Hostels are not just for young backpackers, they are an inexpensive form of accommodation that is available to people of all ages. Nor does staying in a hostel have to mean dormitory style accommodation as most hostels now have smaller family rooms. What hostels offer is a sense of community for the independent traveler at a reasonable price.
Why stay in a hostel? Because they are an inexpensive form of accommodation that provides facilities to help you stretch your travel dollars. Most hostels are centrally located and easy to get to. The staff will speak English and it is a safe environment for singles, especially women traveling alone. They are a good place to meet like minded travelers with similar backgrounds, interests or itineraries.
There are hostels located all over the world. Some hostelling associations require membership, like Hostelling International (HI). These hostels will have high standards of cleanliness and safety. Most hostels offer dorm type rooms with many outside of North America being co-ed. A bed in a dorm will be the cheapest accommodation available at the hostel. Some hostels have family rooms so you can bring the kids or have private rooms for couples. Two and four bed dorms are becoming more and more common now so you won’t have to share a large room anymore. Many hostels have a book ahead service so you can actually reserve a bed in advance.
Some hostels have food service and will provide an inexpensive breakfast. Nearly all have self serve laundry facilities, internet access, and offer a place to pick up your mail or have correspondence forwarded to. Hostels usually have kitchens so you can prepare your own meals. They will also have lockers in the rooms so you can store you belongings while you are out for the day. Remember to bring your own lock. There are often travel kiosks where knowledgably travel guides can help you book tours or give you advice on what to see, where to eat or any other local information you may require.
The downside of hostels is that not all are created equal. Privately run hostels can offer less desirable accommodations and facilities than the international affiliated hostels such as HI. You are required to share bathroom facilities in most hostels. There are same sex showers but they are still shared by all the women staying at the hostel. Not all travelers are people you want to stay with and not everyone is honest. Hostels are for the most part safe but use common sense and don’t leave your belongings or valuables lying about. They will also have limits on how long you can stay, so if you are planning on staying at a destination for more than two weeks you will likely have to find other accommodation.
Prices for a bed in a hostel will vary depending on the hostel, the type of room and the city and country you are in. They will be less expensive than a hotel room but for example in London, England a bed can cost anywhere between $20 - $60/night (US). In other parts of Europe they average $15 - $30/night (US). Prices during high season at destinations will also be more than during the off season. Always check directly with the hostel for accurate pricing.
Before you stay in hostel, get a recommendation from someone who has been there. Sometimes there is more than one location in a city and you want to choose the location or style of hostel that best suits your travel needs. Think about joining Hostelling International or another non profit hostel association. Staying in a hostel can be an interesting and inexpensive experience. They are not just for backpackers or budget travelers anymore but cater to the independent traveler who is young at heart.
