|
If
you've never travelled on your own before thebn the thought of staying
in a hostel could be very intimidating. You'll inevitably have some
anxieties about what it'll be like, but if you've picked one of
our quality hostels and you take our tips into consideration, chances
are you'll have the time of your life.
1.
GET TO KNOW THE HOSTEL
Put your stuff in your room and take a minute to take in your surroundings.
Is the bed comfortable? Are there other people in your room? Walk
around the hostel and get to know the common areas - you will likely
find it to be a very relaxed and calm environment.
2.
CHOOSE YOUR HOSTEL ROOM: COED or SINGLE SEX
Female travelers, especially those traveling alone, will want to
pick a hostel with female-only rooms. They're usually cleaner and
quieter. However Co-ed rooms tend to be a lot of fun and you will
meet and bond with other people much faster.
3.
PICK A BOTTOM BUNK IN YOUR HOSTEL ROOM
When you pick or are assigned a bed, try to get a bottom bunk. They're
much easier to get in and out of and provide a more comfortable
space for you to settle into. Plus nobody wants to go up stairs
after a few beers!
4.
BEDDING IS PROVIDED BUT BRING A BATH TOWEL
Hostels listed on our site are quality hostels. Quality Hostels
provide bedding and a pillow. You can expect nice clean bedding
to be ready for your arrival. Some hostels hire out towels but bring
your own.
5.
BRING SOAP & SHAMPOO
Unless you've booked one of our 5 star hostels. Soap and shampoo
are not normally provided in hostels, so bring them. Also if you
never booked an en suite room then your bathroom facilities are
shared - if you've ever showered in a dormitory, you'll remember
that flip flops for the shower are a must have. You'll be happy
you have them.
6.
BRING EARPLUGS
This doesn't mean hostels are always going to be loud - but, when
sharing rooms, some people do snore so it will never be completely
noise-free, so bring some earplugs and you'll be fine.
7.
DRESS IN LAYERS
Hostels do have central heating but if you are staying in a refurbished
castle sometimes it can get a bit cold during the night. It's amazing
how much heat a room-full of people can generate just from their
bodies, so dress in layers when you go to sleep.
8.
VALUABLES
Do you leave your money, passport and other valuables laying around
in your private room? I didn't think so. So, the same applies here
- if the hostel offers a locker or a safe, use it.
9.
DON'T BE SHY MAKE NEW FRIENDS AT THE HOSTEL
You will usually always find people talking, reading, or checking
their emails. Most hostelers are more than happy to have a stranger
join their conversation, so don't be shy. Introduce yourself and
share something about your travel plans. Hostels are the best places
to meet other people, make friends and share valuable travel tips.
10.
RELAX HAVE FUN AND ENJOY
In general, backpackers and budget travelers are a decent trustworthy
bunch, so just relax, get to know people, have fun and enjoy the
ride!
|