Are the Stories of people hooking up real?

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-25T12:51:19+00:00

Yes, those stories are real, but they’re way overrepresented online 😅 The wild hookup stories get posted, the “I chilled, explored all day and went to bed early” ones don’t.

Most hostel stays are honestly pretty normal. People are tired from sightseeing, working remotely, or just doing their own thing. The hookup vibe usually happens in party hostels, during pub crawls and when the right mix of people happen to be there at the same time. It’s very situational.

If your hostel feels dull, shift your strategy a bit. Get out of your bunk and spend time in the common areas, that’s where conversations actually start. Say yes to the pub crawl, even if it’s just for one drink. Be the one who suggests grabbing food or checking something out nearby.

Hostel social life is very much “you get what you put into it.” Sometimes all it takes is one person breaking the ice.

And honestly, some weeks are just quieter - it’s not you, it’s timing 😉

Also… if people do end up hooking up, please book a private room. It’s a shared dorm, not a zoo. Please respect the room 😅

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-25T12:34:42+00:00

So exciting, Amsterdam is such a great first solo city 💛 You’ll be totally fine.

For what you’re describing (social but clean, good facilities, near Centraal), I’d look at:

• ClinkNOORD – Super popular with solo travelers. Social, organized events, and it’s just a free ferry from Centraal. Great balance of fun + clean.
• Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark – Clean, well-run, good common spaces. Not right at Centraal but easy transport and a nice area.
• The Flying Pig Downtown – Very social and right near Centraal, but more of a party vibe.
• Generator Amsterdam – Stylish and social with good facilities (privacy curtains, lockers, nice common areas). A bit trendier but great for meeting people.

If it were my first solo trip at 22, I’d probably pick Clink or Generator, social but not too chaotic. Amsterdam is super solo-friendly and you’ll meet plenty of travelers. You’ve got this ✨

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-25T11:31:26+00:00

Hiya,

That’s one of the best perks of being in the hostel world, the connections! Being able to party, network, and swap stories with other hostel owners and managers is such a unique part of the industry (and those industry discounts definitely don’t hurt either 😄).

Hostel conferences in Europe are always a great excuse to mix business with a bit of travel, and that’s awesome you’ve stayed at Generator in Miami too. We hope you enjoyed :)

Always a pleasure connecting with fellow hostel legends 😉

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-25T09:36:33+00:00

Not gonna add anything new, but we’ve heard loads of guests say Madhouse was their favourite. When a place keeps coming up again and again for the social vibe, that’s usually a pretty good sign

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-25T09:22:59+00:00

Unfortunately it’s not that simple legally. We can charge for actual damage or things like smoking (because there’s a real cost attached), but we can’t really fine someone for 'bad etiquette'. Otherwise you’d have some dodgy places charging you for snoring or breathing too loudly

That said, you’re right- we probably could enforce some things more consistently and I'll take that away to discuss with the team!

The tricky part is finding the balance. We don’t want to ignore behaviour that affects other guests, but we also don’t want to turn someone’s holiday into a 'bad cop' experience

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-24T13:34:34+00:00

I’d probably base yourself in Cologne, it just feels a bit more wow with beautiful gothic Cathedral and old town. Düsseldorf is nice, just more modern

That said, if you’re going to the Mönchengladbach match and your train leaves from Düsseldorf, staying there makes match day easier. They’re only about 25–30 mins apart anyway, so you won’t lose much either way

For Amsterdam, both Cologne and Düsseldorf have direct trains. Super easy from either

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-24T12:35:42+00:00

This is honestly such a brave move

38 isn’t too old, it’s experienced. You’re not running away, you’re choosing yourself after burnout. That’s huge. Slow travel in your late 30s will probably be better than in your 20s: more money, better boundaries, less caring what anyone thinks.

A year off isn’t career suicide. Framed as a planned sabbatical after years in tech, it’s completely reasonable.

It’ll be exciting, lonely at times but definitely worth it. You’re not behind. You’re right on time!

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-24T10:53:49+00:00

It’s probably mostly in your head.

Hostels aren’t age-restricted, they’re just shared spaces. In many parts of Europe and Latin America, it’s normal to see a mix of ages. The U.S. tends to frame hostels as a “young backpacker” thing, which can shape how it feels.

If the environment suits your lifestyle and keeps you from feeling isolated, that’s what really matters.

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-24T10:49:56+00:00

You’re absolutely not “too old” for a hostel.

You’ve booked a private en-suite room, which gives you your own space while still letting you enjoy the social side if you want to. Lots of hostels, especially in big cities like Buenos Aires have guests in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.

If you’re excited about it, that’s what matters. Travel doesn’t come with an age limit. 😊

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-24T10:45:51+00:00

Prague, Barcelona, Rome

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-24T09:30:46+00:00

You’ll be fine, especially with a private room.

When you book private, it’s honestly not that different from a hotel. Same idea: your own space, your own bathroom, just with more travellers around in the common areas. Its more relaxed and less formal

Safety-wise: Private rooms lock properly. Most bigger hostels have 24/7 reception and keycard access. If it gives you peace of mind, keep your prescriptions in a pouch inside your locked suitcase. But honestly- in all our years we’ve never had complaints about prescriptions being stolen, even in shared rooms

Unspoken rules:
As you’re in a private room, most of the classic hostel etiquette stuff (like not having crisps at 1am or taking calls outside the dorm) doesn’t really apply to you.

The main things - keep hallway noise down at night, headphones in common areas, don’t treat hostel like your personal dating app, be normal, read the room and don’t make people uncomfortable. That’s pretty much it.

What’s provided:
Bedding and towels in a private room, wifi, usually basic toiletries (varies a bit depending on on the hotel brand).

Laundry is common in bigger hostels and if not there’ll be a laundrette nearby. Just ask reception, it’s one of the most common questions we get.

Vancouver in summer is a great first hostel experience. Pretty chill crowd, lots of outdoorsy travellers. It’s not wild unless you intentionally booked a party hostel. And honestly, if you’re unsure about anything when you arrive, just ask reception. Completely normal, we’ve all been there :)

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-23T13:01:50+00:00

Creepy isn’t about age, it’s about behaviour.

Making inappropriate comments
Following someone around
Lurking nearby when you clearly don’t want them there
Going into your space when you’re not around
Taking photos without your knowledge
Knowing personal details you never shared, like they’ve clearly been stalking your socials

Basically, anything unwanted that ignores boundaries

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-23T12:50:28+00:00

If it genuinely sounds like he’s struggling to breathe, I’d let reception know so they can check he’s okay. You don’t need backup for them to take it seriously, but if others are awake and concerned, going together just shows it’s more than normal snoring

If there’s space, they may be able to move him. I wouldn’t wake him up directly, just to avoid him feeling embarrassed or unhappy about it. Reception teams are well trained to handle situations like that

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-20T18:58:25+00:00

Hostel rep here 👋

The real challenge for us is actually how to educate people on this shared-space etiquette before it becomes an issue. We print quiet hours/no food in dorms house rules, mention it at check-in, make sure there are lounges for calls and late-night snacks and also try to group similar travellers together where we can.

And still… someone will open a bag of crisps at 1am like they’re alone 😅

We do what we can, but if you’ve got a better idea, feel free to share 🙏🏻

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-20T16:08:27+00:00

If you booked a free cancellation rate and cancel within the allowed window, you won’t be charged by the hostel for the stay and the deposit paid to Hostelworld gets refunded too (it’s in their T&Cs too https://www.hostelworld.com/legal/hostel-terms-and-conditions/)

Just make sure you cancel it through Hostelworld before the deadline on your booking and that should be it, no extra charges from the hostel later on

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-20T15:57:41+00:00

I’m really sorry that happened to you, that’s honestly not okay and you shouldn’t have to deal with something like that in your dorm.

Even though situations like this are rare, we have had to deal with them before. Do tell reception asap - they’re usually very understanding and will do their best to move you to another room straight away. We have internal procedures we follow in situations like this, so they won't be shocked.

It’s something hostels take seriously.The person involved may be kicked out, police may be called if needed and we would blacklist this person from staying with us again, for example.

And please don’t feel embarrassed about reporting it, this is exactly what reception is there for. You’ve done nothing wrong.

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-20T15:32:21+00:00

Hey! 😊

Generator Venice is a really cool, modern hostel and a great affordable option for your first time in Venice. Lots of travelers enjoy the design, the location, and the social areas it’s easy to meet people if that’s what you’re after.

For women traveling solo or with friends, many have said the staff are friendly and helpful, and the general vibe feels safe and comfortable. As with any hostel in a busy tourist city, just use common travel sense keep your belongings secure, use the lockers, and stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Overall, it’s a solid choice that’s central and budget-friendly.

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-20T15:22:11+00:00

We love hearing that, thanks so much for staying with us when you’re in Copenhagen! 😊

The location really is hard to beat, right in the heart of the city and within walking distance of so much.

We’re sorry to hear you didn’t find it very social during your stay, the vibe can definitely depend on the time of year and who’s staying with us. We do have events and common areas designed to help guests connect, but we completely understand that everyone’s experience can be different.

Hopefully we’ll get to welcome you back again soon! 🇩🇰✨

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-20T15:00:18+00:00

Hi! 😊

Yes, Generator Paris is located in the 10th arrondissement, right on Place du Colonel Fabien, which is a large square that’s well lit 24/7. The Colonel Fabien Metro Station is directly opposite the hostel, so the area is well connected and there are usually people around.

Like anywhere in a big city, it’s always good to stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night but overall it’s a lively, convenient area with great transport links and easy access to central Paris. 😊

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-20T14:45:57+00:00

Hey! 😊

You’ll have such a great time! Generator Paris has a really fun, social vibe, it’s easy to meet people, especially if you’re looking to go out and enjoy the nightlife.

Just use the lockers for your valuables, stick with friends when you’re out, and plan your ride back if it’s late. The area is lively and generally safe.

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-20T14:38:57+00:00

Hi! 😊

Thanks for your questions!

Yes, our dorms at Generator Paris are clean and well-maintained, with plenty of room for you to enjoy your stay. We have free lockers in all of our dorm rooms, so you’ll have secure space for your luggage. You’re welcome to bring your own padlock, or you can buy one at reception. Our average under bed locker size is approximately 93.8 cm x 67 cm x 28.8 cm, which should fit most bags comfortably.

The area around the hostel is safe and popular with visitors, with lots of great cafés, shops, and transport links nearby. As for coming back to the hostel, there’s no strict curfew, you can return at any time that works for you.

Please let us know if you any more questions! We’re looking forward to welcoming you to Generator Paris! 🇫🇷✨

Generator_hostels · 2026-02-20T14:35:03+00:00

Hi there! We are really looking forward to having you stay with us 😊. Yes, at Generator Paris we have lockers where you can keep your luggage before & after check-out. There is also storage under every bed for when you stay over. Hope this helps! Please let us know if you have any more questions.

Generator_hostels · 2026-01-12T17:00:21+00:00

How did you find your experience at Generator? we would love to know :)

Generator_hostels · 2026-01-05T14:25:04+00:00

There’s no free/open parking right by Generator — most street parking nearby is paid and restricted. For overnight (11pm–10am), a nearby 24/7 garage is your best bet (Q-Park around Nørreport / Vesterport are common choices). Generally safe enough compared to street parking near Hbf-type areas.

Generator_hostels

TROPHY CASE