Hostal means hostel

Hostels, which are called hostals in the Spanish language, have come to Mexico. Thus far, 15 have opened in ten cities around the countries, according to Eduardo Vargas, director of the Mexican chapter of Hostelling International, an organization with 4,000 affiliated in 80 countries. In Mexico, a night at a hostal might cost 15 dollars, sometimes less. “Low price is the big attraction,” said Vargas, “but our guests also enjoy the opportunity to mingle with other travelers, exchange information and make new friends.” Concern has been that hostels are not only cheap, but also filthy and unsafe. “Our organization is attempting to change that image,” Vargas said. By Jimm Budd