A hostel means simply a shared accommodation. Instead of staying in a private room with a private bathroom, you stay in a dorm room sharing the room with other people. However, over the time a hostel has became a hotspot for travelers to mingle. Hostels have evolved to be more than a bed to sleep in. There is common areas, a kitchen to share, events and now as well even private rooms. That being said: A hostel has always been and will always be: A place to meet other people!


Hostel vs Hotel

By now you should have seen that hostels are certainly not hotels. There is a big difference. Here a few differences, but keep in mind this is very generally speaking: 

  1. Hostels are more traditionally budget-oriented. However, nowadays you can find cheaper hotel rooms than private hostel rooms. It all depends on the season and destination. 
  2. Hostels have programs like book exchange, social events, movie nights.
  3. Hostels are more casual, while hotels are more formal.
  4. Hostels have social areas usually set up for people to mingle. Hotel are more private. Even the lounge is more for dining in private and having a drink. 
  5. Hotels are usually higher quality.
So at least the cliché. Compare it with the 5 Star Hostels and you will learn this is not the case anymore.