How to Find Hostels in Europe

Hostels are often available on a walk-in basis, but during peak travel times, advance reservations are recommended. Before you leave, contact a travel agent or an online booking center, where you can make reservations from 48 hours to six months ahead of time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hostel Guides
• Local Guidebooks
• Maps
• Passport Services
• Maps

1. Start asking around before you go to Europe. Visit Web sites and/or go to hostel chat rooms to get information and recommendations on the best places to stay. Also consult guidebooks or hostel directories.

2. Invest in a Hostels of Europe Discount Card. At a cost of less than $20, the card entitles you to discounts at independent hostels and on other travel services. Purchase the card online at Hostels of Europe.

3. Buy a membership from Hostelling International if you plan to stay in hostels affiliated with that organization.

4. Make a list of hostels where you intend to stay along the way. Use maps and guidebooks as well as personal recommendations to make your list. Make reservations at those hostels before traveling, if possible.

5. Call the hostel a few days in advance (if you have not made a reservation previously) and see if you can reserve a bed for the day of your arrival. If not, plan to arrive at the hostel early in the morning to secure a bed.

6. Ask to see a room when you arrive and discuss the services offered at that particular hostel. If you are not happy with what you find, look elsewhere while it's still early in the day.

7. If the room looks satisfactory and you've decided to stay, show your passport to the management and pay in advance for the number of nights you wish to stay.

Tips & Warnings

• Many hostels offer a variety of options, from large rooms with several bunks to one-bedroom accommodations. Choose according to your budget.
• Most towns in Europe have a town square with an information booth; if the booth is closed, look for signs with the international symbol of the youth hostel.
• Experts say that the best hostels are independently run. Word-of-mouth recommendations are your best source when choosing these hostels.
• Many hostels have curfews; make sure you are aware of yours so you don't get locked out of your room at night. (Note that independently run hostels are less likely to have a curfew than Hostelling International hostels.)
• Never leave valuables at a hostel. Carry them with you in a money belt, or stow them in a locker.

[yemyat]

on 6/8/2009 Very nice post..Thanks a lot!