Why do some people insist on shutting windows?

[george.g]

As an observation, certain European nationals must have the windows shut tight at night irrespective of the numbers sleeping in the same dorm! Even to the extent that they will get up in the early hours and quietly close them, honest!
In the morning can you imagine the air quality.
Perhaps French mother's threaten their kids with the bogy man?
Regards
George

 

[BShea]

I think it's the old school idea... the cold night air will make you sick. Sadly, sickness is probably more likely to occur from the germ incubator that's created by locking everything up tight.

 

[jpflavin1]

It is just a personal preference. I believe it is a healthier environment with the window open. Some might not like the smell, noise or have other reasons. I recommend you talk to the folks in your Albergue and try and reach a solution. Maybe those that like a window open sleep in one end and closed window group the other.

Ultreya,
Joe

 

[Helen1]

Reminds me of this article: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-15987082

“…the British do not have a term for a "colpo d'aria". It literally translates as a "hit of air" and seems to be incredibly dangerous for Italians. They can get one in their eye, their ear, their head or any part of their abdomen. To avoid getting a colpo d'aria, until at least April, they must never go out without wearing a woollen vest, known as a "maglia della salute" (a shirt of health)”

I know it's a massive stereotype but I burst out laughing when I first read this because I have some Italian friends and the midly cold air/coats/scarfs thing is so true!

 

[Introibo]

Shutting windows ? Ridiculous. Shouting windows, entirely understandable

 

[Donna Sch]

Mosquitoes. And other bugs. Otherwise, I'd leave the window cracked open.

 

[MichaelSG]

Why do some people insist on shutting windows?

Because some people keep opening them.

 

[Icacos]

Because some people keep opening them.

And would that there were more of them!!!

 

[Albertagirl]

I am far too timid to open, or shut, a window in a common area, unless I have asked everyone - and I'm not too likely to get general permission. But one reason that I might like to shut windows is a lot of street noise, as I am a light sleeper. I sleep poorly if it's stuffy, but I may not sleep at all if it is too noisy (Yes, I am aware that hostel rooms are shared with snorers).

 

[Mark Lee]

One of my pet peeves in albergues. The medieval notion that the night air is bad and the windows must be kept shut. Ridiculous.
Instead you end up with a hot, smelly, stuffy albergue. Whenever I slept near a window I always opened it up before I went to sleep, and slept with my head near the window. That way if someone were to get up and close it, I woke up and opened it again.

 

[grayland]

You had windows??

 

[amancio]

as a Spaniard, all I can say is, we like sleeping in the dark, we have blinds and we use them, we hate sleeping with no blinds, unlike you norther Barbarians haha!

blinds are a blessing! you open the window at day, then close it at night, it is a cultural difference

 

[Pattii]

I live in Northern Alberta. There is snow over half the year here for the most part and up to minus 40 and 50 degree weather during the very cold months. Unless it's a blowing snowstorm outside or I risk icing up my windows too badly to close them if I need to, the window stays open a crack even then. Blinds are not essential unless I have a migraine.
For all you window shutters out there, think for a moment. OXYGEN. It does get used up no? (think about putting a lid over a burning candle...it goes out)...There are a lot of people breathing heavy...sleepers tend to breathe deep, and recycled air is definitely more dangerous than being a little chilly or having a mosquito buzzing around. Air quality is essential to a good night sleep, having the room slightly cooler helps one sleep better. And honestly I don't care what people think...if its stuffy I'm gonna open the windows...It's nuts to sleep in a room full of people breathing each others recycled air. I know air comes in no matter what but fresh air is important for good health. ANOTHER REASON IM TAKING A TENT. Lordy I know we are supposed to be tolerant but there is tolerance and then there is just omg stupidity. Im not going to sleep somewhere that makes me sick. I'm kinda getting sick to my stomach thinking about it...people release all sorts of toxins and gas and omg...gross ....give me open windows or give me a tent.

 

[gerardcarey]

I'm rude.
I first wait until the dorm is reasonably full.
Then I walk to the window and if it is not already open, I open it.
Then in a loud voice that all can hear I suggest that if anyone attempts to close it during the night they will have me to deal with.
I hold a fist up and accompany it with a friendly smile.
Seems to do the trick.
Regds
Gerard

 

[naplesdon]

as a Spaniard, all I can say is, we like sleeping in the dark, we have blinds and we use them, we hate sleeping with no blinds, unlike you norther Barbarians haha!
blinds are a blessing! you open the window at day, then close it at night, it is a cultural difference

After leaving my Barbarian roots behind in America I have come to appreciate what you say rather reluctantly.

You had windows??

Perhaps everyone should now consider adding a toilet seat and a window to their pack?

 

[paul.ferris]

Albergue priorities. Lower bunk, away from doors (especially toilet door), near electrical outlet, near window - so you can open it!

 

[newfydog]

I have an older French friend who believes camping in fresh air is healthy, but still seals out the evil night air at his home. akkk!

 

[Eileen W]

I really don't like sleeping in the total darkness or without the window open. Stars, moon and fresh air. What more could a Northern Barbarian ask for?

 

[bystander]

Open dormitory window = fresh air
Shut dormitory window = involuntary inhalation of other people's B.O., noxious exhalations and flatulence.
No argument.

 

[Pabloke]

Human warmth.

I don't either like sleeping in dense atmospheres.

But my body rules and if I'm tired enough (and after 5 or 6 hours walking, I swear I am) I don't care even if everybody is smoking, chatting and laughing out loud.