Excellent )

05/02/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Caleb)

Caleb is such a wonderful guy! Extremely friendly, polite, and great to have around. And good in making mozzarella as well :). we had great fun having him around, would definitely recommend to any other host. Good luck in Budapest Caleb! Come back any time!

(Excellent )

30/12/2017

Left by Workawayer (GNA) for host

Wonderfully comfortable staff accommodations, a large, well-equip kitchen, cozy wood burning stove, great location, and kind, generous owners are just a few ways to describe the volunteer experience at the Hostel during the winter season. Although we had a small amount of guests, we always had a great time and successfully worked to make them feel… read more

(Excellent )

29/12/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (GNA)

Gina has been with us for a few weeks this November / December. she has been very helpful with all aspects of the work. Reception, helping with guests, keeping the place neat and tidy, and above all she has been the kitchen chef for this time. Her cooking is superb, very fresh and original ideas! And this has been very important for us to make our… read more

(Excellent )

09/12/2017

Left by Workawayer (Toni & Emilia) for host

Better late than never.
It has now passed a quite long time since we was at one of the best workaway places you could be on. We were at hostel almost 1,5 months totally and we really enjoyed every minute of it. Ben and Ellen are a really nice couple that really care about their volunteers. We felt like home all the time.
We was working with all… read more

(Excellent )

14/11/2017

Left by Workawayer (Simon & Stephanie) for host

The hostel was our first workaway experience and it was great one! Ben and Ellen and of course their two lovely kids are really nice people though we haven't actually spent much time with them since they were partly on vacation during our stay. So we and two other volunteers literally ran the place ourselves which we thought was a great trust… read more

(Excellent )

08/11/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Simon & Stephanie)

Stephanie and Simon have been great workers. We really enjoyed their stay with us. Stephie is great with children, and she will be missed by our kids!! Both are hard workers and willing to do all the work needed. Besides that they are a really really nice and friendly couple! Fully recommend them to stay with you!

Enjoy your stay in Greece!!

(Excellent )

08/11/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Alex)

Alex has been helping us out in our bar during the summer. He fitted really well in the team, took up the things easily. He is a very social person, and connects well with tourists in our hostel and with local people who come by for a chat!
Always willing to give an extra hand.
Definitely recommend Alex!!
Come back any time!

(Excellent )

16/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (Ricardo) for host

If you want few words about my stay as a workawayer in this Hostel, is that I will cherish this experience forever! I have no words to express my gratitude for how kind, generous and caring were Ben and Ellen with me, in fact, that was one of the reasons that made me stay longer, and that allowed me to do several things that were very important in… read more my life, and that will make me remember this place and the people I met there with some kind of "magical" effect.
During my time in the hostel, I was working in reception, cleaning and gardening. You will have to learn a lot of things by your own, just by doing, and get close to the other volunteers so that they can explain you how things work to keep them going well. I barely had that chance of having an instructor, but I definitely tried to teach everything I knew to the volunteers that came after me. All of them were great people, and I can say that I did friendships inside and outside of the Hostel that will remain forever in my life. The shifts are very variable, they depend on the season in which you volunteer, how many volunteers there are, and how you get to organice with them. Ben is very respectful and open about it as long as you all are working OK and there's always someone doing the job, someone's on duty. So, let's say that the shifts tend to be flexible, they depend a lot on the circumstances, but for sure you can find the way for fairly working and also for relaxing and enjoying the city in your free time.
The Hostel is a very nice place, the living room allows volunteers and guests to have nice conversations, the kitchen itself is big enough to have a good time while cooking, so while you are preparing your dinner, you can be meeting new and amazing people from all over the world, just as I did. The bedrooms are nice, and you have plenty of space in the Hostel to be by your own, or to enjoy the company of someone else.
About the city, this is a great place. It's not a big metropoli (if you want that you can easily go to Tirana by bus, in 35 minutes you will be there) and it isn't a little isolated town, it's somewhere in between, the perfect combination of nature, city, services, shops, bars, restaurants, supermakets, local market, people, and you will find that the prices and cost of life is way lower than the rest of Europe. Talking about the hosts, Ben really tries that everyone, whether you are a guest or a volunteer, have a good time while being in the Hostel, he always wants to make your life easier and he's willing to help you. I can remember at least 3 times in which Ben approached to me just to ask how I was, just to know if I was fine, that was always a nice gesture, and an expression of Ben wanting everyone to be happy around while he's hosting you. I also had the chance of chating a lot with Ellen, she is also a very open, caring person, who will share with you about her experiences, and who cares about the well being of the place and the people inside it, regardless they're guests or volunteers.
I remember, when I first arrived to this place, there were 3 volunteers who were about to leave, and that spent months in the Hostel. They told me that their plan was to stay just for a few weeks...and ended up staying months! They also told me that once I got in tune with the place, I would understand them...and well, I can say now that I completely understand what they were talking about, because I wanted to stay just for three weeks, and ended up being more and more! So, if you are reading this just to make up your mind...say yes and make a request to volunteer in this place! You will love it and the hosts will love you as long as you have good attitude and you are willing to work!
I would like to thank you, Ben and Ellen, for the amazing time that you shared with me, for having me in your place, and for giving me the chance of contributing in this project of yours. I did my best, and I also had the best from you, you were generous and kind to me, and that's something I will never forget, and that I tried to retribute how I could. I would definitely consider going back to volunteer once again to this amazing place, with this great people!
Hope to see you soon, Ben and Ellen, and once again...thank you so much!!!

(Excellent )

16/10/2017

Left by Workawayer (Kendra) for host

I planned to stay here for 2 weeks max, but ended up staying for 4! :) The vibe of this place really pulls you in and both Ben and Ellen are such great people. I felt welcome from the very start and loved my time here! I worked in both reception and the bar and enjoyed both. To be honest I really didn't see much of Durres because I spent most of… read more

(Excellent )

20/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Brandon & Ewelina) for host

I spent an amazing, fun-filled 3 weeks at this little hostel paradise in the city of Durres. The work itself was not difficult and volunteers were given a good amount of responsibility. The main reason for coming here would definitely be the people. Ben and Ellen took such good care of us volunteers and always made sure we were enjoying ourselves.… read more

(Excellent )

12/08/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Tony & Andrea)

what a kind words you have left for us! We can only say positive words about the 2 of you too! our little boy is still talking about you Andrea, you are so good with the kids. Tony is great in hospitality, positive, optimistic and entertaining. So 2 very optimistic persons enjoying spending time together and very social and interactive with… read more

(Excellent )

01/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Tony & Andrea) for host

Where does one start with an encounter as great as this one?!

Durres itself is a wonderful and vibrant city, full of culture and good hospitality. However, the best part of our time spent here, was none other than the hours spent at the hostel. We were in such comfort and bliss that we found it difficult at times to leave the place, even during… read more

(Excellent )

12/08/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Brayden)

Brayden has been a great help in the bar. Always positive, smiling, never stressed and makes great coffees with martini, or was it raki????
It was so nice to have a team of volunteers which was very happy altogether and seeing them have lots of fun together!!
Wishing him all the best and hope to see him again one day! Take care!!

(Excellent )

08/08/2017

Left by Workawayer (Brayden) for host

This was my first work away, and I couldn't have asked for a better place to stay.
Ben, Ellen and he other volunteers made me feel at home the moment I walked in. The place had such a chilled out vibe and everyone who stayed there was always so happy. Having beers in the bar, going to the beach, going on road trips, this place has been such a… read more

(Excellent )

24/07/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Pila)

Pila is a wonderful young man. he stayed with us for almost 3 months. His level of english improved a lot to advanced level I would say, he said it cost him a lot of energy the first weeks, but now dreaming in english :)
Furthermore he is hard working, smart, very good with design. On his time off he is quiet person, writing stories, but very… read more

(Excellent )

22/07/2017

Left by Workawayer (Pila) for host

One of the best experiences I had in my life. Probably the best.
Oh. My family from Hostel Durrës. I will miss you a lot.

I was with them almost three months and I went with tears in my eyes. Because at that time I was very happy. Extremely happy. I felt like in my home. Very comfortable.
Ben and Ellen are two beautiful people who opened the… read more

(Excellent )

05/06/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Trevor)

Trevor stayed a few days and helped us for our social media, taking beautiful pics and time laps.
This is still of great value for our business. Besides that, its a great guy to have around, lots of fun and responsible. Come back any time Trevor!

(Excellent )

01/06/2017

Left by Workawayer (Trevor) for host

I had an awesome time volunteering for a few days at this Hostel. The meals and staff were fantastic. I helped renovate the roof terrace and do some photography of the rooms and cafe. What a great hidden gem in Durress! Seriously, if youre considering volunteering here, stop thinking and just do it. A little slice of Albanian paradise :)

Trevor

(Excellent )

15/05/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Lucas & Sara)

Lucas and Sara are a very nice, warm mixed couple traveling around. Lucas is a hard worker, as they said have been making the hostel summer ready. Gardening, painting etc etc.
Sara is lovely, big smile (which is always on her face) and great interacting with guests. We wish them all the best in their travels and in their life!!
Hope you will come… read more

(Excellent )

30/04/2017

Left by Workawayer (Lucas & Sara) for host

Volunteering in the hostle was a very pleasant and relax time for us! Ben and Ellen left up to us about how we would like to help and we loved it! The most important is to take care of the guests and do/suggest whatever you think that would make the place better. Lucas was working in the garden, painting the rooms and taking care of general… read more

(Excellent )

04/02/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Lucas)

Lucas is a great guy to have around as a volunteer. Quiet, funny, laid back but always willing to help with anything thats needed around the place.
Thanks Lucas, hope to see you back sometime!

(Excellent )

02/02/2017

Left by Workawayer (Lucas) for host

I worked at the hostel for three weeks and it was great! Ben and Ellen are fantastic humans and have a beautiful hostel/cafe right in the heart of Durres. The work is decent and the shifts can be long (us volunteers set up our own schedule so it was our choice!) but it was really great running the Cafe and talking to local, and also you have some… read more

(Excellent )

01/01/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Fernando & Paz)

Paz and Fernando are such a lovely couple, started helping out the moment they arrived. Very sociable, Paz loves the kids and spend time with them, and Fernando loves cooking and makes the best spicy sauce you can imagine (if you like spicy..).
No hesitation to recommend this nice couple from Chili to come and work with you!
Take care! Xx

(Excellent )

18/12/2016

Left by Workawayer (Fernando & Paz) for host

We stayed (Fernando and Paz) for 3 weeks in this hostel. The city is quiet and relaxed, perfect place to stay for a while. The hostel is beautifull and very cozy, beds are nice, showers are nice, big kitchen and plenty of place to storage. The work is not that hard and after a couple of days you have all under control and you make your routine.… read more

(Excellent )

10/11/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah)

Sarah was a wonderful person. as soon as she arrived she wanted to be helpful and started cleaning around. meaning she wanted to make herself useful as much as possible.
Beside that she is a warm person, nice and interactive with guests and other volunteers. All in all a very nice experience!

(Excellent )

08/11/2016

Left by Workawayer (Sarah) for host

This hostel has such a great feeling! From the moment you walk in you can feel it's a welcoming, artistic, relaxing and energetic place and Ben and Ellen have done a wonderful job with it.
Work wise I had mainly reception duties and took it upon myself to spring clean everything while there weren't too many guests so I enjoyed organizing and… read more

(Very good )

28/10/2016

Left by Workawayer (Mary) for host

I had an amazing time at the Hostel. From the first time I walked through the door, I felt comfortable and at home. I made some great friends, creatied awesome memories and learnt a lot about cooking, handling money and helping out with guests wherever needed. Ben and Ellen are amazing hosts and I'd just like to thank you both for the great… read more

(Excellent )

22/10/2016

Left by Workawayer (Jillian) for host

Volunteering at the hostel was my first episode workaway experience and I must say this has set the bar high! I had such a good time in Durres- the other volunteers and I had a great time interacting with guests and getting to know the city. The help is enjoyable and the hours expectedly of you very fair. Highly recommended :)

(Excellent )

14/10/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Adam)

Yes, so Adam came as a guest, and left as a volunteer. he is a very nice, friendly, clever and most important to us, a very responsible guy.
he takes care of the place, very talkative with guests, making breakfast and playing a lot with our son. He is actually still asking for him.
so we definitely recommend Adam to work a your place.
Adam,… read more

(Excellent )

10/10/2016

Left by Workawayer (Adam) for host

I came as a guest, and after a couple of weeks joined the volunteer squad :)

I had an AMAZING time. Loved every minute of it. You get the opportunity to fully express yourself as a person, a host, a cook, a local guide, and whatever comes to mind.

As an added bonus, Ben and Ellen has one of the most sweetest, awesomest, funnest, clever 2+… read more

(Excellent )

19/05/2016

Left by Workawayer (Stefana) for host

Ben is a such super open-minded spirit, really passionate and with a big open heart to make everybody feeling happy at this special place... giving volunteers a lot of freedom to involve themselves into this project in their own way.
You will see, this place is not just a hostel... it is full of art and inspiring quotes, it's like an oasis in the… read more

(Excellent )

14/04/2016

Left by host for Workawayer (Stefana)

Stef has been with us for a short time, and has been very helpul in all kind of work we have been expecting.
Friendly, helpful, taking initiatives. Helping us prepare for the season with her artistic view. Thanks!!

(Excellent )

21/04/2016

Left by Workawayer (Thomas) for host

Perfect location right, literally, in the centre of Durres. Ben is a friendly owner and made my time in the city relaxing and fun. Due to it being off-season there werent so many guests but living with the other volunteers who were staying made up for it. Thanks :-)

(Excellent )

11/01/2016

Left by Workawayer (Ezyê) for host

We stayed in this hostel for more than one month and it was not easy to say goodbye!
Amazing place, amazing city, amazing staff...We had a great time with the guests, during the dinners, painting and decorating, getting to know albanian culture! The work was easy and always with freedom to choose the work shifts! Thank you very much Ben, Wanda,… read more

(Very good )

19/12/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Ezyê)

Marcos and Ezyê are people whom like to help out in any way they can.
Marcos can charm you with his magic and music. Ezyê than will charm you with her cooking and pictures. She is very good with her camara and the techniek ' light painting'.
Toghetter they just make a great team!
thank you :)

(Very good )

07/09/2015

Left by Workawayer (Jordan) for host

Helped at the hostel for just over week and my time there was fantastic. Met many great people and the other volunteers and working staff were amazing. The workload was very light and the atmosphere was very relaxing and chill. It is a great place for any volunteer to help out. Shout out to Ben (the host), Wanda, Gus, Adrianna, Samantha, and Ella… read more

(Excellent )

23/08/2015

Left by Workawayer (Riitu) for host

I spent 3 weeks volunteering in this Hostel. I enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere. Spending time with the guests and getting to explore the Albanian culture and nature was fascinating. The working hours were quite long, but on the other hand the tasks were light and not too demanding.

(Very good )

12/08/2015

Left by Workawayer (anni) for host

We stayed in this hostel for 3 amazing weeks. This hostel is lovely, as a place it is so relaxing in the middle of the city and Ben made us feel so welcome there. I very much enjoyed our time in the hostel; taking care of small tasks, spending time with guests, Ben & Ellen and other helpers. During that time I fell in love with Albania and left… read more

(Excellent )

17/04/2015

Left by Workawayer (Luci) for host

To workaway at this hostel was unforgettable to me. With this feedback I want to thank the staff to make my experience like that. They made me feel welcome and directly part of their team. We laughed a lot. The hostel is a beautiful, lovely place. It's a really comfortable place to be. The staff is always open to discuss what you could do, and is… read more

(Excellent )

15/04/2015

Left by host for Workawayer (Luci)

Luci has been a great help for 2 weeks, while one week we had a big group.
Always willing to help out, do something useful for the hostel and just fun to hang out with. Definitely recommend her to any place!!

(Excellent )

29/12/2014

Left by Workawayer (mariana & aline) for host

I spent only one week in this hostel but i really enjoy. Ben and Ellen let me so confortable during those days. It was a pity i stayed just for a week but was a great first Workaway experience! I met some friends and i had the oportunity to got in the Durres routine, going to the open market, walking by the streets and seeing the real life there.… read more

(Excellent )

19/10/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (victoria & Peter)

Victoria and Peter have been great in the start-up of our new hostel. They took care of everything and more. Are very responsible and easy to get along with. Peter is super active, cant do nothing, talks a lot and Victoria is more quiet and introvert. Both are hard workers and have great creative ideas for your place. I would highly recommend to… read more

(Excellent )

19/10/2014

Left by host for Workawayer (Audrey & Connor)

Audrey and Connor have been great! In the short time they have stayed with us they have been of great help. Are willing to pick up any kind of job that has to be done, and keep asking what else they can do :)
They are very kind and quiet persons, but very interested in the stories of guests and very social. I highly recommend them to any one and… read more

(Excellent )

22/09/2014

Left by Workawayer (Audrey & Connor) for host

This was a fantastic experience and we hope that our words here will convince many others to come and explore a part of the world that might not be first on their travel list. Working here was very enjoyable, just a few hours a day, and generally consisted of checking in guests, swapping travel stories, sharing a beer or two, keeping things tidy,… read more

(Excellent )

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Host ref number: 575191739612

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