Guide to Budget-Friendly Stays: Hostels, Homestays / Couch Surfing, and Hotel

If you’re like me, who’s always up for a new adventure, then you understand the importance of finding the perfect accommodation to have a great travel experience.

Whether it’s a cozy hostel bunk, a homestay with locals, or a luxurious hotel, each type of lodging brings its own unique charm and contributes to the rich tapestry of your travel memories.

So, continue reading my blog as I delve into my diverse experiences staying in hostels across Asia and beyond, and why each one holds a special place in my heart.

Hostel Hopping in Southeast Asia: Cheap, Cheerful, and Chatty

Thailand Hostel

Embarking on my journey in the lively streets of Thailand, I discovered that hostels there are as vibrant as the local markets. At a mere 600 Pesos a night with FREE simple breakfast, I secured a bunk bed and became part of a community of like-minded backpackers, ready to share their tales.

From the energetic hustle of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Phuket, Thai hostels quickly became my go-to choice for budget-friendly stays.

Crazy Bangkok Hostel Story:

Our time in a mixed dorm in Bangkok was something else. You know, tons of expats and foreigners hit up Thailand, especially Bangkok, and they’re all about those hostels.

So, there was this one dude who casually walks out of the shower in towels.

Caught us off guard ’cause it was our first hostel stay – talk about a culture shock! And, oh boy, there were some crazy stories. Like, this one time, a couple got a bit too cozy in a shared bed, and the whole dorm got front-row seats to their shenanigans.

Just a heads up: that kind of stuff isn’t cool in hostels, so if you see anything off, feel free to spill the beans to the hostel staff.

Cambodia Hostel

Next on my adventure was Cambodia, where the ancient temples of Angkor Wat greeted me with a rich history.

The chill vibes of Cambodian hostels, plus the fact they won’t break the bank, made them the perfect spot for making new pals.

Same as Thailand, hostels here can range from 300 to 500 Pesos per night per bed.

Read Other Blogs:

• Chiang Rai Thailand: Elephant Sanctuary
• Captivating Places to Visit in Taipei Taiwan 
• Discovering Taiwan As A Solo Female Traveler
• Budget-Friendly Stays: Hostel, Homestay, Couch Surfing
• Slow Travel in Bali

As I kept going through Vietnam, Sydney, and Taiwan, hostels weren’t just spots to crash; they were hangouts for sharing laughs, travel hacks, and the occasional oops moment.

Israel Hostel

Now, let’s talk about Tel Aviv, Israel. Hostel prices here caught me by surprise, ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 Pesos per night for a bunk bed.

However, the vibrant culture and incredible experiences in this part of the world made every penny worthwhile. I stayed for 3 days at Abraham Hostel Tel Aviv, it may be pricier, but the memories created there are nothing short of priceless.

I stayed in their Economy Double Room at 5,600 Pesos per night with Free breakfast for 3 days. The room is super spacious and the bathroom, it was shocking because it’s huge, a bathtub can fit in the bathroom but unfortunately there’s none.

This hostel is definitely among the best I’ve experienced. They host great parties and encourage their guests to participate in their Shabbat every Friday—a communal dinner where everyone, both hosts and guests, comes together.

Sydney Australia Hostel

My stay at Kings Cross Backpackers Hostel in Sydney, Australia, in 2017 was more than just an affordable accommodation choice; it was a gateway to a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

From the vibrant Kings Cross neighborhood to the cozy dormitories and communal spaces, the hostel provided a perfect blend of comfort and social interaction.

If you find yourself in Sydney on a budget, Kings Cross Hostel is not just a place to rest your head but a hub of memories waiting to be made.

At the time, a single bed for a night was priced at 2,500 pesos, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers like me.

However, what caught my attention even more was the option to book 2 beds in 1 bedroom for just 4,000 pesos per night. This not only made the stay cost-effective but also added a social element to my accommodation experience.

Staying in Sydney is expensive even for a hostel especially in the touristy neighborhood.

Taiwan Tales: Hostel Serenity with a Side of Shyness

Ah, Taiwan, the hidden gem of Asia. Hostels here offered a different vibe compared to their Southeast Asian counterparts.

Tucked away in the bustling cities of Taipei and Taichung, Taiwanese hostels became oases of tranquility. The dorms were quiet, and the common areas provided a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.

But here’s the twist – the locals, while warm-hearted, tended to be a bit shy. Unlike the chatty atmosphere I encountered in Thailand or Cambodia, Taiwanese and Chinese travelers kept to themselves more often.

However, once you cracked their shell, the connections made were just as genuine and memorable.

In 2019, I stayed at Angels Hostel in Ximen for 500 Pesos per night with breakfast (bread, jam and coffee). However, this year the cheapest you can get is at 2,400 Pesos per night. That’s 5x higher!

Homestays/Couch Surfing: Staying with Locals

Let’s talk about homestays / couch surfing. Picture waking up to the aroma of a traditional breakfast prepared by your local host.

Homestays offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, and my experiences have been nothing short of magical.

From the charming streets of Vietnam to the lively markets of Sydney, each homestay allowed me to see the destination through the eyes of its residents.

The personal connections forged during these stays were a highlight of my travels, offering insights and experiences that no guidebook could provide.

I once stayed in a local home in Antique Philippines, Queensland and Gold Coast Australia, and you get to experience their hospitality and kindness.

Not everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you’re all about having your space. If that’s the case, just go ahead and book a hotel room of your choice.

Hotel Haven: Luxe Living for the Ultimate Retreat

Sure, there are occasions when a touch of indulgence is just what you need. Sydney, with its breathtaking skyline and lively city vibes, set the scene perfectly for a stay in a hotel.

While hostels and homestays bring people together, hotels provide a peaceful haven and some pampering after a day of exploration.

Boutique Hotel is your best choice if you want privacy, comfort and luxury at the same time. Here in the Philippines, you can book a room for as low as 2,000 to 2,500 Pesos a night.

Sure, the price tag might be a bit higher, but the comfort, amenities, and the sheer joy of having your own space make it worthwhile. Sometimes, a plush bed and room service are just what you need to recharge for the next day’s adventures.

Will you book a hotel, hostel, or stay in a local home?

Whether you’re bunking in a lively hostel, immersing yourself in local culture with a homestay, or indulging in the luxury of a hotel, each accommodation type adds a unique layer to your travel story.

So, embrace the diversity of stays, make friends in unexpected places, and most importantly, savor every moment of your globetrotting journey. Happy travels, fellow wanderers!