I have been traveling and backpacking the world as a solo female since 2008. Most of the time, I stay at guesthouses, Airbnbs & hostels. Here I list the best hostels for female travelers based off my experience which I would highly recommend. Not only are they safe, but they are ran by trustworthy people who add to the whole cultural experience.
Safe Hostel for Female Travelers in Istanbul, Turkey
Second Home Hostel in Istanbul, Turkey
Second Home Hostel was the best place to stay in Istanbul owned by brothers Murat and Can Seyit. Located centrally between old and new town, walking distance to everything you wish to visit. It is not only a safe space, the brothers will give you the best tips on restaurants and nightlife, and even take you out to town. The rooms are clean with room options. Turkish breakfast is included and the vibe is amazing.
The living room area offers guests Hookah, tea, and a space to mingle any time of the day with other travelers.
Pricing: $25/private room – $35 for 2 people in shared room
Contact: http://www.secondhomehostel.com
Affordable Hostel in Beirut, Lebanon
Talal Hotel in Beirut, Lebanon
Beirut is not a cheap city to travel through (expect US/Europe big city prices), especially if you are staying in the areas where most tourists go and are much safer. A traveler I met had recommended this hotel as the cheapest accommodation in the city. Centrally located near the main Port with the Charles Helou Bus Terminal only minutes away by foot. Just a 15 minute walk takes you to Downtown Beirut, Souk District, Gemmayze Street, Achrafieh and the posh Mar Mikhael neighborhood with all the hip restaurants and bars. 20 minutes away from the international airport and pickup can be arranged.
The rooms come in single, double or triple beds. I opted for the single for just $37 a night. Of my list of recommendations, Talal Hotel is the least charming or clean. But it has the basic amenities needed for rest (full bed, closet, air conditioning, tv) and it is safe. The owner of the hotel is quirky, friendly, helpful, warm and full of character, ready to chat up a storm any time of the day. He even fed me homemade food on several occasions and gave me a big hug when I left welcoming me to come back again!
Lebanese tea & coffee is offered throughout the day. For the inexpensive price, I stayed 3 nights but keep in mind that you will definitely be roughing it here.
Pricing: $37/night for a single room – $20/shared double room.
Contact: https://www.talalhotel.com
Address: Saife, Charles Helou Street, Beirut, Lebanon
Note: Wifi is not included which you’ll have to pay a little for.
Beachfront Hostel in Tel Aviv, Israel
Beachfront Hostel in Tel Aviv, Israel
Right in the midst of the most lively and vibrant action, Beachfront Hostel, as it’s name suggests is indeed ‘beachfront‘. Located along the famous Tel-Aviv Promenade, just a walking, bus or biking distance to everything you want to do. The two story building offers a variety of rooms accommodating any traveler’s budget. What I loved is the huge roof lounge area for sun-bathing, soaking up the sun and sipping a beer while enjoying the sunset.
What’s included:
- Beach towels
- Hot/cold drinks anytime of the day
- Wifi
- Refrigerator
- Air Conditioning
- Full breakfast for just 30 ILS ($8) at “Yotveta” restaurant next door
- 20% discount at the popular ‘La Mer’ beach restaurant
Pricing: $25/person for 5-bed mixed dorm – $70/bedroom, sleeps 2
Contact: https://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Tel-Aviv-Beachfront-Hostel/Tel-Aviv/51675
Best Place to Meet Backpackers in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Tranquilo Backpackers Hostel in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Just steps away from the best beach in Santa Teresa (southwest Costa Rica), Tranquilo Backpackers Hostel is where I experienced my first Hostel experience during my first Backpacking Trip in 2007. There I met many other travelers from around the world (most who were traveling for weeks to months at the time). One friend I ended up traveling to Southeast Asia with 2 years later, and another buddy I’m still in touch with from Israel.
Amenities:
- 24-hour reception with friendly staff that can assist in all your travel questions throughout Costa Rica
- Famous Pancake Breakfast, Fruit & Coffee is included
- Wi-fi
- Kitchen
- Lots of Hammocks to sway around at any time of the day
This is the place ideally:
- To mingle with other backpackers (18-35 of age)
- Share tips on the next adventure route in Costa Rica
- To post up for a few weeks of surfing
- For Hippie, Gypsy, Artistic Vibes
- Meet locals
- Enjoy beers, party until sunrise
Pricing: 15$/person for 6 people room + private bathroom
39$/person for Double room + private bathroom with 1 double bed and 1 single bed
Contact: http://tranquilobackpackers.com
Clean, Hip Hostel in Soho, London, United Kingdom
SoHostel in London, United Kingdom
London is an expensive city. SoHostel has been the most impressive hostel that had beyond ‘basic amenities’. The large space is incredibly clean, modern, hip with eclectic art design, full-kitchen/bar and friendly staff to assist in any travel needs. Centrally located in the Soho Neighborhood, the hostel is incredibly safe with 2 locked doors to get through just for the entrance before getting to your hallway and room (with key card access). They also have a spacious living room, bar, kitchen where you can easily post up while catching up on laptop work.
Pricing: $50/person for 1 bed in a 6-bed room (mixed gender)
Contact: http://www.sohostel.co.uk
Note: Staying here would only be financially worth it if you are a solo traveler. With 2 people traveling, might be more financially wise to get an Airbnb instead with your own room.
Most Affordable Hostel in New York City, USA
Chelsea International Hostel in New York City, USA
Situated in the heart of Chelsea neighborhood, north of Greenwich Village and south of Midtown Manhattan, Chelsea Hostel is one of the oldest hostels in NY (opened in 1993). In one of the safest neighborhoods especially for female travelers just walking distance to bars, restaurants, shops and a quick walk to the subway.
One of the cheapest options in Manhattan next to Airbnb’s, Chelsea Hostel is maintained 24 hours a day by a friendly, highly motivated staff. The front desk team can help arrange tours, taxi’s and any recommendations. The amenities are basic but clean: a twin size bed with clean sheets, a sink, shelf and coat rack in the room. Bathroom and shower are in the hallway.
Pricing: $75/night for shared room (Breakfast & Coffee included)
Contact: https://www.chelseahostel.com
Address: 251 W 20th St, New York, NY 10011
Prefer to stay at an Airbnb or Guesthouse? https://www.bohemianvagabond.com/best-airbnbs-for-female-travelers