Exploring the World's Most Unique Accommodations
Exploring the world is an adventure that many of us dream of taking. But for some, the idea of staying in a traditional hotel room just won't do. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique accommodations around the globe that offer travelers the opportunity to experience something truly special.
From overwater bungalows and igloos to caves and even lighthouses, these unforgettable places let you explore and discover new cultures while also having a one-of-a-kind stay. For those looking for a memorable experience, here's a quick guide to some of the most unique accommodations in the world.
Why you should try out different accommodations
Although traveling is interesting as it stands, that doesn’t mean you should settle and lower your expectations. Just picking the first destination you see on a billboard or listening to strangers on different forums won’t guarantee you a good time.
Trying out different accommodations when traveling can enhance your travel experience in many ways:
- Diversity – Staying in different types of hotels, hostels, apartments or homestays, provides a diverse range of experiences and insights into the local culture.
- Comfort – Everyone has different preferences for their ideal accommodation, so trying out different types can help you find what works best for you in terms of comfort and convenience.
- Cost – Different forms of accommodations come at different price points, so experimenting with various options can help you find the most cost-effective and budget-friendly options for your travels.
- Location – Depending on where you're traveling to, certain types of accommodations may be more available than others in certain areas.
- New experiences – By simply trying new things, you will gain a unique set of experiences, from meeting new people in a hostel to enjoying the privacy and comfort of a luxury hotel. Trying out different accommodations can enrich your travel experience by exposing you to new environments and opportunities.
The world's most interesting accommodations
When it comes to the most interesting accommodations in the world, there are no limits to mankind’s creativity. From staying in a lighthouse to visiting an underwater hotel, the number of different options for your next trip is endless. Here are some of the world’s most interesting accommodations for you to consider:
Overwater Bungalows, Maldives
If being gently lulled to sleep by the sound of waves passing just beneath your bed, the Maldives overwater bungalows are your best choice. These bungalows are built on stilts over the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, offering guests a unique and unforgettable experience.
The Maldives is known for its stunning turquoise lagoons, coral reefs and marine life. Staying in an overwater bungalow allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of paradise. From the bungalow's private deck, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the ocean and marine life, and even spot dolphins or manta rays swimming in the distance.
Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Giraffe Manor is a unique and luxurious boutique hotel that is famous for its resident herd of endangered Rothschild's giraffes. The manor was originally built in 1932 and is set on 140 acres of private land within the indigenous forest in Nairobi.
Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner with the giraffes poking their long necks into the windows to say hello and even accepting treats from guests' hands. There are also daily opportunities to feed and photograph the giraffes, making for an unforgettable and unique experience.
The Lighthouse Hotel, Norway
The Lighthouse Hotel in Norway is a remarkable hotel located on the beautiful island of Tromøy. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with its own private beach and a lighthouse that stands tall against the horizon.
You can enjoy a variety of activities such as kayaking, fishing and hiking. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, spa treatments and fine dining options. With its modern amenities and breathtaking views, it's no wonder why this hotel has become one of Norway's most popular destinations for travelers looking to experience something truly special.
Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita, Italy
It took 10 years of work to painstakingly carve 18 beautiful hotel rooms out of the caves of Matera, Italy. These amazing caves show evidence of civilizations from almost 9000 years ago. While keeping the integrity and spirit of the caves intact, the caves of Matera now offer their rooms to the world.
Staying in these beautiful rooms will surely bring you back in time. Room features are carved directly into the walls and the beds are laid with antique cloth bed linens. And if you are a culinary fan, you can enjoy dinner in the old church.
Icehotel, Sweden
Located in the village of Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, the Icehotel is a unique hotel made entirely out of snow and ice. Every year, it is rebuilt from scratch using only natural materials – snow and ice from the nearby river. The hotel features a variety of rooms and suites that are kept at a constant temperature of -5°C (23°F).
You can enjoy activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer safaris and northern lights tours. The hotel also offers an on-site restaurant with traditional Swedish cuisine served in an igloo-like setting. For lovers looking for an unforgettable wedding, there’s even an ice chapel where couples can get married surrounded by stunning sculptures made out of ice.
The Underwater Room in Manta Resort, Tanzania
The Underwater Room is a distinct and opulent experience that allows you to stay in an underwater room located off the coast of Tanzania. The room is built on top of a floating platform, with three levels:
- Top Level – Lounge area
- Middle Level – Underwater bedroom
- Bottom Level – Direct access to the ocean
The resort also offers snorkeling and diving excursions for those who want to explore even more of what lies beneath. With its unique design and breathtaking views, it's easy to see why this one-of-a-kind accommodation has become so popular among travelers.
10 of the world's most unique hotels
In conclusion
Trying different types of traveling can be a fantastic way to broaden your horizons and enrich your life. Whether it's staying in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives, having breakfast with giraffes in Kenya or immersing yourself in a new culture on a backpacking adventure, each type of travel offers different benefits and experiences.
Additionally, traveling is a great way to develop new skills and interests. You can also gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around you. Likewise, it can be an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself and create lifelong memories.