Cheap Stays: Where Are the World's Most Popular Hostels?

Increasing numbers of travellers, both young and old, are recognising the benefits staying in affordable accommodation. Generally nestled in the most convenient of locations, hostels are a popular accommodation option for those looking to reduce their travel costs.

Global PR and Content Manager at HotelsCombined, Alycia Simons says that the hostels are no longer simply an accommodation option for budgeting backpackers.

“From families looking for an affordable place to stay, to keen solo-travellers hoping to meet like-minded people along the way; hostel accommodation can be the perfect solution. While not extravagant in their offerings, they generally offer the basics - a clean and safe place to stay, with a bathroom and access to a communal kitchen,” Ms Simons said.

HotelsCombined.com has searched their database of over 800,000 properties and has named the 10 most popular hostels in the world for the last 18 months:

1. Generator Hostel London (England)
2. Meininger Hotel London Hyde Park (England)
3. Generator Hostel Dublin (Ireland)
4. Anker Hostel, Oslo (Norway)
5. Nihao Taipei (Taiwan)
6. 40 Berkeley, Boston (USA)
7. Centre Esplai Hostel (Spain)
8. Eurohostel, Helsinki (Finland)
9. Euro Hostel, Glasgow (Scotland)
10. Camping Village Roma (Italy)

While not for everyone, it seems that some nationalities are happier than others to book into hostel accommodation. According to HotelsCombined.com data, travellers from the following countries appreciate value and are more likely to book a hostel room:

1. United Kingdom
2. Australia
3. Russia
4. Germany
5. Taiwan
6. Spain
7. France
8. South Korea
9. Italy
10. USA

Manager of the Meininger Hotel in Hyde Park, London, Maria Holfbert, says that a range of accommodation options means that their guests include school and university groups, families, friends, couples and backpackers from all over the world.

“It's not only a question of the age of people but also of their mindset and preferences. We have mostly young guests but see an increasing number of older travellers staying with us, So far our record has been a backpacker from Canada who celebrated her 70th birthday staying in one of our dormitories. If people like the relaxed atmosphere and love to meet other people they are at the right address,” Ms Holfbert said.