Train, location and dining advice from the host as well as an assorted mix of guests who were staying there--many of whom have been to a fair few Central Asian destinations and were able to provide recommendations based on first-hand experience

中国梦, Netherlands

This hostel remains the best in Almaty. I have been staying here off and on for years and I always go back to it (or the new hostel opened by the same owner called Parasat). The best part about Dom is that it is social, but not a party hostel. It is SO easy to make friends with both travelers and locals there and I have met some of my closest friends throughout the years because of this hostel. It has turned Almaty into one of my favorite cities in the world, as a result. The facilities are like a home- comfortable and cozy. There are two bathrooms (one is getting a facelift currently and is looking good!) and a kitchen with everything you need to make a meal, or simply just a cup of tea. The hostel hosts cultural events sometimes which I think is really cool. The area around the hostel has some of the best food in Almaty!

Megan, United States of America

The host is extremely willing to help to plan whatever you want to do in the city or around it. Great place to meet other travellers.

Valentina, Japan

Super friendly and knowledgeable staff. Very social place. Great place to meet people and swap travel experiences.

Jillian, China

Shakir have a soul of a traveler. He was one of us, and he was always participating in all of the events we organized. Actually, he was the one to organize many entertainments ,and hikes for his guests.

Иван, Bulgaria

the staff, the owner, the location, in general, the place was awesome.

Kevin, China

Staffs are so friendly. The host speaks english. The house made for guest house. I pretty much enjoyed hanging with other travellers there.

Kim, South Korea

Organizes day trips and arranged transportation. Friendly staff, clean bedrooms, spacious bathroom, comfortable atmosphere.

Chung, Hong Kong

Shakir and the volunteers were super friendly and welcoming. I accidentally booked the wrong night and arrived at an awful early time, but Shakir was there to check me in and get me situated, so I'm thankful for that! The atmosphere was comfortable and cozy. Lots of space to sit and chill in the living/dining space, with a kitchen stocked with cooking supplies and spices. I was also happy to have my own towel and more comfortable sheets/blankets than other hostels I've stayed at. Overall, it's a place I would stay at again just for how homey it felt to be there.

Anh, United States of America

Location, WiFi, staff (hard to tell who really worked, but he owner was cool). Homey

Anonymous, United States of America