A Fresh Take on Youth Hostels: Ditching the Dorms for a Modern Stay
Hostels aim to shed stereotypical communal living perception.
Echoes of Past Adventures, or a Leap into the Future? Youth hostels often conjure up nostalgic memories of school days and sleepovers. However, the image of dormitory-style staying is losing its appeal for many. As a result, numerous hostels are undergoing makeovers to keep up with the times and stay competitive.
As the heat of summer beckons outdoor enthusiasts to traverse new terrains, those in search of budget-friendly lodgings may find themselves considering a youth hostel.
In the federal state of Hesse, two such hostels have recently reopened after undergoing modernization. Unfortunately, three other hostels could not weather the covid-19 storm and shut their doors, according to the state association of the German Youth Hostel Association (DJH).
Embracing a Wider Guest Spectrum
With hostels catering to more than just school groups, the motto is, "All are welcome in all youth hostels." This includes families, groups of friends, solo travelers, and people with disabilities. While not every venue is wheelchair accessible, w Павел Сарґез, the hostel manager in Wetzlar, confirmed there are barrier-free rooms in the facility.
To secure a bed at a youth hostel, a membership with the DJH is essential, along with a special ID card. For individuals up to 27 years of age, the annual fee is 7.50 euros. Families, seniors, and groups should expect to pay 22.50 euros and 25 euros, respectively.
Chasing the Dream of Competing in a Cutthroat Market
The competitive pressure from budget hotels and hostels looms large, exerting pressure to stay relevant and attractive. For example, the youth hostel in Wetzlar now offers 40% of its beds as singles or doubles, rather than the traditional multi-level bunk beds.
Stolle from the DJH board pointed out that the industry is grappling with uncertainty, as people are hesitant to let go of their hard-earned cash and make travel plans. Despite this, Hannah Wallner, the new hostel manager in Wetzlar, reported brisk business in the recently revamped hostel Burg Hessenstein shortly after it reopened.
The Path to a Greener Future
The DJH has been focused on the future, placing a strong emphasis on sustainability in recent renovations. According to Stolle, efforts have included the use of recycled floor coverings and modern heating systems, as well as responsible sourcing policies for furnishings. Now, photovoltaic systems have been installed in Wetzlar, and the association has been using green electricity across all its hostels for years. Moreover, over 50% of the DJH's fleet has been converted to electric vehicles.
These modernizations not only enhance the appeal for environmentally-conscious travelers but also provide a fresh, contemporary experience.
Overcoming the Coronavirus Impact
Despite the DJH's focus on the future, the industry is still reeling from the effects of the covid-19 pandemic. Price sensitivity remains high, and economic viability needs to be carefully balanced. According to Stolle, while there has been a catch-up effect in school trips, business conferences have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels.
- Tourism
- Hesse
- Sustainability
- Travel
Sources:
- ntv.de
- SBA
- DPA
- In the pursuit of catering to a broader demographic, youth hostels in Hesse are adopting a welcoming policy, inviting families, solo travelers, groups, and people with disabilities to enjoy their accommodations.
- For those keen on reducing their carbon footprint, choosing a hostel managed by the German Youth Hostel Association (DJH) means supporting eco-friendly initiatives such as the use of recycled materials, modern heating systems, photovoltaic systems, and electric vehicles for transportation.
