I really enjoyed my stay at The Pelican Larry Hostel in Cali. So much so that I extended my stay there twice, to almost three weeks. I stayed in a small private room (shared bathroom) and I found it clean, comfortable, and a great value for money. There are several things I liked:
1. The staff is dedicated, helpful, and very hospitable. The do a great job keeping the place functional and clean.
2. There is free breakfast! I particularly liked the lunch on-site: healthy meal of soup, salad, meat, rice, etc. for $3! You can also cook your own meals in the kitchen next to a nice backyard.
3. The hostel is in a nice and safe neighborhood (Granada). It is walking distance from great many restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops.
4. Cali is called the salsa capital of the world for a good reason: there are salsa clubs and classes everywhere, including at the hostel. The teachers at the hostel were excellent.
5. The staff do a great job of keeping you informed (through WhatsApp and in-person) about salsa classes, shows, events, and other things going on in Cali.
6. The atmosphere at the hostel is very convivial. You can easily mingle with locals and fellow travelers from all over the world. Great way to improve your Spanish!
7. I found the climate in Cali moderate and pleasant. Not too hot and humid. Like everywhere else in Colombia, I found the people in Cali gentle and warm.
I would recommend visiting Cali and Pelican Larry is a great place to be for budget travelers!
