Hosteled: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'hostel' comes from the Latin word 'hospes,' which means guest or host.
• Originally, hostels were places for travelers and pilgrims to find shelter and food.
• The word gained popularity in the 20th century, especially with the rise of youth travel.

Travel Culture

• Hostelling is often associated with budget travel, allowing people to explore more while spending less.
• Many hostels offer communal spaces, encouraging social interaction among travelers from different cultures.
• There's a global network of hostels, which helps travelers find cheap accommodation almost anywhere in the world.

Psychology

• Staying in a hostel can promote a sense of community and belonging among solo travelers.
• Research shows that shared accommodations can lead to increased happiness and social connections.
• People often report feeling more adventurous and open to new experiences while hosteling.

History

• The first modern hostels were created in Germany in the early 20th century to encourage youth travel.
• In 1965, the International Youth Hostels Federation was established to promote the concept worldwide.
• During the 1970s, hostels became popular among budget-conscious travelers, especially in Europe.

Literature

• Hostels are commonly featured in travel literature, often portraying the diverse mix of personalities one encounters.
• Famous travel writers have shared their experiences in hostels, emphasizing the stories and friendships formed during their stays.
• Hostelling is a recurring theme in coming-of-age novels where characters explore new places and discover themselves.