Media
How hostelling began with Richard Schirrmann
Originally created to help young people of limited means to experience the countryside and cities of the world, hostels are
now at the heard of international tourism for a wide age group.
Since 1909, when hostelling was born out of the excursions of German schoolteacher Richard Schirrmann and his pupils, it has become one of the world's biggest international membership organizations for youth, with over 3 million members and a philophosy that has never been more relevant. The first youth hostel in Norway was opened in 1930. Today hostels can be found in 80 countries all over the world.
From large dorms to hostels as we know them today
Youth hostels as people know them from older days, with large dorms no longer exist. Modern hostels worldwide offer comfortable accommodation
either in a shared room or a room with your own private bathroom. However, the ideals are still the same - a safe environment
where people can stay at a reasonable price while getting to know other people and cultures. A small contribution to a better
world.
Hostelling's Global Growth
Hostelling International currently provides 35 million overnight stays a year through more than 4.000 hostels in over 80 countries.
Advance online reservations are a cinch on this site.
Today's hosteller is just as likely to be in his thirties and bring his family by car, as to arrive alone on foot with a backpack, or be part of a school group. Nor is hostelling an end in itself. All ages uses hostels as their gateway to cultural exploration and the appreciation of nature.
The economic, social and political environment surrounding hostelling has changed dramatically during the last cenury. The hostel movement has expanded from its European core to embrace the world and fulfil the expectations of today's young people who have money, more free time and greater mobility than ever before.
