What's a hostel?

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A hostel (also known as youth hostel, though popular among all ages ) is an alternative accommodation for adventurous travelers, backpackers, students, or anybody young at heart or low on budget. It is very inexpensive in comparison with hotels and inns, but offers fewer amenities and reduced privacy.

People who want to experience new cities in an exciting yet affordable atmosphere, with an opportunity to meet other travelers and like-minded visitors, usually select this supervised lodging option.  People come for either for an overnight stay during a trip through town, or for an extended visit to check out a location's tourist attractions.

Almost every European city (as well as large Asian, Middle-Eastern, Australian, and South American cities) has at least one (often several) hostel(s) providing an attractive environment for vacationing students, backpackers, eco-travelers, who are social, friendly adventure-seekers. Some large US cities have hostels as well.

Dictionary synonyms for "hostel": guesthouse, inn, lodge, youth hostel.