Working in a Hostel is a unique experience because you meet people from all over the world. The views of each person staying in a hostel can vary greatly, but in general it gives you an idea of why people choose to stay in a hostel. In the last month alone I have met several people, all with different stories and different reasons for choosing a hostel. One of those people is Hans. When he is asked where he is from, he states: “I am originally from Germany, I prefer Switzerland and I currently live in Ohio in the United States.” Hans put three pins on the map of the hostel that shows where the visitors are from. When I asked him, “Why do you stay in hostels”, Hans said, “I’m retired and I love to travel, but my wife doesn’t like to travel, hostels give me the opportunity to meet people and not feel like I’m travelling.” . alone.” We certainly understand what you mean. There are many ways to meet people in a hostel. If you choose to sleep in a dormitory with other guests, it’s natural to meet the people you share the room with. You can also choose a private room and still have plenty of opportunities to meet other guests in the shared living areas. Many guests cook together, eat together, and share a fun game of pool or a movie in the living room. Hans exclaimed, “It’s a home away from home “.
One day, a middle-aged woman named Tara came to see us. She was staying at a local Bed and Breakfast here in St. Augustine, Florida. She asked if she would give her a discount since her funds were limited. Of course, they told her no and recommended that she come and see what we had to offer. She told us, “I have never stayed in a hostel and I don’t know anything about what they have to offer.” We gave her a tour and she decided to take one of the private rooms. “Just for one night,” she decided cautiously, “until I see if staying here will be comfortable for me.” Even private rooms in a hostel are much less expensive than hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts. It turned out that she is a musician just starting her music career. She was delighted to learn that other musicians were staying at the hostel and that they could introduce her to local venues and musicians. Within days she was playing open mic nights and selling her CD around town. Obviously, she felt very comfortable and she enjoyed her stay at the shelter for several days. When she left, she asked us: “What do I have to do to reserve a room? I’m coming back in a few weeks and I want to stay for a month.” Success! Another convert from the hostel.
You can see in Hans and Tara two very different reasons for staying in a hostel. One loves to travel and meet new people, the other with very limited funds is looking to start a new career. They both stayed longer than originally planned, because they felt right at home. Hostels are gaining popularity not only because of the lower price, but also because of the unique and enjoyable experiences people have in hostels. If you’ve never tried it, why not do what Tara did? Try it for one night. You too might decide that staying in a hostel is the best travel experience today.