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Life in a Hostel

Posted: 27th July 2017 09:46

A hostel experience doesn’t have to be anything like the horror film of the same name but it does have to provide a roof over your head.  Staying in a hostel is a great way to save money on your travels and meet some great people.  If you’re lucky you might even be able to pick up a free breakfast. 

How To Choose

No matter what area you are staying in do your research.  Reading reviews can uncover all sorts of horror stories about bed bugs and dirty linen, while looking at pictures can also give invaluable insight into the reality of that hostel.  Think about what you are getting for what you pay.  Anything under £10.00 a night is generally under £10.00 a night for a reason!

Meet New People

Many people staying in hostels are backpackers travelling from all over the world so everything about your hostel experience will be a melting pot of cultures.  If you are travelling to their country of origin then why not get some tips and advice? Or better yet, if they have been in the country you are in longer than your self find out what they have already seen.  You never know you may just uncover a hidden gem.

Sharing a room with four people is an ideal amount because you will get the chance to mix without being too crowded.  Anything above eight people and you will risk not being able to get a decent night sleep to re-charge your batteries for your next adventure. 

Live the Experience

Don’t be afraid to find out what they have going on in your hostel.  Most hostels will have lively and vibrant bars with very happy, happy hours, and plenty of activities such as karaoke. 

There is a good chance your hostel will have leaflets and a website; check out this information as you might find a new tour that will take your fancy or even find some vouchers and discounts.  If they don’t then it’s worth asking the hostel staff.   

If your room is not what you thought it would be don’t be afraid to let them know.  They are there to help you, you are paying for their service and after all, you don’t get it if you don’t ask. 

What to Take

You might be pleased to know most hostels give a free breakfast, which is usually very basic and served at a specific time so make sure you’re aware of their serving times.  Hostels occasionally provide microwaves during serving time so ready meals and microwaveable food can be good.  As well as this, make sure you take a padlock; one for each zip on your bag and one for your locker which is usually provided in your room.  Safety is essential and for the sake of a £5 padlock the last thing you want is to lose all of your possessions. 

Get a Job

If you are planning on staying in the country for a while then maybe it’s worth finding out if your hostel has any job vacancies.  You will find many hostels have reception jobs, cleaning work or even bar work.  This is a great way to meet new people, get to know what’s happening in your hostel, keep your working skills intact and most importantly pick up a bit of extra pocket money. 

No matter what hostel you stay at you are bound to come back with at least one story.  Even the worst situations will make the most fantastic stories.  Experiencing hostels for your self is the best – and most fun – way to learn, but keep these things in mind in order to get the most out of your hostel experience.

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