If you’ve ever met someone at your hostel and found yourself scrambling to find a place to take your relationship to the, ahem, next level–this post is for you.
Having sex in a hostel is common, but it can be tricky – privacy is not a priority in budget accommodations.
So what happens when two people want to hook up but they’re both in a shared dorm with four, eight or 12 other people?
Some things to consider:
Mutual Respect
Without getting all preachy, the most important thing to consider in this type of situation is respect for those around you. Nothing is worse than sharing a space with someone who is oblivious or indifferent. Be aware, be respectful and treat others the way you want to be treated. If you’re not crazy about the idea of being woken up at 4AM by two people “getting it in” in your room, chances are no one else is going to appreciate it either. Now that that’s out of the way:
Timing is Everything
Ever stop into your hostel in the early afternoon? It’s nearly empty, mostly because everyone else is out exploring. This is probably the best time to find some privacy, other than in the wee hours of the early morning. Worst time? After dinner when everyone is getting ready to go out. If it’s a spontaneous encounter:
Get A Room
No harm in asking hostel staff if there is a private room available for the night. This seems like the best option, if you can afford it. If the room is pricey and it’s late, ask if there is a possible discount – the chances of someone renting the room past 10PM, if it isn’t already booked, are slim to none. If you’re feeling particularly sneaky, check to see if an unoccupied private room is unlocked. If you opt for this option, be quick about it and make sure to clean up, then also consider sex toys as they can bring so much more fun to your sex life, either alone or with others!
Common Areas
Okay, so private rooms are all booked, locked or too expensive. Your next best bet is to find a dark, secluded part of a common area where you won’t be bothered and won’t bother anyone else. Movie room? Private bathroom? Laundry room? Best spots are always a room with a lock. Or, if you’re sharing a dorm with a small amount of people and you’re brave enough to ask, see if they’re willing to give you some privacy for a little while.
Cameras
Some hostels have cameras set up at entrance points and in common areas that are monitored by staff and security for safety reasons. Not keen on having an audience? Be on the lookout!
There is no be all, end all rule where hooking up in a hostel is concerned – it all depends on what you’re comfortable with. You are in charge of making your own decisions, and there is no judgment here – just a friendly reminder to pack your own condoms and use them!
3 Comments
I have to say, I’m disappointed in this article. Matador Travel posted something similar not too long ago and in my opinion, it was an article that would appeal to people mostly interested in partying abroad, not people really interested in soul-searching travel experiences. Instead of writing articles about how people can hook up while traveling, I think travel bloggers should focus more on how to better oneself while exploring the world. Or how women can empower themselves while traveling solo.
Sorry you’re disappointed, but part of Go Girl Guides is preparing women for situations that could come up while traveling alone. While soul-searching, you may just meet the man or woman of your dreams! Or someone that you’re genuinely interested in. This article isn’t to encourage people to hook up, but is more for if you find yourself in this situation, here are some realistic options for how to do it privately.
Nice tips to stay in a dorm or shared hostel room. I agree with your points that when you are living in a hostel with a huge number of people it is necessary to respect their points as views as well. Also I want to add that keep your valuables safe in order to avoid any tricky situation, also don’t trust too quickly, watch out your drinks,