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Since ancient times, religious groups and hotels provided food and accommodation for travelers, and a new development began since the last century. Accommodation services became not only for travelers, but gradually evolved as a means for youth to explore nature. This development began at the start of the 20th century, when Richard Schirmann, the principal of a school in Germany, was assigned to teach at a mining area. Due to lack of recreation in the city and the negative impact industrialisation had on the environment, he felt that children had to engage in more outdoor activities. Thus beds were placed in some rural schools for children to stay at during holiday travels. Since the facilities in the classrooms were lacking, Richard Schirmann began the “Youth Hostel”. In 1909, a castle in Germany was converted into the first Youth Hostel.
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Richard Schirmann
1874 - 1961
The Founder of the Youth Hostel Movement and speaking in the
1930's |
| Although the First World War hindered the development of the youth hostel movement, the amount of youth hostels increased drastically after the war. In 1930, youth hostels could be found in European countries such as Switzerland, Poland, England, France, and Norway. Afterwards, they spread to America, Australia, New Zealand, and North Africa. The Second World War once again halted the progress of youth hostels, but recovery was fast after the war. In the 1950s, youth hostels were built in India, Japan and Pakistan and in the 1960’s, in Thailand and Malaysia. At present IYHF has near 5000 Youth Hostels in 70 countries providing accommodation to its 35 million members. Apart from the basic facilities and service each youth hostel provides, there is going to be change in the design of guest rooms. The large dormitory-style rooms will be gradually converted to small group rooms and family rooms. The design of public spaces will be improved to encourage travelers to dine and converse with each other. Style-wise, it will develop in a direction towards cultural uniqueness. Operations will cooperate with government and enterprises more, and strengthen subjects such as environmental protection, and cultural heritage. |
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The First Youth Hostel
Altena Castle
Rhein Westphalen
Germany |
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Three tier bunk beds in Altena Castle,Germany |
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To promote the education of youth from all nations, but especially young people of limited means, by encouraging in them a greater knowledge, love and care of the countryside and an appreciation of the cultural values in all parts of the world, and thus providing youth hostels in which there is no bias based upon race, nationality, colour, religion, sex, class or political opinions. This enables youth to develop a better understanding of fellow men at home and abroad and promotes peace. |
The International Youth Hostel Federation, also known as IYHF, is the global federation that represents youth hostels all around the world. Their symbol is→ |
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The federation’s headquarters is located in the United Kingdom. At present IYHF has near 5000 Youth Hostels in 70 countries providing accommodation to its 35 million members. Despite being named “Youth Hostels”, these hostels provide accommodation to people of all ages, and offers affordable, high-quality, and friendly lodging. The International Youth Hostel Federation was inaugurated in 1932 as an outcome of the First International Youth Hostel Conference held at Amsterdam. Currently the federation holds international conferences biannually, and travel conferences annually. The federation publishes a digest and user’s manual, and provides services such as computer reservations. |
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加盟申請書
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