Independently owned hostel network reflects on three decades of growth from a single location to coast-to-coast presence in Canada and the U.S.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
VANCOUVER, BC – July 16, 2026 – Samesun Hostels is celebrating more than 30 years of operation, looking back on the milestone since Samesun opened its first location and built what would become one of North America’s most recognized hostel networks.
Founded in 1994, Samesun set out to fill a gap in Canada’s travel market: an affordable coast-to-coast hostel network built around community, reliability, and genuine connection between travelers. That vision really took shape with the opening of Samesun Vancouver, housed in a historic building on Granville Street, which remains the brand’s flagship property and operational headquarters today.
From its Western Canadian roots, Samesun expanded steadily across Canada through the early 2000s, adding locations in Banff and Kelowna before growing into Montreal. The brand’s most recent Canadian expansion brought Samesun Toronto to Kensington Market, extending its network into one of the country’s most eclectic neighborhoods.
In 2005, Samesun crossed the border for the first time, opening its first U.S. location in Venice Beach, Los Angeles. The brand’s California presence has since grown to include Hollywood Boulevard, San Francisco, and San Diego, giving travelers access to hostel stays along the full length of the state’s coastline.
Across every location, Samesun has built its reputation on more than just beds and bunks. Lively common areas, organized group activities, and staff who treat guests like friends have shaped a culture that keeps both first-time travelers and seasoned backpackers coming back.
“Thirty years in, we’re proud to still be independent, still be traveler-focused, and still be rooted in the belief that great experiences happen when people come together. While we use lots of technology, it’s the personal interactions and experiences that will forever be the most meaningful part of travel,” said Marc Weiner, President, in a statement marking the milestone.
As Samesun marks this milestone, the company says the focus remains on what brought it here in the first place: community, connection, and the shared experience of travel.
About Samesun Hostels:
Samesun Hostels is an independently owned hostel network with locations across Canada and the United States, including Vancouver, Banff, Montreal, Toronto, and California. Since 1994, Samesun has provided social and safe, traveler-focused accommodations built around community and connection.
Contact:
Marc Weiner
Chairman, Samesun Hostels
1 604-682-8226