Redefining Hostels

Redefining hostels
http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=903265&category=TRAVELCENTER&BCCode=&newsdate=5/14/2010

Williams [HostelHandbook.com] recommends using hostel booking sites to find a place, and then doing the booking itself directly with the hostel management. That way, a family looking for a four-person hostel room can ask the staff if theirs is a party place with a nightly pub crawl, or something more peaceful.

"Hostels are incredibly different," he said. "Go to the original source to get the information." If you speak to staff in person about room charges, "nine times out of 10 you'll get a better rate," Williams added.

And while you're doing your research, check the user ratings, available on most of the hostel booking sites. They provide some genuine-sounding details and can shed light on the general experience of budget travel.