Hostels have a bad reputation. If you've seen the movie "Hostel", it's enough to scare anyone away from them for life. Torture and slaughter-not exactly a great image. However, not all hostels will kill you! On the contrary, I have had many pleasant experiences staying in them. They provide inexpensive room and board, and often times the owners have great suggestions for food and sightseeing.
Take for example, Legends in Rome. It was a hostel recommended to me by a friend, who said it was one of the best hostels he ever stayed in. It was a bit hard to find at first, and the outside is unassuming. But once you're inside, it is very homey and welcoming. There are tons of room types to choose from: they have more private rooms that have only one or two beds, or larger group housing for 4 or more people. There is a steady stream of travelers staying here all the time, from all over the world. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. This is emphasized by the group dinners every night, cooked by the lovely owners of this establishment. A full meal is served every night (at no extra charge) to the guests at the hostel. It has a very "family dinner" feeling. Overall, this is a great place to stay and not at all unwelcoming. I didn't see any torture device anywhere either! read more