In this episode of the Hostel Road Trip Podcast, host Jimmy Black and co-host Bobby Dyer travel to Conway, New Hampshire, to highlight one of New England’s most community-driven hostels — CoHo Conway Hostel.

CoHo is known for its warm social atmosphere, adventure-focused travelers, and the powerful idea that defines their culture: “Go Solo, Leave With Friends.” From hikers exploring the White Mountains to solo backpackers searching for connection, CoHo has become a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.

🎥 Watch the full video episode on YouTube: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdJRpyQK4II

In this episode, you’ll learn: • The origin story of CoHo Conway Hostel • Why Conway, NH is a hidden gem for outdoors lovers and backpackers • How CoHo fosters instant community among solo travelers • What makes the White Mountains an adventure hotspot • How independently owned hostels shape authentic travel experiences • Community-building strategies hostel owners use to create memorable stays

Whether you're a hostel owner, solo traveler, outdoor adventurer, or lover of unique travel stories, this episode gives an inside look at why CoHo is defining the New England hostel experience.

🔗 Learn more about CoHo Conway Hostel: www.cohohostel.com

🌍 Discover more Hostel Road Trip Podcast episodes: www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Hosted by Jimmy Black Co-host: Bobby Dyer (ITH Hostels)

In this episode of the Hostel Road Trip Podcast, we travel to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to visit Apple Hostels, one of the most iconic and influential hostels on the East Coast. Host Jimmy Black and Bobby Dyer sit down with Marc Desmarais, the owner of Apple Hostels, to explore how this legendary property continues to shape the backpacking community in Philly.

Apple Hostels has become the heart of East Coast backpacking — known for its social energy, historic setting steps from Independence Hall, and the unforgettable experiences it creates for travelers from around the world.

🎥 Watch the full video version on YouTube: 👉 https://youtu.be/Zz_choF9QeI

In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Apple Hostels became one of the most popular hostels in the United States • Why Philadelphia is a top destination for solo travelers and backpackers • What makes Apple Hostels’ community events and social atmosphere so special • Marc’s journey as a long-time hostel owner and industry leader • Tips for travelers visiting Philadelphia on a budget • The future of hostels on the East Coast and in America

If you’re passionate about hostels, entrepreneurship, or authentic travel experiences, this episode delivers insider knowledge straight from the people shaping the hostel world.

🔗 Explore Apple Hostels: https://applehostels.com

🎧 More episodes, stories, and travel inspiration: www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Follow us on YouTube for full video episodes, hostel tours, and behind-the-scenes content!

Listen in as we have a conversation with Stephanie Nebhan to hear her story about how her family has owned, operated, and has success at running one of the oldest hotels and hostels in the country. Stephanie is the Manager of the Gardner Hotel & Hostel, and is constantly creating experiences to continue the amazing tradition of her property!

Check Availability for your upcoming trip to El Paso at the Gardner Hotel & Hostel in Texas.

Episode Recording Date: April, 2025

Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:

Gardner Hotel & Hostel

ITH Hostels

Hostel Management Services

To hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversion with Hostel operators at the NAHA 2025 Hostel Conference in Playa del Carmen.

Join NAHA if you are a hostel operator and want to be more connected within the Hostel Industry.

Episode Recording Date: April, 2025

Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:

NAHA

ITH Hostels

Hostel Management Services

To hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Matias to hear his story about how he started out as a backpacker and has built the largest hostel brand in Mexico for travelers. Matias is the Founder of Che Hostels and focuses on building an amazing culture and vibe with his Staff to create incredible experiences for their guests.

Check availability for your upcoming trip to Mexico at the various locations Che Hostels operates in including:

Playa Del Carmen

Tulum

Holbox

Bacalar

Merida

Valladolid

Puerto Escondido

Zipolite

San Cristobal

Episode Recording Date: October, 2024

Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:

Che Hostels

ITH Hostels

Hostel Management Services

To hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Thea Delamater to hear her story about how she got into hostels, managed hostels, cofounded a hostel conference, and built a hostel direct booking platform.

Sign your hostel up to join Hostelling.US

Attend The Gathering Hostel Conference on Nov. 5-7 in Denver, CO.

Visit the Ember Hostel on your next trip to Denver.

Episode Recording Date: September, 2024

Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:

Hostelling.US

ITH Hostels

Hostel Management Services

To hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Alfie Mckenzie to hear his story about how he pursued his passion of hostels. Alfie now leads the non-profit HI Whistler Hostel, and is constantly creating experiences to make his hostel thrive in the mountains!

Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Whistler at the HI Whistler Hostel in British Columbia, Canada.

Episode Recording Date: September, 2024

Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:

HI Whistler Hostel

ITH Hostels

Hostel Management Services

To hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com

Listen in as we have a conversation with Frankie Maduzia to hear his story about how he and his partner J. Charles Griggs followed their hostel desire to bring an adventure hostel to Bend Oregon.

Check Availability for your upcoming trip to Bend at the Bunk+Brew Hostel.

Episode Recording Date: August, 2024

Thank you to our Supporters & Sponsors:

Bunk+Brew Hostel

ITH Hostels

Hostel Management Services

To hear more stories from hostel owners visit our website www.HostelRoadTrip.com