People from all around the world enjoy backpacking and staying in hostels. Backpackers tend to travel for longer periods than the typical tourist. With only your pack on your back, there are no limits to what you can do or see.

Backpacker Hostels provide a social setting. Many hostels provide self-catering kitchens and most provide meals. Travel in comfort - Bring a pillow with you for those long bus journeys.

Expand your horizons - Taking excursions away from your original plan is part of what makes backpacking fun. Go to the tourist office. Here you can pickup a free tourist map and ask questions about what to do or what to see. Many hostels offer a wide range of activities - from city tours to white water-rafting.

Sample the locale - Visit local restaurants and bars. They are much cheaper and you can try the traditional specialities and even meet the locals. Many hostels in the country are so quiet you can hear your heart beat. Almost all hostels offer lockers, either free of charge or for hire so that people staying in dormitories can lock up their valuables.

Generally, large city hostels are open 24 hours per day, while others may have shorter opening hours. Many hostels have remained old school and you do need to maintain an open mind when choosing this form of accommodation. Hostelling is, in part, the act of traveling and staying in hostels, and is referred to as "backpacking" in many parts of the world. Hostels provide a great way to meet new people and experience new things which is why they appeal to such a diverse range.