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Pod hostels are quite a new addition to the accommodation world, but they are becoming very popular with travelers. When I came across Galaxy Pod Hostel in Reykjavik, I knew I had to use this as an excuse to try a pod out. I wasn't disappointed either! We booked a queen sized pod in a four bed dorm, which was very roomy and we didn't feel claustrophobic. The pods themselves were very high tech, and it really did feel like you were staying on a spacecraft which was very fun. There are lockers provided for your things, or you can lock them in your pod too, which only you can open with a swipe of your card. There's even a virtual reality room with a lot of games which I'd definitely recommend trying if you haven't given VR a go yet. The shower and toilet facilities are shared, but they're separate for men and women, and are very private so it doesn't feel like you're sharing. And of course there's a kitchen for you to use, and breakfast is available to purchase at reception. In terms of location, it's about a 25 minute walk to the centre of Reykjavik, and is located on one of the main roads in and out of the city so it's easy to find. There is free parking directly outside of the entrance too. This was a really fun experience overall, and something everyone should try at least once in my opinion. In terms of hostels in Reykjavik, this one is going to be the best out of the bunch. Check out some of my photos from our stay at Galaxy Pod Hostel below:
Galaxy Pod Hostel
Galaxy Pod Hostel has a great common area to chill out in, with enormous televisions too. There's also a bar, because you can't have a hostel without one. The reception desk is also located here, and it's a very simple check in process. We were given a tour of the facilities and shown how to unlock our private pod.
Guests are encouraged to leave their own mark on the hostel, by grabbing a pen and writing something on the wall. If you can find a spot that is! Free WiFi is available throughout the hostel, and even works when you're outside sitting in your car.
They also have a pin map of Iceland, where you're free to leave ideas for other guests about what to do in certain areas. The hostel has lots of travel guides and brochures for you to take with you on your travels as well.
How amazing are these pods?! We had a queen sized pod in a four bed dorm which felt like having a private room. We didn't see any of the other guests that were staying in the same dorm as us, and there was no noise problems either. It may look claustrophobic, which I was a bit cautious about, but there's actually a lot of room inside the pod even when it's closed. The door slides across and locks if you want it to, and unlocks by a button on the inside, or your key card if you're outside of it.
Everything in the pod is touch screen, and the television comes with a host of different things on it, including Netflix. You can change the brightness of the lighting around the mirror, and turn on some blue lights for a cool effect in the pod. Headphones are provided for the television too so you don't disturb anyone else.
Did I mention how easy it is to explore Iceland from the hostel? It's located on one of the main roads leading out of the city, meaning locations like the Kerid Crater are only a short drive away.
In some cases the hostels in Iceland turn out to be just as expensive as the hotels. This hostel does run a similar price range as the cheaper hotels in Reykjavik, but you're paying for the unique experience more than anything else. Galaxy Pod Hostel is considered to be one of the best hostels in Reykjavik, and with pods that make it seem more like private rooms than dorms, it's a great option for a good nights sleep.
>> Click here for the most up to date prices at Galaxy Pod Hostel <<
Wondering how to plan your trip to Iceland? Check out my 5 day itinerary covering lots of fantastic experiences in the Reykjavik area and further afield. If you're looking to stay at a hotel, I'd recommend Hotel Klettur for the city centre, and B&B Hotel Keflavik Airport if you want to be closer to the airport. And don't forget to follow me on Instagram for more travel photos!
