What Is The Difference Between A Hostel And A Hotel?

Hostel Vs. Hotel The hostel room shown above is typical, with beds arranged in a condensed manner, and also lockers to store your belongings in can be seen on the far right of the picture. It allows for a more social atmosphere than a hotel. Meanwhile, hotel rooms such as these are more isolated and sophisticated in comparison with a hostel. One of the first questions to consider while planning a trip is “Where do we stay?” Two popular choices are a hotel or a hostel. The more inexpensive of the two is to reside in a hostel.

Most hostels have Internet connection, a laundry room, a telephone, lockers in which to store your belongings in, and a breakfast service. The main difference between hostels and hotels is that hostels provide dormitory-like settings in which to stay, whereas hotels are individual rooms for more privacy.

However, there is more of a community feel in a hostel as opposed to the solidarity of a hotel room. If you are a social being, a hostel would be beneficial as you would be able to meet all sorts of interesting people. Hostels are, for the most part, safe places to stay, as long as you keep your valuables in a locker and stay on your toes.

If your budget is tight, or you are looking to meet new people of all different nationalities and backgrounds, hostels are the best course of action for living quarters. However, if you are feeling as though you’d like more private time, or if you have a few extra Euros to burn, then a hotel would be a more comfortable, safe choice.

Another way to save money, whether you decide to stay in a hostel or a hotel is to choose a location outside of the city, because inner city residences are much more expensive than those of outlying towns. : Hostel Vs. Hotel

What makes a hotel a hostel?

What Is A Hostel? – A hostel is a lower-priced inn of sorts that offers basic, shared accommodations. Typically, a hostel features a large room with separate beds, a shared bathroom, and a communal kitchen. Some hostels have private rooms, but the lower-cost ones generally offer bunk beds. Hostels originated in Europe, but they’ve grown in popularity and you can find them all over the world.

Why stay in a hostel vs a hotel?

What is the main difference between a hostel and a hotel? – The biggest difference between a hotel and a hostel is that you have much more privacy at most hotels. In a hostel, you’ll stay in dorm rooms with anywhere from 4 to 24 other people. Another big difference between hostels and hotels is the price. Hostels are almost always cheaper than staying at hotels.

Do you have your own room in a hostel?

1. Do I have to share a room? – While most HI USA hostels do have private rooms, staying in a shared dorm is your best bet if you want to meet other travelers and make your travel budget go further.

Are hostels cheaper than hotels?

Price Comparison – Hostels: Usually better for solo travelers and large groups Hotels: Usually better for couples and small groups Booking a hostel dorm bed is almost always cheaper than booking a hotel room – due to the number of beds per room. While a hotel can sell a room for $60, a hostel can sell 6 beds in that same-sized room for $10 each – and make the same amount. The price range for hotel rooms spans much wider than the range for hostel dorm beds. Since hotel rooms are private, there’s no limit to how luxurious they can be. On the other hand, hostel dorms have a reasonable price-cap since guests are sharing a room. Hostels save you money on accommodation so you have more to spend on things like food, attractions and transportation. For example, booking an 8-bed dorm for a large group is almost always cheaper than booking a hotel for 8. For couples and small groups, the cost of a private hostel room is often comparable to a hotel room.

Who usually stays in hostels?

Who Stays in Hostels? – The majority of hostel guests are money-conscious solo travelers, backpackers, and students typically under the age of 35, However, hostels are for everyone. When staying in a hostel for the first time, expect to meet many kinds of people from all around the world who can provide priceless travel insight and advice.

• Hostels are also a perfect option for travelers who plan to spend very little time in their room and more time out exploring.
• Whether gap year travelers or digital nomads, hostel-goers come from all different walks of life, open to the simple, no-frills accommodation hostels have to offer.
• If no-frills travel isn’t quite your style, you can even spend the night in a luxurious, boutique-style hostel,

Boutique hostels offer a smaller property and a more intimate ambiance—often with a unique design theme. But beware: the hostel aficionados over at Hostel Geeks warn that some hostels market themselves as boutiques even when they’re not. That’s why it’s so important to read online reviews and talk to other travelers before you book.

How long can you stay at a hostel?

6. Don’t stay too long – There’s no limit as to how long you can live in a hostel, but don’t forget the reason why you travelled to a new part of this wonderful planetto explore! Don’t allow yourself to get too comfy by watching Netflix in bed every night and frequenting the same places. Once you have saved enough money or just feel like it’s time to move on; move!

Are hostels fun to stay in?

Last Updated: 3/20/21 | March 20th, 2021 (Original post: 1/31/2019) People are always shocked when they find out I that I still stay in hostels. “Aren’t you too old for that?” “Why would you still want to do that?” “Don’t you actually make money? Are you still too broke for an Airbnb?” “How do you even sleep?” And what’s even more shocking to people is that while I often stay in private rooms in hostels, I also still stay in dorms! Why do I do this to myself? Why do I still stay in hostels? I usually have plenty of hotel points from travel hacking,

Why don’t I just stay in nice hotels? Well, three reasons: 1. I’m cheap. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks. I started out — and stayed — a budget traveler because I just don’t like to spend money. Especially on rooms I’ll only be in for a few hours. I look at prices for hotels and private rooms and think, “Well, a dorm is only $10, so why not?!” True, I often regret that decision since I also don’t get a good night’s rest but money is money — and hostels are cheap! 2.

They provide me with on-the-ground information about what budget travelers and backpackers are doing. (First came the backpackers, then everyone else, I like to say.) Backpackers and hostel staff know where to find things to do on a budget. They have lots of hacks and are a good source of information and resources I might not know about.

• I can learn about new apps, get hot tips, and discover places or events to check out.
• They know the best markets, cheap places to eat, and off-beat destinations.
• Hostels are where I get the information I can use to unlock the mystery of how to see a destination on a budget.
• They are my source of travel trends and insider tips.

In fact, I think hostels, their staff, and the backpacker crowd are an underutilized resource – regardless of your age or travel style. You don’t get travelers swapping tips at a hotel bar the way you do a hostel bar. So, if you’re looking for information — a hot new attraction, a cool local tour, new restaurants, a great dive bar, tips on getting around cheaper — go to a hostel.

• Most hostels have bars or cafes open to the public until a certain hour.
• Meet some backpackers.
• Make some friends.
• Learn something new! Additionally, even if you aren’t staying at a hostel, you can still go inside and ask the staff questions.
• They field more inquiries about “unique, weird, and local” things to do than your Airbnb host or a hotel concierge.

Take advantage of their insight! 3. I like the social vibe of hostels. While hotels do offer better sleep, they are also boring. And while Airbnbs are a decent middle ground, they’ve been inching up in price over the years (and contributing to overtourism along the way).

Hostels, on the other hand, are full of friendly travelers. I can swap tips, have a few conversations, get some travel buddies, and generally socialize. They are perfect if I want to find people to join me as I hit the museum, the bar, and everything in between Hostels are just fun. I miss them when I’m not staying at them.

There’s usually a bar, events going on, activities, people hanging out, a pool table – there are lots of ways to connect with other travelers in a hostel. The common areas are meant for people to interact. Even if I’m not looking for a rager, it’s still nice to head down, grab a beer, and chat with people for a bit.

1. How could I ever leave that? It’s way better than watching Netflix! Of course, there are days when I need to catch up on work or just want to relax after a few busy days of socializing.
2. For those occasions, I might get an Airbnb or hotel.
3. But for every other day? Hostels are my favorite.
4. I may not be the most hardcore “budget” traveler these days but I don’t ever see myself not staying in hostels for at least part of my travels.

For me, they are home. You should make them your home too.

Are hostels okay to stay in?

One of the best ways to cut down on travel expenses is by opting for a hostel room instead of a hotel room. “But of course, many people get a little twitchy when they hear this and wonder, ” are hostels safe? ” I’ve stayed in tons of hostels over the years, and my simple answer is: yes, hostels are safe! But there are some things you should do to protect your personal safety.

Once you’re familiar with all the do’s and don’ts of hostel life, you’ll come to find it’s actually one of the most fun ways to travel. And if you want to take it a step further, then you’ll find there are plenty of hostel jobs available. Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog.

You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!

Can couples sleep together in hostels?

How to meet other travelers as a couple? – While couples traveling together may not be as focused on meeting new people as solo travelers, hostels still offer plenty of opportunities to connect with others. However, keep in mind that solo-travelers might not really approach couples if they want to socialize so the ball is in your court.

Here is our detailed guide on how to make friends at hostels, Let’s cover a few, simple ways that couples can meet new people while staying in hostels: 1. Participate in Hostel Activities Many hostels offer activities like walking tours, pub crawls, and cooking classes. Participating in these activities is a great way to meet other travelers and make new friends.2.

Hang Out in Common Areas Hostels often have communal areas like lounges, kitchens, and outdoor spaces where guests can relax and socialize. Spending time in these areas is a great way to meet other travelers and strike up a conversation. Couple enjoying the swimming pool at Cocorí Lodge in El Paredon, Guatemala 3. Foosball Table, Pool Billiard, Board Games, and Bar These are the hotspots in a common area. One of the easiest ways to meet someone new in a hostel is by simply asking if you can join.4.

• Join a Group Tour Many hostels offer group tours to local attractions or nearby cities.
• Joining a tour is a great way to meet other travelers who share your interests.5.
• Be Friendly and say hi Obviously, one of the easiest ways to meet new people is simply by being friendly and approachable.
• Say hello to other guests, strike up a conversation, and be open to making new friends.

While couples may travel together, they can still benefit from meeting new people and sharing experiences with them. Hostels offer a social and communal environment that makes it easy to connect. Couples can make new friends and have an even more memorable travel experience with a little effort and a friendly attitude.

Can couples sleep together in hostels? The answer is yes! Many hostels offer private rooms with double beds or twin beds that can be pushed together to create a double bed. Couples can enjoy a private space while still being able to take advantage of the social atmosphere of a hostel. If your question is if hostels can share one bed in a dorm and only pay for one, too, the answer is no.

You have to pay for one bed per person. Is hooking up in hostels common? While it’s not uncommon for travelers to hook up in hostels, it’s important to remember that hostels are not just a place for casual encounters. Hostels are a social environment, and it’s a good idea to respect the other guests and staff.

• If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, it’s best to opt for a private room rather than a dorm.
• This applies to couples as well as non-couples.
• Related : Fun Tips on having Sex in Hostels – Dos and Don’ts Can 2 people share one bed in a hostel? No, two people can not share one bed in a hostel dorm.

At the very least, you will need to pay for one bed per person. When staying as a couple in a dorm, of course, you can end up sleeping in the same bed. This is more up to you. However, remember that you will need to pay for two beds! And please remember, the dorm is a shared space.

• Sharing a bed might make other travelers uncomfortable in some cultures.
• Also, it is good to know that some hostels offer double beds in dorms and private rooms with double beds.
• If you’re traveling on a budget, you can also opt for a twin room with two separate beds.
• Can you share a bed in a hostel? No, you can not share a bed in a hostel.

You will need to pay one bed per person. Some hostes offer double-mattresses in dorms, though.

Can 2 people sleep in 1 hostel bed?

Can couples stay in hostels? – Firstly, we are going to answer a question that we get asked all of the time – can you stay in a hostel as a couple? Of course you can! People think there is some unwritten rule that if you are a couple, you should automatically book a private room, but this really isn’t the case.

Are hostels mixed gender?

Frequently Asked Questions on Staying in Mixed-Gender Dorms – What is a mixed dormitory room? What is meant by mixed dormitory room in a hostel is a room where both males and females sleep in the same room. What is it like staying in a coed room in a hostel? Staying in a coed room in a hostel can range from barely noticeable (like when you fall asleep before anyone else arrives) to a little awkward! In the end, though, you’re all there to sleep, and it’s really not that big of a deal.

What are coed hostels in Europe? Coed hostels are open to all genders, and rooms typically have both men and women sleeping in them in bunks. Are the hostels in showers coed? No, the hostels in showers are not typically coed. There is usually a shower room for women and one for men. Sometimes, the sink area is co-ed or the bathroom is shared by everyone (e.g.

one bathroom for four people, where you’d use it at separate times). What is the purpose of coed hostel room? It is cheaper to offer coed hostel rooms as proprietors can fill them up as they are booked. What is the difference between a coed dorm vs all female hostel? Coed dorms will have both men and women staying in them.

All female hostels are becoming more common in Europe, and are for women to stay, feel safe, and network. Both options offer great opportunities for meeting like-minded travelers. Are all hostel rooms coed/mixed? No, not all hostel rooms are coed. Most hostels (but not all) offer coed/mixed dorm, female-only, and male-only options.

Do hostels have female only rooms? A lot, if not most, hostels have female only rooms.

Why are hostels so expensive in Amsterdam?

Helpful Information About Amsterdam Hostels – Here are some quick facts about hostels in Amsterdam to help you in your search.

Cheap Beds & Good Hostels Go Early: Hostel prices are fairly standardized (there are a few outliers) but the quality does vary quite a bit.

The best options get booked quickly so Amsterdam is one of the cities where it’s suggested to book early if you want first dibs (especially in the summer).

Weekends Are Expensive: Hostels often raise their rates considerably because Amsterdam is such a weekend party destination so don’t be surprised when booking Friday and Saturday nights. Age Restrictions: There are a number of hostels that cater to families and school groups — so book an 18+ hostel if you don’t want to be surrounded by a bunch of middle school kids.

Also, family-friendly hostels tend to attract an older crowd so you probably won’t find the typical “backpacker” experience. Areas/Neighborhoods: Amsterdam has a ton of hostels so you can find a few options anywhere you want to stay. Cheaper hostels tend to be located a bit outside the city center, but public transport is good so it isn’t much of an issue.

Party Hostels: Amsterdam is a party destination so there are quite a few “party” hostels — which you should keep in mind before booking.

We highly suggest checking the review section of Hostelworld to get a better idea of the hostel’s vibe or read The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide To The Best Party Hostels in Amsterdam,

Check-In Times and Cleaning Times: Many hostels have late check-in times (around 2 pm-4 pm) but nearly all will let you store your bags if you arrive before check-in. New To Hostels? Check out our Hostels 101 Guide to learn everything you need to know about finding the perfect hostel.

Are hostels a good idea?

Hostels are budget-friendly. Bunk beds aren’t the most comfortable, but they’ll save you a pretty penny. Accommodation is one of the most costly aspects of travel. Staying at a hostel would help you save money you would have spent on accommodation otherwise.

Is a hostel like an Airbnb?

Airbnb vs. Hostel: What’s the Difference? – Hostels and Airbnbs are not the same. A hostel is like a hotel where you can rent a bed in a shared bedroom, instead of a private room (though some hostels have this option for a higher price). You usually get a shared kitchen and living space, which allows you to meet other travelers,

• An Airbnb is more like a vacation rental.
• You can either rent a private room in a shared space or the entire place.
• If you rent the entire place, you will not share it with anyone else, though it might be on a property where the host lives (i.e.
• You’ve rented out a guest cabin).
• If you rent a private room, you may share the kitchen and living room with other travelers and/or your host.

This can be a nice way to meet people who live in the city you’re visiting.

Is 31 too old for a hostel?

If you are wondering if you are too old to stay in a hostel, you are not. – There’s this funny thing I’ve noticed about aging: what people think. If you had asked me if I would still stay in hostel dorm rooms in my thirties when I was 24, I probably would have told you I would not.

Because at 24, I still spent way too much time worrying about what a hypothetical stranger would think of my hypothetical 30-year-old-self staying in a hypothetical hostel dorm room. But since I just turned 29, this scenario is less hypothetical. And thankfully, I care a lot less about what strangers think nowadays.

Caring less as I age does not appear to be a phenomenon that is unique to me. While some of the hostel dorm rooms I’ve stayed in were full of people in their teens and early twenties, some of those dorm rooms also included 60+ year old men who snored away happily all night long and were at the point of caring so little about what people thought that they could probably have cared a *bit* more (I’m looking at you, old man walking around the dorm room in just your underwear in Budapest.) In all seriousness, there are only two factors that determine whether or not you are too old to stay in a hostel:

1. The hostel has an age limit, and you exceed that limit
2. You, personally, don’t want to stay in hostels anymore

Do hostels provide food?

Is Breakfast Included? – Claire Cordier / Getty Images Breakfast is often included in many hostels, but this often is not the bargain it sounds like. Be prepared for a continental breakfast in most parts of the world like buttered toast, an overcooked fried egg, and some coffee.

1. It’s rare to find a hostel breakfast that is well-prepared and fills you up.
2. Read the reviews of the hostel before you book it if you’re relying on provided food as a money-saver.
3. If, however, you luck out and find yourself with a fantastic breakfast, fill up with as much food as possible, and consider grabbing a bread roll to go for lunch.

You can save a ton of money on food if you can score your breakfast and lunch for free. If breakfast is not included, your hostel will likely have a large kitchen, food storage area, and dining room for you to prepare your own meals.07 of 10

What are the rules of hostel?

Hostel Rules and Regulations – Students should read the rules and regulations before signing the application form (A copy of rules is attached with the application form).

Smoking, Alcohol & Narcotic consumption is strictly prohibited in and around the Hostel premises. Strict action will be taken against offenders.Strict adherence to the prescribed dress code is required. Decency in dressing & demeanor is a must.Loitering in the Hostel campus during the class hours will not be appreciated.The Management & Staff will not be responsible for personal belongings.Late comers will be penalized.Students must keep the Campus & Rooms clean. Defacing walls, equipment, furniture etc., is strictly prohibited.Birthday/Other Celebrations are strictly prohibited in Hostel.Students must turn off all the electrical equipments & lights before leaving their rooms.Students are not allowed to use electric stoves, heaters etc in rooms except in designated places.Students are not allowed to organize any group activities in their room.

Food will be served only in the designated Dining Hall(s) and only during the specified timings. Wasting food & water will not be encouraged.All lights must be switched off before 11 pm in the rooms. Only study lamps are permitted.Students are not allowed to use Mobile phones after 10 pm.

• Cell phones of those at fault will be confiscated.Tipping of Wardens, Security Guards, Cleaning staff etc., is not permitted.Visitors are allowed only in AV Room between: 4:30 p.m.
• And 6:30 p.m.
• Visitors are not allowed beyond the visiting area.
• No outside Guest\Students will be allowed inside the hostel.Any complaints regarding electric equipment, plumbing etc., is required to be entered in the ‘Complaints Book’.Students should not enter rooms of other students without permission.Silence: Strict silence shall be observed in hostel from 11.00 pm to 5.30 am.

Care should be taken at all times to ensure that music\loud talking is NOT audible outside the room.Any manner of festivities and noise making\celebrations will not be entertained, which may cause disturbance to other inmates in the hostel premises.Students during their stay in the hostel will be governed by the management rules.

Is 40 too old for hostels?

Guide to Hosteling Over Age 30, 40, 50+ Hosteling in Marstal, Denmark. In a 4-bed dorm in the off season, I had the room to myself. Photo by Charish Badzinski. Many people think of staying in hostels as an option specifically for young travelers. But as someone who travels longterm, on a budget, I can tell you it’s an option you may consider, and even enjoy at any stage of life. Hosteling isn’t glam. Here I am celebrating the only day I got to “do” my hair while in Scandinavia over five weeks. The Airbnb where I stayed in Helsinki supplied a hairdryer. I’ve stayed at hostels periodically since I started traveling solo in my 30s.

1. Most recently, I stayed at several hostels while traveling in Scandinavia for five weeks.
2. The Nordic countries are an expensive region to travel within.
3. Meals out are costly.
4. Hotel lodging is pricey.
5. But in truth, all countries can get expensive if you’re dropping $100+ per night on a place to stay.
6. To make longer-term travel possible for me, it’s essential in pricier countries that I have access to a kitchen and a cheap bed to fall into at the end of the day.

Because I generally continue working/writing during my travels, I also need dependable wifi. When you stay at hostels, you meet amazing people. One traveler I met at a hostel in Copenhagen, named Sandra, became a fast friend. Upon my return to Copenhagen, I found she’d left an envelope for me at the front desk of the hostel, with a ticket to see an art installation by my favorite artist, Marina Abramovic. Photo by Charish Badzinski. I treated myself to wine and chocolate, right before my scheduled time to see an installation by my favorite artist, Marina Abramovic. The experience was a gift from a traveler I met in a hostel. We remain in touch today. Photo by Charish Badzinski But because I am an introvert, I also need my alone time.

1. You get to meet fellow travelers from around the world.
2. You can get great advice on the local area, must-do’s, discounts and valuable traveler tips.
3. There’s usually free and fast wifi.
4. Often discounts are offered on breakfast, or even freebies. I stayed at a hostel in Paris that served travelers free coffee and hot baguettes with jam and butter in the mornings. I still get wistful about that. It was 14 years ago.
5. The pricing is affordable. Cheapest rooms are in the large, shared dorms with bunk beds, usually 16 or 20 beds to a room. But even private dorms are usually cheaper than a hotel or Airbnb.
6. You often get to see young men, topless, fresh from the shower.
7. There are often half-empty boxes of pasta, tea, abandoned loaves of bread and other goodies free for the taking–great if you’re on a tight travel budget and eating out at restaurants is too expensive.
8. Plenty of local guidebooks and pamphlets are typically available to help you plan your visit.
9. You can often partner with other travelers in exploring a place, if you like.
10. They’re often in a great location where you might not be able to afford to stay otherwise.
11. You’ll meet loads of other solo travelers and can get tips for places they’ve been that you are planning to travel to.
12. You can learn how to cook exotic meals from other travelers.
13. There are often laundry facilities available, sometimes for a fee. If you pack light, this is key for keeping you from being a stinky traveler!
14. You can usually find shelves of books, free for the taking, and can leave one you’re done reading to lighten your load.
15. Hostels frequently offer unexpected perks. One I stayed at in Denmark provided bicycles for exploring the area!

The view from the kitchen of Castanea Hostel in the Gamla Stan/Old Town neighborhood in Stockholm, Sweden. Amazing location; clean hostel. Photo by Charish Badzinski. The shared dormer at Castanea Hostel in Stockholm, Sweden. I believe this one had 16 beds in total. Photo by Charish Badzinski.10 Drawbacks of Hostels

1. It doesn’t matter how conscientious others are, if you’re staying in a 16-bed dormer, you’re going to wake up to the noises other people make.
2. The kitchen can be busy at prime mealtimes.
3. People may leave a mess in their wake. Unintentionally or intentionally.
4. You have to live with other people’s habits, hygiene, cultural differences and smells.
5. Waiting for a shower. Waiting to do dishes. Waiting to cook. Patience is a must.
6. You may not get much privacy. If you’re an introvert, or just need some alone time, that can be taxing.
7. You have to be mindful of protecting your personal property.
8. There may be a curfew, limited office hours, or an established check-in time. When arriving in a city outside of those hours, you may end up wandering about with your gear for several hours until you can get into your room.
9. You don’t get the luxury treatment like you do in nicer hotels, so you’ll have the same sheets and towels throughout your stay, and you’ll have to bring your own toiletries usually.
10. Eventually, you have to say goodbye to all of the great people you’ve met. (Shout out to Sandra and Dory!)

Complimentary breakfast at Woodah Hostel in Copenhagen included coffee and fresh bakery breads, cheese, yogurt, muesli and more. Yum. Photo by Charish Badzinski. Hostels often have dining, drinking or breakfast options on site. Woodah Hostel in Copenhagen had all three. Photo by Charish Badzinski.10 Tips for Staying in Hostels

1. Bring earplugs and pack an eye mask. That way when people come in and out of the room at different hours of the night, and turn on the overhead light, you can keep snoozing.
2. Bring a padlock and lock up your valuables in the safe provided.
3. Consider bringing your own towel and sheets to save additional cash.
4. Connect with other travelers and get to know them.
5. Bring flip-flops or other lightweight shower shoes.
6. Coexist. Be tolerant. Be kind. Be open-minded to other cultures.
7. Pack a headlamp or small flashlight. This allows you to get at your things in the dark without turning on the room light and waking everyone up.
8. Keep your voice low, whether chatting with other travelers or talking on the phone with people back home.
9. Don’t hog the shower. Or the stove. Keep it quick and make room for others.
10. If allowed or encouraged, leave extras behind for other travelers who would find them useful. Shampoo, body wash and food are all appreciated by your fellow wanderers.

Hostels often offer unexpected, charming perks. Femmasteren Hostel in Marstal, Denmark, provided free bicycles for guests to use. Photo by Charish Badzinski.

• Here are some common myths and truths about hostels.
• Myth: Hostels are purely for young travelers.
• Truth: Hostels are generally open to people of all ages, and I’ve never been turned away for being beyond my 20s.

Do I feel “old” when I stay at hostels? Sometimes, yes. But I’ve rarely been the only person over 40 staying at one, and I frequently meet travelers in their 50s and 60s who are staying in hostels. Myth: Hostels are filthy. Truth: Anytime you have large groups of people crammed into one space, there’s bound to be a mess.

Shared hostel kitchens can and do sometimes fall below my personal standards of cleanliness, and showers often have hair in the drain, old soap, and other evidence that hundreds of people are cycling through the lodging on a weekly basis. That said, most hostels I’ve stayed at have a cleaning staff that comes in daily.

Myth: Hostels are loud. Truth: Sure, sometimes hostels have have a party atmosphere, especially if there’s an in-house bar. Others are low-key, and have designated quiet hours that are enforced. And in my experience, most hostel guests are happy to hush up if you ask politely.

• Be sure to read online reviews.
• If you want a party hostel, you’ll be able to quickly find the hot ones.
• If you want something that’s quiet and more refined, stay away from hostels with reviews that talk about the awesome, wild parties that go all night.
• Myth: Hostels are for hooking up.
• Truth: The whole world is for hooking up, hostels are just another place where people meet and hit it off, or don’t.

I’ve never seen evidence of wild hookups at hostels, but I have heard one story. In other news, my apartment neighbors are quite amorous. So, there’s that. Myth: You can’t get privacy in a hostel. Truth: Many hostels rent out private rooms or dorms for you and your squad.

1. They’ll come at a higher price than the 16-bed dorms, and rightfully so.
2. Those private rooms are generally still affordable, often cheaper than even cheap Airbnbs.
3. Some even have their own ensuite bath.
4. Fancy! I recently stayed at Woodah Hostel in Copenhagen, where they had separate pods for each guest.

A small curtain offered privacy. Aside from having to climb up into my pod (and the fear of having to climb down to use the loo at night) I loved the relative privacy. The private “pods” at Woodah Hostel in Copenhagen offer travelers their own space away from prying eyes. Yep, those are my tootsies. Photo by Charish Badzinski. Bed made in the pod at Woodah Hostel in Copenhagen. This was a feather comforter, far nicer than you might expect.

1. Photo by Charish Badzinski.
2. Myth: You need a hostel card.
3. Truth: I thought this myself when I first started really traveling in my 30s, but I’ve never been asked for a card when I’ve stayed at hostels.
4. Most hostels can be booked online, just like a hotel room or Airbnb.
5. Myth: You need to bring your own towels and linens to stay in a hostel.

Truth: Some hostels will charge you a small fee to use their sheets and towelsthat’s pretty common. Others don’t want you using outside linens, sleeping bags and such, for cleanliness, and will provide bedding as a part of their lodging price. I honestly do not recommend bringing a sleeping bag with you during longterm travel unless you are planning on sleeping in parks or camping; it’s just more weight for you to shlep around.

1. I do bring a travel towel that dries quickly.
2. It’s come in handy time and again and weighs next to nothing.
3. Myth: Hostels are cheap because they’re in dodgy locations.
4. Truth: Most hostels are in absolutely great locations, close to or in the center of desirable neighborhoods.
5. Of course, read reviews online.

Chances are if there’s a neighborhood you really want to explore, but can’t swing a hotel room, there could be a hostel thereabouts and you could stay in the area for a fraction of a hotel room price. Myth: Your stuff will get stolen in a hostel. Truth: Most hostels have lockers for guests.

1. I’ve found it’s best to bring your own lock, but you may be able to rent one from the hostel.
2. As is true when you are anywhere in the world, including your home country, it’s best to keep your eye and hand on your stuff.
3. Don’t leave valuables unattended.
4. Anecdotally I’ve heard the items most often swiped from hostelers are souvenirs.

Weird. It’s never happened to me. I often figure if someone wants to steal my dirty laundry, they’re certainly welcome toit’s the electronics and the finances that I try to keep an especially close eye on. Now food is a different story. Most hostels have a kitchen and a fridge you can use as a guest.

Put your name on your food, but know that hungry hostelers may help themselves from time to time. I have heard many people complain about someone taking their food or beer while staying at hostels. I personally have not had that problem. In fact, many hostels hang on to left over food for hungry travelersso you could score some free noodles.

When you meet other travelers in hostels, you may find yourself joining them on unexpected excursions. One traveler invited me to see a free musical performance at a cultural center in Stockholm. It was an amazing experience, and one I would have missed if not for the hostel.

1. Photo by Charish Badzinski.
2. Ready to stay in a Hostel? Hostels aren’t for everyone.
3. If you prefer luxury travel, you will find them to be lacking.
4. But if you’re a budget traveler who wants to connect with other travelers from around the world and learn from them, hostels can be a great lodging option, at any age.

Charish Badzinski is an explorer and award-winning travel and food writer. When she isn’t working to build her blog: Rollerbag Goddess Rolls the World, she applies her worldview to her small business, providing strategic communications, media relations and writing support to individuals and organizations.

Are hostels hard to sleep in?

Are you struggling sleeping in a hostel while backpacking? Then this post is packed full of hostel tips and tricks on how to sleep in a hostel! – Sleeping in a hostel can be really difficult at first, especially if you’ve never done it before. I know when I’m backpacking and travelling it always takes me a good two weeks before I get into the groove of sleeping in a hostel again. It really can take that long. Sleeping in a hostel When I first started travelling, I just couldn’t sleep in a hostel at all. But over the years I’ve started getting into a pattern. Trust me, these are tips that are work because I use them all the time. So, if you’re struggling sleeping while on the road, these are my top tips for sleeping in a hostel,

Is 27 too old to go travelling?

Life Experience actually IS a thing – As you get older, you gain wisdom and experience. This is only natural. It doesn’t matter where you come from, whether you raised kids, or spent your life dedicated to your career. The fact is that over the years, you have gained experience.

That experience will come to the fore when you are researching and planning your proposed trip. Now, I know that anyone can research. The internet makes it pretty easy these days. But experience is something that you can’t teach. It can only be obtained over time, making mistakes, and learning. There simply is no other way.

Along with this experience comes life lessons, and a lot of learned common sense. You will still make mistakes, but “hopefully” they will not be as brutal as the mistakes that a traveler a lot younger might make. You will cope a lot better, and your age has now become an asset. You might not be the youngest in the Dorm Remember that. Age is an asset. It is not a handicap. You are NEVER too old to travel. Especially not if you can maintain that mindset. I can guarantee you ONE thing. There will come a time when you are traveling, that you will be asked for advice.

Imagine this scenario. You are in South East Asia. You find yourself on a tour, or in a Hostel, with a LOT younger crowd. Teenagers, and people in their early 20’s. You are there, in your 40’s or 50’s, and maybe sitting off to the side, enjoying a quiet beer and possibly even a book. Suddenly, you have company.

Two young backpackers that need advice. Their parents are so far away, and you are right there. Suddenly, your age is now an asset. I can honestly say that this has happened to me. In Japan not long ago, I was visiting my daughter who is a ski instructor.

1. I decided to stay in a Hostel and experience the culture of a side of resort life that I had never seen before.
2. I loved every minute of it! But it was those nights in the rec room, when I was sitting with my book and just enjoying the vibe.
3. On the outer, but still there.
4. Every now and then I would break between chapters to join in a game of pool, or give someone a lesson on the Ping Pong Table, (experience!) and then retire to my corner again.

That was 10 days that I will always look upon fondly. It makes your day, week and entire holiday when someone needs your advice though. Being the oldest person in the dorm isn’t such a bad thing. Especially not when you can make someone else’s time a bit better, and help them past some homesickness.

What is the difference between hotel and hostel and guest house?

What is the main difference between a hostel and hotel? – What is the differences between hostels and hotels Before we get into the 9 points that separate a hotel and hostel, we should be clear about why they are completely separate styles of accommodation. The main difference between a hostel and a hotel is the style of room.

A hotel is a private room, with an attached bathroom. You will have this whole area to yourself and other members of your party. On the other hand, a hostel will most likely see you sharing a room and bathroom with other travelers, a dormitory-style setting. You will get your own bed, most likely a bunk bed (you won’t be sharing the sheets with anyone else).

You’ll also be sharing the shower and toilets with other guests (once again, not at the same time, that would be just plain weird!). The number of guests in a dorm will depend greatly on the hostel. It’s usually in the neighborhood of 4 to 12 people to a room (although I have stayed in a 100-person tent).

What is the difference between a hostel and a B&B?

B&B – Bed & Breakfast’s are essentially a step up from private room accommodation at hostels. They can still offer budget prices but include breakfast as part of your accommodation package. Bear in mind though, this can increase your accommodation cost a little bit.

• Some B&B’s really go above and beyond with their culinary offerings which can extend to sophisticated dining menus and gourmet hampers.
• Others simply offer continental style breakfast with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Whatever your style, you can find out what’s included in the room rate prior to booking! B&B’s are usually smaller than hotels and hostels, offering only a few rooms or suites.

Given this, staying at a B&B offers peace and quiet for the more relaxed traveller. Be sure to take a good look at the room rate as you will often see some really great value when it comes to automatic inclusions within the price. These can include a view, welcome gift, your own private garden, onsite / undercover parking, pet-friendly accommodation, use of communal sitting areas, walking trails at your back door and more! B&B owners often live on site.

1. They can offer a much more personalised touch as they care a lot about their business and their guests’ stay.
2. They can usually offer a really in-depth knowledge of the local area and recommend great day trips, experiences etc.
3. However, B&Bs tend not to offer porters to assist with luggage or a 24/7 receptionist to help with any midnight issues you have.

Top Tip: There are many different types of B&B owners, some being very laid back and others being very hands-on. Get a feel for the owners by looking at reviews from previous guests as they could highlight things you may not have thought of such as a shared table for breakfast.

What is the difference between a hostel and a homestay?

Homestays 101 – A typical homestay in the lap of nature A homestay is also a budget option for solo travellers, and allows you way more privacy than a hostel. While there are no roommates in this set up, it is about staying in a room in a running household which may or may not be occupied by the host’s family.

It usually has all basic amenities for you and also offers meals if that’s included in your booking. In case you have any special dietary or other requirements, you can check with the host in advance if those can be made available. Staying at a homestay is a wonderful way to live life like the locals in a new city, and to learn more about the local culture and the city’s hotspots from the host.

It brings you to closer to the local way of life more than any other form of accommodation does.

What makes a hotel a hotel?

Hotels – The most common type of accommodation in the hotel industry, a hotel is defined as an establishment that offers overnight accommodation, meals and other services. They are mainly aimed at travellers or tourists, although locals may also use them. Hotels provide private rooms, and almost always have en-suite bathrooms.