Lonely Planet Review

In the pulsing heart of Miraflores, the Flying Dog is run by laid-back, youthful staff who speak fluent English. There's a common kitchen, Internet access, cable TV and a billiards lounge. Cheap rates include the works: free continental breakfast, local phone calls, luggage storage and unlimited filtered water.

This haphazard, but friendly hostel is smack on one of the busiest corners in Miraflores. Its prime location on a bustling side street off Miraflores' main thoroughfare, Avenida José Larco, opens onto popular Parque Kennedy, which springs to life at night with food carts and market stalls. Rates are the same for backpackers or B&B guests, though the latter (those staying for a week or more) enjoy cosier private rooms, a few of which have balconies overlooking the park. Most of the dorms are mixed-sex. As well as English and Spanish, the helpful staff also speak a little Italian and Portuguese. The adjoining Tasca Bar, a casual café, serves everything from Peruvian pisco sours to plates of international tapas for homesick travellers.