Unique Hotels from Around the World
Sleeping Outside of the Box – Unique Hotels from Around the World
Every summer, my dad would get his green Ford Econoline Van ready for our family’s month-long road trip through the United States. Part of the fun of these trips was avoiding the freeways, and, instead, opting for the smaller highways and backroads. This was back in the early 80’s; a time before Walmart descended into small-town America and the corporate homogenization process began to transform and conform the landscape.
I have many indelible memories of stopping at the various motels and hotels after a long day’s drive. Each edifice was wonderfully unique, imaginative, whimsical and playful.
To be clear, we’re not talking about 5-star establishments, but what these places lacked in sophistication, they more than made up for in originality and non-conformity! I miss those days, and sadly, many of these mom and pop operations have long since shut their doors. However, there seems to be a resurgence of unique hotels and lodging, as many people are tiring of the standard issue hotels, which lack a sense of fun and adventure.
Some Unique Picks
Part of the fun of traveling is not only where you go, but where you stay! With this in mind, we’ve curated a list of amazing one-of-a-kind hotels that you’re sure to want to check off your travel bucket list! Some are high-end and some are budget-friendly, but all of them are worth visiting!
The Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Tanzania
Our first selection takes us the farthest from Vancouver! This resort has an Underwater Room! It’s a three-level floating structure. You can dive into the perfect azure water from the roof of the building, or relax in the below-sea-level bedroom, where you’ll encounter a wide array of sea-life, such as Trumpet Fish and octopus! Let’s just say, if you stay at the Manta Resort, you’ll always rememba’ Pemba!
Book and Bed, Tokyo, Japan
This hostel in Tokyo is about as different as you can get from The Manta Resort! It’s literally a book lover’s heaven! Instead of having your own private room, guests sleep in cozy little cubbies hidden behind bookshelves. While it may not be luxurious or upscale, lacking the comforts of a higher-end hotel, it is a great place to meet fellow bookworms and have a truly unique experience! Imagine sleeping overnight in a funky used bookstore! While staying at this hostel, you’ll have the chance to read many stories, and leave having a few of our own to tell! If you’re planning on visiting Tokyo and reading is your thing, you’ll want to “book” this hostel for sure!
Hotel Costa Verde, Costa Rica
Staying at this hotel will have you flying high! Guests of this wonderfully original hotel can stay the night in a refurbished and repurposed 1965 Boeing 727, that now serves as a luxury two-bedroom guesthouse. The converted 727 boasts both jungle and ocean views, and rests on 50-foot-tall supports, giving the impression that the plane is about to take off into the sky! You’ll be comfortable in the plane, as it’s air-conditioned and each room has its own bathroom! If you love aviation, or just love unique spaces, this should be on your list!
Skip the Generic
The next time you’re planning a trip, you may want to skip the generic chains, and opt, instead, for something a little more interesting! It’s a great way to create lasting memories and also up your Instagram game!
