New York City Hostel Is Almost Completed

A hotel accommodation in New York City for $20 would be impossible if it were anything but a youth hostel.

The international hostel won’t be completed until April, but already it can accommodate up to 150 guests.

When renovations are complete, 480 bunks will be available in men’s and women’s dormitory rooms, each with from four to 16 beds.

The hostel is the first New York City facility of American Youth Hostels, a 40-state network of 288 units. AYH is affiliated with the International Youth Hostel Federation, which links 5,300 youth hostels in 60 nations.

The hostel at 891 Amsterdam Ave., New York 10025, is in what was once a residence for senior women. It’s one block east of the 103rd Street stop on the No. 1 subway. Reception is open 24 hours. The phone number is (212) 932-2300.

When completed, the hostel will feature kitchen facilities, a restaurant, laundry, lockers, bike and ski storage, a travel center, equipment store and a community theater.

One of the ways a hostel differs from the usual hotel is that stays are limited to three nights. The New York City hostel, however, is imposing a seven-night limit.

Reservations can be made by phone or mail. A 50% deposit is requested, but not required. Members of AYH or IYHF are charged $20 a night; non-members are charged an additional $3 fee per night, a charge that can be applied to the purchase of a membership.

Sleeping bags are not allowed. You must use a sheet-sleeping sack. If you don’t have one, they can be rented for $3.

This year American Youth Hostels will open 22 new locations, including hostels in Hilo, Hawaii, and Los Angeles.

The Hilo hostel is on a four-acre plot overlooking Kuhio Bay. It will accommodate 67 guests. The rate for hostel association members is $12 a night for dormitory accommodations. Some private rooms also will be available at slightly higher rates. Expect an 11 p.m. curfew and a three-night limit when the hostel is busy.

For reservations, contact Hilo Bay Inn and AYH Hostel, 311 Kalanianaole Ave., Hilo 96720, or call (808) 935-1383. No deposit is required.