Set in the heart of historical San Telmo, Ostinatto is anything but old. The open plan interior combines a contemporary look with the 1920s architecture. The crisp white décor is tastefully set off with touches of red, whilst the large central skylight gives the place a light and airy feeling.

The hostel occupies five floors accessible by lift. On the first floor there is a spacious communal kitchen and dining area; the main dorms being situated on the second and third floors. Each room is clean and functional with plenty of locker space and the bathrooms are immaculate.

There is a mezzanine terrace with internet access, whilst on the fourth floor Ostinatto boasts its own mini cinema. This doubles up as a practice space for thrice weekly yoga lessons, and tango lessons take place each Monday and Wednesday. Spanish lessons are also offered in the fourth floor arts room.

The jewel in the Ostinatto crown is the rooftop terrace, open from 10.30am to 1am with its adjoining asado area. This is where great value meals are available for $12 pesos. The terrace offers a great vista over the city and with the greenery it really feels as though you are chilling in your own back garden.

The fifth floor also houses the spacious lounge apartment for those travellers looking to splurge, available at $180 pesos per night. It is well worth it though with a double bed, ensuite bathroom, full cooking facilities and TV as well as a fine view.

A ground floor piano bar which is open to the public maintains the stylish ambience.

The basement features a common room with large TV which also houses art exhibitions which are changed each month.

The friendly reception staff are extremely helpful and can arrange tickets for tango shows and football matches amongst other things. For party animals, the hostel gets discounted tickets to the city’s top night clubs. They run trips to Last on a Thursday, Mint on a Friday and Opera Bay on a Saturday. This all in addition to the parties held at Ostinatto itself.

All in all Ostinatto offers something for everyone, close enough to be near all the action but far enough to chill out away from the bustle of downtown.

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