“Deer Lodge Hostel” Backpackers’ Home – Free Stay on August 27

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

To assist communities across the nation in implementing sustainable development, the Council for Cultural Affairs specially launched the “Encounter the Future? Building Green Dream Communities Project” this year. The Yong’an Community in Luye Township, Taitung County, stood out with its “We Are All Family – The Deer Lodge Hostel Friendly Platform” project, receiving a special grant from the Council. The project officially launched on August 1 and is now nearly complete. The Deer Lodge Hostel will officially open on August 27, offering “work-for-stay” reservations to backpackers and cyclists nationwide. It is estimated that 12 first batch guests will be invited on August 27. Those interested may make phone reservations before August 24.

In recent years, the Yong’an Community has been dedicated to community-building efforts, aiming to move towards becoming a sustainable community. Currently, the community has two idle spaces: one is the gradually forgotten “Wuling Green Tunnel,” and the other is the Veterans Activity Center and its surrounding cultural spaces. On July 1 this summer vacation, the Yong’an Community revitalized the long-idle Veterans Activity Center next to the Wuling Green Tunnel, transforming it into the “Yong’an Farm Visitor Center.” The idle warehouse next to the visitor center (formerly the Veterans Welfare Store) is the target of the community’s latest revitalization effort. Through this project, it aims to transform the space into the “Deer Lodge Hostel,” which will serve as a rest and accommodation space for backpackers and cyclists, and will also become a hub for the community to promote low-carbon tourism and an eco-friendly environment.

The Deer Lodge Hostel is located at the 344-kilometer mark of Provincial Highway No. 9. After its official opening on August 27, it will provide a friendly accommodation and rest environment for those passing through. In principle, accommodation follows a pay-what-you-can model. Visitors can choose to “work for stay” by assisting with 1–2 hours of community service, or donate a few storybooks to the community library. Currently, the Deer Lodge Hostel has two dormitory rooms that can accommodate approximately 10 to 15 backpackers. Those wishing to stay must make a reservation three days in advance. For reservations, please contact: Ms. Wu at 089-552-224.