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All About Hostels - Frugal Lodging Alternative

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By Cheri Sicard

Posted August 6th, 2007

FabulousFoods.com Recommends: Official International Youth Hostel Guide (Yha Guide), by , (2007, International Youth Hostel Federation)

Official International Youth Hostel Guide (Yha Guide)

When one hears the words "Youth Hostel" an image of backpacking college students, traveling on a shoestring, immediately comes to mind. To be sure, a percentage of hostel customers do fit this description. But the "Youth" in "Youth Hostels" can be a misleading term.

The fact is, hostels are a wonderful, low cost way for "youths" of any age to see the world -- there are no age restrictions for those wishing to stay in hostels.

While on recent hostelling stays in Europe, I was fortunate enough to make the acquaintance of interesting people ranging in age from their early twenties to late seventies. What did they have in common? A small budget and an adventurous spirit. Most hostels range in price from about $12.00 - -$25.00 per night. They offer a clean, safe lodging bargain that just can't be beat.

The Catch
What's the catch? Rooms are dorm style, in other words, expect a bunk in a large room shared with several other people (of the same sex, of course). Bathrooms are communal and down the hall.

Depending on your outlook, this situation may not be a "catch" at all, especially if you grew up in a large family and are used to sharing your space. If, like me, you're loner, it may be less than desirable. However, the great price can make the trade-off a more than fair one.

While dorm rooms are the standard at all hostels, many also have facilities for couples traveling together (double rooms) and for families (family rooms). Hostelling is an excellent way for a family to stretch their travel dollars as the lodging is cheap and the on-site kitchen facilities usually available can even provide substantial food savings.

Rules of the Game
There are other "rules" which much be observed while staying at hostels. All hostels are drug free, smoke free and alcohol free environments, although some hostels (especially in Europe) do have separate cafes or cafeterias where beer and wine might be available. No pets are allowed and you must show identification (passport or driver's license in addition to Hostelling International membership card) upon checking in. The very young -- those under 18 -- may be asked to show parental permission.

Some hostels offer meals at a minimal price. Those in Europe almost always include breakfast with the cost of your room. Others have kitchens which are shared by the guests, providing an opportunity to save big time on food. Pots, pans, dishes etc. are provided. You provide the groceries and do the clean up. hostelling

Many hostels provide other benefits as well, such as recreational equipment, tour programs, discounts for local tours and attractions etc. A benefit not listed in any guide is the presence of instant traveling companions. If you're traveling alone, staying at a hostel is a sure way to meet friends.

When I arrived at Scotland's Carbisdale Castle Hostel, I encountered a friendly group who had been criss-crossing the country, more or less, together for the previous month. They were not intentionally traveling as a group, but they were since they were all exploring the same country, from time to time they ended up at the same hostels along the way. The hostel's "common rooms" are often filled with laughter, lively conversation and playful games of cards or Monopoly. youth hostels

Hostels Are Everywhere
Hostels are nearly everywhere that you'd want to go. There are over 150 in the United States and they are very prevalent in other parts of the world as well. Some are basic, others (like the previously mentioned Carbisdale Castle) are grandiose, but all are inexpensive. Some of the more interesting U.S. hostels are housed in historic old homes, ranch bunkhouses and even old lighthouses like the one in Portland, Maine or Pescadero, California. Just look at the variety in the photos on this page!

So, how do you get started hostelling? Contact Hostelling International or their American division the American Youth Hostels National Administration Office at:
P.O. Box 37613
Washington, D.C. 20013-7613
202-783-6161 or FAX 202-783-6171

Hostelling Websites

Hostelling International: American Youth Hostels
Western US Regional Site For Hostelling International - 67 hostels in 10 states.
Scottish Youth Hostels Association

Additional Notes
You do not have to be a member of Hostelling International to stay at hostels, but it is worthwhile. A membership gets you an even further discount when staying at any Hostelling International Hostel, as well as a directory of hostels in the USA and numerous travel discounts to attractions and other travel related services. One further note, because of the popularity of hostels (especially at school vacation times) reservations are often necessary.