One of the recurring themes of backpack travelling is most certainly the simplicity and interesting nature of Hostels. It seems at every hostel you go, you learn something new about the culture, and the people you meet are sure to help in your global development.
Heck, sometimes you even see some crazy stuff such as this!
Photo Courtesy of Barnacles Budget Accommodation, at Flickr Creative Commons
Pretty Cool Huh!!!? Ps. You can see this from a bunch of hostels in Thailand on Kho Phi Phi Island as well 😉
For those of you who do not know what hostels are, here is a simple explanation. Hostels are generally low-budget sociable accommodations with various living arrangements, such as single rooms, bunk bed rooms, and group rooms where you sleep in the same room as 5-10 other people. Are hostels good? Hell ya they are! They are generally very safe, put you in contact with all types of interesting people, and allow for a cheaper alternative to living in a hotel. When travelling to new countries, living in hostels will allow you to meet many more travellers, and the general nature of hostels allows for a social ambiance that you cannot find in a hotels. It is certain that you will meet some of the coolest and most outgoing people of your life in hostels.
How to Find which Hostels are the best
Although reviews from websites such as tripadvisor are generally good, there is only one true way to find the best hostels, and thats asking others that have been to wherever you are going. You will soon realize how quickly the word spreads about which hostels are good to stay at, and which ones you should avoid like the plague.
Hostel Websites (During high season you should book hostels in advance)
–Hostelworld.com – My personal favorite 😉
The Alternative Ways Tips and Tricks
–Lonely Planet Books are often very accurate when recommending hostels.
-Always ask other travellers that you meet which hostels are the best and which ones you should avoid.
-Try to research the hostels online before hand if you can.
Until Next Time,
The Alternative Ways
Headline Photo Courtesy of Twak. Photo can be found at Flickr Creative Commons.
