Hostels originated with a teacher’s idea in the early 1900’s to provide low-cost dormitory style accommodation for traveling youth. It has since expanded to include travelers of all ages from all over the world.

The hostel experience embraces community living with agreed upon etiquette and the shared economy practices of dormitory bunking and sharing amenities, space and time with fellow travelers, enjoying events and meals together, or just gathering for a bit of conversation.  It also includes cleaning up after oneself and participating in light chores like stripping the bed and bringing laundry to the laundry room at the end of the stay.  

These practices are essential to maintaining the low-cost accommodation which opens up our beautiful city to school groups, community organizations, families, cycle tourists and backpackers, and to people from all walks of life who want to experience all there is to enjoy in Santa Cruz.