Hehehee.. Here we go again, El Boqueron. heheehe.. First, gordk, your spelling is just a little off, but we can't blame you for "English-izing" this often confused word.

Webster's Dictionary defines the word "hostel" as:

Hostel: 1. A supervised, inexpensive lodging, especially for youthful travelers. 2. An inn.

The word "hostal" doesn't exist in Webster's Dictionary because it's a Spanish word.

The plural word is "hostalEs" and not "hostals". The english translation of this Spanish word is "hostel". You see, in the definition they are grouping both "hostels/hostales" with "youth-hostels/albergue juveniles" together. Most of the world assumes a "hostel" is always a "youth-hostel" and this is usually true except in Spain. If you ask a basic-english speaking Spaniard "Where can I find a good hostel?" he'll send you to a "hostal" and not a "youth-hostel".

Youth-hostels don't always require membership, but they'll probably charge you more if you're not a member.

Hostels/Hostales are open to everyone and are really just simple, sparsely furnished, most often very clean, family owned and operated hotels in some of Spain's older buildings.

Hope this helps! Or...maybe now you're more confused? hehehe..

Saludos, MadridMan