All about Hostels

Hostels are not just for young people. These budget accommodations range from European castles to upscale properties with ensuite bath facilities. More than 4,000 hostels worldwide provide a travel experience that combines companionship with budget sleeping quarters for all ages from senior citizens to families with small children. Quite a few hostels even accept pets if you choose to travel with them.

Privacy is a primary concern for most travelers who are not youth. The original hostels in Europe offered dormitory style sleeping arrangements, a common area for meeting other visitors, and little else except basic bath facilities. Safety and comfort are also concerns for every hosteller. Before you book a stay at a hostel, it's a good idea to check its ratings, policies, and services to avoid surprises.

Each hostel has its own regulations about acceptable arrival and departure times, the proper use of common areas, deposits, and fees or penalties for infractions. Today, most hostels have shared cooking facilities, Internet service, baggage storage or lockers, and laundry equipment. You will be required to do your own cleaning at most hostels. There will not be any housekeeping services, and you might need to bring your own linens.

The hostel movement started in Europe during the early part of the twentieth century. A German schoolteacher, Richard Schirrmann, organized this form of accommodations so that he could take his students on excursions in Europe. There are hostels now in more than 80 countries. The cost, convenience, and comfort vary widely. Hostelling International is the world's most active membership organization for travelers and for hostel owners. In order for hostels to be associated with HI, their properties must meet minimum standards set by the organization.

You can find accommodations that fit your budget and your personal preferences by consulting hostelling directories available on the Internet and through the International Youth Hostel Federation. Review comments from previous visitors to get valuable tips about the amenities at each hostel that you are considering.

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