I always booked hotels ahead, but a last-minute hostel stay made me love spontaneity

I used to book all my hotels before leaving home because I hated the idea of not having a place to sleep. On a solo trip to Prague, I had every night planned out at nice hotels. One afternoon, I was at a cafe and met a group of friendly backpackers. They were heading to Krakow the next day and asked if I wanted to come along. I almost said no since I had a hotel booked in Prague, but something told me to go for it. I canceled my booking, grabbed my bag, and joined them on the train. We found a fun hostel in Krakow with space for all of us, and we spent three days exploring the city together. Now I only book my first night in a new place and leave the rest open. It makes every trip more exciting and full of surprises!

3 comments

3 Comments

gavin_johnson705d ago

You actually canceled a paid hotel to go on a train with people you just met?

karenjenkins5d ago

Most places let you cancel for free.

skylercooper13h ago

The idea that most places let you cancel free is wrong. Many charge fees. Budget airlines? Rarely refund. Hotels have strict cancel rules. Event tickets keep your money. It's not free most of the time.