Every journey begins with a spark — a moment of inspiration that changes everything. For Shashank Negi, Co-Founder and CEO of The Social Stays, that spark ignited from a simple but powerful realization: young travelers don’t just want a place to sleep; they crave connection, culture, and community. Fueled by this insight, Shashank set out to transform the way India’s young travelers explore the world, creating vibrant spaces that feel like home — no matter where the road leads.
From navigating the challenges of a bootstrapped startup to pioneering a new era of youth hospitality, Shashank’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Under his visionary leadership, The Social Stays has emerged as a game-changer, blending innovative design, technology, and social experiences to craft stays that resonate deeply with the young travelers.
In this exclusive interview, Shashank opens up about the company’s unique mission, its impact on India’s hospitality scene, and the future of social travel. Join us as we explore how The Social Stays is reshaping travel — one connection at a time.
1. How is The Social Stays tailoring its offerings for Gen Z and millennial travelers seeking hyper-local, culturally immersive experiences?
At The Social Stays, we understand that young travelers today seek more than just a place to crash — they’re chasing experiences, memories, and meaningful connections. That’s why every one of our properties is designed to reflect the soul of the city. From handpicked local artwork and authentic regional flavors to guided walking tours led by locals, we make sure guests don’t just visit a destination — they feel it.
More than a stay, we offer a sense of belonging. Whether they’re a solo traveler looking to make new friends or a group seeking unforgettable stories, The Social Stays is their home away from home. Here, travel isn’t just about places — it’s about people, culture, and creating moments that stay with them long after they have checked out.
2. How do you balance affordability, experience, and profitability in a lifestyle-driven hostel brand?
At The Social Stays, we follow a hybrid model that goes beyond traditional hostels. While hostel stays remain our core, we complement them with vibrant café-coworking spaces and community-driven experiences. This mix offers young travelers an affordable yet elevated stay — think design-forward interiors, smart technology, and meaningful social connections.
We’re budget-friendly, but never basic. Every detail is crafted to deliver high value without inflating costs. As a proudly bootstrapped company, we run lean and smart — keeping a close eye on efficiency and profitability. These aren’t just business metrics for us; they’re proof that passion, purpose, and performance can thrive together.
3. How is The Social Stays using technology to enhance guest experience while preserving a human-centric atmosphere?
At The Social Stays, our tech stack is built for ease and efficiency. From seamless online bookings and digital check-ins to a WhatsApp-based concierge and an internal dashboard for team coordination — we use smart tools to simplify operations and enhance the guest experience.
But we also know that in hospitality, technology can’t replace human warmth. While tech helps us run smoother, it’s genuine human interaction that truly leaves a mark. Our guests feel most valued when their concerns are heard and handled by a real person — not a bot. It’s this balance of innovation and empathy that sets us apart.
4. How do you use data to personalize experiences while maintaining guest privacy?
At The Social Stays, we personalize every experience using guest preferences and behavioral insights — from suggesting local events to tailoring how we communicate. But we draw a clear line when it comes to privacy. We never sell or share data.
Our approach to personalization is thoughtful and respectful — designed to feel intuitive, not intrusive. It’s all about making guests feel seen, not tracked.
5. What sustainability practices have The Social Stays adopted?
At The Social Stays, sustainability is woven into our everyday choices. We actively reduce single-use plastics, promote water conservation, and compost food waste wherever possible. Our spaces are designed to stay clean, green, and free of litter — inside and out.
But we don’t stop there. We involve our guests too — through conscious travel tips, volunteering opportunities, and partnerships with eco-friendly local vendors. For us, going green isn’t a trend — it’s a shared responsibility.
6. How do you build community within your properties?
Community is at the heart of everything we do — it’s what truly sets The Social Stays apart. That’s why we underwent a full branding overhaul to align with what today’s young travelers really seek: social, meaningful connections on the road.
We knew early on that today’s young travelers are drawn to experiences and the people they meet along the way. Our properties are designed to spark interaction, with shared spaces that bring guests together. Guests often become friends over a game of pool or while swapping stories during breakfast in our cafés.
To keep the vibe alive, we also host daily events — from music nights and games to bonfires — creating moments that turn a stay into a memory.
7. What leadership principles guide you as a young founder?
Clarity, adaptability, and empathy drive my leadership style — because I’m building for Gen Z, and leading with the same values. That means staying transparent with my team, staying flexible as the market shifts, and always listening — to our guests, our staff, and our partners.
In a world full of uncertainty, conviction is my constant. It keeps us grounded, focused, and ready to grow.
8. How did the pandemic reshape your long-term vision?
The pandemic reshaped the hospitality industry in ways we couldn’t have imagined. After a steep decline, the rise of revenge travel brought a shift in how people explore and where they stay. Hostels, once favored mainly by international travelers, began welcoming a surge of domestic guests.
Travelers started seeking unique stays — villas, hostels, camps — over standard hotels. The focus moved from just accommodation to immersive experiences. That shift became our guiding light, and we’ve built The Social Stays to reflect exactly that — travel that’s memorable, meaningful, and experience-driven.
9. What sets The Social Stays apart in day-to-day guest experience?
It’s the vibe that sets The Social Stays apart. Not a hotel, nor a typical hostel, but a living, breathing space where every guest feels seen, welcomed, and inspired.
That energy comes through in the morning playlist, the thoughtfully designed coworking zones, the local art on the walls, and the friendships that form in the dorms. It’s more than just a stay — it’s a shared community where stories begin and friendships last.
10. What untapped opportunities excite you in youth travel?
India’s youth travel market remains largely underserved. From digital nomads to weekend intercity travelers, a new wave is emerging — and The Social Stays is poised to lead it.
The current model holds significant potential, with ample room for growth. Looking ahead, expansion into broader hospitality segments like hotels and resorts is planned — all with a strong focus on social experiences that connect travelers.
