Will a Hostel Work for You?

Hostels are budget-friendly destinations where guests can rent a private bed or bedroom and share bathrooms, kitchens and lounges. If the word hostel conjures image of college Euro-trips, then you may need to rethink your perspective. It’s true: some hostels do cater to younger, hard party crowds. Other hostels, though, allow for whole families to rent a private room while sharing some of the public accommodations. Staying at a hostel may be a great option for a couple or family who is looking to socialize, be adventurous and enjoy a less formal arrangement than most hotels offer. To determine if staying in a hostel is right for you, understand what you are getting into, and weigh your options.

Advantages of a Hostel

The main advantage of a hostel is the price: staying in a hostel is significantly less expensive than staying in a hotel. Price is not the only incentive, though. In locations such as Australia and New Zealand, hostels offer an opportunity to spend more time connected with the beautiful landscape than most hotels do. There is easier access to the attractions such as hiking and beaches. In cities, hostels tend to be located close to busy areas or subway lines. Hostels also offer busy social environments. Most people in hostels are not looking to keep to themselves; you will have the opportunity to meet a diverse network of people to share your travels with. Some may be able to offer tips and advice in navigating your stay.

Disadvantages of a Hostel

If you want privacy, a hostel is not the place to be. Because the other people staying there are looking to meet and greet, you will not be able to simply keep to yourself or your travel companions. Part of the experience is making use of communal areas. As a result of the high amount of public spaces, hostels are not often the safest places to stay. You will have to guard your belongings closely and be certain not to leave anything lying about. Often times, people who are not staying in the hostel will have easy access to the hostel. When you arrive, check the security features. Take a look around to see that the windows and doors all lock. Check with the front desk regarding the policy for keeping those doors locked at all times.

Choosing the Right Hostel

What was once an underground alternative to a hotel has become a thriving industry. Today, hostels are legitimate businesses in the cities where they are established. You may check reviews of hostels online or through the Better Business Bureau. If you are travelling abroad, travel agents or the Chamber of Commerce may have information on where to stay and which to avoid. Hostelling International is a non-profit organization which encourages connecting with other travelers and the outdoors through staying in a hostel. You may check with Hostelling International to see if reports have been filed against any particular hostel. Ultimately, if you are debating hostel versus hotel, understand the differences and know the situation you are getting yourself into.

Tags: Cheap travel, Hostel, Travel alternatives