Over the years, Travel and Tourism have flourished immensely. It has boosted India’s economy and has created so many hotel chains like the Taj, Hyatt, Radisson, etc. However, when it comes to the middle class of India, many backpackers struggle to afford the luxuries of these hotels. So what if I told you that there’s a way out? What if I told you that there exists a chain of hostels exclusively for a common backpacker?
India’s first backpacker’s hostel - Zostel
In 2013, A group of IIM and IIT graduates brainstormed the idea of Zostel. Zostel is a form of a hostel that welcomes students and budget travellers. Earlier, many students found it difficult to find an affordable, clean and engaging place to stay during travelling. The atmosphere of the stay is created in such a way that it provides a holistic experience for anyone who loves to travel.
What’s inside a Zostel?
Extremely popular for its comfy inferiors, Zostel allows you to network with many young travellers. One of the most exciting features of Zostel is that it is equipped with in-house activities and common hangout areas. The activities include PlayStations, board games, card games, bonfires and tons of musical sessions to make your evening at Zostel delightful. The management also helps you with the itinerary and often suggest ways to experience travelling in the best way possible.
Any backpacker from any part of the world can stay at Zostel. To build effective networking, rooms are converted into dormitories. There are usually three to twelve bedded dorms (usually bunk beds). The prices are affordable and are suitable for any student or budget traveller who loves backpacking. Each visitor is provided with a private locker, common television, laundry services and can also access the community kitchen. Depending upon the topography of a region, Zostel also provides outdoor tents and camps. It is a breakthrough concept as it provides all the facilities that any 5-star hotel offers, at an affordable price.
Zostel at Spiti
Zostel is spread across 38 famous tourist places in India. However, according to my experience, Zostel in Spiti Valley is one of the best places to stay. The view, the food and the people are truly amazing. One can easily explore the Himalayan passes. There are camps in the middle of the desert, equipped with electricity and toilets. It offers you the most mesmerizing Valley view. At night, people often come out of their camps for stargazing. It is certainly one of the most enthralling places to stay.
However, before 2020, Zostel had a good start in the travel market but it is difficult to say the same after the virus is controlled. When the Travel Industry reopens with new rules and regulations, travellers would be sceptical about sharing rooms and networking with others. The virus has changed our lives forever and so has changed the way we will travel after the pandemic. The key question is - Will it change the fate of Zostel too?
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