Staying in a hostel

Posted by davidjbutler.info on January 13, 2009 under Hostel Life | Be the First to Comment

Afraid?

So was I.  Before I left on my adventure to Ireland I had never stayed, nor considered life, in a hostel.  After nearly three months having my primary residence a hostel, it is not bad.  I actually enjoy it.  It reminds me of my first year in University.

My first hostel was the Four-Courts in Dublin, Ireland.  I booked a bed in a 6-bed room as the concept of a “12-bed Dormatory” seemed quite intimidating.  However, as my stay extended from 1-week, I realized that there is nearly no functional difference between the two.  Either way you are sharing a room, and nearly all non-private rooms are the same.  People get up in the night, come in late, etc, but I believe that the bigger rooms are more beneficial.

A long-term traveller appears more likely to book into a larger room, while a short-term partier will pick a smaller room.  This has meant that I have had a better sleep in the larger rooms, than in the smaller rooms, as people get up a bit later, are quieter (sneak in if coming in late at night, rather than making a racket).

However, these better sleeps could be a by-product of my accustomization to hostel culture.  I don’t notice cars driving by, while other people have noted the next day “did you hear the accident outside last night”.

If you are planning a trip to a hostel, I would recommend reading the reviews.  If it has a review >75% then you will probably have an enjoyable trip.  Check to see why people have given a bad review.

If you are planning to tour a city, then a hostel with a “no alcohol policy” may be beneficial.  This means that you will not have rowdy guests who will party all evening in the hostel, and be loud in the bunks.  However, if you are looking to party, then this crowd will be one you want to associate with, and the alcohol policy will be a negative aspect.

I have enjoyed stays in both types of hostel, and enjoyed both.  In my opinion it is necessary to determine what you plan to do with your time, and to be aware of what you’re signing up for.