Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Guesthouses
Ulaanbaatar now has around 15 guesthouses firmly aimed at foreign backpackers. Most
are in apartment blocks and have dorm beds for around US$6 to US$8, cheap meals, a
laundry service, internet connection and travel services. They are a great place to meet
other travellers to share transport costs, but can get pretty crowded before and during
Naadam (11 and 12 July).
Outside Ulaanbaatar only a handful of places, including Kharkorin and Khatgal, have
accommodation aimed at backpackers.
SLEEPING PRICE RANGES
Prices in reviews are for a standard double room in the summer high season (May
to September). Tax (10%) is almost always built into the price.
Outside Ulaanbaatar, accommodation price ranges are defined as follows:
$ less than T30,000
$$$ T30,000-T60,000
$$$
$$$ more than T60,000
In Ulaanbaatar, accommodation price ranges are defined as follows:
$ less than US$70 (T112,000)
$$$ US$70-US$120 (T112,000-T192,000)
$$$
$$$ more than US$120 (T192,000)
Hotels
For cheap digs in Ulaanbaatar, try the guesthouses. If you plan to stay in budget hotels in
the countryside, you should bring a sleeping bag. An inner sheet (the sort used inside
sleeping bags) is also handy if the sheets are dirty. Blankets are always available, but are
generally dirty or musty.
Midrange places are generally good but rather overpriced, charging US$70 to US$120
for a double in Ulaanbaatar. These rooms will be comfortable and clean and probably
have satellite TV. Hot water and heating is standard for most buildings and hotels in
Ulaanbaatar, and air-con is rarely needed. A private room or apartment, available through
guesthouses, may be a better idea.
Prices
May be quoted in either dollars or tögrög. Either way, you should pay in tögrög be-
cause it is now the law, though some hotels will act as moneychangers. Payment for ac-
commodation is usually made upon checkout, but some receptionists will ask for money
upfront.
