Sharing and Caring: Tips for Your First Time at a Hostel
Intermediate
Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.
Sharing and Caring: Tips for Your First Time at a Hostel
There's a guitar on one sofa, a dog on another, and there are bags everywhere — welcome to the world of hostels!
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Some of us would never dream of sharing a room with 15 strangers.
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But if you're thinking of choosing a hostel for the first time — where you might save money and make some friends — here are a few things to have in mind.
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Be considerate
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This is the number one rule for many travelers because, a lot of the time, you'll be sharing bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms.
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If you're arriving at a hostel very late at night or early in the morning, make sure to walk into your room quietly.
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When you enter a room full of sleeping travelers, the last thing they want is for you to turn the lights on and start unpacking. You will have to do as much as you can in the dark and unpack the following day.
The same is true for leaving early in the day — get your things ready before everyone else goes to sleep.
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Choose where you chat
Of course, traveling can make us tired, and you might find that there is always someone sleeping, whatever the time of day.
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They won't expect silence, but you could help them out by having louder conversations outside the bedroom.
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Don't forget to bring…
You might want to pack an eye mask and earplugs if not everyone is as considerate as you are!
And with lots of people sharing the same bathroom, you might also want to bring some flip-flops for the shower.
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You'll need to bring your own toiletries, as well — and don't forget a padlock to keep your things safe.
It may seem like a lot to remember, but after your first stay at a hostel, you may never want to go to a hotel again!
Have a discussion based on the following questions.
Have you ever stayed in a hostel? If so, how was it? If not, would you like to?
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Have you ever shared a room with an inconsiderate person on vacation?
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Have you made any friends while traveling? Do you still keep in touch?
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How long does it usually take you to pack before trips?
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Do you have any tips for saving money when traveling?
Further Discussion
Have a discussion based on the following questions.
What's the best accommodation you've stayed in?
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Have you been disappointed by any of your accommodation choices?
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What are some of your most memorable travel experiences?
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Have you been on any solo trips? If so, what did you most enjoy about it? If not, would you like to give it a go?
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Travel doesn't become adventure until you leave yourself behind. — Marty Rubin. What do you make of this statement?