On a small scale, a hostel’s fragile balance holds mostly through mutual recognition. The bigger the group grows, the harder it becomes to maintain that quality of attention without more formal rules, roles or structures.
The 150 limit
The well-known theory of a maximum of 150 people applies here too. Beyond that number, the place looks more like a hotel, one that doesn’t encourage socialising. The largest hostels achieve economies of scale, but they often neglect, or can no longer really manage, the human side of operating at that size.
Volunteers keep the place in harmony
Any traveller can volunteer to help with running the place and keeping it in harmony. In return, accommodation, and sometimes meals, are provided.
The shared kitchen, the social heart of the hostel
The best place to socialise is often the shared kitchen. Sharing a meal improves both the dish and the experience of the moment.
Keep reading
- Own or plan to open a hostel? See the Hostel Owners page.
- The Hostel as a Small Experiment in Cooperation
