As travelers, we’re always on the lookout for unique and memorable experiences. But sometimes, what we find is… unconventional. In this article, we’ll take a journey to 15 hotels around the world that will leave you wondering if they were designed by a genius or a madman.
The Unconventional Hotel Scene
From Slovakia to Israel, these hotels are sure to spark some interesting conversations. Whether it’s their unusual shapes, bright colors, or eclectic architecture, each one has its own story to tell. So, buckle up and get ready for a wild ride!
1. Hotel Spirit – Bratislava, Slovakia: A Unique Find
Photography by Kocurik
This hotel is often considered the most unique in Europe. Its design is inspired by traditional Slovakian houses, but with a twist. With prices starting from €21 per person, it’s an affordable option for travelers looking for something out of the ordinary.
2. Marina Bay Sands – Singapore: A Landmark (or a Nightmare?)
Photography by Beyond My Ken
This iconic hotel and casino resort has been the subject of much debate. While its stunning view is undeniable, some critics argue that it’s more about grandeur than functionality.
3. Hang Nga Guesthouse – Dalat, Vietnam: A Dream World Come True (or Not?)
Photography by Ruben I
This bizarre guesthouse was designed by Dang Viet Nga, who aimed to create a fairy tale atmosphere inspired by Antoni Gaudí’s work. The result is a surreal structure that will leave you questioning reality.
4. Ryugyong Hotel – Pyongyang, North Korea: A Monumental Mistake?
Photography by Eqdoktor
Construction on this 105-floor skyscraper began in 1987, but it was abandoned due to financial difficulties. It wasn’t until 2008 that work resumed, leaving many wondering if it’s worth visiting.
5. Holiday Inn – Sarajevo, Bosnia-Erzegovina: A Hotel with a Dark History
Photography by Fred Romero
During the war, correspondents stayed at this hotel, which was severely damaged by bombs and later rebuilt with a bright yellow coat of paint. The hotel’s history is as complex as its design.
6. The Dog Bark Park Inn – Cottonwood, Idaho: A Canine Abode
Photography by Alan Levine
This quirky hotel is shaped like a giant beagle and has become a popular destination for those seeking an unusual vacation experience.
7. The Standard Hotel – New York: Unconventional Chic
Photography by Beyond My Ken
While some consider this hotel to be stylish, others find it strange or uninviting. Love it or hate it, it’s certainly a conversation starter!
8. Magic Mountain Hotel – Huilo Huilo Reserve, Chile: A Forest Oasis (or a Nightmare?)
Photography by Mireya Peters Martínez
This hotel is nestled in the heart of the Huilo Huilo Reserve and has become a haven for forest magic enthusiasts. But its design may not appeal to everyone.
9. First World Hotel – Genting Resorts World – Genting, Malaysia: A Colorful Catastrophe
Photography by Eqdoktor
This massive structure boasts 10 restaurants, an amusement park, and many other attractions, but its color combination has sparked heated debates among travelers.
10. Silken Puerta América Hotel – Madrid, Spain: A Futuristic Fiasco?
Photography by Zaqarbal
This futuristic hotel was designed by 19 architects, featuring a geometric shape that’s both striking and polarizing. Critics argue that its design is more eyesore than aesthetic masterpiece.
11. El Algarrobico – Almeria, Spain: A Structure Never Built (and Probably Not Missed)
Photography by Fred Romero
This structure was deemed illegal due to concerns about its impact on the surrounding landscape, so it was ultimately demolished. Its fate is a lesson in balancing progress with preservation.
12. Hotel Uzbekistan – Tashkent, Uzbekistan: A Hospital-Inspired Haven
Photography by Mary Crandall
Despite its hospital-like design, this hotel has earned praise from travelers for its comfort and service. Whether it’s functional or fashionable is up for debate!
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13. Le Grand Hotel du Lac – Tunis, Tunisia: A Pyramid on the Horizon (or Not?)
Photography by Neil Rickards
This 1970s-era pyramid-turned-hotel is a classic example of architectural eccentricity. Some find it charming, while others dismiss it as kitsch.
14. Hotel Alatau – Almaty, Kazakhstan: A Milanese Palace in the Making (or Not?)
Photography by Eqdoktor
While this hotel’s design might not appeal to everyone, its grandeur is undeniable. Would you rather sleep in a palace or something more… unusual?
15. Isrotel – Tel Aviv, Israel: A Skyscraper with a Pool on the Roof (or Just a Monstrous Structure?)
Photography by Krokodyl
This hotel skyscraper boasts stunning views of the beach and is relatively modern for its age. But some travelers can’t help but view it as a monstrosity.
Conclusion: The Beauty of Unconventionality
These 15 hotels are proof that architecture doesn’t have to be conventional to be beautiful. Whether you’re looking for unique experiences, cultural insights, or simply something off the beaten path, these hotels will provide a memorable adventure. So pack your bags and get ready to raise some eyebrows!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Hotel Spirit in Slovakia worth visiting?
A: Absolutely! Its unique design makes it a must-see for travelers looking for something out of the ordinary.
Q: What’s the story behind Marina Bay Sands in Singapore?
A: The hotel’s construction was marked by controversy and financial woes, but its stunning view has made it an iconic landmark.
Q: Can you tell me more about Hang Nga Guesthouse in Vietnam?
A: This bizarre guesthouse is inspired by Antoni Gaudí’s work and features a surreal structure that will leave you questioning reality.
Q: Is Ryugyong Hotel in North Korea a tourist destination?
A: While it’s technically open to visitors, its construction has been plagued by difficulties, making it uncertain whether it’s worth visiting.
Q: What’s the history behind The Dog Bark Park Inn in Idaho?
A: This quirky hotel was designed to resemble a giant beagle and has become a popular destination for those seeking an unusual vacation experience.
Q: Is The Standard Hotel in New York stylish or strange?
A: Love it or hate it, this hotel is certainly a conversation starter!
Q: Can you recommend Magic Mountain Hotel in Chile as a forest retreat?
A: While its design may not appeal to everyone, this hotel has become a haven for forest magic enthusiasts.
Q: Is the First World Hotel in Malaysia worth visiting?
A: With its stunning view and attractions like an amusement park, this massive structure is sure to be a memorable experience!
Q: What’s the controversy surrounding Silken Puerta América Hotel in Spain?
A: Critics argue that its design is more eyesore than aesthetic masterpiece, but its futuristic shape has its own unique charm.
Q: Is El Algarrobico in Spain a structure worth seeing?
A: Unfortunately, this structure was deemed illegal and ultimately demolished due to concerns about its impact on the surrounding landscape.
Q: Can you tell me more about Hotel Uzbekistan in Tashkent?
A: This hotel’s hospital-inspired design has earned praise from travelers for its comfort and service.
Q: Is Le Grand Hotel du Lac in Tunisia a classic example of architectural eccentricity?
A: Some find it charming, while others dismiss it as kitsch, but its grandeur is undeniable!
Q: What’s the appeal of Hotel Alatau in Kazakhstan?
A: Its Milanese palace-like design might not be to everyone’s taste, but its grandeur makes it a memorable experience.
Q: Is Isrotel in Tel Aviv an impressive structure or just a skyscraper?
A: While some view it as monstrous, this hotel skyscraper boasts stunning views of the beach and is relatively modern for its age.