Balmer's Herberge
Located at the base of the Swiss Alps-in Interlaken, Switzerland-Balmer's is a backpacker's paradise. Spend your days hiking the Alps, rafting, biking or paddling alpine lakes. For the past 60 years, Balmer's has provided the ultimate youth hostel. Bike rentals and local tours can be arranged through the front desk. Use the communal kitchen or eat at the in house restaurant. The Metro Bar-Balmer's nightclub-has the best happy hour in town. Internet, phone, laundry services and game rooms are available. Check out the convenience store for necessities and a deal on Swiss Army knives. Nightly movies are shown on the big screen.
Balmer's Herberge
Hauptstrasse 23
3800 Matten bei Interlaken, Switzerland
011 (+41) 033 822 1961
balmers.com
La Source Backpackers Chalet
However you choose to conquer Chamonix's Mont Blanc-hiking, skiing, climbing-check out La Source Backpackers Chalet as your base camp. This European chalet was built in the 1950's-before the surrounding area was made a national forest. La Source offers a communal living and dining room, as well as a newly remodeled kitchen for your use. There are no televisions, but plenty of books and games to keep you busy. Winter guests can take advantage of the heated ski and boot room. Hammocks and a BBQ in the garden are for summer lounging. The chalet works with local mountain guides and can make tour arrangements. Wi-Fi and laundry services are available.
La Source Backpackers Chalet
212 Clairiere du Belvedere
Chamonix, France 74400
011 (+33) 6 2218 4288
hostelworld.com
Kabul Youth Hostel
Kabul Youth Hostel is a popular choice for those who don't need peace and quiet. Windsurf in the Mediterranean by day, conquer Barcelona's bars and restaurants by night. Try to save energy to check out the cascades and pools at nearby St. Miquel del Fui. The Kabul hostel is centrally located in one of the city's most bustling plazas. Soak up the Spanish sun from the terrace. Challenge your bunk-mate to a game of chess or pool in the game room. Breakfast is included. Laundry service and sheet rentals are available. Each guest is given 20 minutes per day of free Internet.
Kabul Youth Hostel
Placa Reial 17
Barcelona, Spain 08002
011 (+34) 93 318 5190
kabul.es
