by Severin Sadjina

The Alps
This impressive mountain range is ideal for hikers who wish to revel in the many cultural delights of Europe whilst enjoying some outstanding scenery. The larger peaks such as Mont Blanc (the highest mountain in Western Europe) are particularly popular with experienced hikers but can also be dangerous due to the risk of avalanches and sudden changes in weather conditions. A popular resort is Chamonix (France) which is an ideal base from which to hike across the popular mountains of Aiguille de Bionnassay, Aiguille du Midi and Dômes de Miage.

Yosemite National Park
The incredible scenery of Yosemite in California is perfect for all hikers, from beginners upwards. Experienced hikers can take a cable car up Half Dome or head up to the top of Yosemite Falls and enjoy phenomenal panoramic views from there.

Iceland
Hot springs, dramatic caves and cliffs, impressive waterfalls and the unique, vibrant Nordic culture has given Iceland a reputation as one of the world’s premier hiking destinations. During the months of June and July, hikers can enjoy almost constant daylight and witness stunning ‘near’ sunsets lasting for hours around the midnight twilight, when the sun stays just above the horizon before rising again.

The Rocky Mountains, USA
These mountain ranges are a haven for hikers. Camping holidays are hugely popular in this wilderness and there is no shortage of outstanding scenery, with clear blue lakes, snow capped peaks and beautiful forests attracting millions of tourists to the Rocky Mountains every year.

Gorges du Verdon, France
This is the second largest canyon in the world (after the better known Grand Canyon) and undoubtedly one of the world’s great hiking Destinations. Explore this deep gorge with a boat ride along the Verdon River by starting off at the stunning mountain village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie before finishing off in beautiful Castellane several days later.

New Zealand
The colours and natural light of New Zealand are so distinctive to these islands that New Zealand has sometimes been described as the world’s best country for hiking. The dramatic mountains, rivers, lakes, volcanoes and marvellous clean beaches are popular with hikers from around the globe, particularly British tourists.

Blue Mountains, Australia
Just a short drive from the city of Sydney, the Blue Mountains contain exceptional rock formations and caves, such as the Three Sisters and Jenolan Cave and beautiful waterfalls including the Wentworth Falls and Katoomba Falls.

South Africa
The view of Table Mountain is one of the finest in Africa and is relatively easy to reach. Deep in the rural wilderness of this country there are many hiking routes and organisations that provide appropriate safety equipment and resources. The scenery here is much greener and more temperate in its appearance than that of the rest of the continent.

Norway
Dramatic fjords, a rugged coastline and magnificent mountain walks make Norway a premier destination for hikers during the spring and summer in particular. The very long days between May and July allow even more time to enjoy the wonderful scenery here.

The Amazon rainforest
This is a unique destination for hiking, with its superb range of wildlife and stunning tropical plants. A paradise for nature lovers and also ideal for those who don’t mind the high humidity and consistently high temperatures.

Related Hiking Articles

by Zach Dischner

It has often been suggested that the most dangerous destination for mountain hiking in the world is the hike up to Mount Huashan in China. It starts with the Heavenly Stairs, a long, steep narrow series of concrete steps which are tolerable at best. However, only the most courageous trekker would venture across Canglong Ridge (also known as the Black Dragon Ridge), which is even steeper and narrower, with very sharp drops to the left and right.

The next phase in this hike is a steep series of steps. Here, the climb becomes more severe as hikers reach West Peak Mountain, before climbing all the way to the top of Mount Huashan. The view from the top of the mountain is phenomenal and tourists who have been brave enough to reach the very top often wish that they could spend the rest of the day their admiring the view.
Unfortunately, the descent back down is said to be even more dangerous than climbing up the mountain. This is especially so in lower temperatures, when just one slip on the icy steps could send hikers to their death within seconds.

Another part of this hike involves a twenty foot series of chains which must be climbed with bare hands. The experience is akin to rock climbing but without any safety mechanisms to protect you from falling: you must reply upon sheer determination and your survival instinct.

Imagine walking on a plank of wood, think of a cliff and think of a 2000 metre drop – and you will be describing another part of the route. This section is particularly frightening, principally due to the fact that it is difficult not to see the drop to your right whilst you walk along the plank of wood that you fervently hope won’t break.

As you return and reach the long series of steps that take you back to the bottom, you will most likely feel relatively at ease, particularly in contrast with the experiences you have endured further up. Despite seeming terrifying when you were walking up them, the steps will appear to be simplicity itself if you have just survived walking along planks of wood that almost appear to be floating in mid air. The end will be near and before you know it the entire experience will seem like a dream. Your perspective of danger and fear will have been completely transformed forever.

It goes without saying that no one, regardless as to their level of hiking experience, should attempt to climb Mount Huashan unless they have the appropriate mountain gear and equipment. Even then, however, it is still discouraged. Those who do brave this dramatic and emotionally painful ‘ride’ may have recurring nightmares about it for years to come. During this experience, the distinction between life and death is little more than the distinction between your left foot and your right foot. The level of concentration required is immense and no one can afford to become distracted, even for a second. In this hike there are a million ways in which a hiker could be killed, but only one way in which to survive – which is to embrace the fear.

See a guy filming himself walking on the scariest trail ever!! Amazing!!!
Video Rating: 4 / 5

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by Oregon State University Archives

Before you head out on your next trip to the great outdoors you will need to check whether you have all the right camping gear to make the occasion a memorable one. Camping can be a wonderful experience and one that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Whether you are heading into the wilderness or planning to pitch a tent at an organized camp ground, having the correct equipment would ensure you are ready for any eventuality and situation.

Although there is always the option of cooking on an open fire it is usually easier and somewhat safer to take a stove with you on your camping trips. We use two different types of stoves – the single burner propane stove, which we mainly use for heating water for hot drinks and dish washing and the double burner stove, which we use for cooking food in a skillet or pot.  The size of the stove would depend upon how many people you will need to cook for. If there are only two people then a portable butane burner should suffice. Remember to choose suitable utensils, pots, and pans.  You can buy special outdoor cooking equipment that is easy to carry and clean.

One of the highlights of camping are meal times, especially when you cook over the campfire.  We always prepare our meals together as a family, so everyone has ownership of part of the meal.  This really helps to quell any complaining.  It’s also a great family bonding time.  After the main meal is over and the clean-up is done, its time to think about a great treat. One camping dessert that has been around for generations is s’mores.  Although this dessert takes some time to prepare, the process to get your marshmallows just right is half the fun.  When your family has their sticks with marshmallows on the end hanging over the coals, there’s always competition to see who can roast the perfect marshmallow.  The goal to roast it slowly and get it golden brown evenly all the way around the marshmallow, then it will be the perfect temperature to melt the chocolate sandwiched between the graham crackers.

How to make camping s’mores:

Ingredients: graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate squares, sticks or skewers, and a campfire with good cooking coals.

The process:

Prepare your s’more sandwich makings first: break off 2 squares of graham cracker for the top and bottom of your s’more, then break off a square of chocolate and lay it on the bottom square graham cracker.

Stick a marshmallow on the end of your stick or skewer and roast it over the coals of the campfire. Try not to char the marshmallow by rotating the stick in your hand to roast the marshmallow evenly all the way around. If it flames up, blow it out and continue or eat it and start over.

Once you have the marshmallow roasted the way you want it, place it on top of the chocolate square and sandwich it between the 2 squares of graham crackers – let the chocolate melt a few seconds and enjoy.

SHOP.life-regenerator.com * Yes, it’s Camping Dan with a Master Camping Plan & Camping Tips to keep you diggin’ life, and always puttin’ more in it. Cause you are in it to win it! Right? Riiiiiiight?
Video Rating: 4 / 5

by Oh-Barcelona.com

For Valentine’s Day HostelsClub.com has brought together a list of the 7 most romantic hostels worldwide. Each year for Valentine’s Day  lovers exchange gifts, such as flowers and chocolates, they buy heart-shaped cards and balloons. For those who want to impress their sweetheart many restaurants offer candlelit dinner… But we’ve got a better alternative. Surprise your sweetheart with an unforgettable romantic weekend this year!

We have prepared for you a list of romantic hostels. Romance does not have to be expensive: our hostels with the special ambience and low prices will bring your heart to sing and will not burden your wallet. Berlin, Stockholm or New York – in the romantic hostels you may hear the words that you have been waiting for! All the hostels are awarded with hearts on a scale from 1 to 5!

Here are the Top-7-hostels which have a very special atmosphere and get a particularly good review from travellers:

Lisbon Calling Hostel, Lisbon Portugal *****

In the southern centre of Lisbon, opened in 2009, the Lisbon Calling Hostel with wooden sleeping platforms and bunk beds, we welcome you with charming and colourful furnitures. All rooms with four, six or ten beds are elegant and stylished. Accommodation includes breakfast buffet, internet use and a friendly smile at any time of day. This hostel has sucked up the fantastic atmosphere of Lisbon in each corner and in every detail and element. One feels at once like in a Portuguese romance novel, where everything is mysterious and heartbreaking. Prices from 18 euros.

Chic & Basic, Barcelona Spain *****

Chic & Basic hostels this is a new concept for stylished hostelling in Spain and Amsterdam. Central location, complimentary self-service breakfast and free internet access. The public areas are stylished, you have a roof terrace with sun beds. In July 2009 Chic & Basic Barceloan opened the doors of 36 rooms on six floors. A double room is available from 63 Euros per night, the romantic atmosphere of a night in the heart of Barcelona – priceless.

The Jane Hostel, New York USA *****

Here, it feels like being on the boat to the New World: the rooms are cabins of a ship, about 50 square meters and is surprisingly comfortable. Romantic Bed in Jane hostel with cotton linens, flat screen TV, DVD player, iPod dock, free WiFi, telephone with voice mail and a safe, ensures total comfortness! For a weekend, you will feel like the protagonists of the famous Titanic drama, with the difference that we have solid ground under our feet here.

Baxpax Mitte, Berlin Germany ***

Baxpax Mitte Hostel promises with its honeymoon suite, as the name implies, a special atmosphere for a romantic night. Tasteful and decorated with love, this hostel care for a romantic mood not only on Valentine’s Day. This room is perfect for the alternative backpackers, who want a special honeymoon. And the day after a hot night, the guests can enjoy breakfast in the romantic nostalgic atmosphere of Berlin a la 70′s.

Art Hostel Rio, Rio de Janeiro Brazil ***

Art Hostel Rio in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Art Hostel is a favourite spot for many artists and musicians. The romantic atmosphere of the hostel, special facilities in the rooms, bar and lobby, lots of small details in accordance to the philosophy of the hostels, which lies in the cultural heart of Rio de Janeiro will bring you in a romantic mood, guaranteed. You will discover the amazing spirit of Rio. Not only comfortable rooms but also the gallery, multimedia room, bistro, sauna, massage/ relaxation room. The hostel is situated in a beautiful old building of the 19th century, this hostel inspires guests for romantic moments like the beat of Brazilian music, that is played in the hostel. Double bed, about 40 €.

Jumbo Hostel, Stockholm Sweden ****

The hostel is on board a jumbo jet at the Stockholm City Airport, Arlanda and promises a memorable romantic getaway. Surprise your sweetheart/ loved ones with the luxury suite in the cockpit bedroom with a panoramic view of the airport in the Jumbo Hostel. This unique and outstanding experience is not inexpensive, but the emotions that are raised here, are unforgettable. And the bed is lovingly made for you by the stewardess!

Pffefferbett Hostel, Berlin Germany ****

Built in an old brewery in the Berlin district of Prenzlauer Berg Pfefferbett Hostel which opened in May 2008 is excellent. The impressive industrial architecture of the 19th century blends with modern interior design. Original Prussian roof with red and yellow bricks give a unique atmosphere to the 46 rooms, in this historical house. One night costs, depending upon room type and season from 12 to 32 euros, for only 4 Euro extra: All-you-can-eat breakfast buffet with coffee and tea. Double rooms with a comfortable mattress, TV and intimate lighting, a set up for romantic moments. In the evening you can enjoy a drink in the bar or on the terrace, and be happy in the romantic atmosphere of Berlin.

Surprise your sweetheart with a romantic weekend. Romantic hostels are waiting for you, and they don’t have to be expensive for you to show your emotions. Happy Valentine from all of us at Hostelsclub!

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The following are our top 10 tips when planning to hike abroad:-

1. Never travel alone, whether you are out hiking for the day or leaving your hotel for five minutes. Travellers are primary targets for muggers and other criminals, but travelling in numbers will always offer a significant level of extra protection against becoming a victim of such crime.

2. Ensure that family, friends and a local contact, if at all possible, are all informed as to the full plans for your journey. Get in touch to update them on your progress at regular intervals wherever possible. This way, if you are midway through a hike with no means of communication, people who may otherwise contact the authorities out of concern will be suitably informed.

3. Always carry an inexpensive mobile phone with spare batteries, keeping it concealed wherever possible when in public places. Keep a separate list of important phone numbers, including that of the British embassy, in case your phone develops a fault and you are forced to use another means of contact.

4. Leave inessential valuables such as MP3 players and jewellery in your hotel’s safe or another secure and trusted location. Whilst hiking, carry only a certified copy of your passport, available from the embassy.

5. Your wallet should contain nothing more than sufficient cash for your immediate needs and no more than one credit card. Other belongings such as personal details, photos and so on should be removed prior to your trip and left in a safe place; at home if at all possible.

6. Carry a good quality GPS system, topographic maps of all areas you intend to visit and a high quality, accurate compass. Refer to them all at regular intervals, marking your position closely and keeping a record of your progress. You should regularly check your current position against your intended route and make sure that you are sticking to it as closely as possible.

7. Make sure you are fully aware as to any climate differences and that you are physically capable of hiking in conditions which may be different to those of your usual hikes. Take extra care when hiking in high altitude, keeping to a slower pace than usual in order to allow your body to adjust gradually.

8. Avoid hiking near country borders. You run the risk of accidentally straying over the border and in doing so could easily run into serious trouble with border guards, security officials or other authorities on the other side.

9. Don’t rely on the advice of locals for security information. Always seek professional security advice regarding your destination from the British embassy and perhaps consider taking a skilled and trusted guide to accompany you; someone who has considerable experience of the area in which you plan to hike will always prove a valuable companion.

10. Pay attention to government travel warnings. If travel advisories feel it necessary to release these warnings, it is with good reason that they do so. This advice should not be dismissed as being over cautious and should make travellers seriously consider rescheduling or cancelling a trip.

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by Thomas Hawk

Backpacks are extremely popular due to the fact that they allow you an easy means to carry many things while keeping your hands free for anything else you might need them for. Most backpacks are quite roomy which encourages you to put as much into them as they will hold. Doing this can create a hazard for your back, and has been the source of many back problems in young children.

For your safety, it is important to remember not to overload backpacks with heavy items whose weight could unknowingly hurt your back. If you need an easy transporting option for several heavy items, consider investing in a backpack with wheels. This way you can roll heavy backpacks to where you are going instead of putting all that weight onto your back and shoulders.

The combined weight of items placed in a backpack is not the only thing that can pose a threat to back health. It is important to pay attention to the style of backpack you choose to use for yourself or your children. There are certain backpack styles that can be harmful to your body regardless of how many books or things you put in them. Some backpack styles are better choices than others are when it comes to protecting your back from possible strain and injuries that can result from carrying even lighter loads incorrectly.

Sling backpacks are a great choice for your back than many other types of backpacks. A sling backpack allows you to effortlessly shift your backpack from behind your back to the side of your hips or to your front, to give your back a rest. Since you can keep shifting the sling backpack without having to stop and remove the backpack and replace where you want it, you can prevent your back, hips, or stomach muscles from becoming overly strained and tired while still walking towards where you need to be.

Sling backpacks are widely available online and through many retail outlets and local stores. Sling backpacks can come in many exciting colors and styles that appeal to young children, teens, adults, and even grandparents. Many sling backpacks also have added features that expand their versatility and popularity. Sling backpacks are making impressing strides in popularity as you can see them being used in elementary, middle, and high schools, on college campuses, at the office, on the sidelines at soccer games, and on the streets, as many people like the hands-free carrying of multiple items that backpacks offer them.

Below are a few examples of the many different types of sling backpacks offered today. It is important to remember that sling backpacks are much safer for your back than most other types of backpacks. More than just better for your back, these sling backpacks offer you a range of different eye-catching styles to choose from.

•Cast It Sling Backpack: This sling backpack has a cinching system for quick and easy tightening to keep everything in your bag. Hangs nicely off either shoulder and is available for around to .

• A leather sling backpack by APC will only cost you around to , and are a great compliment to your casual wear. They have a good amount of packing room and are available in burgundy, black, and brown.

• The Piel Top Grain Sling Backpack is a snazzy leather bag priced around 0 to 5. They feature front and side zipper pockets, and a main compartment with an impressive amount of room.

• Travel Concepts UR Gear offers several stylish sling backpacks such as the 600D Polyester, a bag with crossover straps for extra comfort priced at to .

•The CalPak Gate Sling Backpack is a stylish backpack that provides you with a roomy and safe way to take your laptop with you everywhere you go for only to .

•CODi Sling Pac Laptop Backpack and Business Bag features two bags in one. You can effectively and safely carry your laptop as well as important work or school papers, books, and essentials. You can usually find these handy sling backpacks priced at around to 0.

• Sling backpacks are not just about school and work. Consider a sling backpack for carrying your most precious cargo, your child! A Mod Mum Reversible Sling Backpack has a hip and modern look for Mom’s, while providing your baby with comfort and safety.

With the above guide of sling backpacks available to you, and their various price ranges, you can begin your search to find the best and most stylish sling backpack for yourself. You can carry everything you need while remaining in style and being kind to your back to avoid problems further down the line.

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by Mobile Edge Laptop Cases

Once confined to hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts, backpacks have become mainstream during recent years, carried by everyone from kindergarten students to busy moms and business execs, all of whom have one need in common: convenient, portable storage for their gear.

Offering a convenient location to store pens, pencils, books and notebooks, backpacks have become a ubiquitous accessory for school kids of all ages, and have even gained a foothold among adults who use them to tote everything from laptops to diapers.

Backpack manufacturers have responded by offering a wide variety of styles and sizes to suit pretty much anyone’s needs, and it’s a good idea to spend some time reviewing those options before making a final purchase decision. Here are a few important backpack features to consider before making your choice:

Backpack Size

Backpacks come in a variety of sizes, from small packs that are light enough for a small child to carry comfortably, to large packs better suited for high school or college kids, as well as adults looking for a convenient piece of carry-on luggage or overnight bag. Smaller packs, like the Olympia 16-inch Campus Backpack, are ideal for lightweight loads, and can do double-duty as a purse or small briefcase. Men and women with larger loads to carry might prefer the roomy interior of Ogio’s Metro or Epic Midnight Limited Edition Backpacks, or the Jumbo Leather Backpack.

Rolling Backpacks

Originally introduced as a portable carry-on bag, rolling backpacks have gained in popularity with many students and inner-city commuters, who appreciate the option of toting large amounts of books and other items without having to bear the weight. Rolling backpacks like the Verucci Flight Carry-on/ Rolling Pink Backpack and the J World 19.5-inch Touches Blue Rolling Backpack/ Laptop Sleeve offer stylish prints and patterns, while the Verucci Brown Flight Carry-on Rolling Backpack is better suited for more serious business events. Students and adults alike will appreciate the sporty styles of CalPak’s Night Vision 18-inch Rolling Backpack and CalPak G-roller Backpack.

Backpack Style

Just like a purse or briefcase, your backpack can reflect your unique style and personality, from fun and fashionable to studious and businesslike. Fun fabric designs, like those offered on CalPak ‘S Curve’ 18-inch Lightweight Backpack or J World’s 19.5-inch Check Red Rolling Backpack with Laptop Sleeve are lighthearted options for the young-at-heart. While more reserved designs include the Amerileather Urban Buckle-Flap Backpack and the Leather Three-way Backpack, whose unique design allows you to carry it on your back, over your shoulder, or by a hand-held strap.

Backpack Storage

While early multi-use backpacks had one main storage area with a single pocket on the outside, today’s backpacks offer a variety of storage areas specifically designed for a wide variety of purposes and items, including electronic devices like laptops and portable music players. To make the best choice for your needs, consider carefully what you’ll be using the backpack for, as well as the items you’ll need to carry in it.

Carrying a laptop? The Trailmaker Laptop Backpack offers both an internal, fully padded laptop sleeve as well as a cell phone pocket conveniently located on the shoulder strap. For really heavy-duty use, consider the Wenger Swiss Gear Austin Laptop Backpack, by the makers of the original Swiss Army Knife, which offers a pocket for your iPod or MP3 player, as well as a headset port. Also offering an earphone port, the CalPak Apez 18-inch Multi-pocket Backpack features multiple pockets of varying sizes, as well as self-repairing zippers to make sure all your contents are kept safe and secure.

Hiking Backpacks

Unlike their more urban and suburban counterparts, hiking backpacks are designed for the serious outdoor enthusiast who wants to hit the trail for a few days, carrying clothing, food, a tent and other supplies. Backpacks became frequent among travelers during the 1960s, when hitchhikers and other itinerant travelers recognized their versatility and convenience. Those heavy packs, with cumbersome external frames, have been replaced today by lightweight, internal frame versions that offer far greater durability than their predecessors. Designed to support heavier loads, these packs help distribute the weight evenly along your back, reducing muscle strain that can result from uneven loads.

Packs like the Teton Sports Explorer 4000 Internal Frame Backpack feature padded waist belts and padded lumbar area to help reduce strain from prolonged wear. Many backpacks, like the High Peak Kathmandu 70 + 10 Internal Frame Pack, even feature built-in hydration systems that allow you easy and convenient access to drinking water while you’re hiking, without having to stop and remove your pack.

The lightweight designs and multi-featured practicality of today’s backpacks make them a smart choice for people of all ages and walks of life. The wide selection of modern and traditional materials, coupled with colorful, unique designs means that there is a backpack that’s just right for your needs.

by Wasfi Akab

If we think about travelling to Europe, we know that popular destinations in Europe are big cities like London, Berlin, Paris, Barcelona or Rome where you will find a lot of hostels all bookable by HostelsClub. But more and more tourists travelling through Europe go to the Eastern part looking for new and exciting experiences. Benefits of such travel: low prices in the hostels and most travel costs are lower in Eastern Europe.

In every Eastern European city you will find fascinating culture and history, unusual customs, foreign languages and a different pace of life. The travelers have a lot to discover while enjoying very good services but best of all, they travel cheaply. Hostelsclub presents below the 10 best hostels in the 10 most exciting and popular cities of Eastern Europe with prices from 8 € to 12 € per night!

HostelsClub’s Eastern European Top 10 Hostels:

Argonaut Hostel & Apartments, Riga (Latvia)

For 11 € per night you can stay in the most popular hostel in Riga – Argonaut Hostel & Apartments. This hostel is located in Barona Krisjana iela, a famous street with many shops, boutiques, cafes, bars, and more. The central location of this hostel makes it a great backpacker’s hostel not only for the position but the service also makes this hostel special. Amenities such as free internet, free tea in the kitchen, a complimentary city guide, linens, Smart Card Key Accessible rooms, taxi service and much more!

Tallinn Backpackers, Tallinn Estonia)

Tallinn is a beautiful and romantic city and one of the best hostels in Tallinn is Tallinn Backpackers. One night here costs around € 10.50. Tallinn Backpackers is situated in a medieval building, which offers luxurious rooms and services. How about a sauna or jacuzzi on the rainy October day? They have it! The location is also great with the wonderful sights of city you can reach by foot. The friendly staff will help you with tips and advice on how to organize tours in the Tallinn and Estonia!

A HOSTEL, Vilnius (Lithuanian)

If you are looking for a cheap and nice place to sleep in Vilnius, A Hostel will leave you in good hands. This hostel is located in the Old Town of Vilnius, a perfect place to discover the beautiful side of the city. Go walk through the narrow streets of Vilnius, enjoy the slow and peaceful life in Vilnius, watch the street artists, buy jewelry from the brown stone and drink tasty beer with crisp crackers. A Hostel is near many bars, restaurants, shops and clubs. For 9 € per night you will really enjoy its extravagant furnishings and have lots of fun.

Midland Youth Hostel, Bucharest (Rumanian)

Bucharest is a beautiful city and there are numerous attractions, which you can discover, so you will visit this city again and again. And once you booked The Midland Youth Hostel, you will always come back. It’s like a big family. Enjoy long evenings in the cozy kitchen, relax watching a rich selection of the DVDs and after partying in one of Bucharest’s clubs you will really appreciate the ‘all you can eat breakfast’ free of charge. And all that for 10 € per night!

Hostel, Lavele,  Sofia (Bulgaria)

Sofia is a city with many faces: the Soviet past has left deep scars on the exterior of the city. But the new generation is looking forward to build a new perspective, and Sofia is perfect place to discover all the changes of life. Hostel Lavele is the best place to get to know Sofia. The house is fresh, clean and comfortable and staying here costs only 9.50 €. All the sights of Sofia are easy to reach such as: the Presidential Palace, the St. Nedelia Church, Central Square, the shopping street Vitosha, and the market hall. Here you will find many bars, restaurants and cafes. You’re going to settle in well here thanks to the friendly staff and comfortable furniture!

Fredericks Hostel,  St. Petersburg (Russia)

This small hostel in St. Petersburg is new and has already become a favorite place in St. Petersburg for Backpackers. Hostel Fredericks is in the center of the city near a few of the famous sights such as the summer garden, or Zircus Chinizei Mikhailovsky Theatre which are easy to reach by foot. The hostel is modern and has tasteful furnishings. Feel relaxed with the friendly staff who will help you with the tickets for opera, theatre, or train tickets. You can book the beds here for just 7 €!

Budapest Centrum Hostel, Budapest (Hungary)

Budapest Centrum Hostel is a hostel with a heart. The young hostel (opened in 2009) is a perfect place for young people, with a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. The main attractions of the city are within in the walking distance while the service for 12 € per night is excellent: Wireless Internet, breakfast, bed linen, tea and coffee, shampoo, shower gel, equipped kitchen, city map and much more!

Hostel Blues,  Bratislava (Slovakia)

Bratislava is a modern city for young people and the Hostel Blues just presents what you would like in Bratislava: modern accommodation for travellers. Backpackers like this hostel, because it renders a social atmosphere and you can easily find out what is going on in town and plan your next travel. You will find everything here that you want and need: an excellent central location, affordable prices, safety, a pleasant atmosphere, friendly informed staff and the best services. But the most important is this is a place to have fun!

Old Town Hostel, Gdansk (Poland)

Old Town Hostel in Gdansk is just the right property for a port city on the Baltic Sea in Poland. Old Town hostel is in only a 5 minutes’ walk to major tourist attractions around Dlugi Targ (Long Market) which is the central square, where there is always something going on. In Old Town Hostel Gdansk you enjoy the morning with their delicious breakfast and later the other meals you can cook in the kitchen. The nightly rate is about 10 € and you can rest assured that you will have a pleasant stay here!

Alibi Hostel, Ljubljana (Slovenia)

Alibi Hostel in Ljubljana is a special place. There is even a Graffiti Gallery in the backyard! The main sights are within an easy reach. The hostel is located in the center of the Old town, where on the streets there are open-air concerts, street theatre shows and flea markets. Alibi Hostel is colorful and alive, and thanks to the friendly and resourceful staff, there is a lively atmosphere inside too. The spacious lounge and the grand staircase is the heart of the hotel and the ideal meeting place for backpackers.

Visit Eastern Europe during your next vacation and discover the new sites of Europe!

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by papaija2008

1. Bring a mobile phone in case of emergency. If you are in any danger and you find yourself in a situation where you require immediate help, a mobile phone may be your only hope.

2. Use a well marked trail with good quality tracks or paths. Consult an up to date map to double check the route you intend to take: this will be essential if you accidentally get lost or need to alter your route due to inclement weather.

3. Take the appropriate footwear and clothing. Running shoes and trainers will wear quickly and are not suitable for braving steep mountains and rocky terrain. Proper walking boots are essential for longer hikes and appropriate clothing is also important, taking into account the temperature and the weather conditions.

4. Consider becoming a member of a local hiking club or organisation there you could join with more experienced hikers. They can offer valuable advice and insight into popular routes and those to avoid. This will also be a good opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.

5. Take note of the weather forecast and be prepared for sharp drops in temperature when hiking up high mountains on dry, sunny days. Wind speeds will generally be gale force on high ground during unsettled weather so it is essential to properly plan your hiking trips and to consider postponing if the weather forecast is poor. Be extra careful in wintry weather when icy paths and rocks can be especially hazardous.

6. You must be in a good physical condition to take on long and challenging hikes, especially those involving a significant degree of climbing and steep trails. Do not do not overwork yourself and take a long rest whenever you need to – hiking needn’t be a race! If you plan on hiking regularly, be sure to take rest days so that your body can fully recover from a long day of exercising.

7. Take plenty of water, regardless as to the time of year. Even in low temperatures the body can dehydrate after prolonged exercise. Also ensure you have plenty of sandwiches or pre-cooked meals stored in a lunch box – you will be burning hundreds of calories and will need the energy.

8. Do not overload yourself with baggage – only bring essentials. A heavy backpack will cause back and shoulder pain, which will slow you down. When travelling as a group, make sure that each person carries a fairly equal amount in line with their size.

9. Bring a well-stocked first aid kit which must have sufficient medical supplies for all members of the group. Even on smaller hiking trails, a first aid kit will prove invaluable when the nearest hospital is several hours away.

10. Hike in areas with which you are familiar in order to gain experience. You can subsequently venture into the unknown, having first had some experience of long-distance hiking. If you are heading to a foreign country, get to know the language – this will be essential in an emergency. It is also another reason to travel in groups, with the objective of ensuring that at least one member of the party has a workable grasp of the local language.