You won't find bland decoration at Mama Shelter. Since the first branch opened in Paris in 2008, the hotels have got a reputation for their bright colours, patterns and kitsch theme. Of course, the London branch is no different - although the hotel's outside might fool you; it is stylish, metallic and chique. Of course inside is a different story; there's a wallpaper that sends your head spinning, clashing carpets and maybe one too many bejewelled Darth Vadar masks (yep, really).
No one could fault Mama Shelter for its fun energy, though. The staff are young, friendly and genuinely keen to chat or offer advice - I was heartily encouraged to try the barman's favourite cocktail, Mama Says Pica Pica during my stay. There are karaoke rooms with classic 50s-style microphones waiting for guests to sing their favourite songs into. There's a small gym and cinema room. And if you want a memento to take away with you, Mama Shelter has you covered - yep, there's a photo booth and even merch available to buy on site.
The rooms are compact but have more personality than your standard budget stay, with lampshades in the shape of Tweety Bird and the Tasmanian Devil, a TV with the option of literally hundreds of films and a free porn collection. Breakfast is quite pricey at £22 a head, so we'd suggest heading down the road to Ozone for a cheaper alternative.With its sociable focus, Mama Shelter has the feel of an upmarket hostel. But, honestly, we mean that in the best way.
Neighbourhood: Liverpool Street is a short 15-minute journey away. But, it might be worth staying a little closer to Mama Shelter, because in Bethnal Green you'll usually be able to find something going on into the early hours and the borough definitely still got that rough ’n’ ready East End flavour.
Nearby: Try out Satan's Whiskers for the best cocktails in town. Broadway Market is within walking distance and so is Columbia Road. The sandwiches at Foccacia Mia are some of the best in London. Families shoud go and hang out with the pigs, chickens and donkeys at Hackney City Farm.
Time Out tip: If you feel you've outgrown the backpacker lifestyle but still have an urge to cling onto your youth, Mama Shelter is for you. Strangers chat like old friends here and the booze is flowing.