New York City Travel Forum

Hi! I'm going to visit New York in May and I'll be staying at the Central Park Hostel (19 West 103rd Street).

Apparently, it's a nice hostel, but I'll be sleeping in a 10-bed dorm surrounded by total strangers. So:

a) Do you know this hostel? What do you think of the place?

b) Are there any special precautions that I should take?

For any and all unknown dorms/hostels:

1. Ask the hostel if they have a lock-up or should you bring your own lock. Keep your backpack locked at all times.

2. Buy a thin cotton money belt for your passport, large cash bills, credit card and air ticket. Sleep with it on!!

3. Sleep with your valuables if no lock-up is available e.g. your camera should be in bed with you, tucked under your pillow **inside** of the pillow slip.

If there is a thief among the other people in the dorm, the most dangerous time is when you go to shower. Take whatever of your valuables that you can with you into the shower room. Wrap the camera in an extra towel to keep it dry - and hidden.

Good luck and have fun!

«Buy a thin cotton money belt for your passport, large cash bills, credit card and air ticket. Sleep with it on!!»


I didn't know those cotton belts even existed. Thanks!

Lots of different examples. Just google it, or browse your local travel supplies shop.

For instance:
1. http://www.amazon.com/Cotton-Passport-Holder-Travel-Accessory/dp/B000248PYC

2. http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-UnderCover-trade-Passport/dp/B00007FCHP/ref=pd_sbs_a_title_2