For my one-night accommodation in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, I chose Gjestehuset 102. The reason being, it has the cheapest rate for the I'm staying. There are not many accommodation options in Longyearbyen, due to it being a small city with limited number of tourists.
I'm also able to save a night's accommodation cost as I had deliberately chosen my flight timings. I landed in Longyearbyen at 1pm on the first day, and was scheduled to leave at 2am on the third day. So I was able to check out after the first night, leave my luggage with the reception on the second day while I had another day exploring Svalbard, before leaving for the airport at 12am on the third day.
It helps that there is a communal room in Gjestehuset 102, where I was able to rest for a few hours on the second night before departing for the airport. Gjestehuset 102 is a hostel, though private rooms available for booking. The bathrooms and showers are shared, so I was able to use it on the second night as well.
The guesthouse is located at the end of Longyearbyen main road, the last stop of the airport bus. Set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, the views are magnificent.
Checking in was fast. Within minutes of receiving the key and the wifi password, I came into my room for one night.
This single room is kept clean and no frills.
There is a sink available in the room, though the shared bathrooms and showers are located down the hallway. Mine is the first room on the second floor.
There is a airport bus timing by the reception which is timed to coincide with all departing and arriving flights.
This is the communal dining room. Coffee, tea and hot water is available 24/7. Even coffee cups are provided. Beyond the enclosed area is where I will have my morning breakfast the next day.
Pleasant seating in the pantry
There are showers and bathrooms on both levels. They are kept clean at all times and there is never a queue for them.
In conclusion, I paid S$112 through Expedia for the single room at Gjestehuset 102 and I am very happy with this hostel. It has everything that I needed for my stay without all the frills. Definitely recommended for anyone coming to Longyearbyen!
