About this episode

The episode features an interview with Rex Baldwin, cofounder of Green Tortoise Hostel, discussing the history and evolution of hostel culture in America.

In this episode of the Hostel Road Trip Podcast, we sit down with Rex Baldwin, cofounder of the legendary Green Tortoise Hostel in Seattle, to explore the roots of American hostel culture. Before opening the iconic Seattle hostel near Pike Place Market, Rex and his partner Gardener operated the original Green Tortoise hostel bus, traveling across North America for more than 20 years. What started as a counterculture road trip experience became one of the earliest community-driven backpacker movements in the United States. This conversation dives into the history of hostels in America, the evolution of backpacker culture, and how a traveling bus community eventually became one of the most respected hostels in North America. If you're interested in hostel entrepreneurship, Seattle travel, starting a hostel, or the foundations of community-based travel, this episode offers decades of insight and experience. Topics discussed include: The origins of the Green Tortoise hostel bus Building community before social media Lessons from more than 20 years in the hostel industry How Green Tortoise Seattle became a backpacker landmark The evolution of American hostel culture Advice for current…

People in this episode

Hosts: Jimmy Black, Bobby Dyer

Guest: Rex Baldwin

Topics covered

• hostel culture
• backpacker movement
• entrepreneurship
• community building
• travel history
• Seattle travel

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Green Tortoise Hostel, Hostel Road Trip Podcast

Places: Seattle, Pike Place Market

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