Budget Hostel or Not?

Q: We are cruising from Cape Town to Rotterdam in July. We would like to spend 2 nights in Amsterdam and 3 in Paris. Searching the internet we have come across a number of budget hotels in the “hostel” catergory. The prices quoted range from 60-80 Euros for a twin/double room with private facilities - which is far below other hotel prices. It seems these budget hotels cater mainly for backpackers. We are not youngsters, in your opinion would we be comfortable staying in such a budget establishment? Do you have any suggestions regarding better such establishments? Price is important, we would not like to pay R1800 (R900 per person per night) upwards for a double room) which other hotels seem to charge. - Reg Gibbons

A: This is a dilemma faced by an increasing number of budget-conscious older travellers. The reality is that it varies from establishment to establishment, Most are aimed at the young backpacker market, but there are others that welcome travellers of all ages. You can try to assess where you will feel comfortable by scouring reviews and listings. Hotels that have some "dormitory rooms", shared bathrooms, cooking facilities and have "lock out hours" during the day will usually be frequented by younger travellers, while hotels with a higher number of single and double rooms will be aiming at a broader spectrum. Don't exclude yourself from a hotel you fancy on the basis of age - you'll find many young travellers very welcoming and interested in your perspectives. If you are young at heart, you could have a great time staying with like-minded travellers. You may well be excluded by physical factors. Many of the cheaper hotels don't have elevators and have rooftop recreation facilities and you may not be prepared to stay in rooms without windows. If you are worried whether you will be welcomed or feel comfortable, try the direct approach by emailing or phoning the hotels with your queries. If they don't have satisfactory answers or are less than enthusiastic, consider an alternative. Regarding your plan to visit Paris and Amsterdam, you should be able to find a double room in a reasonable hotel in the 100-150 Euro price range (R985- R1480). Hotels are expensive in July but spend some time checking the discount internet sites. For example, a double room with breakfast at the Ibis Amsterdam City Stopera was available in mid-July for 99 Euros on the www.hotels.nl website. This renovated budget hotel is perfectly located near shops, the flea market at Waterlooplein, the Opera House and Rembrandtplein nightlife. If you want more local character, the Singel Hotel Amsterdam is perfect. It is housed in three authentic 17th century canal houses in the middle of the city centre. The best rate for a double room in mid-July was 129 uros per night on www.hotels.nl website. In Paris, the three-star Modern Hotel has double rooms available for 96 Euros on the www.hotels.com website. The price includes taxes and continental breakfast. The hotel is close to the Moulin Rouge, Basilique du Sacre Coeur, and the Louvre. Alternatively, you could stay in the upmarket Novotel Paris Gare De Lyon Hotel for 149 Euros on www.hotels.com. Boasting an indoor swimming pool, the hotel is located close to the Opera de la Bastille, the Notre Dame Cathedral and Louvre. (16 May 2010)