As I traveled around Europe on Spring break this past week, I stayed many nights in hostels. Hostels are like hotels but are typically geared to a younger crowd and are typically much less expensive than a hotel. I know I haven't stayed at many hostels compared to some people but my short stays have introduced me to many different people that seem to be at every hostel, everywhere. Here is my description of the people you meet at hostels with some help from my new-found favorite show Downton Abbey which is a must watch
The Snorer:
There is always one no matter what hostel you stay at, especially if you are staying in a 10 or 14 person mixed bedroom. There might even be two. The best way to deal with it is to imagine its a boat passing in the night or just stay up all night.
The Permanent Lodger:
This person basically lives at the hostel. Hostels can be much cheaper than the local rent so you can't really blame them, but they can be very possessive of things in the room like tables, chairs, or outlets. They've been there so long, they don't appreciate any disruption in their routine which can be very annoying but somewhat understandable.
The Smoker:
Europeans love to smoke. Personally, I don't smoke and don't enjoy being around smoke at all. Being woken up at 7 am every morning while in Germany by cigarette smoke really enforced my dislike of smoke. If you smoke, I don't have a problem with that, just please go outside or wait until I'm out of the room, please.
The Backpackers:
Soul-searching, adventure-seeking, backpacker. They hop from hostel to hostel trying to find something, check something off their pre-mature bucket list, or rack up the number of towns, cities, and countries they've been to.
The Flirt(s):
I love watching the horrible attempts people make at flirting with anyone and everyone. The best is when there is one guy and three or more girls and being able to watch the "fight" of what girl is going to impress him the most. They can be terribly annoying though and just plain stupid.
The Couple:
Sometimes these people won't bother you but considering the small environment of hostels, you're going to come across some couples. I question why a couple would willingly stay in a hostel, especially multiple person rooms, but
The Amerian(s):
Yes, I am an American, but I try my best not to fit into this type of hostel stayer. There are always going to be obnoxious, loud, and overall stereotypical-fulfilling Americans. If you can't find the stereotypical American, it's most likely you. I will admit, it's pretty funny to witness and see the shenanigans I beg of my fellow Americans, please try to be as respectful of the differences in culture when traveling, because you won't just be seen as annoying and rude by everyone, but also be the laughing joke of the hostel.
The Drunk:
This can be a lot of people. It may even be you. Again, very hilarious to observe but also sometimes very annoying is you aren't a big drinker.
The Guy on Drugs:
Sometimes also The Drunk. Stay away from these people unless you like drugs too. These people like to strike up conversations with everyone and are actually crazy sometimes. Honestly, just say no.
The 20 Year Old (Who acts like they are four):
There is always someone who likes to complain. They could be given $1,000 and still complain that the bills were dirty. Nothing is ever good enough for them and they make everyone know it.
The Child (Who actually is four):
Why are there children in hostels? Seriously, this is concerning and I'm glad I haven't seen too many of them on my travels. I would just like to state that these actual children tend to complain and whine a lot less than the previous stereotypical person.
"I'll Shower Later":
Someone always smells. Most likely it's because they aren't showering as often as they should, but maybe it's because they enjoy morning jogs and sleeping the rest o the day in their filth. Either way, I sympathize with you if you have to deal with this.
The Sleepers:
I'm always curious about these people. Most of the time people stay in hostels just for the bed so they can go sight-seeing and traveling during the day. However, these people stay in the hostel all day long, sleeping for the most part, or watching something on their phones'laptops, and don't explore anything.
The Nice One:
You never really see this person, because they are off being quiet. I really like this person and I wish there were more of them. Still, a hostel wouldn't be the same without the other people.
If you have ever stayed at a hostel, you have most likely been one of these people, or maybe two, or three. Even if you don't think you have been, you probably have. All I can say is hopefully you are the nice one.
