Reblogged from the New York Times. Grupo Habita, the Mexico City-based team behind the upscale Hôtel Americano in New York, is known for taking an unconventional approach to hospitality. Still, its latest property — Downtown Mexico, a hotel within a 17th-century palace in the Centro Histórico district of Mexico City — houses a bit of a surprise: the company’s first hostel, Downtown Beds. Read More.
This article resonated with me. I have friends who emphatically state that they would “never stay in a hostel” when travelling. This is often also the reason they will never travel to as many places as I plan to, because I am open to different accommodation options that are easier on my budget.
I also think that the hostel of today is much, much different from the hostels of yesteryear, filled with bedbugs, grimy backpackers and parties through the night. These hostels still exist, of course, but alongside them are hostels highlighted in the article above – design conscious, painfully hip, almost-luxe experiences that offer all the cleanliness, location, and amenities of a hotel, along with something no hotel can – connections and the social experience of meeting fellow travellers from all around the world, and collecting their stories.
““There’s been an influx of high-profile brands in the market,” said Mr. Chapman ( director general of the Amsterdam-based World Youth Student and Educational Travel Confederation.), “with hostels that are challenging two- and three-star hotels. The difference between these two options is basically the letter ‘s.’ It stands for ‘social.’ “
New York Times, “This is a Hostel?”
What are some of the best hostels you have stayed in on your travels? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Ooohhh I like! I loved hostels, although now older and less agile (and need more personal space) I don’t stay in hostels any more. I can’t remember many of them, possibly because I was young and out all the time but I do remember some good times.
We stayed in a hostel in Singapore that had double beds for couples and hotel style bedding. There were stainless steel appliances, a “play” room with Nintendo, huge tvs and a beautiful garden. Hostels definitely are growing up!
I love hostals, although I don’t use them as much/often as couchsurfing. but when I do, I love to find a sense of peace, design, ecologic feeling. I highly recommend you to stop by Tribu Hostel on Holbox island when you’re in the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico; in Izchayluma when you’re in Vilcabamba, Ecuador; in Hostal Magico when you’re in Cusco, Peru and most of all in erratic rock when you’re in Puerto Natales, Chile, because of all the “green” recycling activities they also manage to organise and be part of around town!
the atmosphere is what makes a good hostel! Keep it up!
Enjoy!
The prettiest was one in Zakopane, Poland…can’t remember the name. It was built in traditional mountain style – like a log cabin. We stayed in the attic room.
But my favorite out of the many, many hostels that I’ve stayed at is Hostel Monmartre in Belgrade, Serbia – It’s decorated in French style, including artworks by the owner’s mother. Not only is the place lovely, but the owners and staff really make you feel welcome and this creates a great atmosphere for all of the guests.
What a fantastic recommendation! Will be sure to put on the list!