Hostel facts for kids
A hostel is a special type of place where travelers can stay. Think of it like a budget-friendly hotel, but with a focus on sharing and meeting new people. Instead of private rooms, hostels often have dormitories (shared rooms) where you rent a single bed. They are usually much cheaper than hotels, which makes them popular with young travelers, students, and backpackers exploring the world on a budget. Hostels offer a fun, social atmosphere where you can easily make friends with people from all over the globe.
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What Makes Hostels Special?
Hostels are known for their unique features that set them apart from other places to stay. They are designed to be affordable and encourage travelers to connect with each other.
Affordable Stays
One of the biggest reasons people choose hostels is the cost. Renting a bed in a shared dormitory is much cheaper than getting a private hotel room. This allows travelers to save money, which they can then use for activities, food, or extending their trip. Many hostels also have shared kitchens, so you can cook your own meals and save even more money on eating out.
Community and Social Fun
Hostels are famous for their friendly and social vibe. They often have common areas like lounges, game rooms, or outdoor patios where guests can relax and chat. Many hostels organize activities like walking tours, movie nights, or pub crawls, making it easy to meet other travelers and share experiences. This community feeling is a big part of the hostel experience.
Different from Hotels
While both hostels and hotels offer a place to sleep, they are quite different.
- Privacy: Hotels usually offer private rooms with their own bathrooms. Hostels often have shared dorms and shared bathrooms.
- Cost: Hostels are generally much cheaper than hotels.
- Atmosphere: Hostels tend to be more social and casual, while hotels are often more private and formal.
- Amenities: Hotels might have services like room service or fancy restaurants. Hostels focus on shared facilities like kitchens and common areas.
Who Stays in Hostels?
Hostels are popular with a wide range of travelers, especially those looking for adventure and new connections.
Young Travelers and Backpackers
Many young people, often between 18 and 30, choose hostels for their trips. This includes students on a gap year, backpackers exploring different countries, and budget-conscious adventurers. They enjoy the social aspect and the chance to meet like-minded people.
Budget-Conscious Explorers
Anyone who wants to travel without spending too much money can benefit from staying in a hostel. This allows them to travel for longer periods or visit more places. Hostels help make travel more accessible to everyone.
Types of Hostels
Just like hotels, hostels come in many different styles and sizes.
Dormitory Hostels
These are the most common type, offering beds in shared rooms. Dorms can vary in size, from small rooms with four beds to larger ones with 20 or more. They often have bunk beds.
Boutique Hostels
Some hostels offer a more stylish and modern experience, similar to a boutique hotel but still with a social atmosphere. They might have nicer decor, unique themes, and sometimes even private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, though they are still more affordable than traditional hotels.
Eco-Hostels
These hostels focus on being environmentally friendly. They might use solar power, recycle extensively, or grow their own food. They appeal to travelers who care about sustainable tourism.
Party Hostels
As the name suggests, these hostels are known for their lively atmosphere and social events, often with a bar on-site. They are popular with travelers looking to have fun and meet new people in a party setting.
What to Expect at a Hostel
If you're thinking about staying in a hostel, here are some things you can usually expect.
- Dorm Rooms: You'll have a bed, often a bunk bed, in a room with other travelers. Each bed usually has a locker for your belongings.
- Bathrooms: Most hostels have shared bathrooms, which are cleaned regularly. Some hostels offer dorms with private bathrooms, called "en-suite" dorms.
- Kitchen: A shared kitchen is common, allowing you to cook your own meals. It usually has fridges, stoves, and basic cooking tools.
- Common Areas: These are spaces like lounges, TV rooms, or outdoor areas where guests can relax, socialize, and plan their next adventures.
Hostel Amenities
- Lockers: Almost all hostels provide lockers for you to secure your valuables. Remember to bring your own padlock or rent one from the front desk.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, allowing you to stay connected with family and friends.
- Laundry Facilities: Many hostels have washing machines and dryers, which is very helpful for long-term travelers.
- Tours and Activities: Hostels often organize tours, events, and social gatherings, making it easy to explore the local area and meet other guests.
History of Hostels
The idea of hostels began in Germany in the early 20th century.
Youth Hostels Movement
The very first youth hostel was opened in 1909 by a German teacher named Richard Schirrmann. He wanted to create safe and affordable places for young people to stay while exploring the countryside. These early hostels were often in old castles or school buildings. The idea quickly spread across Europe and then around the world.
Modern Hostels
Over time, hostels have evolved from simple, basic accommodations to diverse places that cater to all kinds of travelers. While the core idea of affordability and community remains, modern hostels offer a wider range of services and experiences, from quiet, cozy spots to lively party hubs.
Images for kids
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A typical hostel dormitory room in Taiwan
See also
In Spanish: Albergue para niños
