Behind the Desk: Confessions of a Former Hostel Worker


So here goes, some get-it-off-my-chest complaints about hostel guests. To avoid gripe mode, I've included some nice alternatives for those with tendencies to complain about the following:

SNORING (didn't you read the guidebook that told you to bring earplugs?) BUNKBED STEALING (duke it out yourself) LAUNDRY TIMING (I KNOW taking turns is taught in primary schools worldwide) DIRTY COOKS (again, cleaning up after yourself isn't something I can teach people) EARLY/LATE RISERS (time to reconsider the hostel thing altogether)

If you or anyone you know can't deal with these 100-percent-likely-to-occur-in-a-hostel scenarios, than it's time to think about staying somewhere else. Spread the word and help all of us hostel desk staff out. Even the most easygoing person can get annoyed with fellow travelers in a hostel. So the bottom line is relax a little and realize you'll eventually get used to the noise and chaos. Maybe. Someday.

Another front desk beef is that, for some unknown reason, some guests mistake the hostel for The Ritz. The communal living conditions of hostel life are not to be complained about. Complain if things are dirty; don't whine when a room isn't perfectly silent all night. Lastly, don't expect the desk person to be your mom. Certainly don't hesitate to ask me, your friendly front desk person, for advice or directions or more pillowcases. I'll even draw you a map if you don't understand English very well. But ask me to leave the ringing telephone and 10 people checking in for the night to run up to your room to confront a "loud talker"? I don't think so.

All in all, everyone (yes, everyone) should give hostels a try. At least once. Hostels are great places to meet people, save money and feel connected in a foreign country. No matter where you stay, you'll likely find a bunkmate from somewhere you've never been to. Take the plunge - ask him or her what life is like there. Maybe someday you'll be their good guest.

For now, though - on behalf of hostel workers everywhere - be mine.

Until next time, happy alternative travels! -- Colleen

The copyright of the article Behind the Desk: Confessions of a Former Hostel Worker in Alternative Travel is owned by Colleen Kaleda. Permission to republish Behind the Desk: Confessions of a Former Hostel Worker in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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