Traveling is one of the pleasures of life. Especially for backpackers, traveling around the world is a valuable opportunity to meet new cultures and people. However, it is also greatly influenced by the choice of accommodation. In particular, if you are a backpacker, you may be wondering which one is suitable. This time, the title is "Which is better for backpackers to stay: hostels or hotels?"
What is the difference between a hostel and a hotel?
The main difference between hostels and hotels as lodging facilities is the difference in facilities and services.
Hostels are one of the budget-friendly accommodations and are popular with individual and group travelers. The rooms are usually shared spaces and the facilities are simple. For example, from single rooms to large double rooms, there is also a large common space.
A hotel, on the other hand, is one of the luxury lodging establishments with a full range of facilities and services. For example, there are suites, bathtubs, jacuzzis, etc., and there are also 24-hour front desks and restaurants.
However, hostels are characterized by being budget-friendly and have a sociable atmosphere as many people stay together. Hotels, on the other hand, are characterized by high-end facilities and services and respect for privacy, but are often more expensive.
Benefits of hostel
The biggest advantage of hostels is that they are budget friendly. The room is a common space and the facilities are simple, so the accommodation fee is low.
Another advantage is the social atmosphere. You will be staying with other guests so you can make new friends during your trip. Especially attractive for backpackers.
Additionally, hostels are a good choice for traveling destinations. For example, if you are in a city or tourist area, there are many restaurants and shops in the area, and it is easily accessible, so it is easy to access the tourist attractions of your travel destination.
However, since the hostel is a shared space, there are some privacy considerations. Also, there are few facilities and services, so it is not suitable for long-term stays.
Disadvantages of hostels
The biggest disadvantage of hostels is that they are shared spaces. The room is a shared space, and there is also a shared space with the person next to you, so there is a point where you have to consider privacy.
Another disadvantage is the lack of facilities and services. For example, rooms may not have air conditioning or refrigerators and may have shared bathrooms and toilets, so privacy should be considered.
In addition, hostels are not suitable for long-term stays. For example, if you stay for a long time, you may not be able to spend comfortably because there are few facilities and services.
On the other hand, if it's more suitable for a short stay or a tourist destination, it might be a good choice because it's budget-friendly and has a sociable atmosphere. However, it is important to consider privacy, facilities, and services when choosing.
Benefits of the hotel
The advantage of a hotel is that it has high-end facilities and services. There are suites, bathtubs, jacuzzis, etc. There is also a 24-hour front desk and restaurant.
Another advantage is that privacy is respected. The rooms are individual spaces and are well equipped, making them suitable for those who value privacy.
Moreover, it is suitable for long stays. For example, when businessmen and international students stay for a long period of time, they can spend a comfortable time because of the extensive facilities and services.
However, hotels tend to be more expensive due to their high-end facilities and services. Also, there is no social atmosphere, so if you stay alone, you may feel lonely.
Disadvantages of hotels
There are many disadvantages of hotels.
One is the high price. Prices rise significantly, especially in popular destinations and tourist seasons.
Another is limited space. Hotel rooms are generally small and can't match your style. Also, if you are staying for a long time, you tend to lack the facilities and equipment you need to live a comfortable life.
Finally, some hotels have noisy environments. Voices from the next room and outside noises can disturb your sleep.
Hostels are recommended for backpackers!
All in all, hostels offer better value for money than hotels and are affordable for backpackers on a tight budget. Also, since hostels have many common spaces, one of the attractions is that you can interact with other backpackers.
For example, Interheibr in Europe is a popular destination for backpackers. There are many hostels with common areas at relatively cheap rates. This means that travelers can enjoy their stay according to their own style.
summary
I said that hostels are recommended for backpackers, but it would be better to decide for yourself after considering the advantages and disadvantages of hostels and hotels, including conclusions, budgets, and schedules.
Based on the above, let's go to various places as a backpacker!