⭐ Guide to become a backpacker hostel expert

What do you need to do to have a great stay in a hostel?
You need three things: 1) choose the right hostel (either a five-star hostel, a social hostel, or a more family-oriented hostel), 2) come with a positive and open-minded attitude, and 3) be social but prudent when mingling with other guests.

How to identify if the reviews online are from real guests?
Check the reviews from websites like booking.com or hostelworld.com because the reviews are genuine as these websites require the writer to make a reservation to post an individual’s reviews. Basically, you need to pay for an accommodation booking and only able to write a review when your reservation is due.

How to book a hostel?
Just Google the city you would like to go and search the keyword ‘hostel’ e.g. Adelaide hostel. Next, choose the dates that you plan to stay and the results will show you a list of the best hostels in the selected city.

How long are you able to stay in a hostel?
Depending on the country and the hostel, the most common time frame is generally up to two weeks.

What does curfew mean?
It is a cut-off time that guest must return to the property.

Why do hostels have age limits?
Some hostels establish min and max age restrictions. The reason being is to create a certain atmosphere and the easiest way to do it is by making sure all guests are within a certain age range.

Are hostels good for students?
Hostels do provide a good atmosphere for study. They may be a better option as compared to student accommodation because the rules are more flexible and sometimes students need some break from studying too long.

Which is better, a hostel or an Airbnb?
Airbnb are direct competitor to motels and 3 or 4-star hotels. The reason Airbnb are unable to compete directly with hostels is that the hostels offer something an Airbnb can never imitate - a social atmosphere. This is the key factor that the hostel industry is able to stand against Airbnb.

Is Airbnb cheaper than a hostel?
Hostels will always be cheaper and give you more value for the money. For example, complimentary breakfast and in-house tours service.

Do hostels make money?
If they are being carefully managed, yes. The key asset value behind the hostel industry is the real estate element as hostels are usually situated in good locations and hence create value.

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