Group of 6

[dogpoundmike]

We are a family of 4 (2 boys 18 and 13) traveling with 2 other adults. Our budget is tight so I was thinking that a hostel may be the way to go. Especially if it is a mixed dorm for 6. It would be like our own private room. Or would it? Never stayed in one before so that is why I am asking you experts. We will have nights in London, Paris, Brussels and Florence.
Thanks, Mike

[Eagle]

Mike, booking a six-bed Dorm for your group would probably work well, but that would depend on the specific facilities at each Hostel (how many six-bed Dorms they had available) and what other bookings they had at the time. Many Hostels seem to be upgrading their facilities and provide shared bathroom and shower in each room.

You might consider using HI Hostels as they're well run and fairly consistent in terms of facilities. For London have a look at www.hihostels.com/dba/country-GB.en.htm for further information (click on the "London" link on the right side). HI has Hostels in each of the locations you mentioned, however their property in Florence is about 4 kM from the city centre.

You might want to also check listings for budget Hotels (preferably those that provide a breakfast) in Rick's Guidebooks, as the cost might not be too much higher. I prefer to mix Hostel stays with budget Hotels, as it's nice to have a bit of privacy at times.

One question on your destinations though. Most here feel that Bruges is a more interesting destination than Brussels. Is there a particular reason you want to visit Brussels?

Hopefullly the others will have some comments as well.

Cheers!!!

[dogpoundmike]

Thanks for the info. The Hostel link is very good. We will probably book some nights there. We have friends working in Belgium so we will tip a few with them. Hopefully in Bruges. It looks beautiful!!
Thanks!
Mike