YHA

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This article is about the Youth Hostel Association, for the IATA code YHA see Port Hope Simpson Airport.

Image:YHA logo.jpg YHA is an initialism or abbreviation for Youth Hostels Association, for example that of England, Wales, and Australia. These are part of the Hostelling International (HI). They have long provided low-cost overnight accommodation, originally in scenic parts of the country, and on the assumption that all guests would cook for themselves.

Latterly its facilities have become more varied and less spartan in terms of comfort and amenities. As part of the 'Eat the View' scheme, and an initiative by Food and Beverages Manager Colin Rich, many hostels now offer local dishes as part of their menu, with organic food supplied by local farms and producers. Gone also are the Nestle coffee and chocolate bars, in favour of fair trade products. The YHA is aiming to open up its membership to people from all walks of life - despite the organisation's name, membership has always been open to people of all ages.

In the past few years the network has shrunk considerably. Some years ago many European hostels were within a day's walk from each other, but nowadays there are considerable gaps in the network. Image:Wastwater Youth Hostel.jpg The vision of the regional organization differs considerably. German hostels, and the larger British hostels, are very much dependent on pre-booked schoolgroups, so the casual traveller may not find a roof here, whereas in Britain there are many very small hostels. In some countries you may not drink alcohol on the premises and other countries have their own bar. Many hostels are in local beauty spots. The catering, if available, differs very much too. Most, but not all hostels have a members' kitchen and certainly not all hostels are staffed. Many of the large dormitories have been split into smaller, cosier bedrooms, including rooms reserved for couples or family groups. Some people are put off youth hostels in the UK by an allegedly 'naff' image, where elegant hallways are spoilt by promotional posters pinned to walls, but the hostels provide inexpensive accommodation in a very informal atmosphere.

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