Like most divas, my idea of quality travel included nothing but hotels, the more luxurious, the better.
But as I matured in my travels I realized that after I have secured a safe, comfortable place to stay, I would rather splurge on the sights, sounds and experiences of my destination. I discovered and fell in love with hosteling.
Having never backpacked across Europe (or anywhere else, for that matter), I never stayed in a hostel. You probably think of youth hostels as large dormitory rooms filled with noisy, backpack-toting teenagers. Particularly during summer months, this picture can be quite accurate, but theres more to youth hostels than you might think.
But when summer ends and students return to school, youth hostels, especially those with family rooms, can be a low-cost, convenient alternative to hotels. So, here are a few basics about hosteling.
1. What is a hostel?
A hostel is a cheap way to lodge safely with like-minded travelers around the world. Also called "youth hostels or backpackers," hostels are prevalent in Europe and can usually be found elsewhere in the world. They have become popular in the U.S., although there are fewer of them than in Europe.
You can find hostels anywhere from the heart of the city to a remote island. They can be in converted hotels, grand Victorian houses, a Scottish castle or even a lighthouse on the California coast for $25 a night. While nearly every hostel has dormitory rooms, more are offering suites and private rooms at a higher rate.
Many hostels feature special "family rooms", often with en-suite facilities. There also may be comfortable lounges, gardens, play areas, activity programs, barbecues and even swimming poolsplus cafeterias, laundry and drying facilities too, depending on the one you choose.
While staying at the Samesun Backpacker Hostel in Vancouver, Canada, I frequented the bar and restaurant located on the ground level. During the day and early evening I enjoyed the banter of fellow travelers at the bar or a quiet table. At night there were lively conversations and games. I happened to be there during the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs, so my hosteling experience really came to life!
2. What is staying at a hostel like?
The biggest difference between hostels and hotels or bed and breakfasts is the atmosphere. Hostels are communal and laid back. They feature dormitory style rooms (often with bunk beds), and security, showers, and food prep and storage areas. You will share everything but your bunk and a locker.
Youth Hostels are open to everyone. You are never too old, but age limits may apply for children in some places. Young people may be given priority when the hostel is nearly full.
As an older traveler, I had to get used to the idea of sharing (I always get a lower bunk) and sometimes staying younger roommates, but I have never had a problem.
Hostels may not be as fancy as hotels, but they're comfortable and fun. I chose thrift over privacy. Hostels have social areas and some have their own bars. Most hostels offer activities, ranging from trivia nights to walking tours, for affordable fees. These activities are a great way to have fun, make friends, and experience the highlights of a city or region. Your receptionist can give you tips and help you find your way around.
3. Who stays there? Hostels were originally created for teens and young adults backpacking across Europe. Today hostels can be found worldwide for guests of any age or nationalityyouth to senior, backpackers to businessmen. I have only stayed in North American hostels so far, from shabby to chic, but they were clean, comfortable and loads of fun. It is best to make reservations because they can fill up fast, depending on the location and time of the year.
4. Is it dirty? Is it noisy? Is it safe?
A good hostel should be clean and secure. You can tell if its dirty. Some may look shabby, but will still be clean.
Noise curfew strictly enforced. Even hostels with bars or restaurants have quiet sleeping areas. Nothing can be done about snorers. If you are a light sleeper bring earplugs and a sleep mask. If you choose your bed, put the linens on right away and put some of your things on top so that others coming into the room will know it's taken.
Put anything you'll need at bedtime where they'll be easy to find in the dark. You may come in later than expected, and you don't want to disturb anyone by turning on lights and making noise. Take off your shoes before you enter your dorm at night. Be considerate, and don't take it personally if someone wakes you up.
I have stayed at hostels that security personnel AND pass codes to enter nonpublic areas. Others had keys, but no monitors. Non-guests are not allowed in sleeping areas. Guests must provide identification. No locals are allowed to stay in hostels, only out-of-town or international guests.
5. How can I pick a good hostel?
Do your homework. Hostelling International (HI) is the only global network of Youth Hostel Associations. Located in some of the worlds most inspiring locations, the HI network offers 4,000 unique hostels in 90 countries worldwide. HI hostels must meet assured standards, which guarantee a range of good quality safe accommodation, in friendly surroundings at affordable prices.
Hostelworld.com is the worlds number one hostel booking website. It also has the largest number of customer ratings and reviews and has seamlessly integrated video, podcasting and guides into the site. Reviews at Hostelworld.com can be sorted by age group, gender and nationality.
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