The following guide is taken from 'The Virgin Travellers' Handbook' by Tom Griffiths, Founder of gapyear.com

Click here >> to see this book

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When you arrive at the ‘Backpackers’/hostel...

 

Have a quick look around before you decide to stay... or book for one night and then make a decision in the morning.

 

1. Make sure there is someone there who can show you around
2. Is there a safe facility for your valuables?
3. Where is the clean linen? Bathroom? Cooking facilities? Washing machines? (are they free?)
4. Are the dorms single sex or mixed?
5. Are meals provided (occasionally they are free) - where are they served and what time?
6. Some places have pets for security or for the amusement of the guests - are you allergic?
7. What are the rooms like? - can you see one?

A couple of things to look for

 

1. Does the price you’ve been quoted match the tariff at reception?
2. Does this include breakfast? Are there any other hidden costs?
3. Can the windows be secured for safety, but opened in an emergency?
4. Are there emergency exits, and can you use them?
5. Are there smoke detectors?

 

This may seem a bit over the top, but when you see the state of a few of these places, you have to wonder... they have packed us all in, blocked off the emergency exits to make another room and get more beds in... what if the whole place goes up???

NB if they are full, ask them what you should do. They will know other places in the area and, as travellers themselves (most of them), won’t want to see you stranded.