HOSTEL GUESTS

Hostels provide a unique experience compared to other forms of accommodation, such as staying with friends or family, Couchsurfing, Airbnb, and hotels. The rules in hostels can be written, spoken, or implied, and their enforcement often depends on the season and the diligence of the guests.

According to the dictionary, a hostel is an ‘establishment which provides inexpensive food and lodging for a specific group of people, such as students, workers, or travelers.‘

This definition might limit the perception of hostels as merely places to stay. In reality, hostels can serve as a great starting point for exploring a new city or country, offering a more comprehensive travel experience.

There is no universal formula for the perfect hostel because each one adapts to its environment, as well as the owner and guests themselves.

The most crucial period for a hostel is its launch. The vital atmosphere is not yet established, yet this period will define its image and the type of visitors it will attract. A hostel’s reputation can evolve for better or worse.

A hostel is a good starting point for a journey. It offers the experience of a temporary flat share with strangers, who may become friends based on shared interests. The optimal place to socialize is the common kitchen, where sharing a meal enhances both the dish and the experience.

A cheaper night’s stay is not always the best option, as additional costs can add up. There is a threshold below which cost-cutting is not worth the compromised experience.

The atmosphere of a hostel is often different upon return due to various factors, such as the transient nature of guests. Guests can play an important role as atmosphere stimulators.

Online tools

Booking & Check-in

  • Hostelworld – Book and compare hostels worldwide.
  • Booking.com – Find hostels, hotels, and budget accommodations.
  • Cloudbeds – Some hostels use this for online check-in and management.
  • **Self-Check-in Apps (like Chekin, GuestJoy) – Digital check-in for hassle-free arrivals.

2. Communication & Networking

  • WhatsApp – Stay in touch with hostel staff or fellow travelers.
  • Facebook Groups – Many hostels have groups for guests to connect.
  • HostelPass – A membership for hostel discounts & community.

3. Navigation & Local Recommendations

  • Google Maps – Essential for finding nearby attractions & transport.
  • MAPS.ME – Offline maps for traveling without internet.
  • TripAdvisor – Reviews for nearby restaurants & activities.
  • Culture Trip – Local travel guides & recommendations.

4. Transport & Mobility

  • Rome2Rio – Find the best transport options between locations.
  • Omio – Book trains, buses, and flights.
  • Uber/Lyft/Bolt – Ridesharing for quick transport.
  • BlaBlaCar – Carpooling to save money on travel.

5. Language & Translation

6. Digital Payments & Budgeting

  • Wise – Multi-currency travel banking.
  • Revolut – Travel-friendly banking & currency exchange.
  • Splitwise – Split expenses with fellow travelers.

7. Food & Delivery

  • Uber Eats / Glovo / DoorDash – Order food easily.
  • HappyCow – Find vegan/vegetarian food nearby.

8. Work & Digital Nomad Tools

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BeST OF & WOrst of

These are the most appreciated features of hostels, regardless of country or local culture.

F

BEST OF HOSTEL EXPERIENCE

 

  1. Meeting like-minded travelers
  2. Starting point for city exploration
  3. Feeling less like a foreigner
  4. Making new friends
  5. Cost-effective stay
  6. Last-minute booking
  7. Proactive website
  8. Local insight
  9. Access to kitchen
  10. Shared resources

These are the least appreciated features of hostels, regardless of country or local culture.

G

WORST OF HOSTEL EXPERIENCE

 

  1. No soap, bin, or hygiene facilities
  2. Too many rules that kill the mood
  3. No communal space
  4. Missing basic condiments
  5. No shampoo holders
  6. Faulty doorbell
  7. Not providing city maps/guidance
  8. Squeaking beds/doors
  9. Pressuring guests to leave reviews
  10. Painful ladder in bunk beds

These are the most appreciated feelings when meeting fellow travelers.

F

BEST OF GUEST ENCOUNTERS

  1. Caring and sharing guests
  2. Respectful of vibes
  3. Language exchange
  4. Skill sharing
  5. Travel experiences
  6. Road trip
  7. Business connections
  8. Life stories
  9. Social activities
  10. New insights

These are the least appreciated feelings when meeting fellow travelers.

G

WORST OF GUEST ENCOUNTERS

  1. Pack things too early in morning
  2. Not respecting other’s privacy
  3. Throwing stuff down toilets
  4. All time on cellphones
  5. Overestimating profitability
  6. Overusing hot showers
  7. Making noise/snoring
  8. Complaining online/onsite

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