Top 10 Unusual Hotels in the World

Dare to Stay Somewhere Different

Erika Northman
When traveling, the hotel you where you stay is as much a part of your experience as the sights you see so why not try something different. Whether you are an armchair traveler, a back packer or a world class jet setter, you will enjoy exploring these top 10 most unusual hotels in the world.

Poseidon Undersea Resort (Poseidon Mystery Island, Fiji)
http://www.poseidonresorts.com/poseidon_main.html
This unique resort is set to open in early 2010. Built on its own island and lagoon, the facilities will be both under the sea and above on the white sand beaches. The undersea rooms will give you spectacular views of the ocean and you can feed the fish with the push of a button. There will also be beach bungalows available. There will also be a full array of activities from parasailing to scuba diving to learning how to drive a submarine! Prices are not yet available so contact a travel agent or check back at their website.

Hotel de Glace (Station tourestique Duchesnay near Quebec City, Canada)
http://www.icehotel-canada.com/index.php
This unique hotel is recreated every year for 3 months (Jan-March) a year. That's because it is made completely of ice. You will feel like you are living a fairy tale when you stay at this Ice Castle. It's cold inside but don't worry guests have access to hot tubs and sauna. Additionally, you will be provided with Nordic style sleep equipment to keep you warm and toasty for the night. Their website lists various promotions such as the One Night Family Package for $399 (2 adults 3 children).

The Three Camel Lodge (The Gobi, Mongolia)
http://www.threecamels.com/
The eco-lodge is modeled after Mongolian traditional nomadic herders' camp. The traditional Ger tents have been replicated and are equipped with a private bathroom and wood stove. The Dino House modeled is after a traditional Mongolian temple and is the place to look for games, books and music and dance performances in the evenings. Lodging rates are not listed on the website, so please contact them directly with your inquiries.

The Hobbit Motel (Woodlyn Park in Waitamo, New Zealand)
http://www.woodlynpark.co.nz/
Woodlyn Park is already known for its unusual hotels featuring airplanes and trains has added Hobbit Motels. These self contained units with kitchens are built into the hills just like the Hobbits from the Lord of the Ring series. Each unit can sleep 6 people. Price is NZ $195/night for two and valid until September, 2010.

Les Roulettes de la Serve (near Ouroux, France)
http://www.lesroulottes.com/
North of Lyon in France, you can get a taste the gypsy life! The owner of the property is a craftsman and carpenter specializing in models of historic gypsy wagons. You can stay in your own specially crafted and furnished gypsy wagon starting at 50 Euros per night. Les Roulettes de la Serve operates daily from April to October.

Esbelli Evi (Urgup, Cappadocia, Turkey)
http://www.esbelli.com/index.php
Following the tradition of caves homes in the region, this inn was created out of caves. The owner supplemented the construction by bringing in stones from traditionally dwellings he purchased in the area. Room rates are not advertised on the site but the place looks spectacular, please contact them directly for current rates.

Quinta Real Zacatecas (Zacatecas, Mexico)
http://www.quintareal.com/eng/idt/120/quinta-real-zacatecas/3-2-5,5-8-28/
The hotel has been seamlessly built a beautifully restored bullfighting ring. The rooms are elegantly decorated with original antiques to reflect the colonial history of the region. The hotel is currently offering a special promotion (valid through Dec. 18, 2009) $126/night during the week or $155/night during the weekend for a master suite.

The "Jail" (Mount Gambier, Australia)
http://www.jailbackpackers.com/accomm.htm
This former jail has been transformed into a backpackers hostel but don't worry the beds are comfortable hand crafted by the owner. They host music jams throughout the year. The next one is scheduled for Dec. 21, 2009. Prices range from $20 for a dorm bed to a 2-person self-contained unit for $66. Kitchen use for guests is free or you can eat at the on-site restaurant with meals starting at $10.

Casa Caracol (Isla Mujeres, Mexico)
http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p156977
You can rent this exquisitely designed sea shell house with 180 degree views of the sea and its own wonderful swimming pool. Located on the Isla Mujeres, this 2 bedroom 2.5 bath house is secluded and private. Contact the owner for rental rates.

Free Spirit Spheres (Qualicum Beach, Vancouver Island, Canada)
http://www.freespiritspheres.com/index.htm
You may have thought of staying in a tree house before, but the owners of Free Spirit Spheres have found an alternative to building onto trees that still allows you to beauty of Vancouver Islands' trees. The solution? A sphere which acts as your hotel room and is suspended among the trees. Rates start at $125/night. Note: you must be 16 years or older to stay in a sphere.

Published by Erika Northman

Educator/Writer/Traveler with a passion for languages and learning.  View profile

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