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	Frequently asked questions... What are small hostels? What can I expect? What can't I expect? Are they more expensive than other hostels? Who runs the places? Are there any restrictions? Do I need any membership to stay at small hostels?

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	What are small hostels?
^^^	Small hostels are small hostels, because they are small. (can you believe it? ) They usually have less than 20 beds, some have only 8 beds, some have 22. Some have only 1 room, some have 8. They all offer dormitory accommodation, some have double and single rooms also. You will find them everywhere, all over Europe, in cities, towns and in the countryside. Usually at less traveled places there are not enough travellers for a big hostel. So if you check out some of the hostels listed on this page, it's really worth checking out the town as well, you may find a place and an experience you would otherwise have missed.
	What can I expect?
^^^	Expect to get an openhearted welcome, expect to meet the host. Expect the host to be a very dedicated one. You will get more detailed info about the town, ideas what to do, where to party etc. Because of the size, you won't find any groups, school classes etc., our size guarantees that. Expect the rules, like check in/check out times, to be handled very flexibly. You will usually get a key or something like that to access the place 24 hours. Because of the personal contact to their guests and because its usually a former traveller, the owner knows very well about other traveller's needs, so you can expect they will do their best to provide you with their services.
	What can't I expect?
^^^	Usually the places are too small to provide 24 hour service, they simply can't afford it (but some do). If the owner is the only one running the place, they have to sleep sometimes. That's why very late check-ins are sometimes a problem, unless the owner lives in the hostel. Because of the lack of many people usually small hostels are much more quiet than other hostels. So people are less likely to be drunk, loud or aggressive than somewhere else. Some of the hostels are not open all day. So you better ask before booking and specify an arrival time.
	Are they more expensive than other hostels?
^^^	The answer is simply NO! Prices are about the same as bigger hostels and vary from country to country. But you will get more for your money, because you don't end up being the 20th person in a 12 bed room, a friendly person will be there to answer your questions and give advice if needed. You will easily meet new interesting people from all over the world and, don't forget, you really get a quiet night sleep for your money.
	Who runs the places?
^^^	Some are travellers who liked the town so much, they decided to stay. Some are born in the town and after travelling they decided to run a hostel and to show other travellers the secrets of their homes. You can spend hours talking with your host about other countries, trips etc. Because you may not make much money with a small hostel, you won't find big companies, lawyers etc. running a hostel. And that simply means you will feel a different spirit.
	Are there any restrictions?
^^^	Restrictions vary from hostel to hostel. Some forbid smoking in the rooms, some not, some have age limits, some not. But because the places and the amount of people are manageable, you will find very flexible rules. It's unlikely you will find signs everywhere "do this" or "don't do that", because we trust the people and everybody with a clear mind knows to wash the dishes after using them.
	Do I need any membership to stay at small hostels?
	No, all listed hostels are open to everybody. We don't want to force you to buy an expensive membership card. Just come, stay and enjoy. But some of the hostels give discounts on a Hostels of Europe or an ISIC card, just ask before booking.

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