History

• The hostel movement started in 1909, when German schoolteacher Richard Schirrmann helped found this accommodation concept for himself and his students so that they would have a place to stay during their excursions. It has since expanded from Europe to almost every continent. Budget travelers can find more than 4,000 hostels in more than 80 countries.
  
  

Function

• Hostels worldwide offer budget lodging for travelers of any age who are willing to exchange some privacy and amenities for savings on secure accommodations. The rates are usually much lower than area hotels and motels, especially in heavily traveled tourist areas where lodging prices can be excessive. Hostels can be found in an upscale Manhattan brownstone, a refurbished hotel, a restored castle or even a mountain log cabin. For budget lodgings and friendly staff, book a room at a hostel almost anywhere in the world, from Bali to Zimbabwe.
  
  

Features

• At one time hostels were all large dormitory-style facilities. Some slept as many as 600 people per night in huge common sleeping areas. Many only provided beds, shared bathroom facilities and a shared area for interacting with other guests. Because they catered to youth, their primary service was a warm, safe place to sleep. Today, it is more common for hostels to provide double-bedded rooms or a maximum of four beds in each room. Now, many hostels have family accommodations with self-contained bathing facilities, similar to budget hotels. Hostels that cater to senior travelers are likely to offer private rooms that are handicapped accessible, in a more sedate environment. Most hostels have laundry facilities, Internet access and some cooking facilities or cafeterias for cheap meals. Some accommodate pets. Hostels even organize group activities for their guests.
  
  

Significance

• Hostelling International is the world's most active membership organization for youth and others who enjoy the benefits of hostelling. Its primary mission is to promote world peace and understanding by providing opportunities for youth from different cultures to live together and learn from each other. It also helps youth hostel associations grow and expand hostels. Today, HI, through the International Youth Hostel Federation, represents the interests of more than 3 million hostel users and thousands of property owners worldwide to governments, corporations and the public. Property owners who offer hostel accommodations also receive guidance and support from HI. When properties meet HI's safety, comfort and privacy standards, among others, they display a logo that informs potential travelers that they are approved by the organization. Some hostels only provide lodging to guests who have a membership in HI, while others offer discounts to HI members.
  
  

Considerations

• Unless otherwise specified, expect to forgo maid service and room service at a hostel. Most do not provide towels, but many provide linens, sometimes for a fee. In short, you will be expected to do your own cleaning and leave your room the way it was when you arrived. Because you may share a room with strangers, you can often rent a locker for your valuables. Some hostels have luggage storage facilities. Each hostel that participates in the International Youth Hostel Federation program will also provide a list of its services, guest guidelines and amenities. Your best guides to choosing a hostel that fits your needs and your budget are reviews from previous visitors.