Berlin, 26 September 2024: a new world record was set today at Hostelling International‘s World Conference, hosted this year by the German Youth Hostel Association (DJH) Berlin’s Ostkreuz Youth Hostel from 25 to 28 September. In a moment symbolizing international understanding and intercultural tolerance (both important youth hostel values) participants from around the planet stood together in the autumnal wind and grilled a stick of bread reaching an impressive total length of 57.94m, before sitting and breaking that same bread for their meal.

A unifying event

‘Campfires and stick bread are practically part of the DNA of youth hostels as a non-profit organisation. The youth hostel idea was born in Germany in 1909 and is now commonplace all over the world. With this campaign, we are celebrating the global commitment of all youth hostel associations to important values, such as breaking down prejudices and strengthening mutual acceptance. Especially in view of the current conflicts in the world, this is perhaps more important than ever,’ says DJH Managing Director Oliver Peters.

Stick Bread World Record © DJH / André Wagenzik

A global campaign for Peace

This world record event itself falls within the timeframe of Hostelling International’s annual Say HI for Peace campaign. Throughout the month of September, events are being held in hostels around the world, all underscoring HI’s mission to connect people and promote respect & dialogue globally to build peace.

“HI was formed to help promote peace in the wake of WW1, 100 years ago. We set out to support and empower a disillusioned youth by providing opportunities for travel and cultural exchange – and our mission is just as important now as it ever was. We believe that every journey offers a chance to create connection and foster mutual understanding.  Our ‘Say HI! for Peace’ campaign for example is a powerful reminder that by embracing diversity and engaging in meaningful dialogue, we can contribute to a more peaceful and united world,” says Brianda Lopez, CEO of Hostelling International.

Youth Hostels worldwide

The Austrian Youth Hostel Associations ÖJHV (Österreichischer Jugendherbergsverband) and ÖJHW (Österreichisches Jugendherbergswerk) are members of the global not-for-profit federation of youth hostel associations Hostelling International (HI). With around 60 member associations, who operate together more than 2,500 youth hostels worldwide, HI is dedicated to promoting sustainable and meaningful travel experiences through its widespread network of hostels based in a range of interesting locations from medieval castles to modern eco-youth hostels, log cabin-style ski lodges and even accommodation in a disused jumbo jet!

Photo: © DJH / André Wagenzik

we are happy that we are allowed to open again! Please keep an eye on our different opening times!

Our hostels are open:

Before you arrive, please make sure that the hostel you want to stay is really open. You can reach our youth hostels by email at any time. However, we ask for your understanding that due to the current  situation, processing times may still be somewhat longer than usual: overview of our hostels with addresses!

Vienna:

1200 Vienna Youth hostel Brigittenau open
1200 Vienna Brigittenau Youth Palace open
1070 Vienna Jugendherberge Myrthengasse opens in Marsh 2022

Salzburg:

Salzburg Eduard Heinrich Haus open 
Zell am See Seespitzstraße open 
Badgastein open 

Tyrol:

Innsbruck Reichenauerstraße  open 

Vorarlberg:

Feldkirch Reichstrasse open 

Upper Austria:

Jutel Hinterstoder open 
Jutel Obertraun open 

Lower Austria:

Annaberg
Lackenhof
Melk
Tulln
Drosendorf
Bad Großpertholz

Burgenland:

Neusiedl closed

We’re glad! Finally we can receive guests in our hostels again. The safety of our guests is of course our top priority, but above all we want to offer you a nice and relaxing holiday. Also, we appeal to the personal responsibility of our guests. We will do everything we can to ensure you have a safe holiday.  

Requirement for accommodation from 19.5.2021 on

• At check-in, you are required to show a negative COVID test or proof of vaccination/past infection (so-called “entry tests”)
• From 19.5. a previous evidence is valid, from the beginning of June also as a certificate / QR code in the digital Green Pass
• The vaccination can be proved with a vaccination card or printout (from 22 days after the first vaccination or after the second vaccination – the first vaccination must not be longer than 9 months ago)
• Recovery: official notice, antibody test etc. (up to 6 months after the illness)
• Valid COVID-19 Tests are:
  • Negative PCR test (validity: 72 hours)
  • Negative antigen test from official testing authorities, pharmacy, etc. (validity: 48 hours)
  • The test must be renewed by the guest after the period of validity has expired
  • In exceptional cases, self-tests can also be carried out under the supervision of the operator of the accommodation
  • School tests will also count as entry tests for children.
  • Children up to the age of ten are exempt from the obligation to test

Test offers before arrival and during your stay

• Free COVID-19 antigen rapid tests in official testing authorities and pharmacies:
  • Online platform: oesterreich-testet.at
  • Information and registration by phone: +43 800/220 330 (daily from 7:00 to 22:00)
  • Subject to possible restrictions for guests without Austrian residence or Austrian health insurance.

Behavior for guests in accommodation facilities

• Keep a minimum distance of 2 m (6.5 ft) to other guest groups
• You are required to wear an FFP2 mask in all public areas. Children between the ages of 6 and 14 only need close-fitting mouth and nose protection. Exceptions are children up to the age of 6 or people who cannot wear a mask for health reasons.
• When entering for the first time, please present a valid proof of a low epidemiological risk (test, vaccination, recovery). Furthermore, valid proof of a low epidemiological risk (test, vaccination, convalescence) is always required for entering gastronomic facilities, sports facilities and leisure facilities in accommodation facilities. This Evidence must be kept ready for the duration of the stay.
• Make a reservation in advance if possible. Reduce congestion at reception and in the restaurant.
• Pay contactless if possible. Preferably settle the invoice with a card.
• Please follow the instructions of the employees.
• Avoid shaking hands and hugs.
• Wash hands several times a day with soap and water for at least 30 seconds.
• Avoid touching the face with uncleaned hands.
• Sneeze or cough into the crook of your arm or into a handkerchief.
• Do not travel if there are signs of illness. If there are any signs of illness during your stay, contact the reception.

Rules for food distribution & catering

• There must be a minimum distance of 2 meters to the tables of other groups of guests
• Self-service and buffets are permitted, taking special hygienic precautions into account
• No consumption of food and drinks near the food distribution point
• FFP2 masks are compulsory for guests, except when they are at the dining table
• Indoor a maximum of 4 people per table plus a maximum of 6 children, outdoor a maximum of 10 people per table plus a maximum of 10 children
• FFP2 mask for employees (mouth and nose protection, if tested, vaccinated or recovered)
• Closing time of the gastronomy is at 10:00 p.m.

1070 Vienna Myrthengasse

Jugendherberge Innsbruck

Zell am See, Seespitzstraße