I love the idea of karma. It makes so much sense to me. Do good things, and good things will come to you. Do bad things...and, well, you get the picture.
In my experience, there is no place better to improve (or wreck) your karma than at a hostel. I've stayed in plenty of hostels, and these are some things you can do to keep good things coming your way.
1. Be friendly.
This seems like a duh, but seriously. Introduce yourself to your dormmates, go out of your way to include people in activities that are happening in the hostel, strike up a conversation while you're making breakfast. You will more often than not meet a really cool person that will have some interesting things to say. I've been in hostels where "cliques" form, and that's no good for anyone.
2. Don't turn on the lights.
If you're coming in late, or even quasi-late, don't automatically turn on the lights. You have a phone, use it as a light to check and see if any of your dormmates are sleeping. Even if you think it's early, people might have had a long day and just need to sleep. On this note, I know you just had an awesome night out at the bar/club/disco, but if I'm sleeping, shut the %&$* up while other people sleeping. Your bff might want a play-by-play of the flirtation you had with that hot Italian guy, but save it for breakfast, for all our sakes.
3. Think ahead.
If you're going to be out late, get out you pj's and toothbrush beforehand so you're not making a ruckus when you stumble in late at night. On the flip side, if you know you have to be up early, make sure your stuff is packed so you can leave as silently as possible, and not disturb your sleeping dormmates who are sleeping off their night out.
4. Out of sight, out of mind.
People get it on in hostels. It's a fact of life. Read this article from Matador if you have any interest in getting down with a fellow traveler. Notice how the article mentions not doing it in the dorm. Trust me, no one wants to hear that, and no matter how hard you think the people in your dorm sleep, it is not a good idea. A little bit of respect, please. For yourself and for your dormmates.
5. Keep it clean.
Do your dishes. Do other people's dishes. Don't leave your crap laying around. Don't leave the bathroom a flooded mess. Put the seat down. It's not that complicated.
6. Remember that the hostel workers are people too.
A huge majority of the people who work in hostels have been in your shoes. They've traveled, and they love it just as much as you do. They're your best resource. They live there! They know where the best food is, the best bars, and the best place to see a drag show on Easter Sunday (true story). Don't get pissed at them if they tell you to shut up at 3 in the morning, or charge you for checking out late. They have a job to do and a business to run. Plus, they have to clean up after you, so you should at least cut them some slack for that.
This is by no means extensive. I would love to hear more of what you think improves your karma when staying at hostels. Anecdotes would also be greatly appreciated.
Originally published 6.21.11
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