Question about Hostels

[Sly]

I would think the number one reason hostels get stiffed is because in order to keep the costs low there's no hired help, or a volunteer willing to stand guard 18 hours a day and collect from deadbeats.

Once you hire someone as a caretaker, it then it becomes a regular business, salaries paid, prices raised and against the original intent of providing low cost housing to hikers. It's just easier to slap up a sign, put up a jar, and hope for the best.

Here's what the Companion says on the subject. I would think the AT Guide has similar language

DONATIONS
Many hostels listed in this book suggest donations for the services provided. This means that the
service should not be considered a gift or that it costs the provider nothing. The honor system of
the Trail requires that you leave something.

[saltysack]

I would think the number one reason hostels get stiffed is because in order to keep the costs low there's no hired help, or a volunteer willing to stand guard 18 hours a day and collect from deadbeats.

Once you hire someone as a caretaker, it then it becomes a regular business, salaries paid, prices raised and against the original intent of providing low cost housing to hikers. It's just easier to slap up a sign, put up a jar, and hope for the best.

Here's what the Companion says on the subject. I would think the AT Guide has similar language

Leave no trace takes on new meaning
Cheap bastards!!!!


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