Cabinas Eddy in Costa Rica was more of a hotel, but it did have a small kitchen available for use, and this awesome sign.

That’s right, I want the world to know. If you don’t want to spend an arm and leg while traveling, you should consider hostels.

There is a wide variety of hostels

If you read some of my posts from my seven week trip in South and Central America, there was a wide range of hostels that included one that never did have running water, some that were a complete party-goer dream of loud noise and drinking, but then there are the other, more awesome hostels that offer quiet, private rooms.

The Northwest Portland Hostel and Guest House offers private rooms, as well as outstanding outdoor space, and a huge kitchen.

So why not take advantage of a good hostel with a private room? You generally have access to a kitchen which saves a ton of money on eating out, and you can get to know other travelers.

When’s the last time you came back from a trip and could say that you talked to people from New Zealand, Canada, Germany, and Ireland? I did last time I was in Portland, Oregon.

Find the Hostel for you

How to find these awesome private rooms? It will take a little research, but I think it’s well worth it.

First, I’d start with Hostel World.  They have ratings for each of their hostels, so you can try and avoid the ones that get low ratings or are rated as party paradise. When you look closer at the specific hostel, you can see if they offer private rooms or just dorm beds. If Hostel World doesn’t have a hostel in the town you’re going to, try doing a general search or try Hostelling International.

Cabinas y Hostal Yucca has cabins and access to a kitchen and this outdoor space, not to mention quick access to the beach!

Second, You can make your reservation through Hostel World, which will charge you a small fee or you can try emailing the hostel directly. Just keep in mind, When I made my reservations through the website I never
had a problem. Emailing hostels directly, even after an email that said I had the reservation, did fall through occasionally.

Third, get where you want to go and start looking around. Especially in Central and South America. There were a lot of hostels that either didn’t exist online or didn’t allow prior reservations – you have to physically be there to get the room.

Now, go out and find a deal!

Hello. I’m Sonja Dewing. I am a Writing Professional: Technical, business, and instructional writing, as well as a freelance writer for magazines and newspapers.

I’m a dedicated fitness fiend, outdoor enthusiast, and adventure seeker. I’m also a fiction author and I blog about my travel, backpacking, and other adventures.