In an effort to revolutionize the hostel experience, Stay Open, a pod hotel located in Venice Beach, aims to make sleeping in a box a chic and comfortable affair. Offering a refreshing departure from traditional hostels, Stay Open combines elements of Japan’s capsule hotels with contemporary co-living concepts. Opened in October 2021, this beachfront establishment, housed in one of the former Snapchat offices, exudes a modern and vibrant atmosphere, featuring large windows, trendy millennial pink bedding, and even a dangling disco ball that overlooks Venice Beach.
A Vision to Change Hostel Perceptions
Steve Shpilsky, the CEO and co-founder of Stay Open, seeks to change the perception of hostels. Drawing inspiration from his extensive background in traditional hospitality, including financing renowned hotels like the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, Shpilsky conceptualized Stay Open as a modernized alternative to the conventional hostel. He compares the evolution of Stay Open to the disruptive impact Uber had on the taxi industry.
A Unique Experience
During my recent stay at Stay Open, I utilized an app on my phone to unlock the door to a vibrant and multi-story loft. The space boasted 12 custom-made pods, three hotel-style bathrooms, several workstations with monitors, and even a washer and dryer. It felt like a large Airbnb shared among strangers. The first floor featured a movie projector and a unique phone-booth-shaped office pod.
The Pods: A Blend of Comfort and Privacy
Walking through the second floor, I caught a glimpse of where I would be sleeping that night. I had secured the top pod closest to the window, granting me a breathtaking view of the ocean. The pods, complete with sliding doors and curtains, provide privacy without locking, ensuring a comfortable experience. Inside my pod, I found two small shelves, a white-noise machine, a fan, and multiple outlets conveniently placed at both ends of the bed.
Future Plans and Expansion
Shpilsky plans to expand Stay Open by launching locations in Santa Monica and San Diego in the near future. The Venice location, currently housing 12 pods, is only the beginning. Shpilsky envisions larger buildings, such as the upcoming location near Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade, which will accommodate up to 100 beds.
A Community of Travelers
As I concluded my visit and enjoyed a slice of salad pizza from Abbot’s Pizza Company on the hotel’s rooftop, I soaked in the sunset over the ocean. Soon, fellow guests like Solari and Pasha Makhrinsky from Kyiv, Ukraine, joined me, fostering connections and conversations. The sense of camaraderie continued throughout the night, reminiscent of summer camp experiences, where stories were shared, tea was poured, and friendships were forged. Stay Open provided a welcoming and inclusive environment where social interactions flourished.
