Hostels Appoint ‘Social Distancing Specialists’

European hostel operator a&o Hostels has appointed ‘social distancing specialists’ to advise guests on ways to explore while maintaining social distance and avoiding the crowds.

The specialists have identified the top spots in their cities which allow for social distancing, and lists are updated regularly as restaurants and venues re-open.

Popular options include walking trails away from downtown areas, cycle routes and picnic spots.

Phillip Winter, chief marketing officer, said: “Understandably, the concept of exploring a city may seem overwhelming following recent months so we have appointed specialists to reassure guests that they can travel safely by exploring off-the-beaten-track experiences in each city to avoid the crowds.”

Hygiene measures introduced in the hostels include Plexiglas protective shields; hand sanitising stations; a designated hygiene officer; face masks for all hostel staff; contactless water taps; open doors in public areas and 1.5 metres distance between all chairs in dining areas.

a&o Hostels runs 39 hostels in 23 cities and eight European countries.