Hotels and hostels are both forms of lodging and have rather similar names, but the resemblance ends there. Both forms of accommodation are vastly different and suit different types of travelers.
The layout is the primary difference. While hotels tend to be larger affairs with a generally predictable appearance of several individual rooms with a host of amenities, hostels vary in size and layout, which also often vary with the price. The most familiar to American audiences is perhaps the student hostel, resembling a multi-roomed dormitory where most residents share quarters.
These differences in layout also mean that there are significant differences in their price ranges. Hostels, however, almost always fall toward the cheaper end of the scale and come with a number of associated safety risks, the most obvious being the unexpected company that would be sharing the room. Although slightly more secure, hotels tend to lean on the more expensive side, with considerable markups seen in room service alone. They do, however, provide both individual bathrooms and bed linens, making them somewhat more sanitary as well.
In general, hostels work better for backpackers for the reason that they provide cheaper accommodations while adding a certain “roughing it” feel that is usually seen as the point of the backpacking adventure in the first place. Hostels, however, are generally unpredictable due to the many varied people that come to stay there for the night.
These differences in layout also mean that there are significant differences in their price ranges. Hostels, however, almost always fall toward the cheaper end of the scale and come with a number of associated safety risks, the most obvious being the unexpected company that would be sharing the room. Although slightly more secure, hotels tend to lean on the more expensive side, with considerable markups seen in room service alone. They do, however, provide both individual bathrooms and bed linens, making them somewhat more sanitary as well.
In general, hostels work better for backpackers for the reason that they provide cheaper accommodations while adding a certain “roughing it” feel that is usually seen as the point of the backpacking adventure in the first place. Hostels, however, are generally unpredictable due to the many varied people that come to stay there for the night.
For stationary travelers who want to feel more secure or just want to unwind, a hotel is often the best option. Although they can get pricey, they do guarantee both hygienic conditions and a degree of privacy.
I'm Bernell J. Gatlin , Arizona-based travel writer and purveyor of tips and tricks on making the most of your wanderlust. Follow me on Twitter for more updates.
I'm Bernell J. Gatlin , Arizona-based travel writer and purveyor of tips and tricks on making the most of your wanderlust. Follow me on Twitter for more updates.