The “youth hostel” concept is evolving and expanding in the United States. Just don’t call it a hostel. The new trend is called “shared accommodations,” and it is the latest trend in hospitality, with upscale amenities and private bathrooms, that targets millennials looking for value in chic markets.
London-based hospitality group Generator opened its first U.S. property in Miami Beach in 2018, placing its dorm-room-like accommodations outside Europe for the first time. While Generator has been operating for 23 years and has 13 locations in popular European destinations like Paris, Barcelona and Amsterdam, its research of the U.S. market found that the term “hostel” is a turnoff to many U.S. guests, hence a rebranding to “shared accommodations.” Generator Miami features a pool, a common area and a restaurant. Entertainers DJ Khaled and Wyclef performed at the property’s opening party. Beds are available for as little as $35 per night.
The Variety Miami Beach, a 68-room property with 46 shared and 22 private rooms, is set to open in the next few weeks as the latest “shared accommodation” property in South Beach. The property, located at 1700 Alton Road, features the Variety Kitchen, a 3-meal restaurant, a pool with a 5,000-square-foot pool deck and courtyard that provides guests with an outdoor, lounge-like venue within the heart of South Beach. Rates start at $75 per bed.