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A Hostel Is More Than Just A Bed

Hey there, fellow wanderers! have you ever just thought of hostels as just a place to crash on a shoestring? While that may be true in a handful of cases, let’s flip that script. Hostels can have a number of pluses. So what are some of the advantages of staying in a hostel?

We’re about to spill the beans on why hostels are the unsung heroes of the budget travel accommodation scene. From making friends to stretching your budget like a travel ninja, hostels are way more than a cozy nook for a nap. So, buckle up as we dive into the awesome world of hostels where budget meets the unexpected.

Advantages of Staying in a Hostel

I am a middle aged man who is also a self described introvert and I love staying in hostels. They force me out of my comfort zone of self isolation. If I can do it, you can do it.

Here are a some of the advantages of staying in a hostel when you are backpacking.

1. Community Connection

Picture this: You walk into a hostel, and suddenly, it’s not just a place to sleep; it’s a hub of energy, laughter, and new friendships waiting to happen. Hostels are like the social butterflies of the travel world. They’ve got common areas that are basically friendship incubators, communal kitchens where cooking becomes a group activity, and organized events that turn strangers into travel buddies.

I have met some great people from all over the world this way. My friend Josh from England, who I met at a hostel in Guatemala in 2020, and I have stayed in touch for 4 years and we will be getting together(finally!!) in Colombia in 2024.

So no more awkward elevator rides with silent neighbors; in hostels, it’s all about actually making connections. Whether you’re a solo traveler(like me) looking for companions, or a group wanting to expand your circle, hostels are the matchmakers of the travel world. So, grab a seat in the common room, strike up a conversation, and let the hostel magic unfold.

2. Affordability Beyond Beds

Now, let’s talk money – or rather, let’s talk about how hostels can be the financial superheroes of travel accommodations. Sure, you get a bed, but it’s not just any bed; it’s a budget-friendly nest that leaves you with more cash to spend on experiences. Just one of the advantages of staying in a hostel when in comes to saving money

But wait, there’s more! Hostels don’t just stop at the basics. They throw in communal kitchens for those MasterChef moments, freebies like Wi-Fi and social events, and often, perks you didn’t know you needed until you had them. It’s like getting the first-class experience on a budget airline – you might not have a flatbed, but you’ve got everything else that matters.

A lot of hostels have a rooftop patio area maybe with a bar! I have stayed in very affordable hostels with pools, hot tubs, spas, and saunas(Plus Hostel in Florence, Italy). So, if you’re keen on stretching your travel budget without sacrificing the good stuff, hostels are your backstage pass to affordability with a side of awesome.

Please note that there are dorm beds out there in some locations that are well over $20 USD per night. Maybe over $30. Not sure if that really fits into the budget friendly zone. This is largely location dependent.

Also Read: You will Love Villa de Leyva

3. Local Insights and Recommendations

Ever found yourself in a new city, clueless about where the locals hang out or where to find the best street eats? Enter the hostel staff and fellow travelers – your instant squad of travel advisors. Hostels are like living guidebooks with a heartbeat, and the people who run them or bunk beside you are your ticket to insider knowledge.

From that hidden gem of a café that serves the best coffee in Bogota, to the off-the-beaten-path spots that aren’t in the tourist guides(plus the best way to get to those spots!), hostels are a treasure trove of local tips. It’s like having your personal Google Maps, but with animated commentary from people who’ve been there, done that.

So, ditch the conventional guidebooks and get ready for the real deal. Hostels not only provide a bed but also a community eager to spill the beans on the coolest spots in town.

4. Flexibility and Adaptability

More advantages of staying in a hostel is that flexibility and adaptability is the name of the game. Forget about rigid check-in/check-out times or being tied down to a traditional hotel room. Hostels get it – travel plans change, flights get delayed, and sometimes you just want to squeeze in an extra day or three of exploration.

With hostels, you’re not just booking a bed; you’re entering a realm of adaptability. Need a private room or cool with a bunk in a dorm? Fancy a one-night stay or planning an extended adventure? Hostels cater to your ever-changing whims and fancies.

Another part of this for me is that if I don’t get a good vibe at a hostel after a night I can easily go online and find another hostel to try just down the block. Or maybe I want to try another neighborhood altogether. It happens. Things will not be great all the time. No big deal, you can just move on. This is a huge advantage to staying in a hostel for me personally.

So, whether you’re a spontaneous soul or a meticulous planner, hostels are your travel chameleons, ready to adapt to whatever adventure you throw their way.

5. Cultural Immersion

Hostels are not just places to stay; they’re gateways to cultural adventures.

Imagine this: you wake up to the aroma of local breakfast wafting from the hostel kitchen, and your bunkmate invites you to join a language exchange session happening in the common area. Or maybe there are some amazing salsa dancing lessons happening that you can join. Maybe its a free walking tour of the city that hostel recommends. That’s the magic of cultural immersion in hostels.

Whether it’s organized cultural events, language learning programs, or just the diverse mix of people sharing the communal space, hostels offer more than just a roof over your head. It’s a chance to learn a bit of the local lingo, swap travel stories with people from around the globe, and experience the destination from a perspective beyond the tourist trail.

So, if you’re craving more than a cookie-cutter travel experience, hostels are your key to unlocking the door to cultural immersion. Grab it and let the adventure unfold!

Conclusion: Unlocking the Hostel Adventure

And there you have it – the secret sauce of hostel living, unraveled for the intrepid traveler. Hostels are more than just a place to crash; they’re social hubs, budget-friendly sanctuaries, and gateways to cultural adventures. From fostering connections to embracing flexibility, hostels offer a unique travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary. There are so many advantages of staying in a hostel.

So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider veering off the beaten path and checking into a hostel. It’s not just a bed; it’s an invitation to a world where connections are made, budgets are stretched, and cultural immersion becomes second nature.

Ready to embark on your hostel adventure? Pack your curiosity, ditch the conventional, and let the hostel tales begin!

FAQ

Q1: Are hostels only for solo travelers?

A: Not at all! Hostels cater to all kinds of travelers – solo adventurers, couples, and even groups of friends. Hell, some are family friendly so there are kids around which is actually kind of cool. The communal atmosphere makes it easy to connect with fellow travelers.

Q2: Are hostels safe?

A: Yes, hostels prioritize safety. Many have secure lockers, and it’s common for staff to monitor access. Like anywhere else, using common sense and safeguarding your belongings ensures a safe experience.

Q3: Do hostels only offer dormitory-style rooms?

A: No, hostels offer a range of room options. While dorms are popular for budget travelers, private rooms are often available for those seeking more privacy.

Q4: Do I need to bring my own bedding and towels?

A: Most hostels provide bedding, and many offer towel rentals. Check the hostel’s website or contact them in advance to confirm their amenities. Most backpackers do have their own travel towel IF they need it.

Q5: Can I cook my own meals in hostels?

A: Absolutely! Many hostels have communal kitchens where you can unleash your inner chef and prepare your meals. It’s a great way to save on dining expenses.

Q5: Are hostels only for young travelers?

A: No way! Sure some hostels market themselves to a younger, party type of crowd. If this isn’t for you you can certainly find a hostel that is for quieter, “mature” travelers.

What are your advantages of staying in a hostel? Best hostel you have stayed at?

Let me know in the comments!