Lonely Planet has exaggerated in calling Vali's homestay a "Top Choice". I did not appreciate being served mouldy bread for lunch for which I had paid, there was no hot water running in the taps in the morning or evening, the rooms are untidy, the table fans and electric connections are dangerous, there are dusty carpets everywhere which make it impossible to breathe. There is no doubt Vali is a friendly and resourceful person. But he needs to maintain the areas that he rents out to travellers. Even by hostel standards, I was disappointed.
The guy is nice and he speaks good English but it is too overpriced, ten dollars for a bed in a garage where there is no sitting toilet and which hasn't been cleaned in weeks is too much money
Vali is a man very passionate about his job and he has a lifetime of experience in tourism. He takes a lot of time to show you around city and for conversations with guests. I stayed here for three nights and thoroughly enjoyed the stay. Although Mashhad might not be the go to tourist destination Valis tour around the city and to villages in the surroundings made it very worthwhile. In contrast to many other hostels I got along very well with the guests there was no awkward anonymity. I can recommend eating at least one dinner here which is very good and affordable.
Great hosts in a very nice location in Mashhad. Decent price for what it offers and excellent food!
Not perfect but nice guesthouse.
Vali is friendly. But sales too much sometimes . Anyway there are no alternative hostels in masshad