Gone is the concept of a hostel or hostel linked to the accommodation of backpackers without great pretensions. The boom in this type of establishment experienced in recent years has had its main ally in the millennial generation, who are no longer satisfied with a place to spend the night, but rather seek to turn the stay into an experience in itself.
From the traditional hostel located in large cities, the hostel has evolved into a lodging formula that continues to be cheaper than a conventional hotel, but with shared services, spaces and amenities. It often occupies a unique building in trendy or emblematic neighborhoods where it is not usually easy to stay, but you can discover some interesting ones in tourist locations.
Its main asset is socialization. It stands as a meeting point for travelers from any corner of the planet, offers all types of activities and opens the door to greater interaction with the environment. The majority agree on meticulous care of a youthful aesthetic and on the design of casual common areas and spaces reserved for relaxation and tranquility, in addition to having shared and private rooms. Its uniqueness is part of its charm. And no two hostels are the same.
For almost two decades, the Hostelworld portal has awarded the Hoscars, unique awards that recognize the best hostels around the world, based on user opinions. To do this, aspects such as security, location, value for money, atmosphere, cleanliness, facilities or staff are taken into account. Among the five establishments recognized in 2023 – each one stands out for a specific aspect – we find one Spanish one: the St Christopher’s Inn Barcelona, ??located in the heart of the Catalan capital. Do you want to meet them?
Located in front of Perequê-Açu beach, in Ubatuba, a town in the Brazilian state of São Paulo surrounded by the tropical forests of the Serra do Maren National Park, the Green Haven Hostel is an establishment recognized for its contribution to the community. It stands out for its wide range of activities in the area – surfing stands out among them -, lively exclusive parties, and participation in actions with clear social responsibility, such as beach cleaning, which is carried out every month.
Its facilities house both shared and private rooms with sea views, some of them with a communal kitchen. The establishment, recognized on more than one occasion as the best hostel in Brazil and in 2020, best in Latin America, also has a bar and a games area with a pool table.
Respect for the environment has earned it recognition from travelers. Located on Bergara Street, in the heart of Barcelona, ??a stone’s throw from the Rambla and very well connected to the main tourist spots, St Christopher’s Inn is a modern hostel that occupies a carefully restored building. Winner of multiple awards, it is known for its festive atmosphere and its leisure offerings, which include cocktail workshops, cooking sessions or wine tastings and guided tours of the city. In addition to both private and shared rooms, it has a bar-restaurant, Belushi’s, a courtyard garden and a sunny terrace with views.
Reference of a new generation of shelters, it uses solar panels to generate energy, recycles water, reduces the use of plastics and food waste, and promotes awareness campaigns in this regard.
A year after its opening – it was inaugurated in April 2022 – the Ostello Bello Napoli has been catapulted by those who have stayed within its walls as the best new hostel in the world. And the programming of cultural events, which includes live concerts, DJ sessions or book presentations, has made it a point of reference for young Neapolitans.
Located in the historic center of the capital of Campania, it has 21 rooms and 110 beds; a bar; a couple of panoramic terraces with hammocks and barbecue from which to contemplate beautiful views over the Toledo neighborhood; game room, and even musical instruments available to guests. Pet friendly.
It is not a typical hostel. The Hostel da Vila is actually something similar to an original glaming in the middle of the rainforest with accommodations as diverse as tree houses, tipis, domes, sailboats, and even an old kombi, which has its essence in coexistence and exchange. And it is precisely this spirit of sharing unique moments that has earned it recognition from Hostelworld.
Located on the island of Ilhabela, in the Brazilian oceanic archipelago, just a few minutes from the historic center of the city, it is an ideal accommodation for people who travel alone, as it organizes weekly activities for them. It has a swimming pool with slide; mini halfpipe and a remarkable social area.
It is ideal for digital nomads and, rightly, the first coworking hostel, opened in Bali, has been recognized for it. Featuring open workspaces set against the backdrop of a tropical island, the facility allows you to work, relax and socialize while exploring a tranquil area packed with small cafes, bars and spas.
The design of Tribal Bali, built 500 meters from the beach and overlooking the rice fields, has taken into account the lowest environmental impact. To do this, it uses solar energy and its furniture, food and drinks are of local and sustainable origin. It has common and private rooms, an infinity pool, a games area and relaxation areas where you can socialize and have a delicious cocktail.
