The Hostel Life

Whether you're travelling in America, Europe, the UK, or South America, you will almost always find a unique place: the hostel. When I went to Ireland, I stayed the whole time in a hostel and it is definitely a different experience. The biggest difference between a hostel and a hotel is that hostels are designed as a quick accommodation for backpackers while hotels are designs for comfort. One of the upsides to staying at a hostel is that they are much cheaper than a hotel. When I told people that I would be staying at a hostel, the first response was "hopefully you don't get stabbed". Most people have a bad view on hostels and hostels have gained the reputation of being a dump and a slum, but the reality is, most hostels are not.

If you will be travelling and are thinking of staying at a hostel, there are some things to consider:

1. Hostels are a dorm setting. Because they are designed to be a simple accommodation for backpackers, they often have multiple beds in a single room. This is a big change for many people. Some people are uncomfortable sleeping in a room with 16 strangers. In many hostels, there are mixed dorms so you would be staying in a dorm with mixed genders. This is the first thing to consider: would you stay in a room with a dozen strangers? It's something to get used to, but can be an awesome experience.

2. Because you are staying in a room with lots of strangers, be sure to watch your belongings. Most people you meet in a hostel are very friendly, but you still run the risk of someone walking off with your stuff. The hostel I stayed at in Ireland, many people just left their bags laying around their beds. At this hostel, that was probably okay. But some hostels you wouldn't want to do that. Most hostels have security lockers and safes (some offer them free) to store your stuff. When you are in bed, it's not a bad idea to have your bag in your bed with you (depending on the size of it). This will lessen the risk of someone rummaging through your stuff in the middle of the night.

3. Make sure to adequately research your hostel(s). Some hostels are luxurious and pristine, others you wouldn't dare take your shoes off. As you research the hostel, look at the cleanliness and overall makeup. You will find that some hostels can be nicer than most hotels. Make sure you know what you are getting yourself into. Reading reviews is the best way to scope out a hostel. Hostelworld.com is a great site for looking up hostels.

4. Most people think of a hostel as a place with rooms and beds, nothing else. However, most hostels will sponsor special events, bring in performers, throw parties, and have tours of the city. You will find that most hostels have more than just an accommodation. Most have game rooms, continental breakfast, TV, break rooms, kitchens, WIFI, and internet.

5. Don't stay in the same hostel for more than 2 nights. If you are a backpacker or traveler, you want to see a whole array of things and have different experiences. When you stay at the same hostel for more than 2 nights, it becomes redundant. You see the same thing every morning, you get too comfortable, and it becomes dull. Even though the hostel you are staying at may be awesome, it's good to experience other hostels.

6. Be courteous of others. It's easy to stay out late and when you come back, remember that other people are sleeping in the same room. Don't let the door slam, keep light to a minimum, don't make excessive noise. I have had times when people come stomping in at 1 AM when I was trying to sleep. Also remember to clean up after yourself. Most hostels have a kitchen so you can fix your own meals. Don't leave dishes around for others to clean. Be courteous to other people staying there.

Staying at a hostel can be a great experience. Just remember to follow the above guidelines and your trip will be much more enjoyable. Ultimately, the best way to experience it is to just get out there and stay in one.