Travelling on a budget can be hard work – but surely you’ve had enough of sleeping at train stations and bus stops? Quit roughing it and spend the night in a place of sanctuary instead, where the hosts are hospitable and the fees won’t send you into the red.
Many monasteries around the world accept women and aren’t faith-prejudiced, so take a look at our selection and get enlightened by this newfound option.
Dragomirna Monastery, Bucovina, Romania
You’ll hear the cathartic cry of peacocks long before you reach the remote monastery grounds, which are encircled by a fortress.
Within the walls, the soaring gothic Church of the Descent of the Holy Spirit is adorned with elaborate frescoes beside the monastery buildings, which are lowly and humble by comparison.
Pilgrims and tourists are welcomed between May and October, with rooms priced at $15 per night.
Pluscarden Abbey, Elgin, Scotland
As the only remaining medieval monastery in Britain still used for its original purpose, Pluscarden Abbey is a sanctuary like no other.
Men and women are accommodated in separate quarters, with rooms charged by donation with no recommended amount. But supporting the Abbey will keep the tradition of this old monastery alive.
Kopan Monastery, outskirts of Kathmandu, Nepal
A Buddhist monastery elevated at 4000 m, Kopan is a serene community of 360 monks that welcomes outsiders to stay for up to a month. The meditation classes are popular, while basic house rules include no killing, lying, or stealing.
Dormitory beds cost as little as $1.50 per night and private rooms start from $8.50 – and don’t forget to bring your sleeping bag.
Ecce Home Convent, Jerusalem, Israel
Religious or non-religious, who can resist a traditional pilgrimage to the Holy Land – especially when it culminates in a night spent at a convent?
Situated near the Damascus Gate within the Old City walls, this authentic experience features views of the Dome of Rock, which you can enjoy while listening to the sounds of call to prayer.
Guests can also earn their keep by working 30 hours per week, preparing meals and welcoming pilgrims into their lodgings.
San Giorgio Maggiore Monastery, Venice, Italy
Prime real estate on one of the beautiful Venetian islands, you won’t find a better deal anywhere than this. The ethos at this haven of peace and tranquillity is to welcome strangers with unreserved hospitality, no matter their gender or religious inclination.
Only five guests rooms are available so book ahead, and you might be lucky enough to score a balcony with a view across the water to St Mark’s. Guests are invited to pay what they can afford, although don’t be mean about it – the big man is watching.
Feature © Elenathewise/iStock/Thinkstock
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas.
