When Pupils Leave, Tourists Follow

Every year hundreds of student residences around the world are left with empty rooms during spring and summer breaks, and many are rented to travelers at very economical rates.

In London, for example, at least 26 residences will offer rooms this year. Queen Mary and Westfield (at Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS) has singles for $26 and doubles for $31 (breakfast included) between April 6 and 25 and from June 12 to Sept. 7. This residence accepts some credit cards, and children older than 10.

For Disney World-bound travelers, Warner Southern College at 5301 U.S. 27 South, Lake Wales, FL 33853 (tel: [941] 638-7214) offers single rooms for $20, and doubles for $25. Credit cards are accepted, and children are welcome.

In New York, budget travelers can arrange dormitory beds at the Fashion Institute of Technology at 210 W. 27th St., New York, NY 10001; (tel: [212] 760-7885) for just $16 a night--but there is a minimum one-week stay. Accommodations are available between June 3 and July 31.

When you head to other areas of the world, such as Australia and New Zealand, holiday periods (and the availability of residence rooms) are sometimes quite different from ours. St. Andrews College at the University of Sydney has single rooms available (with breakfast) for $26 per night during December, January and February. Full board is available for $33.

Staying in a residence is more expensive than a youth hostel, but usually offers more privacy. For solo travelers, it’s a good way to get an economical single room. You won’t have all the conveniences of a hotel room: You may have to share washroom facilities and pay extra for linens, and there may be restrictions on smoking or alcohol. But you’ll probably be in an area where restaurants and entertainment venues cater to students and have economical prices.

Before you make a reservation, find out how convenient the location is. The campus might be on the edge of town, an expensive or time-consuming ride from the sights you want to see. Local tourist information offices can offer information about residences that rent rooms. For example, the 1995 Toronto Visitors Guide listed 10 campuses offering economical accommodations. The newest University of Toronto facility is Innis Residence (tel: [416] 978-8735), where single rooms in shared suites will be available for $35 this summer, breakfast and taxes included.

The most comprehensive source that I know for information on campus accommodations suitable for travelers is “Budget Lodging Guide” by Campus Travel Services. It lists more than 500 colleges and universities worldwide that will rent rooms to travelers. The listings cover when rooms are available, prices, sights in the area and campus facilities. The guide also lists YMCAs, travelers’ hostels and home exchange programs.

Copies can be ordered for $16.95 (shipping and handling included), from B & J Publications, P.O. Box 5486, Fullerton, CA 96635.

“On Campus USA and Canada--Budget Accommodation for Tourists, Students and Groups,” is a 104-page book listing only campuses that provide accommodations in North America. It’s available for $9.95 (includes shipping) from Key Guides, 2414 Rose Drive, Glenshaw, PA 15116-2520.