Hostels becoming more like budget hotels
Budget Travel
Hostels becoming more like budget hotels
By ARTHUR FROMMER
Sunday, November 2, 2003
Most people think hostels are bare-bones lodgings — bunk beds and communal showers, suitable only for backpackers and students. And the truth is, they often are.
But the good news is that hostels are changing. Many of them are more like budget hotels, with the only real difference being the price. While dormitory-style rooms always tend to be cheaper, many hostels offer private accommodations at a slightly higher cost.
That said, anyone expecting a mint on his pillow should stop reading now. Hands-on and do-it-yourself, hostels are still far from luxurious. But they can offer something four-star hotels can’t — a great way to meet people and see places not readily seen in the bubble of Western-style hotels. Here are some tips before you go:
Become a member: With literally thousands of hostels worldwide, choosing one can be a daunting task, but membership has its privileges. Most hostels operate much like large hotel chains with international booking networks and membership benefits.
Hosteling International-USA (www.hiayh.org), for one, offers perks like free international travel insurance; discounts at restaurants, retail stores and attractions; as well as access to more than 4,000 hostels in more than 60 countries. Members of the International Youth Hostel Federation (www.iyhf.org) receive commission-free currency exchange, as well as discounts on international calling.
In cooperation with other worldwide associations, HI-USA and IYHF are part of the Hosteling International network — the brand name for more than 90 youth hostel associations worldwide. For the weary budget traveler, HI’s easy-to-spot blue triangle logo is often a sight for sore eyes.
Making reservations: While part of hosteling’s novelty is not knowing where you’ll be headed next, book ahead during peak seasons in popular destinations — Greece in August, for example, or Whistler, British Columbia, in January. It will save you time and money in the long run.
Location is crucial: More so than budget hotels, hostels take you where the action is. They’re often conveniently situated near the city’s cultural center or within walking distance of local night life. Don’t be fooled by a slightly better deal “just minutes away from the city center!” Spend the extra buck or two and stay right where you want.
When traveling to Helsinki, Finland, for example, try the ultra- modern EuroHostel. Centrally located and filled with amenities, it’s the perfect stop for a Scandinavian visit. At per-person rates, including linens and a morning sauna, single rooms are 36.5 euros (about $42), while doubles with a harbor view and triples both rent for 22 euros ($25.50) each. The rates drop slightly for HI members. For more information, check out www.euro hostel.fi.
Visa support: Traveling abroad is a thrill; getting a visa is not. For countries like Russia, a letter of invitation is required before a visa can be given. In cases like these, hostels often provide inexpensive and headache-free visa support. At St. Petersburg International Hostel — Russia’s first and only HI property — visa support is offered for $54, including tax and your first night’s stay with breakfast. For details, visit www.ryh.ru.
Get what you pay for: Before making reservations, ensure that the hostel has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Ask if linens, breakfast and baggage lockers are included in the price. Planning to stay awhile? Make sure the hostel has laundry facilities and/or a kitchen if you’re planning to cook.
Ask about rules: Although the majority of guests are between the ages of 18 and 35, more and more people ages 55 and older frequently stay in hostels. Age restrictions used to be commonplace but have become increasingly rare. Nonetheless, call ahead to confirm the hostel’s policy. This is particularly important for families traveling with small children.
Likewise, night owls should always ask if there’s a curfew. A midnight curfew could mean you’ll be sleeping outside if you get home too late; if you think a hostel bed is uncomfortable, just wait until you lie down on the sidewalk.
King Features Syndicate
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