Hostelid

Hostelid is a proposed unique identifier system intended to assign a persistent code to each hostel. In theory, a hostelid enables portable, unambiguous reference to a property across booking platforms, property management systems, mapping services, and travel directories, reducing duplication and data mismatches.

A hostelid is typically an alphanumeric string; the exact syntax is defined by the governing registry. A common concept includes geographic components such as country and city, followed by a serial number. For example, US-NYC-000045 illustrates a country-city-serial pattern. In practice, registries may also assign metadata fields and version numbers.

Usage includes data reconciliation, cross-platform linking, and improved search experiences. It could be issued by a central or multi-stakeholder registry, with an open API for discovery and updates. Security and privacy controls would be necessary to prevent misuse and protect sensitive operator information.

Benefits include stable identity across platforms, easier data merging, and better analytics. Challenges include achieving broad adoption, maintaining data accuracy, handling changes in ownership or branding, and coordinating governance across jurisdictions and systems.

Hostelids would interact with existing identifiers such as local business IDs, hotel IDs, and geographic references. They are not widely standardized as of now, but various industry groups discuss open standards to facilitate interoperability.