The Ruthensteiner's, Erin & Walter traveled South East Asia, the US and Australia in their youth and made their first Hostel Experiences there. Back in Europe they saw the need for this kind of experience in midst of a rigid, paternalizing network of "Jugendherbergen". Above all they enjoyed meeting people from everywhere since Erin was from the U.S. and both missed the vibrancy of international community in Walter's home town that was still ridden by post war depression and a general atmosphere of suspicion and paranoia. The newly found Hostel Ruthensteiner soon proved to be a safe haven and first landing point for refugees from the east as well as providing backpackers the budget friendly place needed.