The hostel business is booming, with Hostelworld.com saying it saw a 58 percent increase in the 40 fastest-growing destinations this year.
The majority of hostel clientele are aged 18 to 30 but older travelers are now accounting for a fifth of bookings. The 40 and over market is also growing.
Reasons include a growing number of hostels but also the lure of new amenities such as pools, rooftop lounges and free airport shuttle services.
Other amenities include meals, Jacuzzis, commercial kitchens, and even theaters where free popcorn is served.
Atlanta is the fastest-growing city for hostels with a 70 percent increase over last year while Washington and New Orleans are in second place.
By David Wilkening
