Introduction: What is a hostel?
A common feature of hostels is that they provide a social environment for a diverse range of travelers. Particularly for young people traveling on a budget, a hostel offers a space where they can engage with fellow travelers. Dormitories, along with shared kitchen, dining and bathroom facilities, encourage interaction among guests. It is worth noting that some hostels have private rooms. Although hostels are most popular among the 18-35 age group, they also cater to older guests who may be cycling, trekking or working online.
How to choose a hostel
While some hostels offer upscale amenities, most do not: travelers seeking luxury are unlikely to find those elements at a hostel. After all, hostels are known for providing inexpensive and sometimes merely basic accommodation. Likewise for privacy: hostels appeal to travelers precisely because of their communal nature. The benefits of staying at a hostel, however, include the opportunity to exchange information, make new friends, gain new traveling companions and discover new cultures.
Types of hostels
Basic hostels
In general, a basic hostel offers a bed and a locker in a dormitory – some hostels have separate men’s and women’s dormitories; others have mixed dormitories. Sometimes – but not always – towels and bed linens are provided. Bathrooms are shared, as are kitchen and dining facilities, if available. Sometimes there is a lounge for socializing.
Upmarket or boutique hostels
In recent years, some hostels are opting for a more upmarket approach. These hostels offer additional facilities, from towels, linens and soap to private rooms and ensuite bathrooms. Like traditional hostels, these establishments are generally located in central and socioeconomically developed locations.
Concept hostels
We discussed some of the advantages of staying in a hostel, such as social interaction, but another aspect is that hostels often have distinct “personalities”. Some hostels emphasize socializing and parties; some have work space. Others are focused on particular concepts, such as dining, surfing, diving or yoga. In addition, individual hostels are sometimes located in interesting environments: former prisons, aircraft or trains; or feature futuristic accommodations such as capsules. Hostelworld has a comprehensive list of hostels throughout the world.
Location
The hostel’s location
Like any accommodation, location is an important criterion. What are your objectives while visiting the area? Are there restaurants and supermarkets nearby? Museums, galleries or other sites? Is it near the beach? Is it safe, central, convenient to public transportation? Noise is also a factor – will you need earplugs in order to sleep?
Room types
Most hostels feature shared rooms and bathrooms; some have smaller or larger dorms. Assess your comfort level in sharing sleeping space before selecting a room. Most (though not all!) modern hostel dormitories feature beds with individual lights, outlets and privacy curtains, along with lockers to store your luggage and valuables. Some hostels have a limited number of private rooms, with or without ensuite bathrooms; these will be more expensive but enable you to enjoy the privacy of a hotel room within the community of a hostel.
Hostel reviews and ratings
It is useful to take a look at the reviews and ratings of the hostel you’re considering – and also look at the number of reviewers and raters. A high rating from just a few guests might be misleading; on the other hand, perhaps the hostel is new. Read comments and check the submission dates. Are the most recent reviews and comments positive? While there are no guarantees, reading the reviews and comments can give you a better idea of the hostel’s cleanliness and facilities, as well as its ambiance.
Hostel Facilities
Most hostels feature shared kitchens and common areas. Some also offer amenities such as laundry facilities and Internet access (paid or free), along with complimentary breakfast and tea/coffee. Do read the fine print, especially regarding breakfast – free breakfast could range from a piece of toast and a cup of coffee to a full meal. It is also useful to check on whether towels and linens are provided or available for rental.
Hostel prices, taxes and more
These days, most hostels are listed on various booking websites along with specialty websites, making it relatively easy to compare prices (and applicable taxes) if you’re booking in advance. While credit and debit cards seem ubiquitous, do be prepared – especially if you arrive without a reservation; some hostels may accept only cash. Also be aware of services that may incur an extra charge, such as towel or bed linen rentals.
