Most people often associate hostels as a cheap option which doesn’t compare to hotels. This is a misconception. Unless you compare hostels with 4-star hotels, hostels have their own unique values that make people opt for them instead of a budget hotel.
Hostels Offer a Unique Travelling Experience
If you are a frequent traveller, you will get used to the common theme of most hotels, especially hotel chains. The surprise factor is low when it comes to interior design, amenities and customer service. Big hotels refer to this as their consistent service quality, and while that’s a good thing, it may cause predictability and boredom.
Hostels, on the other hand, do not have to stick to these corporate standards. Many hostels are locally owned, and each owner has a different taste when it comes to decoration. Therefore, each hostel is separate, not only in their interior design but also their amenities and service quality. You may come across chic hostels with Instagram-ready decor.
You get to feel that familiar, friendly atmosphere when stepping into a hostel. There’s no standard greeting such as what you usually experience in a hotel, and the receptionist is more than happy to have a casual chat with you about your journey. Each dorm is different, so are the shared amenities. The best part of staying in a hostel? It’s so affordable that if you don’t like it, you can go to another place without burning a hole in your pocket.
Hostels Are Set Up for People Who Want to Socialise
This doesn’t mean all people who stay in a hotel do not want to socialise. Hotels are designed in a way which puts privacy in the first place. However, privacy has its own disadvantage. Even during breakfast hour, you would not feel comfortable sitting down on the same table with another guest, because you don’t know if they appreciate the company or not. Hostels, on the other hand, are built in a way that fosters socialising. The communal kitchen, lounge, and bar offer the most suitable environment for interacting with other staying guests. At breakfast time, most hostels have long tables where you have to sit with other guests. This forces people to get friendly and chatty as well.
For solo travellers, hostels offer them the chance to meet other people. They will not feel alone during the trip, and if they get lucky, they may strike up some great friendships which can last for life. Many young travellers have found love in a hostel. Many met their ideal travel companion and went on to explore many other amazing places, together.
It is definitely up to you to decide which one you prefer. However, if you have never stayed in a hostel, I suggest that you give it a try.
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