Picture this: you’ve finally settled into your cozy hostel bunk after a full day exploring Osaka’s vibrant streets, your body weary but your heart still racing from the day’s adventures. Just as you’re drifting off to sleep, the peace of the night is shattered by loud TikTok videos blaring out. It’s your hostel roommate again, the one who stays up late and doesn’t seem to understand the importance of letting others sleep. It’s like they have no sense of what’s polite or how crucial it is to respect others’ need for rest.
This isn’t just a hypothetical scenario; it’s a real-life drama that unfolded in a highly rated guesthouse in Osaka, where a Persian chronic smoker decided that the middle of the night was the perfect time to indulge in his love for loud TikTok videos. Despite the host’s pleas and the confrontations from sleep-deprived roommates, this selfish individual stood his ground, headphones unused and arrogance unyielding.
The situation escalated to the point where, on the morning of his checkout, he not only woke everyone up at 7 am with his videos but also screamed and challenged a fellow guest to a fight when questioned about his inconsiderate behavior. It’s a scene that seems almost too absurd to be true, yet it’s a scenario that many travelers can relate to, having shared spaces with strangers who sometimes lack basic social awareness.
Another story about UK TikTok user
This incident is reminiscent of another viral story involving UK TikTok user Samuel T, known as @tarpaper, who found himself in a similar predicament. Samuel, a creator of satirical skits and a familiar face in KSI’s social media videos, was forced to confront two girls in his hostel dorm who were recording noisy TikTok videos at the ungodly hour of 3:30 am. The girls, undeterred by the disturbance they were causing, continued their loud music and dance routines even after Samuel’s polite request for quiet.
The video of this encounter, captioned ‘I guess we’ll sleep when we’re dead,’ quickly gained traction online, amassing around 400,000 views and sparking a wave of condemnation towards the ‘rude’ girls. Viewers expressed their second-hand ’embarrassment’ and ‘social unawareness’ as they watched the girls stomp and dance to the tunes of Doja Cat and Dua Lipa, outfit changes included.
Samuel’s British politeness was evident as he referred to the girls as ‘Diversity’ and gently asked them to wrap up their performance. Their response was a casual ‘Yeah, we’re nearly at the end,’ which, as the continued footage showed, was far from the truth. The girls proceeded to FaceTime one of their boyfriends, showcasing their moves while the rest of the dorm tried to catch some sleep.
These stories are not isolated incidents. A quick search online reveals countless tales of bizarre and sometimes downright disrespectful behavior in hostels around the world. It’s clear that the hostel experience can sometimes be a wild ride.
What can we do?
But what can be done in such situations? How can travelers ensure peaceful coexistence in shared spaces? While the answers may not be straightforward, one thing is clear: communication and respect are key. Whether it’s a gentle reminder or a firm confrontation, addressing the issue head-on is often the first step towards resolution.
In the case of our Persian roommate in Osaka, the resolution came in the form of patience and the eventual departure of the disruptive guest. For Samuel and his dorm mates, it was a matter of speaking up and hoping for the best. In both cases, the experiences serve as a reminder that while hostels can be places of camaraderie and adventure, they can also test our tolerance and diplomacy skills.
As we delve into the world of hostel etiquette and shared space dynamics, let’s explore the unwritten rules and tips for maintaining peace and respect among travelers. From setting boundaries to dealing with conflict, the next section of this article will provide insights into navigating the communal hostel experience with grace and consideration for all.
Navigating the hostel experience can be akin to a thrilling roller coaster ride, complete with unexpected twists and turns. It’s a melting pot of cultures, personalities, and habits, all confined within the shared walls of dorm rooms and communal spaces. The key to a harmonious hostel stay lies in understanding and adhering to the unspoken code of conduct that governs these shared spaces. Let’s dive into some essential tips for peaceful coexistence in hostels, drawing from the experiences of travelers like our Persian chronic smoker and the nocturnal TikTok enthusiasts.
First and foremost, communication is the cornerstone of any communal living situation. It’s important to establish a dialogue with your roommates from the get-go. A friendly introduction and a brief chat about each other’s schedules and preferences can go a long way in setting the stage for mutual respect. If you’re an early riser or a night owl, sharing this information can help avoid unnecessary conflicts.
When it comes to noise, the golden rule is to keep it down, especially at night. Remember, hostels are not just for partying; they’re a place to rest and recharge. If you must indulge in late-night activities like watching TikTok videos, use headphones. It’s a simple gesture that shows consideration for others’ need for sleep. If someone forgets this rule, a gentle reminder can often do the trick. However, as we’ve seen with our Persian friend, some may not be as receptive. In such cases, it’s best to involve the hostel staff who can mediate and enforce the rules.
Cleanliness is another critical aspect of hostel etiquette. Shared spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, and common areas should be left as you found them, if not cleaner. It’s not just about hygiene; it’s about showing respect for your fellow travelers who will be using the space after you. If everyone does their part, it creates a pleasant environment for all.
Respecting privacy is also paramount. While hostels are inherently social places, it’s important to acknowledge that not everyone is open to interaction at all times. Be mindful of personal space and belongings, and always ask before using something that isn’t yours. This respect extends to times when you might want to bring a guest over. Always check with your roommates first, as they might not be comfortable with outsiders in their personal space.
Dealing with conflict is an inevitable part of life, and hostels are no exception. When issues arise, address them directly but diplomatically. Escalating to aggression, as seen in the case of the Persian smoker, is never the answer. Instead, try to find common ground and work towards a solution that satisfies all parties. If a resolution can’t be reached, the hostel staff can help navigate the situation.
Lastly, participate in the hostel community. Many hostels organize events and outings that can be great opportunities to meet new people and create lasting memories. Engaging with others can also foster a sense of community, making it easier to navigate any issues that may arise during your stay.
The essence of a great hostel experience lies in the collective effort of its guests to maintain a respectful and considerate environment. It’s about embracing the diversity of travelers and their stories while ensuring that everyone’s experience is positive. By following these simple guidelines, you can contribute to a peaceful coexistence and enjoy the unique adventures that come with hostel living. After all, it’s these shared experiences that often lead to the most cherished travel memories.
So, the next time you find yourself in a hostel, remember the tales of the Persian smoker and the TikTok dancers. Let them serve as a reminder of what not to do, and instead, strive to be the kind of roommate that others will speak of fondly when recounting their own hostel adventures. Safe travels and sweet dreams, fellow wanderers!
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