Peter Greenberg: New England Budget Lodging

Q: Hello there, Peter. I want to travel to the New England states to take in the autumn color during the first week of October. How do I find out about colleges or YMCAs or likewise places that may offer low rates to stay in rooms overnight? Thank you for your expertise!

–Donna Dattolo, Houston, Texas

A: It will probably be difficult for you to avail yourself of college accommodations in October, as colleges typically only offer night stays from June through August, when school is not in session. During fall foliage season, the school term has already started, and the dorms are full of students. However, if you attended a New England college, you may want to call to find out whether there is low-cost housing near campus for alumni.

The YMCA is good low-cost alternative to hotels if you don't mind very basic accommodations. The YMCA's main Web site lists the branches that offer boarding for travelers, but there is no centralized reservations system, so you'll have to contact the individual YMCA in each city or town that you plan to visit. Do this about 24 to 48 hours before your planned stay. Also bear in mind that each YMCA has different rules and regulations. For example, some only allow men to stay overnight, while others allow both males and females. Be sure to check the rules for each YMCA you contact.

Hostels are another budget option to consider. They are not just for backpackers anymore and often offer private single or double rooms. For example, the Friendly Crossways hostel in Harvard, Mass., in the central part of the state (30 miles from Boston), has singles, doubles, and twins from $31 per person, per night. This hostel is right in the middle of prime foliage country and is also not far from Walden Pond.

The Hotel Coolidge hostel in White River Junction, Vt., is also ideally located for foliage viewing. Housed in a 1920s railroad hotel, the hostel is also near the Amtrak Station, the campus of Dartmouth College, and many shops and restaurants.

There are numerous online resources available for locating hostels that suit your needs. One such site is Hostelling International New England, and others include Hostelworld.com and Hostelz.com. They offer descriptions, pricing, and even reviews by previous guests.