Hostels are the perennial mainstay of backpackers looking for cheap accommodation on their travels. Ireland has a plethora of hostels, located in city centers as well as literally at the end of the world. Not all come recommended ...
Irish Hostels - What to Expect
Anything goes - hostels might be converted Georgian homes, old farmhouses or purpose-built, barrack-like establishments. Rooms range from private bedrooms with en-suite facilities to dorms that sleep dozens. There might be a self-service cafeteria or a communal kitchen for cooking your own meal.
The experiences of travelers are as varied as the hostels - I have heard of families with small kids happily spending a few days in a private room, more basic than a hotel, but less pricey as well. And I have heard of mixed dorms with copulating couples keeping other guests from getting a good rest.
True, these are extremes ... most hostels offer basic accommodation at a "fair" price. It is a case of "buyer beware".
"Beware" is also the operative word regarding safety. Things have a tendency to disappear in hostels, from the cheese you put into the fridge to your camera hanging off he bedpost while you slept. This is not the place to carry too much valuables or to leave things carelessly behind. You got the message.
Their Prices and How to Pay
I put the "fair" in quotation marks for a reason. Hostel accommodation is often equated with cheap accommodation - and this might not always be the case. Considering all costs the room rates in budget hotels or motels sometimes work out cheaper.
The prices for a night's stay at a hostel start at around € 12 - for a dorm place.
Payment can usually be made in cash, most hostels also accepting credit cards.
What Should be Included in the Price?
A bed and access to all (if any) communal facilities ... hostels have a tendency to charge extra for anything from hot water to a safe lock-up for your luggage.
Irish Hostels - How to Book
You can book in advance by phone or on the web, you can also simply walk up to reception. The latter is only recommended outside the season.
Hostel - Etiquette
Consideration for other guests is paramount. Leave the hostel as you would have liked to find it. And remember that a spirited rendition of "Dixie" at 2 a.m. will almost certainly not be appreciated by the folks you share a dorm with.
