10 of the World’s Most Unusual Hotels
The Underwater Room at Manta Resort-Pemba Island, Zanzibar in the sea (The Manta Resort)
Adventure seekers are always interested in finding unusual destinations that provide a unique getaway experience. But, how many consider the many unique accommodation options available around the world? Some of these hotels are as exciting as their locations.
10. Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Zanzibar
The Manta Resort is the ideal tropical island getaway. However, the Underwater Room allows guests to sleep as various species of colourful fish swim past the windows. The bathroom and living room are at sea level, and the rooftop patio lends itself to sunbathing and stargazing.
The Underwater Room at Manta Resort-Pemba Island, Zanzibar (The Manta Resort)
Inside the Underwater Room at Manta Resort-Pemba Island, Zanzibar (The Manta Resort)
Outside the Underwater Room at Manta Resort-Pemba Island, Zanzibar (The Manta Resort)
9. Golden Crown Levin Iglut-Levi, Finland
The unique Golden Crown Levin Iglut-Levi resort features 18 spacious, glass igloos that overlook the community by day and provide spectacular views of the Northern Lights by night. Each accommodation also features a fully-stocked kitchenette, a bathroom and a double bed complete with adjustable headboard.
Golden Crown Levin Iglut-Levi, Finland
8. Kokopelli’s Cave-Farmington, New Mexico
The cave B&B is situated 300 feet over the La Plata River Valley. A stairway descends 70 feet into the expansive 1,700-square foot cavern. The interior features a Jacuzzi, a complete kitchen, living room, fireplace, waterfall shower, bedroom and balcony for viewing the desert terrain.
Kokopelli’s Cave-Farmington, New Mexico (Kokopelli’s Cave)
7. Book and Bed Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
A first glance at the Book and Bed Tokyo gives one the impression that the venue more closely resembles a second-hand bookstore or library. However, along with 3,000 English and Japanese novels are 30 stacked cubicles for lounging, reading and sleeping. Each space features a single bed, an electrical outlet and a reading light. Cushioned seating lines the exterior wall, which also has large windows.
Book and Bed Tokyo-Tokyo, Japan (Book and Bed Tokyo)
6. Hotel Costa Verde-Provincia de Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Guests are literally in the treetops when staying in this 1960s Boeing 727 plane, which has been converted into a luxury guesthouse. Looking out the window provides views of the jungle below and the ocean beyond.
Hotel Costa Verde-Provincia de Puntarenas, Costa Rica
5. Treehouse Lodge Resort, Iquitos, Peru
After an hour’s boat ride to the destination, guests climb 35 to 65 feet above the ground and into one of the circular treehouse accommodations at Treehouse Lodge Resort. Each is covered with a traditional thatched roof but open to the air except for mosquito netting. Walkways connect each hut to the main treehouse where meals are served and a cold-water shower awaits.
Treehouse Lodge Resort-Iquitos, Peru
Inside a room at Treehouse Lodge Resort-Iquitos, Peru
4. Dromen Aan Zee-Harlingen, Netherlands
Dromen Aan Zee-Harlingen, Netherlands has a number of unusual accommodations, which include the converted room of a crane control room, a renovated lighthouse and a transformed lifeboat.
Outside the Harbour Crane, Dromen Aan Zee-Harlingen, Netherlands
Inside the Harbour Crane, Dromen Aan Zee-Harlingen, Netherlands
3. Happy Nomads Village-Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Get a taste of traditional nomadic life while staying in a yurt. Each accommodation sleeps five and comes with heated floors and single beds. Traditional rugs and wall décor add a touch of authenticity. However, the “bozuis” are not completely rustic, as they come with electricity and Wi-Fi access.
Happy Nomads Village-Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
2. Palacio de Sal-Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
While Scandinavia offers ice palaces, Bolivia has one comprised of salt. Nearly everything in the 48,500-square foot facility was made from table salt with the exception of the wooden floors and tiled bathrooms. The minimalistic, Zen-like atmosphere appeals to many.
Inside Palacio de Sal-Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Standard room at Palacio de Sal-Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
1. Santos Express, Mossel Bay, South Africa
Guests have the unique opportunity to stay in a turn of the century passenger train at Santos Express, Mossel Bay, South Africa. Choose from a typical berth sleeping quarters or splurge on one of the Royal Suites. The location is also conveniently close to Santos Beach, the Dias Museum and the downtown area.
Santos Express-Mossel Bay, South Africa
Inside the Santos Express-Mossel Bay, South Africa