Hostelling International USA was founded in 1934 as a non-profit organization with the goal of promoting international travel and understanding through hostelling. Hosteling is more than simply staying in hostels; it encompasses a low-key, people-centric philosophy of travel. Hostels tend to have dorm room sleeping arrangements, some private rooms and common rooms for socialization. More than 4,000 hostels around the world are part of the Hostelling International network, also known as the International Youth Hostel Federation.
Despite the youth in the title, individuals and groups of all ages can join Hostelling International. Membership for those under 18 is free for one year. Adults, ages 18 to 54 and seniors, ages 55 and higher, pay $28 and $18, respectively, as of spring, 2011. A lifetime membership fee at any age costs $250. Group membership costs vary, depending on the size and function of the group. You can join HI-USA at any member hostel, online, through a sales agent or local chapter or by calling the membership line at 301-495-1240. Membership gives you access to HI hostels; discounts on travel, attractions and restaurants; basic travel insurance; discounted long-distance phone cards; and access to commission free currency exchange.
Among the 4,000 hostels worldwide, are almost 60 hostels in more than 20 U.S. states. Hostels are located in major cities, such as New York City, Seattle, Los Angeles and Chicago, and in more rural or small town vacation spots, like Lake Itasca, Minnesota; Bethel, Maine; Midpines, California; and White River Junction, Vermont. The hostels are all monitored by Hostelling International to meet cleanliness and good repair standards. Most urban hostels are open 24 hours a day, with no curfew, while others outside the cities might be closed for a mid-day period or have an evening curfew. Most hostels have kitchens stocked with basic cooking and baking equipment. You may use the kitchen while you are staying there. Hostels provide budget accommodation. As of April, 2011, prices per night range between $30 and $50 in urban locations, and $15 to $30 outside the cities.
Your hostel association membership entitles you to book and stay at thousands of hostels around the world. A large percentage of hostels are located in Europe, where you can choose to stay in modern eco-hostels, historic homes and castles and city centers. As of spring, 2011, hostels are also found in 14 countries in Asia, eight countries in Africa, seven South American countries and Australia and New Zealand. Your membership entitles you to discounts in international destinations. At the time of publication, some examples of places to use your membership for discount include the Edinburgh Bus Tour in Scotland, Skydive Andes skydiving discounts in Chile and Greyhound Canada.
