Hostels are a better way to meet and socialise with other
backpacking travelers than hotels, according to the Youth Hostel Association (YHA).
Communications manager for the YHA, Paul Fearn, insists that
hostels have improved markedly compared to ten or 20 years ago.
The YHA defines youth
hostels as good quality low cost accommodation where tourists can meet likeminded people.
Mr Fearn also suggests that they are a more sociable venue than hotels, at which "stuffy lounges" are just as likely to deter people from sitting down and having a chat.
He added: "
Hostels tend to be much more sociable places.
"They have more communal places that people actually use rather than a stuffy hotel lounge that nobody goes in."
"
Hostels have self-catering and laundry facilities, so they are obviously very popular with backpackers because you don't have to eat out and can do your laundry."
Hostels are also increasing their guest demographic, growing in popularity among families and even older holidaygoers.
Book
hostels and budgets hotels worldwide with HostelBookers
