Luxury does room service!

REETU JOSHI / TNN / Oct 16, 2006, 23:42 IST

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Hostels in the city are cashing in on boarders' opulent lifestyles. Money isn't their criteria, high-end facilities are...

Hostels in the city are cashing in on boarders' opulent lifestyles. Money isn't their criteria, high-end facilities are...
'Simple living and high thinking' seems to have changed to 'luxurious living and high thinking', for youngsters today. When it comes to the place they live in, cost isn't the criterion anymore, high-end facilities are. Undoubtedly, upcoming luxury hostels in the city are more than happy to cash in by pampering boarders.
Comfort redefined
Hostels aren't shying away from providing air-conditioned rooms with safe deposit facilities, Internet connections, intercom, laundry service, fridge, toaster and microwave oven. Attached bathrooms are spacious, contemporary and equipped with geysers. "Boarders are also very particular about the food they are served. We take care that boarders don't miss homemade food. The menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner is changed regularly. During the festive season, sweetmeats are also served," says Premlata of Abhinaya hostel.

For those who miss home, some hostels provide guest rooms for family members. And those who prefer visiting home frequently, can avail travel agents' services right at the doorstep. "Apart from providing services at the doorstep, we also ensure that our staff is well-trained. As most of the boarders don't know Telugu, we appoint people who can converse in Hindi or English," says Asif Ahmed of a workingmen's hostel (name) in Hitech City. "For our boarders, medical help is just a call away," says Veni Choudhary of Nityasai hostel. "The tariff ranges between Rs 3,000 and Rs 5,000 a month, including food and water. Internet and electricity charges are extra," says Premlata.

Some hostels pay attention to even minor details like the colour combinations. "Light colours like aqua blue, light orange and light green are trendy and sober, and make boarders feel comfortable, and at home," adds Veni.
Rule out the rulebook
Most hostels don't have restrictions like entry time at night. "We provide separate keys to call centre employees and those who prefer returning late," says Veni. "There are no restrictions on staying out late or calling samesex friends to stay overnight," says Manpreet Maakhija, an IT Professional.
Yeh dil maangemore
There are a few things that boarders feel hostels should introduce. "We have all the facilities, but since I am a bookworm, I would like a library in the hostel. I have spoken to the in-charge about it, and she is considering this demand too," adds Manpreet. "I would love it if my hostel has a mini gym. It would save time," says Manish Jain, a fitness freak and IT Professional. Engineering student Akash makes an interesting demand. "A dart board and a separate room to practice guitar is what I think my hostel lacks," he complains.

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