Travel Tips

Traveling on a budget can be rewarding and exciting, yet staying in the same soulless cheap hotels can soon become monotonous after a while.

But all across the globe, from remote desert islands to vibrant city centers, there is a great budget alternative: hostels.
 

Hostels Defined

Hostels offer accommodation to travelers and backpackers, typically in the form of dormitories (often bunk-beds), although cheap private rooms are also becoming increasingly available.

Facilities (including kitchens, bathrooms and lounge areas) are all shared between guests and, even though young people tend to be attracted to hostels by the price and sociable nature, they are open to - and frequented by - every type of traveler.

Unlike the B&Bs, motels and chain hotels that also offer cheap accommodation around the world, hostels are usually privately owned and independent - meaning they can be as unique and interesting in their design as they are affordable! From converted prisons to rooms inspired by movies and UFOs, hostels today offer budget accommodation with a twist.
 

The Benefits of Staying in a Hostel:

Save on the Cash: The primary benefit of staying in a hostel is that they are usually much more affordable than hotels, as well as offering a superior option to a typical budget hotel room in terms of both atmosphere and facilities.

Meet New People: Hostels have an open atmosphere and sociable set-up which means you can get to know other travelers and backpackers from around the world. There's the oppertunity to do activities together, or even make life-long friendships.

Availablity: If you enjoy hiking on mountain trails or touring remote areas, you're more likely to find a hostel than a hotel nearby. Hostels are known for their great locations that cater to travelers on foot or those exploring off the beaten track.

Group Travel: When traveling as part of a group, hostels can make it a great experience ar affordable rates, from girls nights in the dorm to private family rooms. Even when in a large group, it's often possible to stay in the same room, where you can share experiences and adventures from the day.

Added Features: Many hostels offer facilities or amenities that far outweigh those of a budget hotel. Although each property is obviously different, these may include washing machines and dryers, a games room, wide-screen TV, internet and WIFI, luggage or valuables lockers, a restaurant, lounge area and self-catering facilities.

Easy Booking: With online hostel booking sites, it's easy to book a hostel from anywhere around the world. Hostels are available in many countries, and one-stop booking sites do all the work for you so you can reserve that bed, whether you're traveling to next.

Hostels aren't for everyone - staying in dorms can mean noise and lack of personal space. But, when it comes to price and atmopshere, they are really are hard to beat - much better than heading to another budget hotel!