Anyone who has ever spent a little time in a hostel common room knows that hostellers are full of good stories. Tales of unexpected journeys, fascinating people, and wonderful discoveries all seem to flow after a good day of exploration.

Now, here at YHA Australia, we want to start collecting and sharing great hostelling stories as part of our new Peace and International Understanding Initiative. And while we love all travel stories, we primarily want to know your story about how hostelling has impacted your life. Has hostelling broadened your horizons? Changed your outlook? Challenged your perceptions? We want to hear about it! We would also welcome your thoughts about how hostelling can impact society as a whole.

E-mail your story to yha@yha.org.au, containing "Share your story" in the subject line. The best stories will be featured on this website, in YHA Australia’s “Backpacker Essentials” magazine, and electronic newsletters.