2 - What if I am traveling with valuables?
All of the hostels in Paris are equipped with security systems. Safes are located at the reception desk, and lockers are either in the basement or in the bedrooms. Only those who stay at the Hostel have access to the interior.

3 - Do I have to be a member to stay in a hostel?
Yes, membership is compulsory. You can join in your own country before departure, (find the complete address of the federation of your country -if it is a member of IYHF- through the IYHF web site), or you can apply for a Guest Card when you arrive at the hostel.

4 - What time do the doors close in a Parisian YH ?
The doors are always open so you can enter as late as you like. There is a lockout during the day to clean the rooms, usually between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The hostel is still open at this time, but access to the rooms is prohibited.

5 - What features are available ?
Each Parisian hostel has vending machines, international phones and information pamphlets. Some of them have laundromats, bars, discos, travel agencies, cinemas or restaurants. All of the above features can be found in the neighborhood if not in the hostel itself.

6 - Do I need to bring sheets?
The hostel price includes sheets, blankets and pillows, but you are welcome to bring other items such as sleeping bags as well.

7 - Will I have to do chores?
Hostels in Paris operate just like traditional hotels. The staff takes care of cleaning and serving breakfast.

8 - Do I need a reservation?
It is better to make advance reservations. You can reserve a bed through one of the International Booking Network (IBN) offices, online on IBN web site, or you can contact the Youth Hostel of your choice by fax.

9 - Are youth hostels only for youths?
In France anyone can stay in a youth hostel. For persons under 18, we require parental authorization.

10 - What documents should I bring with me?
Be sure to bring your membership card and passport or European citizen identification. If you are under 18, bring a parental authorization.

11 - How long can I stay?
Because of high volume during the summer, we limit the stay to 4 nights. In winter the stays may be longer, depending on availability

12 - Can I cook meals at the hostel?
There are no kitchens, but some hostels provide microwaves and dishes in the common room.

13 - What languages does the staff speak?
Reception's staff will be fluent in English and Spanish, sometimes even German or Italian.

14 - What is the atmosphere like?
It depends on the hostel you stay in. If there is a bar or disco, most of the activity centers around it. If you are in a regular hostel, the common room is the main attraction. The activities also depend on the guests. There might be people with musical instruments who decide to give a concert, there might be a card game going. No matter what is happening, there is always someone with an interesting story to tell about their travels or their country.