The Pick of Budget Accommodation across the Globe
The conventional image of hostels as backpacker haunts with only the most basic facilities has been transformed thanks to a new trend in high-quality budget accommodation.
With modern amenities and a dash of individuality and flair to recommend them, contemporary hostels have got all the atmosphere and opportunities for socializing which have made them so popular – but with a standard that belies the price.
With a stunning view of the castle, a bright interior and artwork on every wall, Castle Rock is a funky mix of the old and new. On the doorstep of the sights and sounds of the Royal Mile, the hostel has a decidedly cool vibe throughout its grand, high-ceilinged social areas.
With spacious, comfortable dorm rooms (beds, no bunks) and top-quality modern facilities, Greg Tom Hostel is just a few minutes from Krakow’s Main Square. There’s a huge daily buffet breakfast (helpfully served till 11am for the party fans) and a variety of entertaining cultural evenings, from vodka ‘tasting’ sessions to specialty Polish dinners.
Miss Sophie’s is a surprisingly affordable boutique hostel with an excellent location away from the tourist traps in the heart of Prague’s New Town. Housed in an attractive historical building, inside, it’s all modern minimalist decor and super-stylish rooms.
“The conventional image of hostels as backpacker haunts with only the most basic facilities has been transformed.”A lively hostel in one of the world’s ultimate fast-paced cities, affordable beds at LOFTSTEL have all the mod-cons and technology you’d find in a hotel. With three kitchens, several separate living spaces and complimentary internet and phone access, it’s designed with comfort and budget in mind.
Hostel Clan offers travelers a cultural experience thanks to lively nights of barbecued Argentinean steak and free Spanish lessons. In downtown Buenos Aires, it’s a great base for exploring the city on foot – or on wheels with the hostel’s free bike hire.
With The Flying Pig Uptown’s bar serving some of cheapest drinks in town, it’s a lively base for a break in this vibrant city. This friendly hostel comes with all facilities included in the price and a terrace overlooking the Leidseplein.
A brand-new, purpose-built hostel on the canal in the revitalized 19th district, St Christopher’s has a separate ‘Oasis’ floor for female travelers. There’s a restaurant and nightclub onsite and regular live music at the bar gives this hostel more than just a touch of the famous Parisian cool.
Located in the center of the ancient town, Silver Gate offers travelers a cheap bed with a serious view — all the air-conditioned rooms look out over the 4th century Diocletian’s Palace. The beach and the shops and cafes of Split are also right nearby.
The Northern Greenhouse is a quality resort-style hostel with a games room, swimming pool, BBQ and entertainment deck to keep visitors amused. The modern complex has shared and private rooms (all with air-con) suitable for every budget traveler.
Situated among the winding alleys of Alfama and Bairro Alto’s nightclubs, Smile Hostel is close to both culture and nightlife in Lisbon. With a friendly atmosphere and newly renovated rooms, guests are free to hit the city’s bars, or, alternatively, stay in and enjoy the chilled-out surroundings and plasma TV.
Editor’s note: You can book any of these hostels or thousands of others through the booking form on the sidebar.
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Written by: Ali Woolliams
Posted on: Wednesday, August 13th, 2008
Posted in: Articles, Explore
Responses: Just one comment
