For those of you who already walks cheap (backpacking) abroad, perhaps the hostel has become a familiar haven.
Hostel is a good option in between free stay at a friend / brother and hotels are relatively expensive. Besides the price fits in the pocket, some hostels are also very flexible in booking and facilities are sometimes no less with two or three star hotel.
With online reservations, book a bed at the hostel be easy. When the friends you suddenly can not host, or when you want only 24-hour layover somewhere, so the hostel reserves the right plan.
After all, with this convenience comes some considerations that remain if not observed would backfire for yourself. What are the things that must be observed when ordering hostel?
Location
More than anything, the location is very important. First, learn first means of transportation you will use when it arrived in a city. Is the location of the hostel can be easily reached by bus, train, taxi or even close to the airport?
The location is too far away, in foreign-speaking country, would complicate and add costs. Not to mention if you are more berkelling in the city center, for example, but the remote location of the hostel on the outskirts. Location also determines the security. Check the history of the region / district where the hostel is located.
Facilities
Learn what facilities are offered at a hostel. Do not until you pay expensive but facilities are not complete as the cheaper hostels. A good hostel has: (a) website (better if there are reservations online) that contains price information and photo gallery; (b) means good security such as safes and electronic keys; (c) free wireless Internet connection to rooms, because it is important for travel information, reservations and further communication with the outside world.
Extra facilities such as washing machine / washing clothes or breakfast can also be an added value. Oh yes, try to check also the provision of bed sheets because some hostels recommend you bring your own linens. Do not until you add the cost to rent sheets and pillowcases!
Payment
Online reservation is divided into two: the reservation deposit / full of credit cards and reservations in writing via email without payment in advance. Decide which one is most comfortable for you. There are times when the reservation deposit (usually only about $ 1-2) became the most convenient because there are ties.
Reservation with full payment is only made to a place that you truly believe or have ever visited. Email reservation without payment can be a little risky because there is no certainty, but note the tone and professionalism of the hostel. Keep proof of your reservation to be printed in order to manufacture and when in the immigration visa if necessary.
Ask the hostel what happens when you cancel a reservation for one reason or another. Whether they will return all funds that you have to pay? Or there are other provisions such as cancellations made at least 24 hours before arrival? Do not get lost!
Price
Cheapest price is usually for a class dormitories with bunk beds. In one room, there are usually four to a dozen beds - male and female mixed. The highest prices paid, of course, if any, are the rooms inhabited by one person. Bathrooms are usually shared. If you are traveling alone, so the ideal dorm so cheap. If you go with more than four people, you can rent a room.
After considering all, enjoy your experience at the hostel, which became a meeting place for the traveler with a variety of interests. Use this opportunity to mingle, but still respect. A good hostel owners are usually also able to talk with the familiar. Who knows, you can get a good friend or a good offer for the next excursion.
By Sigit Adinugroho. Sigit Adinugroho blog can be visited on his journey, www.ranselkecil.com
