Welcome to the area. Glad to hear you found a good exchange program. As for housing, hostel has been gone for some time now. Apartments and roommates tend to be the two cheapest options. Houses are pricey both for rent and sale it seems, at least moreso than in other spots currently to say the least.

You're best bet for finding something is probably Craig's list tho I'd definitely suggest finding somewhere to stay in advance of arrival, housing here even w/today's economy is still rather expensive and hard to find.

Still, I wish you the best and welcome you to the area - Be sure and check out all Humboldt has to offer at www.humguide.com as well, you will find Art and Entertainment listings as well as other important information about the area, also check to see if the 101 Things to Do In Humboldt is anywhere online or you can find a local copy once you're in the area, also the North Coast Journal www.northcoatjournal.com is a valuable resource as is the Lumberjack paper out of Humboldt State.

Enjoy your time here and good luck w/the program.

Cheers!!!!