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We often think of hostels as the budget accommodations of last resort. But these 5 unique hostels around the world may just change your view of what it means to stay in a hostel. And maybe – just maybe – you’ll be inspired to stay in one yourself.
Eastern Comfort Hostelboat Berlin, Germany
This floating hostel in Berlin offers panoramic river views and the opportunity to sleep on the Spree River. Eastern Comfort Hostelboat and Floating Lounge is right between Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, two of the coolest districts in the city. The hostel is near bars, well known clubs and galleries such as the East Side Gallery of the Berlin Wall. Enjoy the best views of the city, including the Oberbaum Bridge, and let calm river waves rock you to sleep.
The Treehouse, Nicaragua
Tucked away in the jungle of Granada, this giant treehouse hostel makes for an enchanting getaway for backpackers and travelers of all types. The secluded Treehouse boasts a bar with stunning views of the surrounding nature where visits from howler monkeys are not uncommon. Book a stay at this hostel and you too can traverse the cool suspension bridge to this unique jungle paradise.
YHA St Briavels Castle, England
A real 900-year-old castle converted into a hostel, St Briavels is rich in history – and hauntings. Located in Lydney, Gloucestershire, this castle features stone walls and cobbled floors. But it’s best known as the number one spot for ghost hunters in the U.K. With regular history tours of the castle and special events like treasure hunts and medieval banquets, a stay in this castle is a spooky trip back in time. (www.losaltosresort.com)
Jumbo Stay, Sweden
This unique stay in Sweden provides you with a night in a real jumbo jet, without ever leaving the ground. A free five-minute shuttle from the Stockholm Arlanda Airport gives you the perks of seeing airplanes take off from your room and the comfort of hardly hearing them at all. Book a night in the luxury suite to stay in the converted cockpit with a panoramic view of the airport.
Hedonisia Hawaii, USA
This former junkyard remodeled as a sustainable community is in the Puna rainforest of Pahoa, Hawaii. The hostel’s community-based ecotourism and self-defined progressive, eco-feminist community are what make this place a special and unique oasis for backpackers, eco-tourists, volunteers and interns alike. Hedonisia housing options range from a cozy studio cottage to eco-huts made of recycled and renewable materials.
Fremantle Prison YHA, Australia
Spend the night in a prison cell that was once occupied by the real-life convicts of Fremantle Prison YHA in the 1850s. Dare to stay in the prison cells converted into private or shared bedrooms, or upgrade the experience and enjoy the nicer Victorian-style guards’ cottages. With WiFi, modern facilities and the charm of this historic building, it’s the luxury of an international youth hostel combined with the unique experience of a convict’s living quarters.