Why Hostels Aren’t Just For Students and Backpackers

When going on vacation, the cost of accommodation while you are away is one of the biggest drains on your budget. It would seem that no matter where you go in the world, hotels are always expensive places to stay – leaving you less money for enjoying yourself and having fun. Yet most of us cling to the concept of hotels as clean, enjoyable places to stay – and book ourselves in despite the cost.

On the flip side, the word ‘hostel’ is one that triggers terrifying images – and not just because of the horror film of the same name. Hostels have become synonymous with student backpackers, and those unfamiliar with hostels will imagine dirty surroundings, 20 people packed in to a room and unsanitary facilities. Sure, hostels may be cheap, but they’re for the backpackers only – right?

Well, thinking that hostels will not provide the kind of accommodation you desire on holiday could actually cost you dear. While hostels are never going to be able to provide hotel standard accommodation, they’re not quite as bad as we’re lead to believe. For a start, hostels do offer joint sleeping accommodation in a room full of strangers – but most hostels also offer single and double rooms, often complete with en suite. These are usually up to 1 or 2 star hotel standard, only without the price tag.

If it’s cleanliness you’re worried about, fear not; hostels are governed and regulated by the same health and safety boards that control hotels. If cost is an issue when planning your holiday, it’s worth checking a hostel out – you may find yourself pleasantly surprised.

Three Unusual Tourist-Friendly Cities in Europe

When traveling a trip to Europe, certain countries naturally suggest themselves to your itinerary Everyone wants to visit the usual places; Italy, Spain, France, England, Holland and the Czech Republic. All of the aforementioned have a city, tourist attraction or night life that is tempting to any possible tourist.

However, if you limit yourself to the well known tourist destinations in Europe, you may miss out on some wonderful places to see and experience. Here’s three European countries to consider adding to you want-to-visit list:

- Ireland

The Republic of Ireland, specifically. The capital city of Dublin has a thriving, bustling lifestyle than will entice any die-hard party goer, while the countryside of Ireland has to be seen to be believed. Flights often connect with one of the English-based airports, though Dublin International Airport is served by some direct routes to and from the United States.

- Germany

Germany doesn’t have the best PR in the world due to its heavy involvement in the World Wars, but visiting the famously industrious country can be a real eye opener. The wine culture here is a treat for any connoisseur, and the art and literature are as good as anywhere else on the continent. For the history buffs, there’s plenty of war-related sights to see and museums to visit. The country is well served by airports, which deal with both domestic and international flights.

- Norway

The capital city, Oslo, is as cosmopolitan as any European city – and has the night life to go with it, as well as historical sights to be enjoyed. The airport is accessible from both overseas and continental Europe, making it easy to visit and enjoy.

Travel and Motion Sickness Remedies

Travel sickness is the bane of any vacation. It makes traveling to and from your destination an unpleasant, nausea-inducing experience – and it may also restrict the things you can do while on holiday. Below are a few tips for helping rid yourself of travel or motion induced sickness:

- Ginger

The root ginger has recognized nausea reducing properties, and is most frequently suggested for pregnant women suffering from morning sickness. However, its impressive effect on nausea means it translates well to those suffering with travel or motion sickness.

The best way of ingesting ginger is in the form of herbal tablets. These can be purchased from a health food store or online – though if you do buy online, check the seller is reputable to ensure you get authentic goods. Like all herbal products, ginger does not work for everyone, but it is a possible non-medicinal method of at least easing travel sickness.

- Wristbands

You can purchase sea sickness wristbands from various places, including health shops and online. Usually, these are woven cotton bands which you place on your wrist and wear for the entirety of your traveling While they are most commonly associated with sea sickness, users have reported they work on other forms of motion sickness (in the car, for example) also.

- Tablets

If the above fail, your best option is probably to go down the medicinal route. You can either buy tablets to cease motion sickness from a pharmacy, or if you suffer particularly severely, your doctor should be able to help. Always ensure you take the tablets one hour before traveling for maximum effect.

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