Monthly Archives: February 2019

The Top 5 Lesbian Travel Destinations in 2019

woman with a pride flag flowing out from behind her
Posted: 2/21/2019 | February 21st, 2019

We want to speak to a wide range of voices on this website so have added an LGBTQ column to talk about travel issues that are important some of our community members. This month, Dani, one of our LGBT columnists, shares the top five lesbian travel destinations in 2019.

I have told you everything you need to know about traveling as a lesbian and how to plan the perfect lesbian-friendly trip, but what about lesbian-friendly destinations? What are the greatest locations for an unforgettable lesbian vacation — where you don’t have to be afraid to get weird stares or have to be careful with PDAs if you’re with your partner.

There are dozens of spots that fit the bill, some of which became more interesting at certain times: Lesbos became popular with gay women when the Sappho Women’s Festival was created in 2000, Los Angeles saw an increase in lesbian travelers when The L Word first aired in 2004, and Madrid was particularly popular with queer visitors during 2017 WorldPride.

So which destinations are having their “lesbian moment” in 2019?

Here are five that welcome LGBT travelers and have something that makes them particularly interesting for lesbians now, no matter if you’re solo or with your significant other. Read on for why I think you should hit up one of them this year:

1. New York City, USA

Dani and Adam pose in front of a gay pride parade float in New York City
Why go?: New York City is not only known as one of the gay-friendliest cities in the world and the top-ranked LGBTQ destination in the US but it is where the Stonewall riots kicked off the modern gay liberation movement in 1969.

2019 marks the 50th anniversary of this significant event in LGBT culture, and to commemorate, New York City will host WorldPride in June — the Pride of Prides, a full month of festivities, with over 50 events. It’s the first time in its 20-year history that WorldPride is being held in the United States, and many celebrities are expected to join the festivities, including Madonna, who rang in the 50th anniversary year with a surprise performance at the historic Stonewall Inn bar on New Year’s Eve.

While this is a great excuse to visit NYC this year, there are many more things that make the city attractive for lesbian tourists — from world-class art museums to stunning Broadway productions and dozens of neighborhoods to explore, New York City is always worth a visit. In the summer, you will get to enjoy free performances by the New York Metropolitan Opera and the Philharmonic in the city’s parks, free outdoor movie screenings, and weekend flea markets and food markets. Check out Matt’s 3-day NYC itinerary that covers all of the city’s famous sights and museums.

You’ll also want to check out New York’s lesbian nightlife, including the iconic Cubbyhole Bar and Henrietta Hudson in the West Village, the popular Hot Rabbit party, and a number of Pride parties exclusively for women, such as the Femme Fatale rooftop party.

If you want to learn more about the LGBT history of New York, I recommend this informative LGBTQ History Walking Tour of Greenwich Village.

When to go: June. The biggest event, WorldPride, takes place on Sunday, June 30, 2019.

Before you go: Check out the lesbian events calendar before you visit NYC. There are regular lesbian stand-up comedy shows, dance parties, and exquisite drag shows. Events like lesbian speed dating or a comedy show are especially great if you are traveling solo.

2. Montreal, Canada

two girls walking through Montreal's Gay Village on Ste Catherine; photo by Elsa Gortais (flickr:@125578622@N07)
Why go?: Canada legalized same-sex marriage in 2005 and has been a popular destination for LGBT-travelers ever since, and while cities like Vancouver, Toronto, or Quebec are all LGBT-friendly , Montreal is known as the city with the biggest LGBT nightlife scene and is particularly lesbian-friendly (unlike most other popular LGBT destinations, which usually focus on male clientele). The favorable exchange rate of the Canadian dollar right now also means that a trip there is not too expensive.

Rue Sainte-Catherine is where most of Montreal’s gay nightlife is centered, and it’s the center of “the village,” Montreal’s gayborhood. Sadly, the infamous Le Drugstore, a lesbian bar on eight floors, closed down, but there are still plenty of amazing destinations. Don’t miss Complexe Sky, the biggest gay club in all of Canada, whose four floors each have different styles of music; the terrific rooftop terrace includes a pool and hot tub.

No matter if you make it to Montreal in time for Pride or not, I do recommend visiting in the summer, since the city prides itself on an abundance of outdoor activities during the warmer months. The streets are decked with outdoor seating, and you can relax on Jean Dore Beach on the shores of St Lawrence River, just minutes from downtown. Climb up to the top of Mount Royal for sweeping views over the city, marvel at the murals on Boulevard Saint-Laurent, and swing by lesbian-owned industrial warehouse-meets-beer garden Bar Alexandraplatz in the up-and-coming Mile-Ex neighborhood for a cold beer.

When to go?: No dates have been released yet, but there will hopefully be another edition of the popular Slut Island Festival, a feminist-queer DIY music festival that was founded in Montreal in 2013 mainly for performers and audiences who identify as women, trans*, gender-fluid, nonbinary, or people of color. The festival usually occurs in July.

Montreal Pride 2019 happens August 8–18, 2019.

Before you go: LezSpreadTheWord, an organization that publishes the feminist LSTW magazine and created the popular queer web series Féminin/Féminin, hosts the bimonthly girls party “Où sont les femmes?” — try to plan your trip around one of their awesome parties.

3. Mallorca, Spain

women hugging in the middle of a pride parade
Why go?: Mallorca has been a popular holiday destination with Europeans for decades, but in 2012, the Spanish island popped up on the lesbian travel map for the first time thanks to the inaugural Ella Festival in Palma, Mallorca’s capital. In August, the festival celebrates its seventh edition, and no matter if you identify as lesbian, bisexual, queer, transgender, or intersex, every woman is welcome at Ella! You’ll get to enjoy beach parties, concerts, and a number of activities, from paddleboarding to beach volleyball, as well as island excursions.

While most of Mallorca’s LGBT nightlife happens in Palma, I recommend exploring the rest of the island as well. The easiest way to get around is by car, but you can also reach many beautiful beaches and little towns by bus. There are over 260 beaches in Mallorca, but make sure to visit the picturesque small bays of Cala Formentor and Cala Pi, and Cala Mesquida and Playa de Muro for wide sandy beaches. Also worth a visit: the Cap de Formentor lighthouse on the northern tip of Mallorca, and as many as you can of the charming little villages that dot the island, for example, Sóller, Fornalutx, Valledemossa, and Deià.

When to go?: The Ella Festival is August 30–September 6, 2019. Add on a week of island exploration before or after the festival.

Before you go: Check out Lesbian Mallorca, the “lesbian lifestyle directory” of the island, has a great overview of lesbian bars and lesbian-friendly and lesbian-owned restaurants, hotels, and shops.

4. Provincetown, Mass., USA

women marching at the pride parade in Provincetown, Massachusetts (photo by
Why go?: Provincetown, often referred to as P-Town, is a small fishing town at the northern tip of Cape Cod, and it has long been a favorite with LGBT travelers. The charming little seaside destination is a fantastic vacation spot for anyone — straight or gay — with over 200 independent shops, plenty of art galleries, delicious restaurants, and great beaches, but its focus on lesbian travelers and the celebration of freedom of expression are what makes this open-minded community so attractive for girls.

Provincetown has more lesbian-owned businesses per capita than anywhere else in the US, the highest concentration of same-sex households in the US, and many LGBTQ-owned B&Bs and inns. No matter if you are solo or with your partner, there’s something for everyone: Provincetown is home to the oldest gay bar in the US, the A-House; the gayest main street in the world, Commercial Street; one of the top ten gay beaches in the world; and the East End Gallery District, offering world-class art. No matter what time of year you’re visiting, you’re likely to stumble upon one of the town’s many themed weeks or weekends (see below).

The daily tea dance (4–7pm) at the Boatslip, an expansive deck that overlooks Provincetown’s West End Harbor, is something you have to experience once — expect a packed dance floor and great people-watching. You’ll make new friends there for sure.

When to go: Try to plan your visit around one of the many women-focused events, depending which one best fits your preferences and interests: Women’s Media Summit (April 5–7); Single Women’s Weekend (May 17–19); Womxn of Color Weekend (May 30– June 2); Pride (May 31– June 3); Girl Splash (July 23–27); Family Week, the largest annual gathering of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer-identified families in the world (July 27–August 3); the incredible Carnival, which attracts 90,000 visitors (August 15–25); Women’s Week (October 14–20); or the weeklong transgender celebration Fantasia Fair (October 20–27).

Before you go: Since there are so many events year-round, make sure to check what’s going on in P-Town during the dates of your visit. If they happen to be during Carnival, for example, be aware that the town turns into party central. Never arrive without having accommodation booked in advance — B&Bs and hotels tend to fill up quickly.

5. Puerto Rico

a woman with a hula hoop and dressed in glitter during gay pride parade
Why go?: Just over a year after devastating Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico with full force in September 2017, the island is bouncing back. Almost all hotels are open again, the New York Times just awarded Puerto Rico the #1 spot on its popular 52 Places To Go in 2019 list, and thanks to its status as a United States commonwealth, the legal rights of LGBT citizens (same-sex marriage has been legal since 2015) have had a great influence on Puerto Rico, which is now the gay-friendliest of all Caribbean nations. Especially for Americans, Puerto Rico is an easy getaway: there are plenty of direct flights from East Coast airports (and other US hubs), you don’t need a passport, and it’s a fantastic winter escape, with temperatures around 81° Fahrenheit (27° Celsius) in January.

Both San Juan, the capital, and Ponce, the island’s second largest city, have several gay and LGBT-friendly bars and nightclubs, and last year’s Pride Parade in San Juan attracted more than 5,000 people. Most gay bars are in San Juan’s vibrant Santurce neighborhood. Circo Bar is the most popular, and Oceano is a sophisticated, gay-owned, open-air beach bar across from Condado Beach. While there aren’t any lesbian bars per se (the last one, Cups, closed a few years ago), the go-to place for lesbians is El Cojo Bar (in the Hato Rey district), but all of Puerto Rico’s gay bars welcome women. Also worth a visit are Tía María Liquor Store and Splash Lounge.

While San Juan is the best base during your Puerto Rican gay-cation, don’t miss out on the rest of the island. The jungles of El Yunque National Forest will wow even avid hikers, the underground caves of Río Camuy Cave Park are spectacular, and of course there are dozens of picture-perfect Caribbean beaches all over the island.

A quick ferry ride brings you to Puerto Rico’s hidden gems: the island of Vieques, which is famous for Mosquito Bay and has the most bioluminescent bays in the world, and Culebra Island, where the turquoise waters at the stunning Playa Flamenco makes all your Caribbean beach dreams come true.

Vieques, a small dreamy island largely untouched by tourism, is especially popular with lesbian travelers. Don’t expect any LGBT nightlife there, but instead serene beaches, unspoiled nature, and even wild horses that roam freely in some parts. TripAdvisor listed Vieques as one of Top 25 Beach Destinations in the world, because the island has “more than 40 beaches and not one traffic light.” If you’re looking for a relaxing hideaway or a lesbian-friendly wedding spot—the W Resort offers same-sex ceremonies—Vieques is the place for you.

When to go: Puerto Rico is a wonderful beach destination during the winter months in the northern hemisphere. Mid-April to June, before the summer rainy season starts, is also a good time to visit — you’ll encounter less crowded beaches and fewer tourists. The gayest event of the year is Puerto Rico Pride, but the date for the 2019 edition has yet to be announced; it usually happens on Memorial Day Weekend.

Before you go: The upscale beachfront Ocean Park area of San Juan is where most LGBT travelers tend to stay. Not far from there is Condado, a pedestrian area with a gay-friendly beach (the stretch facing the gay Atlantic Beach Hotel). TripSavvy has a list of gay and gay-friendly hotels in San Juan.

***

Of course, these are not the only places that are worth a trip this year — there are hundreds of others around the globe. You don’t have to trek halfway around the globe to discover new amazing destinations. Why not plan a lesbian break during Pride weekend in a city nearby? But, out of all the places I’ve visited, I’ve found these had some of my favorite welcoming and vibrant Lesbian communities! They shouldn’t be missed.

What are your favorites? Leave a comment and let us know.

Dani Heinrich is the vagabonding writer and photographer behind GlobetrotterGirls.com. Originally from Germany, she has been nomadic since 2010, when she quit her corporate job and embarked on a round-the-world-trip. She has traveled through over 60 countries on four continents and has no plans to stop any time soon! You can also follow her adventures on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the largest inventory. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hotel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Photo credits: 3, 5

The post The Top 5 Lesbian Travel Destinations in 2019 appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

Why You Shouldn’t Overlook the American South

Caroline Eubanks standing in front of murals in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Posted: 2/18/2019 | February 18th, 2019

I love the South. Before I went traveling, I always had this perception that the southern states in the US were backwards. They were filled with racists, yokels, and obese, gun loving, Jesus freaks. It was a perception born out of a quarter century of living in New England and consuming mass media and stereotypes about a people and place I really didn’t know anything about.

Then, at the start of my grand trip in 2006, I drove across the United States and, made my way through the South, I fell in love with the area. I loved the food, the people, the scenery, the architecture. My perception of the South was wrong. Sure, it has a lingering history of racism and is more conservative than I personally am, but no place is perfect – and no place is like the stereotypes you see. Driving through the South was the first instance in which I really confronted the stereotypes about people and places I grew up with.

Over the years, I’ve grown to love the area the more I spend time there (hidden gem: Mississippi).

Today, I want to introduce you to Caroline Eubank, a friend and travel writer, whose work mostly focuses on the American South. In her new guidebook, This Is My South, Caroline shatters all the stereotypes about the Southern United States, and shows people just how amazing that part of the country is!

In this interview, we discuss all things Southern, why this book needed to be written, and why you shouldn’t overlook this region of the country!

Nomadic Matt: Tell everyone a bit about yourself! How did you get into what it is you do?
Caroline Eubanks: I’m Caroline Eubanks, a native of Atlanta, Georgia. I went to college in Charleston, South Carolina and it was there I really fell in love with the American South, especially driving back and forth from my hometown past small towns on country roads. I started working for a newspaper when I lived there and started reading travel blogs (including Matt’s!) so I was inspired to create my own. I leveraged guest posts to paid work and one job led to another. I’ve since been published by BBC Travel, Lonely Planet, Thrillist, Roads & Kingdoms, and Fodor’s. I also started my own blog, Caroline in the City, in 2009, and later This Is My South in 2012. This is basically the only job I’ve ever had and the only one I wanted!

Caroline Eubanks chasing waterfalls in Helen, Georgia

How did you start writing about the Southern USA?
I grew up taking road trips around the region with my family, whether that was to the Outer Banks or the Panhandle of Florida. After graduating from college, I went on a working holiday in Australia where I worked with a lot of people from all over the world. I would try to explain to them where I came from but most of the time they were only familiar with places like Miami and New York. And most travelers went to a few well-known destinations but nothing in between. So I started my website, This Is My South, to tell people about the lesser-known destinations that I love from my corner of the world. I also started focusing on the region in my freelance writing since the market wasn’t quite so saturated.

Why do you think the south gets such a bad wrap?
A lot of it comes from the news. Of course, bad things happen here, but it’s a large region so that’s bound to happen. It becomes polarizing with elections but there are lots of different opinions, not just the ones that are the loudest.

I also think people assume that the movies and television shows about it are accurate. Gone with the Wind, Deliverance, and the like are not accurate representations at all. These remain what people most associate the region with, but there are large cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nashville as well as the small towns. You wouldn’t assume every Australian is like Crocodile Dundee or that every person from New Jersey was Tony Soprano, right?

What about the stereotypes about the South?
When I lived in Australia, I went to an expat July 4 party and I was talking to a guy from Ohio. When I said I was from Georgia, he joked that he was surprised to see I had all my teeth. When my parents were traveling in New York, someone asked about their crops. I realized how little people know about this part of the world. I started thinking about these perceptions of the South from both Americans and the world as a whole.

I wouldn’t say that some of the stereotypes aren’t true. There are obviously political divides, but I think there’s a lot more to the South than what you read in the news. The people are overall welcoming and friendly. The region is home to some of the nation’s top universities like Duke and Emory. There are young people creating murals in their small towns (like Kristin!) to drive tourism as well as immigrants from everywhere to Korea to India to Syria bringing their cuisines to meld with traditional regional dishes. And I think there’s something just about everyone can come together on, especially in the South, like food.

Caroline Eubanks standing in front of a mural for Doc Watson in Wilkesboro, North Carolina

What are some of your favorite things about the south?
I always say the food, which is certainly one element. You’ll find both comfort food like fried chicken and collard greens and “healthy” food as well as the cuisines of dozens of cultures. For example, there’s a large Korean community near where I live in Atlanta so I can have authentic Korean barbecue before relaxing at a Korean spa. I love how food is a way that people show their affection.

I also love the general attitude and friendliness. People tend to know their neighbors and offer help when needed. And the music is unmatched by anywhere else in the country. Every genre can be found here. You don’t have to go to a stadium to see impressive artists since there’s usually someone playing at the local dive bar or coffee shop.

Why did you write this book?
This Is My South by Caroline Eubanks I wanted to show people the South that I know and love. I had thought about the idea of writing a guidebook but it actually came to life when I was contacted by a publisher after six years of running my website. They saw my work and wanted to create a guidebook in a similar format. Ever since I started writing, I’ve wanted to write a guidebook, so it was definitely a dream come true.

It was important to me that I have the flexibility to include the places I had fallen in love with in my travels, not just the popular ones. I have a section on the must-eat dishes from every state, quirky roadside attractions, unique accommodations like historic hotels and treehouses, and tours. I tried to emphasize responsible travel and small businesses, so you won’t find those double decker bus tours or your big chain hotels.

I also wanted to include elements that I find lacking in other books, namely the history and odd pieces of trivia. For example, I have sections on the title of “Kentucky Colonel” and the legal loopholes that allow for casinos on and near the Mississippi River.

What do you hope travelers will walk away knowing from your book?
That it’s more than one story. I hope that travelers will be inspired to visit some of the places they’ve heard about as well as ones not previously on their radar. I hope they’ll challenge some of their preconceived notions about the region and give it a chance. I hope they’ll come back for more since there’s no way to see it all at once. And, of course, I hope that travelers will visit the places I write about and tell others about them!

What makes the south special?
So many things. There is unmatched biodiversity including the barrier islands on the North Carolina coast to the swamps of Louisiana to the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. The Appalachian Trail runs through much of the region, starting in Georgia at Springer Mountain. It’s a region where connecting with nature is a part of everyday life.

Caroline Eubanks on the Appalachian Trail Approach Trail

Food is also affordable and you can find it in unique places. Similar to the bodega eats in New York, the South sells surprisingly good food at gas stations, including fried chicken, Cajun meats, and Delta hot tamales. Dining is a major part of visiting the region as it’s home to many different styles of cuisine that have influenced American food. You can find “Southern food” in both award-winning restaurants and mom-and-pop casual spots, so there’s something for everyone.

The region is also important when it comes to history. It’s where European travelers first arrived in America, specifically South Carolina and Virginia, and where they were met with Native American tribes. Much of the Civil Rights Movement took place here like the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, and the Woolworth’s counter in Greensboro. A number of notable politicians, including presidents Jimmy Carter and Woodrow Wilson, hailed from these states.

There’s also a lot to offer music lovers since nearly every type of American music has roots in the blues of Mississippi. Icons like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash were influenced by these musicians and infused their styles into their own music. In addition to rock and blues, the mountains of the South were where bluegrass and “old time” music started, eventually becoming modern country music. And, of course, Atlanta is known for its music industry, especially when it comes to hip hop and R&B. Artists like TLC, Usher, Goodie Mob, and Outkast rose to fame there.

Caroline Eubanks in Muscle Shoals, Alabama

What are some budget travel tips for the area?
The South is generally a fairly cheap place to travel. The main expenditures are transportation and accommodation. Flights into major airports like Atlanta, Charlotte, Orlando, and New Orleans will be cheaper than smaller ones. The same goes for car rentals. Once in the South, it is possible to get around without a car by taking Amtrak and Megabus, but by car is certainly the preferred method of travel.

Certain cities will be more expensive for accommodations, especially Charleston. But you can look for alternative options like small bed and breakfasts, campgrounds with cabins, hostels, and Airbnb rentals. Keep in mind that rentals are limited in cities like New Orleans because of how it affects the local housing market. New Orleans is also great because you can stay at a trendy boutique hotel for under $100 per night.

Meals are cheap at most places unless you’re visiting a fine dining restaurant. If you’re looking for a meal on the go, visit a grocery store to save money. Most have deli counters and prepared foods. Lunch is a good time of day to try the more expensive restaurants, especially those award-winners that can be tough to get a reservation at.

What are some of your favorite off the beaten path destinations?
You don’t have to go far from the well-known destinations like Charleston, New Orleans, and Nashville to see places not in most of the guidebooks. One of the places I always say is a favorite of mine is the Mississippi Delta, which is a number of towns that follow the river south of Memphis. This part of the country is highly important when it comes to music. It was here that artists like BB King and Robert Johnson found their sound and where the blues was developed. There are some funky accommodations like the Shack Up Inn, a collection of sharecropper cabins transformed into guest suites.

War Eagle Mill in Northwest Arkansas

I was also surprised by Northwest Arkansas. This region is known for mountain biking, with trails connecting the towns, but also has an incredible craft brewery scene. Crystal Bridges Museum of Art has one of the best collections in the nation, if not the world, focusing on American works like those by Andy Warhol and Frank Lloyd Wright. Eureka Springs is a funky mountain town that looks straight out of a postcard from the 1800s.

I’ve also found some off-the-beaten path areas within well-known destinations. In my hometown of Atlanta, I always recommend that visitors check out Buford Highway, the city’s international dining corridor. When I lived in Charleston, I spent most of my time downtown, but on subsequent visits, I end up in the Park Circle area of North Charleston, an underrated part of the city. Just outside of Nashville is Franklin, a town with deep ties to the Civil War. It’s just off the Natchez Trace Parkway and hosts musicians nearly every night of the week at Puckett’s Grocery. They also host Pilgrimage, an annual music festival that has hosted the likes of Justin Timberlake and Jack White.

In every small town in between, there are quirky museums and landmarks you might miss if you limit your trip to the “big” destinations, like a museum devoted to ventriloquism in Kentucky and a memorial to the victims of the Trail of Tears in Alabama. You never know what you might find!

***

Caroline Eubanks is the author of This Is My South: The Essential Travel Guide to the Southern States.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the largest inventory. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hotel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

The post Why You Shouldn’t Overlook the American South appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

Why You Shouldn’t Overlook the American South

Caroline Eubanks standing in front of murals in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Posted: 2/18/2019 | February 18th, 2019

I love the South. Before I went traveling, I always had this perception that the southern states in the US were backwards. They were filled with racists, yokels, and obese, gun loving, Jesus freaks. It was a perception born out of a quarter century of living in New England and consuming mass media and stereotypes about a people and place I really didn’t know anything about.

Then, at the start of my grand trip in 2006, I drove across the United States and, made my way through the South, I fell in love with the area. I loved the food, the people, the scenery, the architecture. My perception of the South was wrong. Sure, it has a lingering history of racism and is more conservative than I personally am, but no place is perfect – and no place is like the stereotypes you see. Driving through the South was the first instance in which I really confronted the stereotypes about people and places I grew up with.

Over the years, I’ve grown to love the area the more I spend time there (hidden gem: Mississippi).

Today, I want to introduce you to Caroline Eubank, a friend and travel writer, whose work mostly focuses on the American South. In her new guidebook, This Is My South, Caroline shatters all the stereotypes about the Southern United States, and shows people just how amazing that part of the country is!

In this interview, we discuss all things Southern, why this book needed to be written, and why you shouldn’t overlook this region of the country!

Nomadic Matt: Tell everyone a bit about yourself! How did you get into what it is you do?
Caroline Eubanks: I’m Caroline Eubanks, a native of Atlanta, Georgia. I went to college in Charleston, South Carolina and it was there I really fell in love with the American South, especially driving back and forth from my hometown past small towns on country roads. I started working for a newspaper when I lived there and started reading travel blogs (including Matt’s!) so I was inspired to create my own. I leveraged guest posts to paid work and one job led to another. I’ve since been published by BBC Travel, Lonely Planet, Thrillist, Roads & Kingdoms, and Fodor’s. I also started my own blog, Caroline in the City, in 2009, and later This Is My South in 2012. This is basically the only job I’ve ever had and the only one I wanted!

Caroline Eubanks chasing waterfalls in Helen, Georgia

How did you start writing about the Southern USA?
I grew up taking road trips around the region with my family, whether that was to the Outer Banks or the Panhandle of Florida. After graduating from college, I went on a working holiday in Australia where I worked with a lot of people from all over the world. I would try to explain to them where I came from but most of the time they were only familiar with places like Miami and New York. And most travelers went to a few well-known destinations but nothing in between. So I started my website, This Is My South, to tell people about the lesser-known destinations that I love from my corner of the world. I also started focusing on the region in my freelance writing since the market wasn’t quite so saturated.

Why do you think the south gets such a bad wrap?
A lot of it comes from the news. Of course, bad things happen here, but it’s a large region so that’s bound to happen. It becomes polarizing with elections but there are lots of different opinions, not just the ones that are the loudest.

I also think people assume that the movies and television shows about it are accurate. Gone with the Wind, Deliverance, and the like are not accurate representations at all. These remain what people most associate the region with, but there are large cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nashville as well as the small towns. You wouldn’t assume every Australian is like Crocodile Dundee or that every person from New Jersey was Tony Soprano, right?

What about the stereotypes about the South?
When I lived in Australia, I went to an expat July 4 party and I was talking to a guy from Ohio. When I said I was from Georgia, he joked that he was surprised to see I had all my teeth. When my parents were traveling in New York, someone asked about their crops. I realized how little people know about this part of the world. I started thinking about these perceptions of the South from both Americans and the world as a whole.

I wouldn’t say that some of the stereotypes aren’t true. There are obviously political divides, but I think there’s a lot more to the South than what you read in the news. The people are overall welcoming and friendly. The region is home to some of the nation’s top universities like Duke and Emory. There are young people creating murals in their small towns (like Kristin!) to drive tourism as well as immigrants from everywhere to Korea to India to Syria bringing their cuisines to meld with traditional regional dishes. And I think there’s something just about everyone can come together on, especially in the South, like food.

Caroline Eubanks standing in front of a mural for Doc Watson in Wilkesboro, North Carolina

What are some of your favorite things about the south?
I always say the food, which is certainly one element. You’ll find both comfort food like fried chicken and collard greens and “healthy” food as well as the cuisines of dozens of cultures. For example, there’s a large Korean community near where I live in Atlanta so I can have authentic Korean barbecue before relaxing at a Korean spa. I love how food is a way that people show their affection.

I also love the general attitude and friendliness. People tend to know their neighbors and offer help when needed. And the music is unmatched by anywhere else in the country. Every genre can be found here. You don’t have to go to a stadium to see impressive artists since there’s usually someone playing at the local dive bar or coffee shop.

Why did you write this book?
This Is My South by Caroline Eubanks I wanted to show people the South that I know and love. I had thought about the idea of writing a guidebook but it actually came to life when I was contacted by a publisher after six years of running my website. They saw my work and wanted to create a guidebook in a similar format. Ever since I started writing, I’ve wanted to write a guidebook, so it was definitely a dream come true.

It was important to me that I have the flexibility to include the places I had fallen in love with in my travels, not just the popular ones. I have a section on the must-eat dishes from every state, quirky roadside attractions, unique accommodations like historic hotels and treehouses, and tours. I tried to emphasize responsible travel and small businesses, so you won’t find those double decker bus tours or your big chain hotels.

I also wanted to include elements that I find lacking in other books, namely the history and odd pieces of trivia. For example, I have sections on the title of “Kentucky Colonel” and the legal loopholes that allow for casinos on and near the Mississippi River.

What do you hope travelers will walk away knowing from your book?
That it’s more than one story. I hope that travelers will be inspired to visit some of the places they’ve heard about as well as ones not previously on their radar. I hope they’ll challenge some of their preconceived notions about the region and give it a chance. I hope they’ll come back for more since there’s no way to see it all at once. And, of course, I hope that travelers will visit the places I write about and tell others about them!

What makes the south special?
So many things. There is unmatched biodiversity including the barrier islands on the North Carolina coast to the swamps of Louisiana to the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. The Appalachian Trail runs through much of the region, starting in Georgia at Springer Mountain. It’s a region where connecting with nature is a part of everyday life.

Caroline Eubanks on the Appalachian Trail Approach Trail

Food is also affordable and you can find it in unique places. Similar to the bodega eats in New York, the South sells surprisingly good food at gas stations, including fried chicken, Cajun meats, and Delta hot tamales. Dining is a major part of visiting the region as it’s home to many different styles of cuisine that have influenced American food. You can find “Southern food” in both award-winning restaurants and mom-and-pop casual spots, so there’s something for everyone.

The region is also important when it comes to history. It’s where European travelers first arrived in America, specifically South Carolina and Virginia, and where they were met with Native American tribes. Much of the Civil Rights Movement took place here like the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, and the Woolworth’s counter in Greensboro. A number of notable politicians, including presidents Jimmy Carter and Woodrow Wilson, hailed from these states.

There’s also a lot to offer music lovers since nearly every type of American music has roots in the blues of Mississippi. Icons like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash were influenced by these musicians and infused their styles into their own music. In addition to rock and blues, the mountains of the South were where bluegrass and “old time” music started, eventually becoming modern country music. And, of course, Atlanta is known for its music industry, especially when it comes to hip hop and R&B. Artists like TLC, Usher, Goodie Mob, and Outkast rose to fame there.

Caroline Eubanks in Muscle Shoals, Alabama

What are some budget travel tips for the area?
The South is generally a fairly cheap place to travel. The main expenditures are transportation and accommodation. Flights into major airports like Atlanta, Charlotte, Orlando, and New Orleans will be cheaper than smaller ones. The same goes for car rentals. Once in the South, it is possible to get around without a car by taking Amtrak and Megabus, but by car is certainly the preferred method of travel.

Certain cities will be more expensive for accommodations, especially Charleston. But you can look for alternative options like small bed and breakfasts, campgrounds with cabins, hostels, and Airbnb rentals. Keep in mind that rentals are limited in cities like New Orleans because of how it affects the local housing market. New Orleans is also great because you can stay at a trendy boutique hotel for under $100 per night.

Meals are cheap at most places unless you’re visiting a fine dining restaurant. If you’re looking for a meal on the go, visit a grocery store to save money. Most have deli counters and prepared foods. Lunch is a good time of day to try the more expensive restaurants, especially those award-winners that can be tough to get a reservation at.

What are some of your favorite off the beaten path destinations?
You don’t have to go far from the well-known destinations like Charleston, New Orleans, and Nashville to see places not in most of the guidebooks. One of the places I always say is a favorite of mine is the Mississippi Delta, which is a number of towns that follow the river south of Memphis. This part of the country is highly important when it comes to music. It was here that artists like BB King and Robert Johnson found their sound and where the blues was developed. There are some funky accommodations like the Shack Up Inn, a collection of sharecropper cabins transformed into guest suites.

War Eagle Mill in Northwest Arkansas

I was also surprised by Northwest Arkansas. This region is known for mountain biking, with trails connecting the towns, but also has an incredible craft brewery scene. Crystal Bridges Museum of Art has one of the best collections in the nation, if not the world, focusing on American works like those by Andy Warhol and Frank Lloyd Wright. Eureka Springs is a funky mountain town that looks straight out of a postcard from the 1800s.

I’ve also found some off-the-beaten path areas within well-known destinations. In my hometown of Atlanta, I always recommend that visitors check out Buford Highway, the city’s international dining corridor. When I lived in Charleston, I spent most of my time downtown, but on subsequent visits, I end up in the Park Circle area of North Charleston, an underrated part of the city. Just outside of Nashville is Franklin, a town with deep ties to the Civil War. It’s just off the Natchez Trace Parkway and hosts musicians nearly every night of the week at Puckett’s Grocery. They also host Pilgrimage, an annual music festival that has hosted the likes of Justin Timberlake and Jack White.

In every small town in between, there are quirky museums and landmarks you might miss if you limit your trip to the “big” destinations, like a museum devoted to ventriloquism in Kentucky and a memorial to the victims of the Trail of Tears in Alabama. You never know what you might find!

***

Caroline Eubanks is the author of This Is My South: The Essential Travel Guide to the Southern States.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the largest inventory. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hotel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

The post Why You Shouldn’t Overlook the American South appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

My 14 Favorite Hostels in London in 2019

London Bridge at sunset, London
Posted: 2/18/2019 | February 18th, 2019

London is one of my recent favorite cities in the world. I always liked London but it wasn’t until I spent a few weeks there last summer that I fell in love with London.

I didn’t want to leave.

London is a sprawling city, covering 607 square miles, and home to over eight million people.

While the city may be expensive (though, like any big city, it has lots of free things to do there), it’s popularity means there are lots of hostels in the city. Hundreds upon hundreds.

I can’t tell you how many hostels I’ve stayed in over the years (Dozens at least. I stayed in six alone on my last trip!) but, with so many hostels to choose from, here is my list of the best hostels in London.

It will help you avoid spending time figuring out what hostels on Hostelworld really as great as the reviews say.

14 Best Hostels in London

1. Generator

Generator Hostel, London
This location is Generator’s first hostel (it’s now a huge chain spread all over Europe), and it’s housed in an old police station. You can’t go wrong with this chain. Like most of their hostels, Generator London has lots of modern, upscale fixtures, a huge common area, a bar, and a restaurant (no common kitchen though). There’s also a pool and foosball table. The beds are plush but there are not many charging plugs in the walls, so you’ll have to fight for space. It’s one of the cheapest hostels in London, which is rare considering its location near King’s Cross Station. It’s a short walk from Regents Park, Covent Garden, and the British Museum.

Beds from £14 GBP ($18 USD). Privates from £60 GBP ($76 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Generator London!

2. Clink78

Clink78, London
Fun fact: Clink78 is housed in an old courthouse building in King’s Cross where British rock band The Clash once stood trial. Some of the rooms are even former jail cells! There’s a huge downstairs kitchen / bar area where you can work, eat, socialize, and drink. They host a lot of unique events, like solo traveler meet-ups and DJ + Bingo nights. The dorms are kind of cramped (that eight bed really should of been a six bed) but they have curtains on the side, individual lights and outlets, and lockers. Bathrooms are super clean too. I really liked this hostel. It’s one of the better ones in London (hence why it’s on this list).

Beds from £12 GBP ($15 USD). Privates from £44 GBP ($56 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Clink78!

3. Astor Hyde Park

Astor Hyde Park, London
This hostel is in a quiet neighborhood right off Hyde Park, and within walking distance to some of London’s best museums like the Natural History Museum and the Victoria & Albert. There’s a great party vibe, and the friendly hotel staff will help you arrange tours and activities. Plus the £1 breakfast can’t be beat! I love the old wooden décor of the building as you feel more like you’re in a home than a hostel. The dorms are huge and there’s plenty of room to sprawl out. Try to avoid the rooms on the upper floors as the hostel has no elevator.

Beds from £16 GBP ($20 USD). Privates from £70 GBP ($89 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Astor Hyde Park!

4. Wombats City Hostel London

Wombats City Hostel, London
The Wombats City Hostel is located in a beautiful refurbished building that used to be a sailor’s hostel. This led to the current décor and the wooden bunk beds that are, unfortunately, a bit squeaky. The rooms are a nice size, and there are activities planned most nights of the week (like walking tours and karaoke). The hostel’s central location is one of its best features – it’s super close to London’s main attractions like the Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and City Hall. It’s got a good vibe to meet people in but it could use a kitchen!

Beds from £20 GBP ($25 USD). Privates from £110 GBP ($140 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Wombats City Hostel London!

5. Astor Museum Hostel

Astor Museum Hostel, London
This award-winning hostel is right in front of the British Museum and a few minutes from Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and Covent Garden. The rooms are basic, but it’s a good value, and there’s a cozy lounge and kitchen area. Partake in breakfast for just £1. Free dinners are also offered frequently. It’s not as quaint as their Hyde Park branch but I find this location better!

Beds from £18 GBP ($23 USD). Privates from £75 ($95 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Astor Museum Hostel!

6. The Walrus Hostel

The Walrus Hostel, London
This hostel close to Parliament and Big Ben has a busy pub downstairs where hostel guests get a discount! The breakfast is simple but free and there’s a decent sized kitchen to cook your own food. The entire place has a quaint Old-English feel, with wallpapered rooms and antique-style furnishings. Request a room on the lower level if you don’t want to climb too many stairs as this place also has no elevators! The common area with its eclectic mix of furnture is my favorite part of this hostel.

Beds from £15 GBP ($19 USD). Privates from £60 GBP ($76 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at The Walrus Hostel!

7. St. Christopher’s Village

St. Christopher's Village, London
This hostel chain has eight London locations, but I like the Village venue the best – especially for being so near the Borough Market (an absolute haven for foodies). It’s also a short walk to the London Eye and Tower Bridge. This is a pretty big party place, with an outdoor terrace, regular beer pong nights, and musical performances. There are a ton of social events to get you well acquainted with your fellow travelers! It’s the first hostel in London to have cozy pod-style beds. They are actually super comfortable and provided one of the best sleeps I had in the city!

Beds from £14 GBP ($18 USD). Privates from £58 GBP ($75 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at St. Christopher’s Village!

8. The Dictionary

The Dictionary, London
The Dictionary is in the artsy, hip neighborhood of Shoreditch in East London (one of the best spots for eating and nightlife in the city). The hostel itself has a great rooftop terrace, a bar for drinks, and they offer free breakfast. There’s a big kitchen in case you want to cook too. The rooms are bare but the beds are fairly comfortable, they’re spacious, and kept clean!

Beds from £15 GBP ($19 USD). Privates from £73 GBP ($93 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at The Dictionary!

9. Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage, London
The owners have repurposed a beautiful old house into this hostel. The interior has traditional English décor in the lobby area (including a decorative knight in shining armor). The beds are comfortable and have privacy curtains. There is an elevator, but the top floors can get hot in the summer so I’d avoid them. Though it is small, the kitchen has everything you need, and the downstairs bar is great to sit and have a beer. I’m a huge fan.

Beds from £17 GBP ($22 USD). Privates from £64 GBP ($81 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage!

10. YHA London

YHA London Earls Court, London
YHA has six London locations, but the Earls Court and Oxford Street locations are my favorite. These hostels both have dorms and private rooms. The rooms are typically very clean and safe, and both locations host activities every week (including free walking tours and movie nights). The Earls Court location is in a recently refurbished Victorian building. The Oxford Street location is colorful and cheerful, but not great for families, as it does get pretty loud in the evenings.

  • YHA London (Oxford Street) – Beds from £18 GBP ($23 USD). Privates from £45 GBP ($57 USD).
  • YHA London (Earls Court) – Beds from £17 GBP ($22 USD). Privates from £55 GBP ($70 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at YHA London (Oxford Street)!

—-> Click here to book your stay at YHA London (Earls Court)!

11. Hostel One

Hostel One Camden, London
This hostel is awesome. Guests get a free homemade dinner each night and can join in on organized activities (including drinking games). It’s a very social hostel with friendly staff and a good vibe. The rooms are a bit cramped and pillows a bit flat but the vibe here more than makes up for the beds! There are two locations (one in Camden and one in Notting Hill).

  • Hostel One Camden – Beds from £20 GBP ($25 USD). Privates from £80 GBP ($102 USD).
  • Hostel One Notting Hill – Beds from £19 GBP ($24 USD). Privates from £92 GBP ($117 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hostel One Camden!

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hostel One Notting Hill!

12. Barmy Badger

Barmy Badger, London
I’ve always had a good night’s sleep here. It may be the memory foam mattresses or the cushy pillows, but this hostel has most everything you need. The beds each have reading lights, USB plugs, and power sockets. A nice breakfast of cereals and fresh fruit is included, and there’s free coffee and tea all day. They sometimes host BBQ parties and other events.

Beds from £22 GBP ($28 USD). Privates from £60 GBP ($76 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Barmy Badger!

13. Park Villa

Park Villa, London
Park Villa is a boutique hostel in a grand Georgian Regency style estate in the Mile End Old Town of London. It looks amazing from the outside, and there are nice common spaces; the rooms have comfy beds, but are nothing special. It’s a bit farther from the city center, but it’s quiet, clean, and well maintained. There is a kitchenette and you can pay £3 for a continental breakfast. Free tea and coffee are usually available, and the staff is knowledgeable and provides great London sightseeing tips. You can easily get to Oxford Circus, Holborn, and Tower Hill from here.

Beds from £19 GBP ($24 USD). Privates from £57 GBP ($72 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Park Villa!

14. SoHostel

So Hostel, London
This large hostel (I kept getting lost in the hallways) is in Soho with a rooftop “tiki”-style bar, nightly drink specials, quiz nights, live music, and karaoke. They have a big common space too with a restaurant has some cheap food (like £5 pizzas) and beer. The beds are comfy and the showers super clean. It was an awesome place to stay and I even extended my time there. If you book directly with them, they often have special rates.

Beds from £25 GBP ($32 USD). Privates from £55 GBP ($70 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at SoHostel!

***

London has a lot of hostels but instead of spending hours trying to figure out where to stay, this list of the best hostels in London will save you time and ensure you got a great place to stay.

My all time best hostel in London on this list is Clink 78 or SoHostel.

Got a hostel not on this list? Add it in the comments!

Book Your Trip to London: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting London?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to London with more tips on what to see, do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 2, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14

The post My 14 Favorite Hostels in London in 2019 appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

My 14 Favorite Hostels in London in 2019

London Bridge at sunset, London
Posted: 2/18/2019 | February 18th, 2019

London is one of my recent favorite cities in the world. I always liked London but it wasn’t until I spent a few weeks there last summer that I fell in love with London.

I didn’t want to leave.

London is a sprawling city, covering 607 square miles, and home to over eight million people.

While the city may be expensive (though, like any big city, it has lots of free things to do there), it’s popularity means there are lots of hostels in the city. Hundreds upon hundreds.

I can’t tell you how many hostels I’ve stayed in over the years (Dozens at least. I stayed in six alone on my last trip!) but, with so many hostels to choose from, here is my list of the best hostels in London.

It will help you avoid spending time figuring out what hostels on Hostelworld really as great as the reviews say.

14 Best Hostels in London

1. Generator

Generator Hostel, London
This location is Generator’s first hostel (it’s now a huge chain spread all over Europe), and it’s housed in an old police station. You can’t go wrong with this chain. Like most of their hostels, Generator London has lots of modern, upscale fixtures, a huge common area, a bar, and a restaurant (no common kitchen though). There’s also a pool and foosball table. The beds are plush but there are not many charging plugs in the walls, so you’ll have to fight for space. It’s one of the cheapest hostels in London, which is rare considering its location near King’s Cross Station. It’s a short walk from Regents Park, Covent Garden, and the British Museum.

Beds from £14 GBP ($18 USD). Privates from £60 GBP ($76 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Generator London!

2. Clink78

Clink78, London
Fun fact: Clink78 is housed in an old courthouse building in King’s Cross where British rock band The Clash once stood trial. Some of the rooms are even former jail cells! There’s a huge downstairs kitchen / bar area where you can work, eat, socialize, and drink. They host a lot of unique events, like solo traveler meet-ups and DJ + Bingo nights. The dorms are kind of cramped (that eight bed really should of been a six bed) but they have curtains on the side, individual lights and outlets, and lockers. Bathrooms are super clean too. I really liked this hostel. It’s one of the better ones in London (hence why it’s on this list).

Beds from £12 GBP ($15 USD). Privates from £44 GBP ($56 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Clink78!

3. Astor Hyde Park

Astor Hyde Park, London
This hostel is in a quiet neighborhood right off Hyde Park, and within walking distance to some of London’s best museums like the Natural History Museum and the Victoria & Albert. There’s a great party vibe, and the friendly hotel staff will help you arrange tours and activities. Plus the £1 breakfast can’t be beat! I love the old wooden décor of the building as you feel more like you’re in a home than a hostel. The dorms are huge and there’s plenty of room to sprawl out. Try to avoid the rooms on the upper floors as the hostel has no elevator.

Beds from £16 GBP ($20 USD). Privates from £70 GBP ($89 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Astor Hyde Park!

4. Wombats City Hostel London

Wombats City Hostel, London
The Wombats City Hostel is located in a beautiful refurbished building that used to be a sailor’s hostel. This led to the current décor and the wooden bunk beds that are, unfortunately, a bit squeaky. The rooms are a nice size, and there are activities planned most nights of the week (like walking tours and karaoke). The hostel’s central location is one of its best features – it’s super close to London’s main attractions like the Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, and City Hall. It’s got a good vibe to meet people in but it could use a kitchen!

Beds from £20 GBP ($25 USD). Privates from £110 GBP ($140 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Wombats City Hostel London!

5. Astor Museum Hostel

Astor Museum Hostel, London
This award-winning hostel is right in front of the British Museum and a few minutes from Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, and Covent Garden. The rooms are basic, but it’s a good value, and there’s a cozy lounge and kitchen area. Partake in breakfast for just £1. Free dinners are also offered frequently. It’s not as quaint as their Hyde Park branch but I find this location better!

Beds from £18 GBP ($23 USD). Privates from £75 ($95 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Astor Museum Hostel!

6. The Walrus Hostel

The Walrus Hostel, London
This hostel close to Parliament and Big Ben has a busy pub downstairs where hostel guests get a discount! The breakfast is simple but free and there’s a decent sized kitchen to cook your own food. The entire place has a quaint Old-English feel, with wallpapered rooms and antique-style furnishings. Request a room on the lower level if you don’t want to climb too many stairs as this place also has no elevators! The common area with its eclectic mix of furnture is my favorite part of this hostel.

Beds from £15 GBP ($19 USD). Privates from £60 GBP ($76 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at The Walrus Hostel!

7. St. Christopher’s Village

St. Christopher's Village, London
This hostel chain has eight London locations, but I like the Village venue the best – especially for being so near the Borough Market (an absolute haven for foodies). It’s also a short walk to the London Eye and Tower Bridge. This is a pretty big party place, with an outdoor terrace, regular beer pong nights, and musical performances. There are a ton of social events to get you well acquainted with your fellow travelers! It’s the first hostel in London to have cozy pod-style beds. They are actually super comfortable and provided one of the best sleeps I had in the city!

Beds from £14 GBP ($18 USD). Privates from £58 GBP ($75 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at St. Christopher’s Village!

8. The Dictionary

The Dictionary, London
The Dictionary is in the artsy, hip neighborhood of Shoreditch in East London (one of the best spots for eating and nightlife in the city). The hostel itself has a great rooftop terrace, a bar for drinks, and they offer free breakfast. There’s a big kitchen in case you want to cook too. The rooms are bare but the beds are fairly comfortable, they’re spacious, and kept clean!

Beds from £15 GBP ($19 USD). Privates from £73 GBP ($93 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at The Dictionary!

9. Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage, London
The owners have repurposed a beautiful old house into this hostel. The interior has traditional English décor in the lobby area (including a decorative knight in shining armor). The beds are comfortable and have privacy curtains. There is an elevator, but the top floors can get hot in the summer so I’d avoid them. Though it is small, the kitchen has everything you need, and the downstairs bar is great to sit and have a beer. I’m a huge fan.

Beds from £17 GBP ($22 USD). Privates from £64 GBP ($81 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage!

10. YHA London

YHA London Earls Court, London
YHA has six London locations, but the Earls Court and Oxford Street locations are my favorite. These hostels both have dorms and private rooms. The rooms are typically very clean and safe, and both locations host activities every week (including free walking tours and movie nights). The Earls Court location is in a recently refurbished Victorian building. The Oxford Street location is colorful and cheerful, but not great for families, as it does get pretty loud in the evenings.

  • YHA London (Oxford Street) – Beds from £18 GBP ($23 USD). Privates from £45 GBP ($57 USD).
  • YHA London (Earls Court) – Beds from £17 GBP ($22 USD). Privates from £55 GBP ($70 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at YHA London (Oxford Street)!

—-> Click here to book your stay at YHA London (Earls Court)!

11. Hostel One

Hostel One Camden, London
This hostel is awesome. Guests get a free homemade dinner each night and can join in on organized activities (including drinking games). It’s a very social hostel with friendly staff and a good vibe. The rooms are a bit cramped and pillows a bit flat but the vibe here more than makes up for the beds! There are two locations (one in Camden and one in Notting Hill).

  • Hostel One Camden – Beds from £20 GBP ($25 USD). Privates from £80 GBP ($102 USD).
  • Hostel One Notting Hill – Beds from £19 GBP ($24 USD). Privates from £92 GBP ($117 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hostel One Camden!

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hostel One Notting Hill!

12. Barmy Badger

Barmy Badger, London
I’ve always had a good night’s sleep here. It may be the memory foam mattresses or the cushy pillows, but this hostel has most everything you need. The beds each have reading lights, USB plugs, and power sockets. A nice breakfast of cereals and fresh fruit is included, and there’s free coffee and tea all day. They sometimes host BBQ parties and other events.

Beds from £22 GBP ($28 USD). Privates from £60 GBP ($76 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Barmy Badger!

13. Park Villa

Park Villa, London
Park Villa is a boutique hostel in a grand Georgian Regency style estate in the Mile End Old Town of London. It looks amazing from the outside, and there are nice common spaces; the rooms have comfy beds, but are nothing special. It’s a bit farther from the city center, but it’s quiet, clean, and well maintained. There is a kitchenette and you can pay £3 for a continental breakfast. Free tea and coffee are usually available, and the staff is knowledgeable and provides great London sightseeing tips. You can easily get to Oxford Circus, Holborn, and Tower Hill from here.

Beds from £19 GBP ($24 USD). Privates from £57 GBP ($72 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at Park Villa!

14. SoHostel

So Hostel, London
This large hostel (I kept getting lost in the hallways) is in Soho with a rooftop “tiki”-style bar, nightly drink specials, quiz nights, live music, and karaoke. They have a big common space too with a restaurant has some cheap food (like £5 pizzas) and beer. The beds are comfy and the showers super clean. It was an awesome place to stay and I even extended my time there. If you book directly with them, they often have special rates.

Beds from £25 GBP ($32 USD). Privates from £55 GBP ($70 USD).

—-> Click here to book your stay at SoHostel!

***

London has a lot of hostels but instead of spending hours trying to figure out where to stay, this list of the best hostels in London will save you time and ensure you got a great place to stay.

My all time best hostel in London on this list is Clink 78 or SoHostel.

Got a hostel not on this list? Add it in the comments!

Book Your Trip to London: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting London?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to London with more tips on what to see, do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 2, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14

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