In the realm of travel accommodations, hostels often sit at the low end of the hospitality hierarchy, overshadowed by the glamor of hotels. However, the time has come to recognize hostels for what they truly are: gems of the travel world. Hostels are superior to hotels because they offer a raw, authentic experience that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

Last year, during a gap year, I had the opportunity to travel across the globe to places that included Tabanan, located in Bali, Indonesia, where I volunteered as an English teacher, as well as the east coast of Australia, where I discovered the aboriginal culture. Last year, I started pursuing my dream of experiencing the beauty of the natural world and exploring new cultures. After two months of traveling between Bali and Sydney, I realized that one of the most enchanting aspects of visiting a new place is going to its hostels. From communal bathrooms to shared lounges, these spaces encourage travelers from all walks of life to come together, exchange stories, swap tips and forge connections. Acting as vibrant hubs of social interaction, hostels forge friendships that enrich travel experiences.

While hotels may offer luxury, they often lack the warmth that hostels effortlessly exude. In Indonesia, the hostel I stayed in on Gili Island was young and fun, leading me to meet people from all over the world, including New Zealand, Australia, France, Hong Kong and more. The friends I made from across the world will forever be cherished. Seeing their Instagram stories today and hearing what new adventures they have been on is always so inspiring. Had I not stayed in hostels, I would never have met these amazing people, and my journey would have taken a completely different turn — likely a lonely one.

In addition to having an amazing social scene, hostels are a budget traveler’s dream, offering comfortable lodging at a fraction of the price of hotels. Opening up a world of possibilities, this affordable alternative enabled me to find a perfect balance between pleasant living and being able to indulge in other aspects of my journey, like embarking on unforgettable excursions. The money I saved allowed me to have a nonchalant and flexible way of life. The best things happen unexpectedly, so having the money to act on what came my way made a difference in my journey across countries. While in Sydney, I was able to watch the Australia Sail Grand Prix because of a chance encounter with a family friend. Having been able to save some cash by staying in a hostel, I was able to buy the cheapest ticket, which turned out to be the best ticket. Sitting on Shark Island in the middle of Sydney Harbour and watching sailboats race by was incredible. Hotels may offer plush furnishings and lavish rooms, but for the savvy traveler, the allure of affordability cannot be ignored.

Travel is also about immersing oneself in the culture and lifestyle of a destination, and hostels offer a front-row seat to this cultural tapestry. Providing an authentic experience that hotels often lack, hostels give away the key to the city’s hidden gems, serving as gateways to genuine cultural exchange. From language exchanges to dance parties, every moment in a hostel is an opportunity to embrace the richness of the destination and connect with locals on a deeper level. The people in Bali are some of the sweetest and most genuine people I have ever met. Through various conversations with the locals, I was able to understand the Balinese culture on a much deeper level — something I doubt I would have received by staying in a hotel.

Another beauty of hostel living is the freedom it affords. Differing from the rigid schedules of hotels, hostels operate on a flexible basis, allowing guests to come and go as they please. Late-night explorations, spontaneous outings and last-minute itinerary changes are all seamlessly accommodated within the hostel environment. This freedom fosters a sense of adventure and spontaneity, empowering travelers to embrace the unknown and make the most of every moment. In my opinion, this is a hostel’s best advantage. Not knowing where to go next or what to do can be stressful, but knowing that I can crash in a hostel at any time puts the worry at rest. In fact, some of my favorite memories were made when I hadn’t planned for them and just followed my instincts and my heart. Albeit hotels offer soft linens, but hostels offer the freedom of flexibility.

At the heart of it all, the allure of hostels lies in their raw charm. From sandy showers to eclectic decor, every aspect of hostel living oozes character and authenticity, two key ingredients to make unforgettable memories. From common area parties to heartfelt conversations that keep you up until 3 a.m. and advice that keeps you away from tourist traps, hostels are the starting point to creating memories that last a lifetime. While hotels may offer luxury, comfort and shampoo, they often lack the soul-stirring experiences that define the essence of travel. Hostels are not just a place to rest your head, they are vibrant communities filled with energy, diversity and possibility. My advice to you next time you embark on a journey is to dare to stray off the beaten path and embrace the raw charm of hostel living. You never know what wonders are waiting to be explored.