This section of euro.ca is devoted to hostel vacationing in Europe. Hostelling is a great way for Canadians to vacation but it may not be for everyone. We’ve put together some information that we hope will help you understand hostelling a bit better.

The non-profit group International Youth Hostel Federation governs hostelling in Europe. Membership is required in order to use hostels across Europe and must be bought in your home country. For Canadians an individual hostel membership costs $35 and is good for hostels around the world. In Canada you can by your membership at a variety of travel agents and ticket outlets across the country. If you’re a university student you may be able to buy your membership on campus.

Hostelling is an economical way to vacation in Europe. Hostels provide good clean accommodation that is much less than a regular hotel room. The Federation has standards for all hostels that are checked regularly by inspectors and commented on by visitors. Clean, freshly laundered linen; secure lockers for your luggage and valuables plus privacy in showers, washing areas and toilets are some of the standards that are maintained.

Most people think of hostelling in terms of big dormitories, but big dormitories are becoming increasingly rare in the Hostelling International network. Many hostels now offer single, twin and four-bedded rooms.

Hostels are open to people of all ages, backgrounds, origins and interests. When you hostel you’ll find first-time travelers, seasoned travelers, lone travelers or people in groups. When you hostel you’ll also come into closer contact with the locals, which can make the entire trip more memorable.
European countries that you can hostel in include, England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Switzerland, Netherlands, Luxembourg, France, Germany, Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Spain and Portugal to name but a few. An added bonus is that you can reserve accommodation as you travel from hostel to hostel using their on-line Internet booking system. But don’t forget to order Eurail Pass before you leave!

Hostels can be found anywhere, from big cities to the countryside so you have a lot of options to choose from. Hostels also offer discounts to people who are members. In Belgium for example people with a valid Federation membership card can get reduced travel insurance and international telephone calls.

Hostels provide good clean basic accommodation for people who are traveling on a budget, but hostels may not be for everyone. If you’re the type person that needs more space, enjoys lots of peace and quiet or you simply prefer a little extra privacy, luxury and comfort, hostelling may not be for you.

On the other hand if you’re the type of traveler that enjoys meeting people and you’re traveling on a budget then hostelling may be perfect.