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Written by Alexander Kopp, Wei Li
19/08/2025
鹏翔 方, Pexels
Dali provides a thriving scene for budget-conscious travelers, featuring a good selection of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable accommodation alongside lively social spaces, ideal for meeting other explorers.
1. Five Elements Hostel
Type: Hostel
Stepping into this hostel, one immediately senses its appeal to backpackers and budget-focused travelers. It is situated just a short walk from Dali's famous Old Town. The decor feels stylish yet comfortable, fostering an environment where guests naturally mingle with both international travelers and local staff. The on-site restaurant is a hub for social interaction, serving homemade breakfast daily with both Western and Chinese options. Shared meals for lunch and dinner provide an excellent opportunity to experience traditional home-cooked Chinese food. Regular events, such as video game and movie nights, hot pot parties, Chinese barbecues, and dumpling parties, create a consistently social atmosphere where new connections are easily formed.
2. Dali Upland International Youth Hostel
Type: Hostel
This hostel stands out for its lively atmosphere, making it a highly popular choice. Located conveniently near the south gate of the ancient city, it is only a five-minute walk to the old town. The common room is often bustling, providing a natural space for guests to interact. The service here is noticeably friendly, contributing to a comfortable stay.
3. Dali Lily International Youth Hostel
Type: Hostel/Guesthouse
Located just outside the old city, this charming guesthouse offers a quiet retreat from the busy streets while remaining easily accessible. The owners are exceptionally friendly and helpful, often providing valuable local recommendations, and their excellent English facilitates communication. This creates a warm, welcoming environment where guests often meet interesting travelers, making it a good option for those seeking a friendly and welcoming base.
4. DaLi LOFT Travelling With Hostel
Type: Hostel
Centrally located, this hostel presents a modern and minimalist design. The spaces feel clean and well-organized, promoting a relaxed stay. It features a shared lounge, a terrace, and an on-site bar and cafe, providing various areas for guests to unwind and socialize. Staff members are helpful and some speak English, assisting with directions and local attractions. It is a comfortable spot to meet other travelers or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a book.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
