Report

Could a Hostel in Alabama be successful

Introduce Yourself

m.shender4 started this discussion 13 years 8 months ago

Hi all,

I am perusing the opportunity of opening up a Hostel in Birmingham, AL. My main concern is that most people in Alabama and the South in general are unfamiliar with the hostel concept.

With Birmingham being a decently sized city with several local attractions, it seems a hostel could be supported there. However, there is a stigma associated with Birmingham of being a dangerous city (which certain parts are and can be avoided).

Other cities that are smaller or that are more dangerous support hostels, but I am not sure if Birmingham or the state of Alabama is quite ready.

Thanks, Mike

Comments

Report

raquella

13 years

I can't count the number of people between 20-25 who would love to or have road tripped in the south. It's a very hip and alternative vacation.

with that said, try targeting people who aren't from the south, and new backpackers. There's definitely a market for people who would like to see the south, and there is definitely a need for hostels around there. I think opening a hostel in a place where there are no competitors is a really good strategy.

You could also create some sister hostels with other hostels in the south. For people not on a strict schedule, a sister hostel could really persuade others to stop at yours.

Report

Scotch Argus

13 years

I'm afraid I know nothing about Birmingham and so can't offer any help specifically. In a general sense I think you need to analyse how many tourists are going there (I would differentiate tourists from conventioneers, those visiting family or suchlike). If there are lots of tourist visitors to the city then I think you can make it work. If there aren't a lot of people already coming to the city then I wouldn't think a new hostel would attract them. Personally I'm not much of a fan of the "If you build it they will come" concept.

Search form

Report 'Could a Hostel in Alabama be successful'?

Report 'Re: Could a Hostel in Alabama be successful'?

Report 'Re: Could a Hostel in Alabama be successful'?

Join the world's largest community of hostel professionals.

Check Your Email