The Sarah by Urban Rest

This is really not worth considering as a stay in Sydney, it maybe cheap but they really should call it a hostel. After travelling extensively this is the only venue to ask for selfies and passport photos before arriving, and also asking for 200 dollars security deposit. The room was tiny, admittedly we booked the petite room, but there is absolutely no where to put your belongings. There are no hooks, no table tops. Towels have to remain wet after the shower. The bathroom provides no privacy with a glass wall and even a mirror on the wall opposite, I would not recommend staying here with someone who you are not familiar with. The bedding was filthy, they haven’t bothered to use traditional duvet cover, simply put the duvet between 2 sheets so you end up sleeping in just the duvet, and we know this duvet is not cleaned anywhere near enough, clearly stains on the duvet and the bottom sheet. We sent photos of the stains and they still have not responded and it’s been a week. The location is not central, it’s quite a walk to many of the city’s destinations you would want to visit. No breakfast available even though it is advertised. No safe in the room so you end up having to carry passports and valuables everywhere. Overall, you need to add a lot of improvements to make this room/hostel a pleasant place to stay

Attempted to access the cafe earlier in the day but was told it was closed (at midday) - understand it was a late request. Customer service is based in the UK after hours and Bondi in the day - lovely staff who attempted to help, but obviously not great being remote. Slightly disconcerting that the front door takes ages to close - anyone can walk in off street if you don’t wait around for front door to secure itself! (Security risk). Was allocated the accessible room (Apt 2) which was strange as didn’t book/require and had booked many months in advance. The bathroom was flooded after showering - no counter space to place toiletries on, accessible bathroom door which not ideal for able bodied guest. Couldn’t not offer a change of rooms due to max capacity - so not really happy. Could hear neighbours and those in the hall like they were in my room- paper thin walls. Was clean, plenty of towels, hanging space, small fridge, kettle and tea - so not a complete right-off for 1 night stay, but won’t be back.

Small and dirty Bed was covered in black hair and the floor was gritty and filthy

The location of the Sarah cannot be beat. Its compact but charming and cosy, and has everything you need for short stay aside a full length mirror. Sleep quality is really good and the staff are lovely and very responsive given they arent on site.

Need an entrance keypad at head height. I appreciate the need for an accessible level pad, but it’s too low to see for standing guests.

Great location that suited our needs, with a cafe at the front door and very close to many restaurants. the room was comfortable and not over the top. A minimal size and area to occupy give the consumer a clear clean space to occupy during the evening and nights.