VJH becomes Hi Flanders

What’s in a name?

The VJH is dusting off its, admittedly rock solid but also dated, image and wants everyone to know about it. After almost a century(!) of staying true to a name that was simple, plain, and Flemish, VJH has chosen a different course.
 

‘Hi’ refers not only to ‘hello’, but also to the acronym of Hostelling International, the world’s largest network of youth hostels, of which VJH is a co-founder. ‘Flanders’, in English, should help reflect the contemporary and borderless nature of the organisation.
 

A reference to ‘youth’ was omitted, as hostels today attract a much wider and more diverse audience than the classic youth hostels of the past. Everyone, from young to old, is welcome, even families with children.

A big call to action to come up with a new name was launched just last December, calling on VJH members and friends to help brainstorm for a chance to win a great prize.

The name HiFlanders was put forward by three participants and chosen as favourite by the organisers. The three winners get to stay with two people at any of the HiFlanders’ 18 Flemish youth hostels for free for a year long.
 

Event

We’ll be holding a grand launch event to really highlight the new name:
 

• Date: 24 August 2025
• Location: Hostel Groeninghe, Kortrijk
• Start time: 1 p.m.

Something special is about to happen in Kortrijk on 24 August! We will organise a day full of activities and fun at Hostel Groeninghe. What can you expect?
 

• Zipline from the hostel: Are you brave enough?
• Live music for the perfect vibe.
• Food trucks with delicious dishes to enjoy. As icing on the cake, the first 250 visitors will receive a free snack!
• Creative workshops: we’re doing makeovers!

Around 2 p.m., the HiFlanders team, Alderman for Tourism Ruth Vandenberghe, and Christophe Cooreman or a colleague from the Department of Culture, Youth and Media will share some inspiring words.

The winners of the name search will also be honoured that day and receive their prizes.
 

It will be an interactive experience event with a young, fresh vibe, entirely in the spirit of the revamped organisation, where guests can also share in the joy. 

If you don’t want to miss all the fun, please register via:

Yes, I want to be there