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The 2015 Backpackers Hostels Canada meeting in Hamilton Ontario!

Feature Of The Week: The 2015 Backpackers Hostels Canada meeting in Hamilton Ontario!

We had a great time at the 2015 Backpackers Hostels Canada conference in Hamilton Ontario this weekend. The meeting was held at the Hamilton Guesthouse and our hosts, Tim and Tanya Ritchie prepared the weekend wonderfully. It was a pleasure to get to know the City of Hamilton from the vantage point of locals and get more than a glimpse at how the Hamilton hostel fits into the fabric of Hamilton. It was a real learning experience. At the meeting we discussed a number of challenges that the network is facing in the upcoming year and has faced in the past year. A lot of ideas and experiences of hostel management were shared by participants. It was a real success! Thank you Tim and Tanya!

From left to right: Lloyd Jones of Thunder Bay International Hostel, Martin Jones of Ottawa Backpackers Inn, Kennedy Jones of Backpackers Hostels Canada, Tom Mantel of the Hamilton Guesthouse, Carl Gagne and Coumba of Le Gîte du Plateau Mont-Royal et Gîte du Parc Lafontaine, Tanya Day Ritchie and Tim Ritchie of the The Hamilton Guesthouse.

A great time in Hamilton for the 2015 Backpackers Hostels Canada meeting this weekend!

Surf's Inn Hostel, Ucluelet, BC!

Talk to a past guest from Surf's Inn and they'll either recommend the hostel to you or say that they intend to stay there next time they go back to Ucluelet. The hostel prides itself on being surf focused: they offer extremely competitive surf packages to guests and offer discounts on surf gear. The hostel isn't just about surfing though - Surf's Inn is located within a 5 min walk to Ucluelet's mini aquarium and is a great jumping off point for local hikes. Staying at Surf's Inn you'll feel right at home - the funky decor, laid back atmosphere, friendly staff and well equipped kitchen all make for a great stay. Dorm bed prices start from $22. 

Here are just a few more reasons to visit Surf's Inn:

• A great place for exploring the many things that Ucluelet has to offer. Activities in Ucluelet
• Full tour desk
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff
• Custom built accommodation, 'the house on the hill'
• Clean, bright, cosy and warm accommodation
• Free wifi
• Garden and BBQ area
• Free massive lockers
• Free parking

To find out more and to book your next trip visit their website! http://www.surfsinn.ca/

City of the Week, December 12th to December 19th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Toronto, Ontario!

Toronto is a city made up from different countries. Within the city you will find Chinatown, Little Italy, Koreatown, Little India, Little Portugal....and there are more. In each you can find a great selection of national dishes at reasonable prices. Toronto is not all about food though; this is a city that thrives on bar culture. The city plays host to a mix of fancier bars (King Street), hipster bars (Ossington/Dundas Street West), pubs (Queen Street) and dive bars dotted around the city. A great must do activity is to visit one of the breweries in the city: Amsterdam and Steamwhistle both offer brewery tours. Bellswood Brewery in Ossington also has a great selection of microbrews if that is more your scene. 

No trip to Toronto would be complete without a visit to the CN tower. If you do want to go up and enjoy a splendid view of the city then definitely consider a meal package. This includes a four course meal in the revolving restaurant at the top as well as the cost of trip up. You even get to skip most of the queues. Other top attractions are St. Lawrence market (an indoor market with some of the best peameal bacon sandwiches in town) and Kensington market. This up-and-coming outdoor market has regular pedestrian only days in Summer, giving the place the feeling of a street festival. Toronto has an international airport and a cheap and easy transport link to the city. It is an easy bus ride to Ottawa (6 hours) and Montreal (4 hours) and only 12 hours to NY. Check out Greyhound.ca for deals.

To find out more and to book your next trip visit their website! http://www.seetorontonow.com/

City of the Week, November 25th to December 11th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Hostelo Montreal, Quebec!

Hostelo thrives on being a social hostel. This means personally taking guests out and showing them a good time, putting on big events and introducing guests to our favourite spots in Montreal. They love creating unique experiences for guests which tie in to the different seasons in Montreal: from the Jazz Fest and BBQs on their patio in Summer, and fondue parties and marshmallow roasting nights in Winter. You can check out what to expect in the hostel before you arrive on their blog and other social media channels. Guests are saying that they love the atmosphere and the fact that events are organised every night. The mix of international staff and Canadians, and young staff gives the hostel a young energy. They love to go out most nights, party and have fun! 

Hostelo Montreal is centrally located in the Latin Quarter and is in walking distance to one of the main metro stations in Montreal, Berri-UQAM. They're also a walk away from most of the big attractions of Montreal such as Plateau Mont Royal, St. Laurent street, St. Denis street, St. Catherine street, the old port and the gay village. Dorm beds start from $15 a night. 

Here are just a few more reasons to visit Hostelo:

• 24/7 reception
• Free pancake breakfast
• Free wifi
• Free towels
• Free lockers
• Separate girls dorms

To find out more and to book your next trip visit their website! http://hostelomontreal.com/

Hostel of the Week, November 12th to November 18th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Pleasant View Hostel in Hatfield, New Brunswick!

Take a step into Pleasant View Hostel and you'll feel like you've been transported back in time. Set in an old Riverboat Inn, the hostel remains looking as it was in the Fifties. With a nice homely atmosphere you'll be made to feel like part of the family by your hosts including free access to their homegrown raspberries! Located next to a bay you'll be in the perfect location to start your adventures - you can even grab some kayaks or even a sailboat (yup, you read that right!) from the hostel! Remember to bring your walking boots as well as the Dorm rooms start at $25 per night. 

Here are just a few reasons to visit Pleasant View Hostel:

• Great location right next to the bay and equipment provided by the hostel
• Verandah with hammocks and rocking chairs to chill out on after a hard day of exploring
• Free light breakfast
• Free wifi through the hostel
• 4 star cooking facilities....though it depends on your cooking ability! Includes dishwasher
• Event facilities available
• Can accommodate different types of groups, just contact them for special requirements

To find out more and to book your next trip visit their website! http://www.pleasant-view.ca/

Hostel of the Week, November 5th to November 11th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Samesun Backpackers Lodge Kelowna, BC!

People who stay at the Samesun Kelowna say it has everything you need...which is hardly surprising since it's Canada's first custom built hostel! Amuse yourself on Okanagan Lake in Summer, on the mountains in Winter or in the hostel anytime. They've got foosball, ping pong, a BBQ...and even a hot tub! You'll make plenty of friends in the hostel and out with the activities they organise every single night. Dorms start from $24. 

Here are just a few reasons to stay at Samesun Kelowna:

• Prime location - close to the beach and downtown
• Large kitchen and common areas to meet other travellers
• Regular activities including pub crawls and boat parties
• Free breakfast :)
• Free wifi and coffee machine

Find out more and book your next trip on their website! http://samesun.com/backpackers-hostels/kelowna/

Hostel of the Week, October 8th to October 15th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

The Hostel Bear, Canmore, Alberta!

It's almost time for ski season so why not start planning your accommodation now? The Hostel Bear, Canmore is ideally located next to the Rockies for all you skiiers out there. Their big comfy, leather couches and gas fire are also great after a day of -30 temperatures. And the local Grizzly Paw beer they have on draft aint that bad either. Prices are inexpensive versus other accommodation it area. Dorm beds start at $35 per night. 

Here are just a few reasons to stay at The Hostel Bear:

• Great location to explore and ski the Rockies
• Comfortable and warm lounge and games room to meet other travellers
• Ambient heated flooring
• Discounts from local merchants
• Free wifi, coffee and tea
• Free parking

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.thehostelbear.com/

Hostel of the Week, October 1st to October 7th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Norris Point International Hostel, Newfoundland!

You've stayed in a jail. You've stayed in a lighthouse. You've stayed in an old school house. But have you ever stayed in a hospital? Norris Point International Hostel gives you the chance to do exactly that. Guests have commented on how unique this accommodation so why not check it out yourself? If you are looking for budget accommodation to stay in Gros Morne National Park then this is your place to stay. There are options of a dorm room (in an old hospital ward), doubles or privates. Email the hostel directly for rates. 

Here are just a few other reasons to stay at Norris Point International Hostel:

• Great location to explore Gros Morne National Park
• Common room and communal to meet other guests
• Free towel and linen
• Give something back to the community, the hostel is run and owned by Bonne Bay Cottage Hospital Heritage Corporation

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.norrispoint.ca/files/BonneBayHostel.pdf

Hostel of the Week, September 2nd to September 9th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Charlottetown Backpackers Inn in Charlottetown, PEI!

Charlottetown Backpackers Inn is the only place to stay if you're in Charlottetown. This was the third stop in my tour of East Canada and I felt instantly at home here. Within 5 mins I'd already been invited out to a staff dinner and felt super welcome. The place is awesome too. Rooms are clean, beds are comfy and the common room is a great place to sit, watch a video (yup they still have videos in circulation) and meet new friends. They've also got a secondary common room with a million records and a pool table if you're looking for a bit of a change. Make sure to get up for breakfast - Levi's chocolate and banana cake is legendary. Dorm rooms start from $32 for non-HI members. 

Here are just a few other reasons to stay at Charlottetown Backpackers Inn:

• Instantly welcoming and a great place to explore PEI from
• Enjoy regular impromptu activities with the staff including music trivia night (try it, you'll love it!)
• Clean comfortable rooms
• Free breakfast including banana cake, fruit, bread and coffee
• Free wifi
• Great communal areas for meeting people including two common rooms and an outside seating area Extremely comfy beds!
• Super friendly staff and an extra friendly owner (Levi, you'll hear a story or two)
• A place to make new friends

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.charlottetownbackpackers.com/

Hostel of the Week, August 27th to September 2nd 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Bear on the Lake in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia!

The second stop on my trip out east was Cape Breton. An absolutely picturesque place with a great hostel to go with! I stayed at Bear on the Lake - a place I had previously researched for this bog and had a desire to visit. I was not disappointed. During my short stay the staff became like family with one of the girls even making me a sandwich before a day trip. I made the most of my time there going on a trek, playing Twister (multiple times), mastered Jenga and sat round a bonfire exchanging jokes. I even had time to take in the stunning view from the hostel. Bear on the Lake is great if you're looking for a place to relax after hiking the Cabot Trail and you WILL find yourself getting involved in the community atmosphere! Dorms start from $32 (without an HI membership). 

Here are just a few other reasons to stay at Bear on the Lake:

• Great homely atmosphere, the hostel is like a big family house
• Stunning view
• Friendly, welcoming staff who will do their best to make you feel like part of the family
• Ideal place for exploring all the wildlife and treks the area has to offer, a car makes this easier though teaming up with another guest or hitchhiking are also options
• Pick up from the nearest town, though this should be pre-arranged!
• Extremely comfy beds!
• Massive common room with games on offer and a bonfire for socialising later in the evening
• Free coffee and wifi

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://bearonthelake.com/

Hostel of the Week, August 19th to August 26th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Fat Salmon Backpackers, Vancouver Island

Don't stumble upon your next great hostel by accident, we want to tell you know that Fat Salmon Backpackers is a great place to stop off before hitting the more touristy areas of Nainamo and the West Coast Trail. Here you'll be greeted by the wonderful Chris and Char who met while working together in a hostel in Edinburgh. You'll love their humour and their enthusiasm too. You may even plan to stay only one night but end up staying a week instead! Port Alberni itself is great - extremely welcoming and a short top from Cathedral Grove where you'll find some of the biggest trees in Canada. If you are into surfing it's also one of the best places to catch a wave in Canada. Come if you have the time as you WILL end up staying for longer! Dorms start from $25 (tax included) 

Here are just a few other reasons to stay at Fat Salmon Backpackers:

• Easy day trips to West Coast Trail, Strathcona Park, Della Falls, Cathedral Grove, Mount Washington
• A BBQ and weekend salmon dinners
• Two common rooms!
• Free parking
• Free coffee and wifi
• Free maps and travel booking

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.fatsalmonbackpackers.com/

Hostel of the Week, August 5th to August 12th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Campbellton Lighthouse Hostel, New Brunswick!

We know we shouldn't recommend a place just for the novelty value but sometimes it's a must. Plus there are a number of reasons to stay at Campbellton Lighthouse Hostel but let's face it, the fact that it is an OPERATING LIGHTHOUSE is definitely a massive draw. The hostel atmosphere is chilled and laid back with only two rooms in the hostel, one for women and one for men. You'll tend to mainly find people travelling through on their way to Quebec or southern New Brunswick but that's not to say there's nothing going on in the town. They love their Salmon for a start, make sure to get a picture next to the GIANT salmon when you're there. And this weekend they've got Campbellton Bluegrass (1,2,3 August). Prices for a dorm bed start at $25 for non-HI members. 

Here are just a few other reasons to stay at Campbellton Lighthouse Hostel:

• It's a lighthouse!!
• It's a lighthouse!!
• Hiking and biking trails in the area
• Perfect location for nice waterfront stroll
• Common room & self-catering kitchen
• Free coffee and wifi

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.hihostels.ca/newbrunswick/331/HI-Campbellton.hostel

Hostel of the Week, July 29th to August 5th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Riding Fool Hostel in Cumberland, BC!

Do you like mountain biking? You do? Do you love mountain biking? You do? We've got the perfect place for you! The Riding Fool is great for biking enthusiasts. Only seconds away from some of the best trails that Canada has to offer, you'll also find a bike shop in the same building! The friendly staff at The Riding Fool are also very willing to impart their expert knowledge about the trails. Even if you don't love biking, Cumberland is great for you. The surrounding area is perfect for hiking, swimming and rock climbing too! Dorm beds start at $25 + tax. 

Here are just a few other reasons to stay at The Riding Fool:

• Staff have great knowledge of the surrounding area and can help you plan your explorations!
• Common room with a woodstove, something to remember for when you're planning your winter trip!
• A BBQ as well as a common kitchen
• Free wifi and pool table
• Great music at The Waverly pub just down the road, if you're not too tired after a day of biking!

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.ridingfool.com/

Hostel of the Week, July 22nd to July 29th 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Barefoot Hostel in Ottawa, Ontario!

This week we talked to Sabina, the owner of the Barefoot Hostel in Ottawa. Here's what we learned about the place! 

The start of the Barefoot Hostel 
The start of the hostel was actually quite a surprise decision for Sabina! She owns the Swiss Hotel and the opportunity came up to purchase the building next door. Her kids thought it would be a great idea to open up the accommodation to younger guests and she agreed. She loves geography so being in the travel industry is a great passion for her. 

Ottawa as a destination 
Why should people come to Ottawa? Because 'Ottawa is a small, beautiful city where you can do everything on foot.' Whether you're in Ottawa in Summer or Winter there is always something to do! 'Skating on the Rideau Canal, visiting the greatest museums in Canada, going to Gatineau Park which has great cross country skiing, swimming, biking....'. 

Staying at the Barefoot Hostel 
The Barefoot Hostel is a small (16 bed) hostel which is intimate and charming. It is designed for young professionals who are visiting the city for 3-4 days and need a place to do their work. They encourage guests to follow the 'unspoken' rules of hostelling to create a great environment for everyone! 

And finally one random fact about the Barefoot Hostel! 
The Barefoot Hostel got it's name from the fact that guests have to take off their shoes at the doors! So remember to wear your best socks if you're going to the Barefoot Hostel! 

There are four 4 bed dorms at the Barefoot Hostel, a dorm bed is $39 per night.

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: 

http://www.barefoothostel.com/

Hostel of the Week, July 15th to July 22nd 2014

Backpackers Hostels Canada

Port Mouton International Hostel in Port Mouton, Nova Scotia

Surfing. Scuba diving. Geocaching. Beaches. Sport fishing. Bird watching. Canoeing. Port Mouton pretty much has is it all going on and the hostel is a great place to use as a base for your explorations. An old school building, this hostel can host up to 30 guests in either an 8 bed dorm or 4 semi private rooms (the rooms even have the teachers names on them!). There is a large common room for guests to hang out in, it's even ideal for yoga or meditation! Beds are $30 a night.

Here are just a few more reasons why you should stay at Port Mouton International Hostel:

• Converted school building with beds on the bottom floor and an arts and crafts gallery/shop on the top floor
• Projector available to compare your shots of the day on (great for divers, bird watchers etc!)
• Grocery store, liquor store and restaurants all within walking distance
• Well equipped kitchen
• Large common room
• Laundry available for guest use

"Prepare to be taught about Port Mouton life!

You can find out more and start planning your trip here: http://www.wqccda.com/PMhostel/#hostel

Hostel of the Week, July 8th to July 15th 2014

Submitted by Kennedy Jones

Backpackers Hostels Canada