The term 'hostel' is often associated with the gruesome horror film depicting young backpackers who are tortured and sold into human trafficking.

A common misconception is that hostels are dangerous, grungy and crime-filled. The truth is hostels are fun, safe, inexpensive and great way to meet fellow travelers.

Hostels, sometimes called 'backpackers', provide dorm-style accommodations, with shared bedrooms and bathrooms. Some hostels offer private rooms for a higher rate. Shared rooms can be coed or single-sex.

Staying in hostels is similar to college in some ways. When sharing a room, there may be noise if people come in late night or wake up early.

However, the occasional lack of privacy does not mean a lack of security. Hostels provide lockers to keep personal items safe. Most hostels have staff available 24 hours and a late night security policy.

Although amenities range, hostels provide a common kitchen and lounge. The kitchens have all the essentials for cooking. Guests must bring their own food and clean up after using the kitchen. 

Lounge areas often have a TV, DVDs, books, a stereo and board games. Internet is available at hostels for free or a small fee. Some hostels provide free breakfast or feature a free soup of the day. They usually have an outside patio area, courtyard, or front porch where guests can relax. Most hostels allow guests to bring their own alcoholic beverages and drink in the common areas.

 In my experience, nights at hostels usually involve drinking games and socializing between travelers. They're an opportunity to meet diverse travelers from across the world.

Hostels provide maps of the city, sightseeing guides, food listings and other useful information. Many sponsor pub-crawls and have information on activities for young adults. 

When staying at a hostel, guests should bring sandals and a towel for showering. Guest should pack a lock for valuables and earplugs for unwanted noise.

I first discovered hostels while planning a European backpacking trip in 2006. I was a little nervous to stay at a hostel, although I was traveling with a friend.

After my first night at a hostel, I was hooked. I loved the young atmosphere, the amenities and inexpensive rates. Most of all, I loved the people I met and the adventures I had while staying there.

After experiencing hostels abroad, I decided I wanted to stay at a U.S. hostel. Recently, I booked a hostel in New Orleans for spring break with friends. For a six-night stay, I am paying a total of $135.

When booking a hostel, consider the amenities, customer reviews, location, and ranking to ensure a quality experience. To find information about hostel locations, reviews and booking, visit hostels.com, hostelbookers.com, hostelworld.com or hostelz.com.

Photo by Colleen O'Brien

By Colleen O'Brien