Luxury Hostel in Austin, Texas

Backpackers trekking Europe know all about the cost-effective accommodations hostels offer. The group-stay option has been available to travelers on a budget for a long time, but the growing trend of upscale hostels, trendy group lodging and hip shared spaces has only recently been on the rise.

Thanks to the 2005 horror film Hostel, the word tends to illicit a not-so-thrilling response, but, in fact, there are quite a few hostel options that rival even the trendiest hotel.

The newly opened Native Experiential Hostel in Austin, Texas, is an example of the hip and upscale look of the new and improved budget lodging trend. Explore the hostel’s 12 rooms, 65 beds and plenty of space and style throughout.

Each room has its own theme and function, such as the Romper Room that lives up to the name. Perfect for larger groups and parties, the Romper Room can sleep 10 adults or accommodate a party of 30 — the ideal space for a group of friends or tourists looking to make new ones while on the trip.

Smaller groups opt for the four-to six-bed loft suites complete with bunks, single beds, privacy curtains, bathrooms and a vanity — all in an industrial-meets-swanky city style. Meet your bunkmates or bring your friends to the Native Bar and Kitchen for upscale Southern comfort cuisine and cocktails.

Whether you are visiting Austin, or a local, check out the Native’s lineup of events including tarot readings, yoga classes and industry nights. Rates range by room and night, but typically land around $49 per person, per night. Rent the entire Romper Room for a special occasion for $800 a night. Divide that by 12 friends and you can have an entire party space for about $66 a person.