Are there any in Europe? I am a 64 year old male traveler who really doesn't to spend a lot of money on lodging. I grew up camping in the U.S. and in Europe. Also are there European campground sites that rent trailors on a per night basis. Thanks Dorsey
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
There are some hostels that are only available for young people. It's pretty easy to find hostels that allow older individuals.
Any travel guide or website will say if you have to be 26 or younger to stay. If it doesn't say, you are probably okay. To be sure, mention your age when you book (I call in the morning before I arrive to beat the later walk-in crowd). If it's a problem you can find other lodging.
Posted by
Nottingham, UK
658 posts
Hi Dorsey
I don't know if you're planning on visiting the UK but if you are the Y.H.A. sounds like it's tailor made for you.
P.S. In the case of the Y.H.A. the word 'youth' in their title is a bit of a misnomer. It is ued by people of all age groups - 'youth' is a state of mind.
Posted by
Danbury, CT, USA
18 posts
Hostels can be a very acceptable option. I always check the reviews on http://bugeurope.com/ to avoid party hostels and those with disgusting housekeeping standards.
Barbara
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
Another site with unbiased reviews is www.hostelz.com. Rick Steves has an article about hostels in the Travel Tips section of this site. Here is the URL: www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/1198hostels.htm.
While I'm on the subject, the Travel Tips section contains articles condensed from Rick's book, Europe Through the Back Door. They make for very helpful reading.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
I'm over 50 and usually stay in Hostels or budget Hotels when travelling, so there's no problem with that. You might find this more difficult in Bavaria, as some of the "chain" Hostels there have an age limit (it may be possible to stay at independant Hostels in that area?).
I'd agree with the previous suggestion to check out YHA / HI Hostels. They're a big chain and the standards are fairly consistent. However in some cases, those staying at those Hostels may be required to have a membership (I found one occasion in Switzerland where they asked for Membership No. at the time I booked). It's not expensive, so that wasn't a big deal.
I've never checked out the possiblity of renting a trailer on a "per night" basis, but I doubt this is offered. Campsites might be located some distance from the centre,so that's not something I would do.
Check out budget Hotels in Rick's books also, as the cost is often not much more than a Hostel.
continued....
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
Dorsey,
continued.....
Staying in Hostels can sometimes be "interesting". Be sure to pack some Ear Plugs, as a snoring room mate can be a considerable distraction when trying to get to sleep (I find that an I-Pod with noise cancelling ear phones works well!). Also, be aware that some Hostels are "co-ed". Some have a bathroom and shower for each room, while others have a "communal" bathroom and shower down the hall. As long as you don't mind that, Hostels are a great place to meet people.
Happy travels!