When you picture hostels, you might envision worn-down buildings, dorm rooms packed with up to 30 beds, a non-stop party atmosphere, and exclusively for youth. However, over the past few years, this has changed dramatically with many hostels providing travellers with a modern, clean, and private setting that puts old ideas of hostels to bed.

Indeed, guests can seven stay in luxurious $500/night hotel-esque private rooms that are far cry from in a far cry from old barracks style rooms of old.

As Europe’s largest hostel chain with over 28,000 beds, a&o’s explains how hostels aren’t how you remember them and how they’ve modernized:

A modern and clean design that mirrors a hotel stay

Each of a&o’s locations provide rooms with a sleek and modern design reminiscent of a hotel room. Additionally, their policy ensures each of their guests get a refreshed room with every stay.

The option for private rooms rather than large dorms

The brand offers travellers the option to book a private room with an en-suite bathroom rather than bunk rooms – whether you’re travelling by yourself, with your significant other or even in a larger group.

Welcoming of all ages and group sizes – including families

People might tend to view hostels as being made for young, college aged travellers that are looking for a cheap place to stay. In fact, over 70% of a&o’s travellers are over age 25. The Hostels also boasts many kid-friendly amenities, such as a Kids’ Corner stocked with loads of entertainment from toys and colouring books to card games. Also kids stay for free at a&o.

 Hostels have designed female dorms in response to the rise in solo female travellers

Virtuoso’s recent fall travel insights shared that females make up a 71% of solo travellers and hostels are taking note. In response, a&o has created newly updated female dorms that are affordable.

Hostels are becoming a more sustainable way of travelling

As eco-conscious travellers become important, hostels are helping to create a roadmap for the hospitality industry. a&o’s has plans to be net zero this year and currently has a CO2 footprint of 3.73 kg. per night, which is 75% less than emissions in 2015.

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