When planning a trip, especially for the budget-conscious and adventure-driven traveler, selecting the right hostel is a crucial decision that can profoundly impact the overall experience. It’s not just about finding a place to sleep; it’s about choosing a base that enhances your travel journey. This selection process involves carefully balancing various factors that contribute to a memorable stay. The key criteria include the location of the hostel, its cleanliness and hygiene standards, and, of course, the price. Each of these elements plays a significant role in shaping your adventures, interactions, and even your culinary experiences in a new city. In this guide, we delve into these crucial aspects, offering insights and tips to help you make the best choice for your travel needs and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a first-time traveler, understanding how to weigh these factors will ensure that your hostel not only meets your basic needs but also enriches your exploration of new destinations.
1. Location
The first criterion to consider is proximity to the city center. While public transportation, including metro networks, is often comprehensive in Europe, it’s generally preferable to stay near the city center. Most tourist attractions, especially in cities with a historical section often referred to as the “Old Town,” are located in this area. For instance, in Istanbul, the equivalent area is Sultanahmet and its surroundings, home to the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace, and Sultanahmet Mosque.
Many travelers, especially those visiting Istanbul, opt to stay in or near this area. Locations further out, like Şirinevler, might not be ideal for a traveler. When traveling, immersing oneself in the city by walking, exploring unknown streets, discovering new places, and meeting different people is part of the backpacker experience. This approach aligns with what Eduardo Galeano, a renowned Uruguayan literary figure, described in his interview in the 2nd issue of Magma Magazine about his trip to Istanbul: “We traveled with our own means, like tourists without a guide. We were never lost and communicated with your people through the universal language of hands and gestures.” Staying in the city center or the old town allows for easy exploration, saving money on transportation, and access to vibrant venues, diverse dining options, and possibly even free events.
2. Cleaning and Hygiene
The second criterion is cleanliness. Personal standards might vary, but cleanliness remains a crucial factor. To gauge the cleanliness of hostels, it’s essential to read user reviews, especially on platforms like Booking.com, where users often provide accurate feedback on this aspect. While photos on the internet usually depict tidy rooms and clean facilities, user comments offer a more realistic view. However, it’s important to be reasonable in expectations; for example, wrinkled but clean linens in a budget accommodation shouldn’t be a significant concern. It’s about finding a balance between affordability and basic hygiene.
3. Price
The third criterion is the hostel’s price. Budget is a primary concern for many travelers, and the cost often influences the decision-making process. When searching for accommodation, it’s practical to start with options that fit your budget, then evaluate them based on other criteria. It’s worth noting that rooms accommodating more people generally cost less since you’re essentially renting a bed rather than a room. However, rooms with fewer occupants, though more expensive, can offer a more peaceful and less chaotic experience. Balancing the cost with the number of occupants can lead to a more enjoyable stay, and paying slightly more for fewer roommates can be a worthwhile investment.
