Breeana Laughlin, 2011 New Zealand and Sydney Sustainable Business student alumni, writes:
If you’ve never stayed in a hostel before, it can seem like an elusive thing. I had never stayed in a hostel before studying abroad with AUIP. I was pleasantly surprised by a lot of the cool features you get staying at hostels that you wouldn’t get in an everyday hotel or motel accommodation. Here are a couple tips I picked up while staying at hostels while studying abroad.
Unlike staying in a hotel, where you often are limited to eating out or simply microwaving food, hostels provide a full kitchen facility. This is a great way to save money and bond with your fellow travelers. If you are staying at a hostel multiple days, I recommend going to the supermarket the first day and buying enough supplies to last you through your stay. Odds are, you will end up eating healthier, you will save yourself the hassle of trying to find somewhere to go out, and you could the cost of food in half. It’s also fun to plan a dinner with a group of friends. You can split up cooking and grocery duties, and have yummy feast that tastes even better because everyone played a part in making it.
Nomads Queenstown, New Zealand program
In hostels, you often room with multiple people. While traveling with AUIP, you will never stay with anyone outside your study abroad group or with the opposite sex. Sharing a hostel room with your fellow travelers is a great way to get to know each other. Plus, for females in particular, it’s great to share things like hairdryers and anything else you may have forgotten. Just make sure you give back anything you borrow in good condition. Also, be respectful of eachothers belongings by keeping your key on you, and remembering to the lock the door when you leave.
Often, hostels have shared bathroom facilities. They tend to be adequate, but if everyone in the group needs to be somewhere at the same time – its’ a good idea to plan ahead so you won’t be late. It could be a good idea to shower the night before, or get up a little early to beat the rush. Bathroom facilities are kept clean, but if you are squeamish about sharing, bring along a pair of flip flops to wear in the shower.
Cape Tribulation Beachouse, North Queensland program
Another neat feature about hostels is their common areas. They often have comfy couches and other places to socialize. You won’t regret going a little bit out of your comfort zone and getting to know some of the other hostel patrons. It’s an entertaining and often eye-opening experience getting to know people from all over the globe! Of course, always keep in mind common-sense safety rules.
Staying at hostels during my study abroad experience helped me realize all of their benefits. Now, even while traveling solo, I tend to choose hostels for my accommodation. Not only do they save money, it’s a great way to meet people too.
