The Ginger Monkey Hostel in the Slovakian Tatras

Looking for a budget getaway in the Slovakian Tatra Mountains?  Like to get off the beaten track?  Then the Ginger Monkey hostel in Zdiar, Slovakia, is a great choice.  

Ginger Monkey Hostel, Zdiar, Slovakia

It's a small hostel, but social.  When I was there, it felt like visiting old friends.  We all ate dinner together, went out for drinks together, watched a movie together.  One of the staff was a real comedian, and had us in fits of laughter several times.  I learned Texas Hold 'Em and lost a dollar in a tournament—but wrapped myself in comfy blankets and drank hot chocolate while I watched the finalists duke it out.  I found a girl to go hiking with, and two patient guys to act as ski instructors.  I didn't want to leave.

Hiking in Zdiar with my new friend, Lauren.

Me with the peaks of the Tatras behind me.

For more about the hostel's amenities and the town of Zdiar, read my article here.

The Ginger Monkey:  http://www.gingermonkey.eu/

View of the Tatras in winter from the Ginger Monkey hostel