Let’s be honest—hotel stays can get pretty boring. If you’re like me, you want to break away from the cookie-cutter rooms and find something that’s as unique as your travel plans. So why settle for bland, beige hotels when you could sleep in a treehouse, an old airplane, or even a glass igloo? Get ready to step up your travel game because this guide is all about unusual places to stay that will leave you with stories to tell for years.
Sleep Among the Trees in a Treehouse Lodge
Ever dreamt of living like Tarzan for a few days? Well, maybe without swinging from vines, but still—treehouse stays are a childhood dream come true for many of us. In the heart of the Costa Rican rainforest, you can live among the treetops with the sounds of howler monkeys and tropical birds lulling you to sleep. The best part? Many of these treehouses are eco-friendly, meaning you can soak in the beauty of nature without any guilt. Plus, who wouldn’t love to wake up with a coffee on a balcony above the jungle canopy? Talk about getting away from it all.
Fun fact: Some treehouses are entirely self-sustaining, using rainwater harvesting systems and solar power. You’re not just a guest in the forest, you’re part of it.
Spend the Night in a Converted Plane
Let’s face it, most of us are used to enduring planes rather than enjoying them. But how about spending the night in one—without any turbulence or cramped seats to worry about? In Sweden, an old Boeing 747 has been turned into a luxurious hotel near Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport. Instead of hating your airplane seat, you’ll love lounging in a first-class suite inside the cockpit! This one’s perfect for aviation enthusiasts or anyone just looking for something off-the-wall.
Fun fact: This plane-turned-hotel comes complete with a wing observation deck, where you can grab a drink and watch the planes take off, without ever leaving the ground.
Drift Off Under the Northern Lights in a Glass Igloo
Okay, this one is bucket-list-worthy. Imagine lying in bed, all snug and warm, while the Northern Lights swirl in the sky right above you. In Finland’s Lapland, glass igloos make this dream a reality. These igloos are built with thermal glass, keeping you toasty while giving you a front-row seat to one of nature’s most breathtaking shows. Even if the lights don’t make an appearance, you’ll still enjoy the star-studded Arctic sky.
Pro tip: If you want to catch the Northern Lights, plan your stay between September and March for the best chance of seeing them.
Get Quirky in a Cave
Before you say, “No way am I sleeping in a cave,” hear me out. In Cappadocia, Turkey, you can stay in a cave hotel that offers all the modern comforts while still retaining that ancient, underground vibe. These cave hotels are carved into soft volcanic rock, giving you the feeling of being connected to history while still enjoying your Wi-Fi and comfy bed. Trust me, there’s something oddly comforting about sleeping surrounded by rock walls that have stood the test of time.
Fun fact: The caves in Cappadocia have been homes for people since the 4th century, so you’ll be sharing space with a whole lot of history.
Float Your Way to a Good Night’s Sleep on a Houseboat
If you prefer being near the water (or, you know, on it), a houseboat stay is a fantastic way to experience life at sea—without any sailing skills required. Kerala, India, is famous for its backwaters, where you can experience staying on a traditional houseboat and drift through lush scenery. It’s like a moving hotel that gives you a new view every hour. Plus, houseboats usually come with a personal chef, so you can indulge in some authentic local cuisine while floating your cares away.
Fun fact: Kerala’s houseboats, called kettuvallams, are made from locally sourced materials like bamboo and coir (coconut fibre). Sustainable and stylish!
Stay in a Lighthouse and Be the Keeper of the Night
Ever wondered what it’s like to be a lighthouse keeper? Now you can find out, but without all the hard work. From Scotland to the US, lighthouses have been converted into unique accommodations, letting you experience the beauty and isolation of coastal life. The views are stunning, and let’s face it, there’s something deeply romantic about watching the waves crash from the comfort of your own lighthouse.
Pro tip: If you want an extra pinch of history, stay in a lighthouse that’s still operational. Some even let you take part in keeping the light going!
Get Your Thrills in a Haunted Hotel
Now, this one isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re a fan of ghost stories and love a good thrill, why not stay in a haunted hotel? There are many eerie accommodations around the world with stories of mysterious sightings and unexplained happenings. Just think about how fun it’ll be to share your ghostly experiences at breakfast the next morning!
Pro tip: The bravest souls should visit the Stanley Hotel in Colorado, the inspiration behind Stephen King’s The Shining. If that doesn’t give you the creeps, nothing will.
The Final Word: Embrace the Unusual!
Why go for a standard stay when there are so many unusual places to stay that will spice up your holiday? Whether it’s sleeping under the stars in a glass igloo or living out your lighthouse keeper fantasies, these quirky spots promise a stay you won’t forget. So pack your bags, book that treehouse, and get ready to make some seriously cool memories. After all, travel’s meant to be an adventure, right?
