Are Hostels for Older Folks Too?

Ray,

No, you're not too old for Hostels. The only age restriction I'm aware of is that some Hostels in Bavaria only allow younger travellers (if you're in that area, use a budget hotel instead). I'm 50+ as well, and usually stay in Hostels partially on each trip. However, since I travel solo I usually end up in a Dorm room (which is fine, especially as the price is usually good). Some Hostels have double rooms which are great for couples, however these often book-up fairly quickly.

The breakfasts vary a bit by area. Some are quite substantial, while others are a fairly basic "continental" breakfast. Rather than the somewhat personalized service provided by a B&B, Hostels are often "cafeteria style" (grab a tray and move along the line).

I've found that some Hostels are better than others. The "chain" Hostels such as HI usually have fairly predictable facilities, which are much the same from one city to another. Some of the independent Hostels that I've used have been great also. I try to use a combination of Hostels and budget Hotels on each trip, and I tend to compare the price of a Hostel stay against that of a budget Hotel (I often stay at the Hotels listed in RIck's books). Often the price is not that much different.

Happy travels!

I never stayed in a hostel, but from what I heard, some hostels are for all ages, and some are only for the young. Most hostels I've heard about are like dorms. You sleep with strangers, and some are noisy and hard to sleep. But some do have private rooms, but have to share a bath, few private rooms have a private bath. There are a lot of questions to ask for each hostel you are interested in staying in. I like cheaper hotels better, but still cost more than a hostel. B&B's have more charm, and more expensive than a hostel.
I'm sure you'll get many replies from people that have stayed in hostels, but what I'm telling you here is what I've heard from many travelers. I personally will never stay in a hostel. I love my privacy.

Rick on hostels: "I've hosteled most in northern Europe, where hostels are more comfortable and the savings over hotels more exciting. I rarely hostel in the south, where hostels are less common and two or three people can sleep just as cheaply in a budget hotel. Big city hostels are the most overrun by young backpackers. Rural hostels are usually quiet and frequented by a more mature crowd.""Hostels are not hotels--not by a long shot. Many people hate hostels. Others love them and will be hostelers all their lives, regardless of their budgets. Hosteling is a philosophy. A hosteler trades service and privacy for a chance to live simply and communally with people from around the world."Most hostels charge per person and thus in some parts of Europe a budget B&B may be about the same cost as a hostel for 2 persons.

We are fans of hostels. My wife and I, both 84 always stay in a hostel (so far 17 different ones) when we can because of the other travelers we meet and the intimate family atmosphere. And the low cost of accommodations.

We often trade travel stories and help others plan sightseeing. When we have a car we have taken others to nearby locations and often asked for the same courtesy when we don't have a car.

Hostels have fewer amenities than B&Bs, but you dont have to pay for them.

Rooms in hostels are smaller (and cheaper) but adequate. Meals are much better in B&Bs but cost more.

If you have never stayed in a hostel, I would suggest trying one. That's the only way you can know if you will like it. Do a google search for 'Rome hostels' and the same for other towns. You can find one for the part of town you desire.

Most hostels have community kitchens where you can prepare your meals. Not so in B&Bs. Some hostels furnish linens; always ask beforehand.

CArl,, kudos to you and your wife for travelling, and being travellers more then just tourists,, at your age,, at any age, but really EIGHTY FOUR,, you rock!

I am close to 50 and have stayed at many hostels in Europe. If you are headed to Rome, check out the Beehive. It is recommended in Ricks book on Italy and is a beautiful hostel, small hotel and art space. I stayed in a room with 8 bunkbeds and it was absolutely great. I would do it again in a heartbeat. I paid about $20.00 per night.