I was thinking today that last Summer, and for the previous 4, I was super busy working at Hostelling International- San Francisco, feeding travelers from all over and just really enjoying chatting people up and learning about the world through their eyes.
When I think about all the friendships I made there- it makes me miss the whole scene a lot. Truth be told, I met people through working there and through my own hostelling adventures who really changed my life, and continue to today.
When you're in the midst of a Summer Season at a hostel- it can really wreck your head- I'm not gonna lie- it is intense. Along with the 92% of awesome, super rad and open-minded people, there's that 8% that can KILL YOU! I am not even kidding. I smelled some stuff YOU WOULD NOT BELIEVE and saw some ridiculous behavior that would just shock you by the commitment level of sheer assholeness! Some days I would leave work thinking, "omg reeeally? wtf was THAT all about?"
I spent the majority of my Hostel years at HI-City Center, which, in my opinion, is the best of the 3 San Francisco city hostels (they're all good!)... but let's just say it is located in a most adventurous San Francisco neighborhood, The Tenderloin. You may have heard of it... I used to talk about it a lot! It's a rough neighborhood to be sure. You will see and smell things that may make you want to barf... but now when I look back, my memories within the walls of the hostel are what make me feel like it really wasn't so bad after all. I know a lot of people who feel the same way.
While the memories are flowing, I wanted to share my love and praise for hostelling, and for all the knowledge and joy it brought into my life. In my opinion it is the BEST- and smartest way to travel... you get an affordable, clean, safe place to lay your head at night, a rad free or really cheap breakfast, and the possibility of new friendships that will enrich your life in a million ways. I usually travel by myself, so having a familiar place with that special energy is brilliant. It is a place of magic if you let it be! What else do you need really?
2 comments:
I feel the exact same way! I've never worked in a Hostel but I have stayed in them in the US and in Europe. The experience is one that so hard to describe to soemone who has not stayed in a hostel. Once you stay in a hostel you will get the picture.
I can't believe that there was a time I stayed in hotels! Expensive at times and boring. Hostels you get to meet people who enjoy traveling and adventure just like you do! Learn about other cultures and forge friendships that go way beyond social networks. Yes I have stayed at HI-City Center in the Tenderloin in San Fran. Had a great time and met a very special lady there that I am still friends with now.
Get your hostel on asap!
aw, that's so sweet- you've stayed in touch with Sophia! hehe
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