No longer just a cheap alternative to hotels, hostels have become the preferred choice for travellers. Giving rise to ‘Poshtels’
Identified by the World Travel Market as a key trend for 2015, a poshtel – or posh hostel – is a boutique hostel that mixes affordable luxury with high-tech facilities. Common features of poshtels include: free Wi-Fi, en-suite facilities and a stylish, modern design. Not just for backpackers and young people, poshtels also appeal to fashion-conscious travellers and older generations looking for an alternative to budget hotels.
1. Casa Gracia – Barcelona, Spain
The distinctive Gracia neighbourhood in Barcelona is known for its authentic feel, where visitors can find traditional Catalan life. This motif is embodied in Casa Gracia; stylish and comfortable, the hostel’s chic furnishings are used in a simple fashion to create a feeling of home. The hostel’s extensive range of suites are decorated in an understated yet elegant way and many come with private en-suite bathrooms. Visitors can expect a variety of modern facilities, including complimentary Wi-Fi.
Rooms available from USD60: trivago.co.uk/barcelona-31965/hotel/casa-gracia–1670065
2. Generator – Dublin, Ireland
Despite being a growing chain, Generator Hostels are known for their unique character – and Generator Dublin is no exception. Found in the regenerated Smithfield neighbourhood, the hostel’s interior incorporates recycled materials such as brick, stone and steel to reflect the area’s urban renewal. The popular bar also features a one-of-a-kind Jameson bottle chandelier – a nod to the Old Jameson distillery which is found close by. Rooms feature LED lights and free wifi, while the hostel boasts a private cinema room.
Beds available from USD46: trivago.co.uk/dublin-42454/hotel/generator-dublin-1816425
3. Kex – Reykjavik, Iceland
Kex (meaning ‘biscuit’ in Icelandic) is found in a former biscuit factory in one of the Reykjavik’s trendiest neighbourhoods, where you’ll find artists’ studios, design houses and fashion showrooms. Furthermore, the hostel shares a building with the Living Art Museum. Inside, the hostel is fitted out with chic vintage furniture and offers guests a wide range of facilities, including a gastropub, two guest kitchens, heated patio, gym, Wi-Fi and free breakfast buffet.
Rooms available from USD100: trivago.co.uk/reykjavik-84866/hotel/kex-1833819
4. Gallery Hostel – Porto, Portugal
Porto’s stylish Gallery Hostel is full of character – and perfect for those who love art and design. As the name suggests, the hostel features an ever-changing exhibition of works from local artists, as well as other cultural and artistic initiatives. The building itself has been lovingly restored by a dedicated team, blending traditional Porto features with modern touches. The result is a chic and charming environment offering a range of rooms, including private en-suites.
Rooms available from USD71: trivago.co.uk/porto-51096/hotel/gallery-hostel-1945825
5. ONE80° Hostel – Berlin, Germany
Located directly on Berlin’s Alexanderplatz, the ONE80° hostel lies in the centre of one of Europe’s most buzzing cities. Featuring urban-inspired art and chic modernist furniture, the trendy hostel evokes the youthful spirit of the city. In the lobby, guests will find a photo booth where they can take fun snaps and upload them online, while the basement is home to the hostel’s own night club.
Quadruple rooms available from USD80: trivago.co.uk/berlin-8514/hotel/one80%C2%BA-hostel-berlin-2160884
6. Clink78 – London, United Kingdom
Found in the central region of King’s Cross, Clink78 occupies a unique setting in a 200 year old courthouse. Mixing elegant Victorian architecture with modern interior design, the hostel makes use of its unusual location – with an internet lounge occupying a former courtroom, decorated today with a neon ‘guilty’ sign. The hostel boasts a sociable environment, at the heart of which lies the Clashbar, where guests can grab a cocktail and meet fellow travellers.
Rooms available from USD72: trivago.co.uk/london-38715/hotel/clink78-1032784
7. U Hostel – Madrid, Spain
U Hostel is a thoroughly modern hostel found in the heart of Madrid. With its open plan rooms, minimalist decoration and modern furnishings, it’s hard to believe the hostel is actually found in a 19th century palace, which has been carefully restored. Today, U Hostel offers guests contemporary comfort with refreshing splashes of colour. Visitors can sunbathe on the roof terrace, chill out in the cosy cinema room or socialise in the fully-equipped kitchen.
Rooms start from USD61: trivago.co.uk/madrid-32027/hotel/u-hostels-2432697
8. Dream Hostel – Tampere, Finland
Just a short walk from Tampere central station, Dream Hostel is bright and airy with open-plan communal areas. Incorporating the best of Nordic design, the hostel features comfortable yet functional furniture, as well as simple and clean decoration. The large kitchen is the focal point of the hostel and the epicentre for socialising, but it’s easy enough to retire to one of the cosy rooms for some peace and quiet.
Rooms available from USD88: trivago.co.uk/tampere-81364/hotel/dream-hostel-1500965
9. Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage – London, United Kingdom
Putting the grandeur into posh hostels, Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage is a historic stately home, complete with oak furnishings and wide, sweeping staircases. The hostel has been lovingly restored while keeping all of its period features intact. Guests can relax in the spacious lounge and bar areas, or retire to the hostel’s extra comfy beds. During the summer, the hostel offers a pleasant conservatory and BBQ area.
Rooms available from USD102 a night: trivago.co.uk/london-38715/hotel/palmers-lodge-swiss-cotage-1052274
10. Maverick Hostel – Budapest, Hungary
Found in a converted Royal Manor built by the Hapsburg dynasty, the Maverick Hostel blends the old and new effortlessly. Guests are welcomed by a grand foyer flanked by palatial stone pillars, while inside, the stylish simple rooms are fitted with a variety of modern conveniences, including free Wi-Fi and satellite TV in dorm rooms. In addition, most of Budapest’s sights are just 15 minutes away on foot.
Rooms available from USD30 a night: trivago.co.uk/budapest-81273/hotel/maverick-hostel-1033134
