It recently struck me that I hadn't taken a vacation in almost a year. In fact, I couldn't immediately recollect the last time I had taken an off and travelled. It had been at least a year - one full year of all work and no play! Before monotony got the better of me, I quickly applied for leave from work and packed my bags to go to Jaipur. Now, I have already been to the Pink City a couple of times, so this time would be no different, I thought. But I was totally wrong. What made the difference, you wonder? Choosing to stay at a backpackers hostel instead of a hotel did it for me. Old habits die hard, so here is a listicle covering my experience at a backpackers hostel in Jaipur, and why you should visit one too:

3. It is dirt cheap!

You don't have to spend a fortune to stay in a hostel. Even though prices may differ for Indians and foreigners, it does not cost more than what you already spend for a dinner outside. Yes, THAT cheap!

4. Unlike popular notion, hostels are actually very quirky and well-kept.

The place I stayed in was one hell of a quirk box. From paintings of Rajasthani kings to Playstations and colourful wall arts, it was very well kept and the ambience couldn't have been better.