· Our third child is about to take her GCSEs, we sympathise with Ben's quest for an unaccompanied get-away! Our youngsters found that Youth Hostels provided the best solution: a wide range to choose from at very reasonable prices, choice of self-catering, buying a meal at the hostel or a bag of chips whilst you're out. It's worth booking ahead as popular hostels are often booked with large groups post GCSE time.

Pip McKerrow, London

· YHA accepts youngsters aged 14+ into Youth Hostels, without an accompanying adult, so long as they have their parents' permission. Youth Hostels provide safe, affordable and reputable places to stay for the post-GCSE crowd, and offer them a chance to meet up with a range of other people as well - which may include like-minded youngsters, families, or other independent travellers.

A solution which might suit Ben and his friends is to stay at YHA Perranporth on the North Cornwall coast. Accommodation costs from £6.75 a night, for under 18 year olds. Membership of YHA costs £6.50 for an under 18, and gives a range of discounts on national and local activities and attractions, to help you make the most of your stay. There are also 229 other Youth Hostels to choose from, so if surfing and beaches don't rock your boat, there is bound to be somewhere that does! Log on to www.yha.org.uk or ring 0870 870 8808 to find out more.

Best regards, Mags Rivett, Sales & Marketing Manager, Families & Individuals YHA (England & Wales)