Zostel picks Thailand for its 100th property, expands international presence

Zostel, a community-driven backpacker hostel network, has stepped up its presence on the international stage with the opening of Zostel Phuket, its 100th property and its in Thailand. The company described the launch as a major milestone, signalling its evolution from a domestic travel movement into a global presence rooted in the belief that “the world is one family”.

Zostel, which established its reputation through properties ranging from Rajasthan’s desert landscapes to Himalayan towns and coastal getaways, says its mission has always centered on building meaningful connections among travellers. The Phuket opening, it noted, represents a new chapter in this journey, taking its community-centric ethos beyond India and Nepal’s borders.

Located in the heart of Phuket, the new hostel pairs Zostel’s signature social atmosphere with the relaxed tropical character of the island. The property features open lounges, a warm café courtyard and informal creative spaces designed to spark interactions among guests.

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The hostel aims to offer an experience where shared meals, spontaneous beach trips and late-night conversations shape the rhythm of each stay.

Aviral Gupta, CEO at Zo World, said, “Zostel Phuket is not just our 100th property, it’s our first footprint in a world without borders. This milestone reflects our vision of uniting people and cultures through travel. Over the next 12 months, we’re excited to take this movement deeper into Southeast Asia, with new Zostels lined up across Thailand including Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Koh Phangan and further expansions planned in Bali, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka These destinations will carry forward Zostel’s mission of fostering global connections and cultural exchange through community-led travel experiences.”

The expansion is part of a broader global strategy backed by Zo World, Zostel’s parent company. Alongside its hostel network, Zo World is developing a wider ecosystem that includes scaling Zo Trips across Europe and Asia, launching Zo House San Francisco in the United States and growing its Zo Villas portfolio in major leisure hubs worldwide.

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Zostel says the opening of its Phuket hostel is the beginning of an expanded international presence—one that seeks not only to change how people travel, but also how they build a sense of belonging across borders. As the brand reaches its 100-hostel milestone, it emphasises that its mission remains focused on connection, culture and community at a global scale.