German schoolmaster Richard Schirrmann wanted his pupils to have the chance to experience other parts of the country, to walk and study in the countryside. Schirrmann identified a need for safe, affordable overnight accommodation and established the world’s first Youth Hostel in 1912.
Why did hostels start?
The concept of a hostel dates back to 1909 when a German teacher, Richard Schirrmann, realized the need for overnight budget lodging for his students during short trips . In August 1909, during one such trip, the group was caught in a storm, leading them to seek refuge in a school building.
Where did youth hostels start?
The beginning
The very first Youth Hostel was opened in Germany in 1909 by school teacher Richard Schirrmann. Twenty years later, following a trip to Germany, a small group of pioneers opened Britain’s first Youth Hostel.
Why are they called youth hostels?
It was the year 1909 in Germany when a teacher called Richard Schirrmann had the idea of turning a school closed for summer vacation into a cheap dormitory for young travelers on a budget .
Where did hostels come from?
1909-1934: Origins The idea of hostelling is conceived in Germany , embodied in the International Youth Hostel Federation, and brought to the United States. 1935-1944: Shadows of War A thriving hostelling movement in Europe and North America is stalled by the advent of World War II.
Why are hostels so cheap?
The furnishings in a hostel tend to range from bunk beds in the bedrooms, to old couches in the lobby. The lack of redecorating is in part why hostels can remain so inexpensive.
What is hostel called in USA?
The terms “dorm” is often used in the US. However, within the residence life community, the official term “ residence hall” is preferred. According to the University of Oregon, their facilities “provide not just a place to sleep, but also opportunities for personal and educational growth.
When did hostels start?
1. In India the Youth Hostel movement was initiated by the Youth Hostels Association of India in 1949 . Till 1966 the Association had created a number of simple youth hostelling facilities by using University/College Hostels during vacation.
What are the types of hostels?
- Cheap hostels. (Source) ...
- Party Hostels. ...
- Activity or Adventure Hostels. ...
- Eco-hostels. ...
- Flashpacking or Luxury Hostels. ...
- Quirky, weird, and out of the ordinary hostels. ...
- Family Hostels. ...
- Historic hostels.
When was the first hostel made?
The history of Youth Hostels dates back to 1909 , when a German teacher Richard Schirrmann recognized a need for night shelter for groups of school children in order to explore the countryside. It was him, who opened the first hostel in the building of the school he worked in, in the town of Altena.
Is there an age limit for youth hostels?
While most hostels don’t have any age restrictions , there may be some hostels that are unsuitable for young children or guests with disabilities. It is always good to check beforehand by viewing the relevant hostel page on the YHA website. You must be 16 or over to stay in YHA accommodation without an adult.
What is the purpose of youth hostel?
Youth hostel, supervised shelter providing inexpensive overnight lodging, particularly for young people . Hostels range from simple accommodations in a farm house to hotels able to house several hundred guests for days at a time.
Are youth hostels safe?
Generally speaking, hostels are incredibly safe but there are various things you can do to ensure you have a good experience such as drinking responsibly, being respectful of dorm mates, locking your valuables, and packing wisely. Nowadays, there are many boutique hotel-like hostels available.
Who invented hostel?
Richard Schirrmann invented youth hostels. Today they cover the world. This is the story of the man and his invention. Taken up in Germany, then in Europe and then around the world, they survived the rise of the Nazis, two world wars and an economic depression.
What exactly is a hostel?
A hostel is a lower-priced inn of sorts that offers basic, shared accommodations . Typically, a hostel features a large room with separate beds, a shared bathroom, and a communal kitchen. Some hostels have private rooms, but the lower-cost ones generally offer bunk beds.
How long can you stay in a hostel?
There’s no limit as to how long you can live in a hostel , but don’t forget the reason why you travelled to a new part of this wonderful planet...to explore! Don’t allow yourself to get too comfy by watching Netflix in bed every night and frequenting the same places.
