Angie Walls
(photo by bjaglin from Flickr Creative Commons)
Published in Too Shy to Stop Magazine, January 30, 2009

Do you consider yourself an adventurous traveler? Are you up for anything off the beaten path? If you want the kind of vacation that evokes the strangest stories to share with friends, take a look at the world’s quirkiest hotels.

As tourism magnets, many of these places bring the authenticity of a destination to a new level. For instance, why stay at the Radisson when you can sleep in a traditional hut or wildlife sanctuary, surrounding yourself in the midst of the African bush?

For some wacky travel ideas, these strange hotels are making their mark with the unforgettable experiences, which their visitors will be definitely talking about for years.

Sleep in a Jumbo Jet in Sweden

While many travelers hate the idea of sleeping while in flight, a Swedish trailblazer has ushered in the world’s very first jumbo jet hostel. Recently retired from Singapore Airlines, the jumbo jet has been converted to comfortably accommodate 72 guests. Starting at $41 a room, it’s becoming a draw for honeymooners and newlyweds. You can enjoy the roomy cockpit, now the honeymoon suite (complete with a private bathroom), and exchange vows atop the plane’s wing.

Cuddle up in a Bunker in Switzerland

Resting several yards below the surface, the Null Stern (No Star) Hotel has added a slight touch of comfort and style to an old nuclear bunker, available for only $9-13 per night. As you check in, you’ll be issued a complimentary pair of slippers and earplugs to block out the noise from the underground ventilation. Where’s the real draw? Roman Zogg, mayor of this small town near Zurich, has a vision of the hostel growing into a hot spot for cultural events and ski camps.

Pay for a Night in Jail in South Australia

Take advantage of the only night in a jail cell you’ll ever want to experience. These perks definitely seem better – a door you can unlock yourself, complimentary breakfast, and satellite television. The former South Australian prison includes most of its original accommodations since it closed in 1995, and perfect for group travelers wanting to save a buck or two. Four shared cells start around $18 per person, or you can get a private unit for two at $58.

Live Like an Eskimo in Quebec

Hotels with this ice theme are spreading across the globe like wild fire, from Canada to Switzerland to Finland. Quebec’s ice hotel has frozen, eighteen-foot-tall ceilings, and is filled with all kinds of beautiful chandeliers, original artwork, and furniture carved from the ice. Nothing could as relaxing as enjoying the hotel’s outdoor spas and saunas, or winding down with a martini served in an ice glass. It was also the onscreen location for the Anheuser-Busch Super Bowl ad, Food Network’s “Dinner: Impossible,” and other TV spots for MTV, National Geographic, and the Discovery Channel.

Confine Yourself to the Caves in Turkey

Nestled in the heart of the natural caves and hills of Cappadocia, the Gamirasu Cave Hotel is a restored cave house steeped in history. Highly regarded as one of the most authentic hotels in the region, it also has the comforts of the modern world. Its underground setting offers a great getaway into the peace and quiet of nature. Also, there’s a hiking trail leading to the calm valleys and vibrant landscape that starts at the front door.

Dream under the Seas in Sweden

What once started as an art project now has blossomed into one of Sweden’s popular fantasies – your own private island. Upon arriving at the Otter Inn, you will be taken to a floating red house, which contains a ladder leading down to your sleeping quarters. You can while away the day sunbathing on the deck, swimming with the fish, and getting your meals by boat delivery. If you’re the kind of traveler who belongs on the water, you’ll find a relaxing vacation with optimal solitude and a grand view of the ocean surrounding you from your bed.