Hostels are cultural mixing pots. Each person has there own dialect and perspective of the world. There are three common social behaviors that I have noticed during my time spent in hostels. What are the 3 Social Behaviors to Know for Hostel Traveling? Good question.

Open Minded

A hostel is a place to make friends, share stories, and grow. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and most of the time that first step is a question.

There are going to be travelers from all walks of life excited to learn about other cultures. When we are in the comfort of our home it’s easy to think that our way is the right way. When you begin to travel you will notice that there are infinite number of ways to think and act.

There are going to be travelers where the country they are in is not there first language. If you notice the language barrier keep the slang down and talk slow. Also, don’t exclude them from the conversation. Even though it’s difficult for them to speak they still want to learn, help them out.

Be Considerate

A hostel is shared living, which means you are going to be living/sleeping with strangers. Keep your space clean. It is not your bed room, and you can not have your stuff laying all over the place. Plus, that creates an obstruction in the case of an emergency.

Hygiene is another consideration. Although you can’t smell yourself doesn’t mean other people can’t as well. The shared rooms can get pretty smelly, do your part and take a shower. Also, shoes are the main item that create the most stench. If there are lockers place your shoes in the lockers. If your shoes still smell maybe spend a couple bucks and buy some febreze, or put them outside.

The common rooms are for people to meet. If there are people having a conversation don’t talk over them and interrupt. Instead, sit by them and wait for them to acknowledge you, or wait for a silent moment to add in. Be curious about other people, and don’t brag. We love to hear and share travel stories.

Lastly, know your drinking limit. ‘Nuff said.

Confident

Start the conversation. Some common questions to get the conversation started: Where are you from? What is your name? Where have you been? What do you do?

Try to find some similarities. It will eventually lead to a fun conversation. If the person doesn’t want to talk that’s alright, move on.

Be confident to admit that you don’t know something.

Lastly, tell the truth and be genuine.

Bonus tip: Listen

Notice when you start to talk about yourself to much. Let others tell stories and ask questions: active listening.

Summary

Kindness come in all shapes and sizes. You can learn a lot being open-minded, considerate, and confident.

• Ask Questions
• Keep the slang down, and include everyone in the conversation.
• Keep your space clean, take showers so you don’t stink, if your items are stinky try Febreze.
• Don’t interrupt conversations, hear and share stories.
• Know your limit.
• Start the conversation and find similarities.
• Listen

Keep Moving Forward

Robbie Knecht

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