Study Abroad Main  >  Hostels/Accomodations

Budget accommodations

Youth hostels are not only for youth. Hostels are a form of lodging that commonly caters to students and other adventurous travelers. Many hostels ask for a Hostelling International membership card available on the web at www.hihostels.org.

Other great places to find affordable lodging for your travels:

www.goabroad.com

hotels.com

www.formule1hotel.com or etaphotel.com (Europe)

          What is a hostel?   Hostelling is low cost accommodation in a fun environment. Hostels are comfortable, environmentally sensitive places for budget-minded travelers to lodge for the night. A friendly, people-oriented place filled with others who are looking for the same things you are - adventure, excitement and an opportunity to discover this marvelous world. 

          What can I expect?    The lowest prices just about anywhere. For a fraction of the cost of a hotel, you can bunk in the countryside, islands, villages and major cities. Dorm-style rooms: boys in one dorm, girls in the other. Many hostels have private rooms for families, couples and groups that will suit you just fine. Check in at evening time, check out after breakfast. The spirit of hostelling is to get out and explore the world.

         You can stow your luggage in lockers until you are ready to return.Do-it-yourself kitchens. Swap recipes with folds from every corner of the earth, and have a ball exploring the local grocery stores. Bring your own linens. Hostels provide the bed, blanket and pillow-you bring your own sleeping bag or sheets, pillowcase and towels (or pay a small fee to rent). Help tidy up in the morning. You are usually asked to clean up after yourself, and possibly help with light housekeeping before check out. With everyone pitching in, the place is spotless in no time.

         The best travel information. Not only will you have access to the hostel's extensive information about what to do locally, but you'll be meeting people who have already been where you're going, and can give you the inside scoop on the best places to eat, shop and sightsee.

         Reservations. Although reservations are suggested during peak travel seasons (summer) and major events, they are not required. You can book reservations through an international booking agency online. Memberships. Some hostels are members of an organization called Hostelling International. These hostels require you to purchase a yearly membership to stay there. Other hostels do not require any sort of membership card. 

         Locations. There are hostels all around the world, including in the United States. Some are in converted castles; some are cabins in the woods, some are downtown in a big metropolitan area.