FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Tag: backpackers

  • Australian Hostels in Europe – Affordable Aussie-Themed Backpackers Accommodation

    Many Northerners long for the warm weather and knockabout charm of an Australian vacation. But even with the affordable accommodation offered by Australian youth hostels, the airfares alone put a journey Down Under out of the reach of many frugal travelers. Yet you needn’t starve yourself to afford a little piece of Oz, with many Australian themed backpackers popping up all over Europe.

    When most Europeans think of Australian style hostels they think of Wombats.  No, not the stocky marsupial, but the chain with locations in Vienna, Berlin, and Munich. Despite its Australian animal inspired name, the Wombats company isn’t owned by Aussies. However there’s a touching story behind that moniker. It came about when Germany’s Sascha Bock and Marcus Praschinger met charismatic local John “The Sucker” O’Sullivan while traveling in Oz. John dreamed of owning a hostel named after his favorite marsupial, but died before he ever got the opportunity. This budget chain is a tribute to him, and a realization of his goals. Something tells me John would approve of these lively establishments, with their famous womBars.

    Latvia seems an unlikely place for dinky-di digs, but the country’s capital Riga actually has a couple of Australian themed backpackers’ hostels. Aussie ex-pat Frank turned the city’s medieval castle into Friendly Fun Frank’s. This cheery hostel offers views of the picturesque Daugava River and the equally appealing good looks of its stunning female staffers. No wonder male travelers can’t resist stopping here! The convenient location, just a stone’s throw from Riga’s clubs and pubs, probably doesn’t hurt any either. And if you don’t feel like stepping out, you can always down a few cleansing ales at the hostel’s 24-hour sports bar.

    Riga is also home to the Australian themed Argonaut. It’s run by a former Aussie army officer, but the atmosphere is anything but rigid. This place is all about getting out and experiencing all that life has to offer, just as the Aussies do. Hostel employees organize hot-air ballooning tours, shooting excursions, snowboarding and skiing adventures, and even skydiving. While the rooms are basic there are some real perks, including free WiFi in every dorm and complimentary breakfast each morning. The hostel is located on one of the city’s best shopping streets, far away from the capital’s infamous striptease clubs. That might disappoint some male travelers, but this up market neighborhood should give skittish travelers some peace of mind.

    Continue your Australian experience in the Baltic region with a stay at Croatia’s Ravnice Hostel. Its owner Vera Pesjak was born in Zagreb, but lived in Australia during the 90s. While she’s returned to the place of her birth, her hostel ensures her adopted homeland isn’t too far from her thoughts. Pesjak’s warm hospitality helps to make up for the location, which is far from Zagreb’s city center. A tram will take you to the heart of town, but it’s a bit inconvenient for a night out. The suburban location means the Ravnice attracts a more subdued clientele than the average hostel. It’s a great place for chilling out and making some genuine connections in Croatia.Australia globe

    So Europe’s Australian themed hostels might not always offer the most reliable representation of life in Oz, but there’s a certain appeal to their kitschy homage to the Land Down Under. They’ll never be a true substitute for a trip to the Southern Hemisphere, but they’re a fun accommodation alternative for a budget European vacation!

  • Etiquette for Backpackers – How to Behave in Hostels

    Backpackers have a reputation for being smelly, loudmouthed layabouts. Outsiders might assume that there are no rules in these frugal accommodation establishments, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, no one wants to be painted with this very wide brush, or risk infuriating their fellow hostel dwellers. By following these simple tips you can make the most of your hostel stay, and ensure you’re not the backpacker people are whispering about in the halls.

    Hostels aren’t equipped with the lavish wardrobes of resorts and bed and breakfasts, so most backpackers will end up spilling their stuff onto the floor. Moderation is the key here. It’s acceptable to dump a travel bag and the occasional item of clothing, but ensure you don’t encroach onto the territory of others. They need that carpet space too!

    Showers are also in short supply at hostels, so it’s important to respect the queues. Treat them as you would a public bathroom. Get in, do what you need to do as quickly as possible, and get out of there. Save those shower sing-alongs and lengthy grooming routines until you’re back home, and away from easily irritated holiday makers.

    Kitchen space is also limited, so resist the urge to play Emeril Lagasse. The pots, utensils, and appliances are intended for everybody’s use, so stick to the basics and make sure there’s enough to go around. Also remember to clean up when you’re done. No one wants to be greeted by your pile of dirty dishes.

    Backpackers are not, as a rule, early risers. Interrupt their sleep in at your peril. If you must wake early to move on to your next destination or join a guided tour, do so quickly and quietly. Pack as much as you can the night before so you can make the speediest of getaways, or risk some disapproving stares.

    Just because hostel dwellers appreciate the value of a sleep in doesn’t mean they’ll love the snooze button. No one wants to be woken every ten minutes until you can rouse yourself. If you need the extra zees simply set the alarm later.

    Backpackers are also reputedly serious drinkers, but that doesn’t mean that everyone is indulging. Party with the money you’re saving on accommodation by all means, but don’t bring the celebration back to your room. No one will want to join in your revelry if they’ve been woken from a dead sleep by bright lights and loud chatter.

    Being woken by a snorer can be just as irritating. I’m sorry snorers, but you’ll need to spend extra on a private room or risk being smothered in your sleep. It might sound like discrimination, but your fellow frugal travelers will not be as forgiving as your main squeeze.

    Hostel_Celica
    Staying in a hostel is a great way to save money and meet other frugal travelers.

    Speaking of matters of the heart, couples are often tempted to save a few dollars by choosing a dorm. However lovebirds really should stick to the double rooms. No one wants to witness your heated make-out sessions, sickening exchange of pet names, or lover’s tiffs. Unless you’re vacationing with friends who agree to the arrangement, keep your relationship behind your own private closed door.

    Vacationing in a hostel can be a great way to spend a break, without spending a lot of cash, so long as you remember to mind your manners!

  • Backpacker’s Guide to Vietnam – Budget Traveling Around Asia

    Backpackers hoping to enjoy the real Asia without the frills should definitely consider a trip to Vietnam.

    The country’s tourism industry is relatively new, so it offers visitors a more authentic experience than many Asian nations.

    These are also not publicized as well as they might be in other countries, so a Vietnam guidebook is a good investment for making the most of your stay. Vietnam is a very affordable destination, with one American dollar equaling approximately 18, 475 Vietnamese Dong (VND). It's easy to find meals for around 15, 000 VND, so travelers can easily eat on in Vietnam for a week for less than $20 US. The biggest temptation for travelers is shopping. While there are bargains to be had, it's easy for them add up once you get started! Vietnam has accommodation to suit all budgets, from luxury resorts to hostels. These hostels offer the best value for backpackers who don't mind forgoing some creature comforts. Hostel Vietnam is a useful website for backpackers researching hostels near their chosen destinations. Another affordable alternative is Hill Tribe living. This authentic Vietnamese experience takes travelers to remote communities to live with the locals. The basic accommodation makes the hostels look luxurious, but tours with companies like Handspan Adventure Travel offer backpackers an unparalleled cultural experience. Vietnamese people are very friendly to tourists and happy to speak English if they can.
    However, it's worth learning a few basic phrases, especially if you're planning to visit the villages. In these rural communities many people do not speak English, so some simple sentences are helpful for communicating. This website has an excellent and comprehensive guide detailing basic phrases and more specific words for food and drink, getting around, and other relevant areas. The cities should not be avoided though as they do offer plenty for tourists looking to meet other travelers. Nightclubs and cafes are ideal for meeting other people, as are internet cafes. To learn more about the best places to go, consult the staff in your hotel or hostel.