Your backpacking travel planner

Samesun Backpacker Hostels, in Vancouver, Kelowna, Silverstar, Banff and Revelstoke!

From the Samesun website: "[Samesun's] mandate is to create a total yet unique hostelling accommodation experience in Alberta and British Columbia (BC) that’s both affordable and economical for the backpacker traveling in Canada. We aim to provide the opportunity to share your traveling experience and good times with like minded individuals in a fun and casual Canadian accommodation hostel atmosphere. We also provide numerous hostelling accommodation resources to assist any backpacker who requires information regarding hostel accommodations and attractions in Alberta and British Columbia (BC) Canada."

Samesun's motto, "We all live under the same sun!"

Pete at the Samesun Vancouver submitted this video to us, showcasing a lot of fun at Samesun.

Hostel of the week, January 13th to 20th 2011
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Beez Kneez Bakpakers, Whitehorse Yukon

The Beez Kneez Bakpakers is a quaint little hostel, located on the 'sunny' side of downtown Whitehorse.

The Beez Kneez offers much comfort and lots of laughs. Don't bee surprised if you stay a few extra days ... and make some lifelong friends

"Come as a stranger...Leave as a friend!"

Hostel of the Week January 6th to 13th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

The White House Backpackers Lodge, Nelson BC

Off the beaten track is the White House Backackpers Lodge, a unique little hostel, tucked away in a glorious part of the Selkirk Mountains, in uber-funky Nelson, British Columbia. A graciously restored Victorian residence, the WhiteHouse offers a boutique-style hostel accommodation that truly feels like home.

The WhiteHouse is convenient to shops, cafes and night life. Facilities include spacious lounge, fireplace, large kitchen, verandah, BBQ, views & more. Rates include free internet, pancake breakfast and on-site parking. There are quiet spaces for reading, areas to socialize, plenty of games to play, books and magazines to borrow, an Ipod dock and CD player. Travellers of all ages, and from around the world enjoy our relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

The WhiteHouse Backpacker Lodge has not housed any current or former US presidents, and in no way endorses America's White House. It’s just a big, white house!

"We look forward to welcoming you!"

Hostel of the week, December 31st 2010 to January 6th 2011
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Samesun Lodges - Banff, Alberta

The new Banff backpackers is located directly on Banff avenue located steps away from everything Banff has to offer.

The backpackers is also home to the Beaver Lounge! Banff's only backpacker pub directly on Banff Avenue! Featuring Open Mic nights, DJ's playing and weekly backpacker parties! Cheap cheap drinks and $6 dinner specials. This bar is the newest hot spot of downtown Banff.

Most dorm rooms have Jacuzzi's in the room. The hostel also features some of the nicest private rooms of any hostel in the country and SameSun's activity program is second to none!

The backpackers also offers free continental breakfast, free WiFi, public internet terminals, and essentially any other creature comfort you need!

Hostel of the Week, December 8th to 13th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Auberge Inn, Providence Bay, Manitoulin Island, Northern Ontario

Recently a French video documentary about the Auberge Inn Hostel was featured on TFO Televison Francophone de l'Ontario sur l'émission Relief. Auberge Inn is located on Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world, in Lake Huron.

"L'Aubergine ou L'Auberge Inn?

Un reportage sur la toute nouvelle Auberge Inn sur l'île Manitoulin. Le journaliste de l’émission Relief à TFO, Frédéric Projean, présente un sympathique portrait de notre auberge ouverte depuis moins d’un an. Nous vous invitons à profiter de l’occasion pour vous baigner dans la magie de notre petit paradis en période estivale. Nous vous rappelons que l’île est tout aussi magnifique chaque jour de l’année et que nous serons heureux de vous le faire découvrir aussi cet hiver."

Regardez le vidéo

Hostel of the Week, November 30th to December 6th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Hostels European Cities

Here is the unbiased lowdown on more than 200 hostels throughout Europe. From Vienna to Lisbon, Prague to Edinburgh, Berlin to Paris—more than thirty cities are covered. Whether you’re looking to party or just looking for a clean, quiet, affordable place to crash, this guide will get you exactly where you want to go.

Dreamcatcher Hostel, Golden BC

The Dreamcatcher Hostel is conveniently located in downtown Golden and within easy walking distance from pubs, restaurants, grocery shops, outdoor shops, clothing stores, banks, mountain bike rental, a book store and several adventure companies. Golden is perfectly placed to explore the very best of the Rockies without the crowds and inflated prices. Take a walk along the riverside paths and enjoy the friendly community.

In creating Dreamcatcher Hostel, Gerald Wagner & Abi Marsh wanted to provide a haven for weary travellers and a base for outdoor adventurers; somewhere to kick back and relax, meet like-minded individuals and travel on refreshed and renewed. The hostel prides itself on having fantastically comfortable beds with real mattresses and down duvets.

There are plenty of splendid sights within a half hour’s drive, including the Wolf Centre (to see and learn about wolves), and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort (where you can take a gondola up the mountain to visit Boo, the resident grizzly bear!). Eat dinner at the highest restaurant in North America, the Eagles Eye and drink in the fabulous views, or hike up to Thompson Falls, or visit Mount Seven to watch the paragliders jump, admire the far-reaching views of mountains and valleys or hike to the peak. Golden also has outdoor swimming pools and children's spray parks.

A staggering variety of outdoor activities are available for you: mountain biking, snowboarding, para-gliding, hiking, skiing, rafting, kayaking, quadding, snow-mobiling, back country skiing, fishing, horse riding. Your stay is sure to be action packed and exciting.

"Welcome to Dreamcatcher Hostel, where all guests leave as friends. We will be your home away from home during your stay in Golden!

Hostel of the week, November 14th to 23rd 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Song of Ruth House, Chilliwack BC

The Song of Ruth House is an adults-only house, operated like a hostel. It represents freedom away from Vancouver traffic! Song of Ruth House is 90 minutes closer to southern BC sites! Chilliwack is a farming town circled by volcanoes, rivers, lakes! Two short-term furnished room rentals are available: The Waikiki Room and The Molokai Room. The House is in a nice family area in northern Chilliwack, near downtown shops and the bus centre.

The house enjoys a policy of peace-and-quiet, with Quiet Hours after 10 pm. You will get a good night's sleep.

Hostel of the week, Nov. 7th to 16th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Fernie Job Fair, Fernie BC

Stay at the Raging Elk, in Fernie BC while attending the Fernie Job Fair on November 5th 2010.

Drop into the Fernie Job Fair at the Fernie Community Centre on November 5th between 10am and 3pm. Find seaonal and year round job opportunities in hospitality, tourism, retail, industry, and construction.

Work in Fernie: Start making an income before the snow starts to fall! For more information call the Raging Elk at 1-(250) 423-6811, or email bookings@ragingelk.com, or email "Jobs in Fernie" at info@jobsinfernie.com

Feature of the week: Nov. 1st to 7th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Auberge Le P'tit Bonheur, in St-Jean, Québec on Île d'Orléans

Auberge Le P'tit Bonheur, in St-Jean, Québec on Île d'Orléans, is located twenty minutes from Quebec city in one of Canada's oldest homes. Built in 1647, the hostel has it's door open to you. You can stay in a private room, dorm bed, teepee or alternatively a real igloo!

A wide choice of activities are doable all year long such as sea kayaking, dog-sledding, ice fishing, snowshoeing, riding dune buggy and so much more.

Hostel of the week, October 24th to November 1st 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Top 5 Online Resources for Budget Travelers in Europe

In this blogpost were going to be looking at what I believe are the 5 of the best online resources and travel websites to help you plan, prepare for, book and ultimately enjoy your dream backpacking holiday to all of the best holiday destinations in Europe. With the following travel tips and advice hopefully you will find some useful resources to help your trip go smoothly - and also save you a heap of money too!

1. InterRail - http://www.interrailnet.com/

It may be somewhat cliché, but as any young backpacker will tell you these days, getting around Europe with an InterRail travel card is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to travel - and importantly give you the great amount of flexibility you will need to enjoy all the brilliant backpacking holiday destinations in Europe. Booking a ticket online is quick and easy, and the travel cards are valid in the vast majority of countries in Europe.

2. Hostel Bookers - http://www.hostelbookers.com/

Quite possibly the biggest and best online resource for backpackers who are looking to compare and book hostels in Europe and indeed, across the rest of the world. I used have used this site when traveling, booking holidays, stag dos - you name it. Its really easy to use, has an extremely simple booking system and has many useful reviews from likeminded travelers to help you make informed decisions on where to stay based on your personal requirements whether it be location, cost, atmosphere etc.

3. Gaynors Sports of Ambleside - http://www.gaynors.co.uk/

While far less well known outside of the UK than the 2 sites I highlight above, Gaynors is a great shop for anyone looking to take on a backpacking holiday, camping trip or who simply enjoys the great outdoors. Their shop in Ambleside in the Lake District is packed with great gear at low prices or you can also save time and money by buying online. Whether you are in the need of backpacks, waterproofs or boots they have hundreds of products from well known outdoor brands and tend to have some great deals available throughout the year.

4. Low Cost airline Guide - http://www.low-cost-airline-guide.com/

Need help on finding the availability and price of cheap flights to Europe? This great resource is one of the quickest and easiest ways to compare and find out the latest flights online with this low cost airline guide. Listing all of Europe’s best holiday and backpacking flight destinations in the UK, Spain, Romania, Russia, Norway, Serbia, Portugal and pretty much anywhere else you can think of - you’re sure to be able to find the details you need to plan and book your flights whilst traveling in Europe.

5. World Backpackers Forum

If you are planning a backpacking trip or simply need help along the way its nice to be able to share your thoughts, questions and concerns with other likeminded individuals online. With this travel forum you can find backpacking tips and advice, ask questions, raise concerns you may have and generally soak up the knowledge and info of other people who are enjoying their traveling in Europe and other holiday destinations around the world.

The Lead Dog Inn, Whitehorse Yukon

On August 30th 2010, and after three months of renovations, the Lead Dog Inn opened it's doors.

There is a great demand for hostels in Whitehorse. Whitehorse is a popular destination for tourists from around the world, seeking the wilderness of Yukon and Alaska. It is especially popular with Germans and Australians. Whitehorse is the perfect location to start and plan those wilderness adventures, and staying in a hostel is part of that.

The Lead Dog is still young--the hosts are still learning the ropes, but the hostel's popularity is increasing. They feature Sunday Potlucks to help promote socializing and community with the guests. Next summer they plan to build a deck and begin regular barbeques.

For the winter months the hostel caters to long term and short term residents. Call 1-(867)-456-2722 to book.

Hostel of the Week, September 28th to October 4th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Hamilton Guesthouse, Ontario Canada

Hamilton Guesthouse is conveniently located in downtown Hamilton, close to all the major attractions this gorgeous though underrated city has to offer. Hamilton itself is ideally situated midway between Niagara Falls and Toronto in Ontario's famous Golden Horseshoe region.

Hamilton Guest House has incredible rates for nightly stay and offers clean, comfortable and affordable accommodations for backpackers, budget travelers, and students. Facilities include use of the full kitchen, free parking, linens and towels, secure lockers, free tea and coffee, cable tv, free internet and WIFI.

As well, helpful and knowledgeable staff are always ready to offer the best advice on the local scene.
Hostel of the Week, September 22nd to September 28th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Auberge Internationale La Vieille École, Ste-Anne-Des-Monts

At Auberge Internationale La Vieille École in Ste-Anne-Des-Monts, you may choose relax, make friends, watch a movie, read a magazine while in view of the mountain or ocean. You may play checkers or chess, read a book or simply enjoy the view of the famous sunset. You may use one of the well-equipped interior or exterior kitchens to make your meals. Internet and WIFI are also available at the hostel, as is the laundromat and spa.

The friendly staff will provide you information on what to do in the region. You can observe and photograph the wonders of High-Gaspésie. These include many varieties of sea life, such whale, dolphin, and shark; birds such as cormorant, heron eagle, own and falcon; and forest life, such as moose, deer, caribou bears and racoons, to mention a few of the animals you can find in the Gaspe region. Alternatively you will find many many other activities in summer or winter to fill your days. Find out more about activities

"Come and visit a place of your dreams!"

Hostel of the week, Feb 26th to Mar 4th 2007, Sept. 8th to 16th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Auberge de Paris, Montreal

Auberge Montreal (Montreal Youth Hostel) is centrally located in downtown Montreal. Female, Male, and Mixed dorm room beds and private rooms are available at great prices, as low as $23.00. You will also benefit from the use of stocked kitchens, fun common rooms, PCs with free Internet, an on-site Bistro and a 24 hour reception and no curfew!

Auberge de Paris Montreal is walking distance to shopping areas, restaurants, exciting nightlife, Ste-Catharine Street, St-Denis Street, St-Laurent Street, Prince Arthur Street, etc. You will find many festivals close by such as Just For Laughs, Jazz Festival, Les Francofolies, Montreal Film Festival, and many more.

Originally the Danserau mansion, this 135 year old building was converted to a hotel in 1985. Careful effort was required to maintain many of the heritage building's architectural details, rich with European influence.

Auberge de Paris features a fully licensed on-site bistro, Bistro de Paris, serving breakfast and lunch. Socialize with fellow guests before parting ways and discovering the city in a relaxed and fun environment. The outdoor terrace overlooks Sherbrooke Street and is open all summer long.

Experienced staff are ready to help your stay to be more enjoyable by being your guide to Montreal. Staff are always willing to share their knowledge of the city by suggesting the best places to visit, to eat or to shop.

Get assistance in your language with a multilingual 24/7 front desk staff (languages spoken include English, French, Italian, German, Spanish and Hebrew)

Reserve by phone at 514-522-6124 or toll free 1.877.266.5514.

"Experience the real charm of Montreal!"

Hostel of the week, September 2nd, 2010 to September 8th, 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Clayoquot Field Station, Tofino BC

"The Clayoquot Field Station, located at the Tofino Botanical Gardens - about half way between the town & the beaches, is an educational dormitory/classroom facility with hostel-style accommodations. During your stay you will also have unlimited access to the gardens (normal daily admission is $11 for adults, $6.50 for students) and the library.

Your stay at the field station includes linens (shower towels are extra), a duvet, a pillow; use of the dining area, lounge and shared kitchen, plus free internet access.

No smoking or pets are permitted on the property.

We welcome anyone to stay at the Field Station and hope that our guests will contribute to a healthy and happy environment by being mindful of noise levels, keeping an open mind and maintaining a sense of humour."

Hostel of the Week, August 24th to September 1st 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Samesun Hostel Vancouver

Welcome to Samesun Backpackers, located in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Situated in the middle of the Granville St. entertainment district, this is the place to be for affordable lodging and a great atmosphere.

Clean, safe and friendly, we also provide all the services a traveler needs. We have a large communal kitchen, tv room, internet terminals, pool table, and tour booking facilities as well as free breakfast and free wi-fi. Our helpful staff are available 24 hours a day to assist you. We also provide daily activities including trivia, poker, open mic, free walking tours, beach trips and a special Saturday adventures.

Also on site is the Beaver restaurant, one of the best backpacker bars in North America. Cheap food and beer, and hockey on the big screen, this is your best place to meet people. So come on down and see what all the fuss is about!

We do have a 24 hour cancellation warning.

SameSun has 5 locations to serve you, including our beachfront location in beautiful Kelowna and directly downtown Banff in the world famous Rocky Mountains. And remember: We all live under the Same Sun!

Hostel of the Week, August 12th to August 24th, 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Sir Wilfred Grenfell College Conference Services, Cornerbrook NL

Sir Wilfred Grenfell College offers ideal accommodations for your travel adventures! Located in the heart of Corner Brook, NL, the university is nestled among the hills of the folded and faulted Long Range Mountains in the scenic Humber Valley. Winter travelers have very easy access to the wonders of Marble Mountain-one of the best ski hills in Eastern North America and summer vacationers can experience a true sense of Newfoundland culture through the many festivals, theatre and music productions that take place.

Experience world-renowned Newfoundland hospitality. Sir Wilfred Grenfell College offers all the amenities of a three star hotel in a University campus setting! All rooms have telephones with no-charge local calls and internet access. Laundry and recreational facilities are available. All accommodations have private bedrooms and shared washrooms. The Chalet Apartments have private bedrooms with shared washrooms, living/dining room and full kitchen facilities. Minutes from downtown, there is nearby shopping, hiking and local attractions. You can even have a learning vacation while you are there! Leave the burdens of everyday life behind!

Feature of the Week August 4th to 12th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada