Pack your bags and get ready for a journey like no other. At these ten enchanting destinations, your hotel becomes the heart of your adventure. Whether you’re hoping to sleep under the mesmerizing northern lights, embrace traditional life in a picturesque Kyrgyz village, or indulge in your childhood dreams from the comfort of a treehouse in the rainforest, these unique accommodations promise experiences that will redefine your idea of lodging.
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### Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Zanzibar
At the Manta Resort, the ocean isn’t just a backdrop; it’s your bedroom. This stunning property boasts beachfront villas on a remote island surrounded by crystal-clear waters. However, for an unforgettable experience, book the Underwater Room where you’ll sleep below the surface as vibrant reef fish swim by your window. Dive into the magical underwater world, and at night, activate spotlights from your windows to draw in curious fish and octopuses. Above the water, you can relax in a simple living area and bathroom, and the rooftop patio is ideal for soaking up the sun or stargazing under the Milky Way. When you’re ready to explore, enjoy spa treatments, scuba diving, or discover the island’s rich wildlife and culture.
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### Golden Crown Levi Iglut, Levi, Finland
Marvel at the spectacular northern lights from one of 18 luxurious glass igloos at the Golden Crown Levi Iglut. Nestled just six miles from the resort town of Levi, each igloo offers a kitchenette stocked with breakfast essentials, a full bath, and a double bed tailored for optimal aurora viewing, complete with heated and insulated windows to keep out the frost. Cozy up by the fire in the lodge, and brave the cold for a dip in the outdoor hot tub while star gazing. Make sure to visit when the new restaurant and reception building opens.
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### Kokopelli’s Cave, Farmington, New Mexico
Named after the Native American flute-playing figure carved into rock formations across the Southwest, Kokopelli’s Cave is a five-star bed and breakfast 300 feet above the La Plata River Valley. To access this multi-room sanctuary, guests descend deep into the earth, where they’ll find a unique 1,700-square-foot circular cavern originally blasted out by geologist Bruce Black. Once intended for his office, it’s now a luxurious B&B boasting a Jacuzzi, waterfall shower, and stunning views of the arid landscape below—perfect for day trips to Four Corners attractions like Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde National Park.
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### Book and Bed Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
For book lovers, Book and Bed Tokyo offers a literary escape disguised as a cozy bookstore. Behind a shelf packed with over 3,000 titles—available in Japanese and English—guests discover snug cubby sleeping spaces equipped with a reading light and electrical outlet. Not for the faint of heart or those needing personal space, the hostel features thirty stacked sleeping spaces where communal bathrooms are shared. The atmosphere is minimalist, yet it’s the perfect place for budget travelers eager to explore Tokyo without breaking the bank.
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### Dromen Aan Zee, Harlingen, Netherlands
Dromen Aan Zee—meaning “Dreaming by the Sea”—offers three one-of-a-kind accommodations that pay homage to Harlingen’s maritime heritage. Stay high above ground in the Havenkraan, an old harbor crane turned stylish apartment, or choose the decommissioned Vuurtoren lighthouse, with three unique spiraled rooms that provide breathtaking views of both the sea and city. There’s even a lifeboat transformed into a cozy room—perfect for those who crave adventure on the water while enjoying modern amenities.
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### Hotel Costa Verde, Provincia de Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Hotel Costa Verde, with its whimsical slogan, “Still More Monkeys Than People,” invites guests to stay in an exceptional upcycled 1965 Boeing 727 turned luxury guesthouse. While the exterior retains its vintage charm, the inside is an oasis of local teak wood and window views of nearby jungles and the ocean. Feel the allure of yesteryear while dining at El Avión, the hotel’s on-site restaurant situated in a Fairchild C-123 cargo plane that played a role in the Iran-Contra Affair.
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### Happy Nomads Village, Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Step into the authentic world of Kyrgyzstan in Happy Nomads Village, where three splendidly constructed bozuis (yurts) await. Wrapped in blooming gardens during warm months, these yurts are equipped with heated floors and accommodating spaces for five guests. They feature captivating designs from traditional carpets and wall art, providing modern conveniences like Wi-Fi. Start your day with home-baked bread and jams while exploring the mountainous wilderness on horseback, or hit the slopes at Karakol Ski Area just 20 minutes away.
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### Palacio de Sal, Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Palacio de Sal goes beyond the quirky reputation of ice hotels, embracing an entirely new level of uniqueness. Constructed from salt sourced directly from Salar de Uyuni—the world’s largest salt flat—this astonishing hotel offers remarkably chic accommodations. Each of the 30 stylish rooms includes a private bath, all crafted to perfection amidst the vast salt landscape. Enjoy exquisite dining featuring locally sourced ingredients while soaking in breathtaking views of a star-studded sky at this exceptional Bolivian treasure.
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### Santos Express, Mossel Bay, South Africa
The Santos Express, a classic 1920s passenger train parked just a stone’s throw from Santos Beach, offers a nostalgic journey that transforms accommodation into adventure. With passenger cars that accommodate families and couples, the Honeymoon Caboose is a favorite with its private porch and ocean views. Onboard amenities ensure a comfortable stay while the nearby Blue Flag Santos Beach beckons for swimming, whale watching, and vibrant boardwalk life.
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### Treehouse Lodge Resort, Iquitos, Peru
Nestled high in the canopy of the Amazon rainforest, the Treehouse Lodge Resort offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the unmatched beauty of Peru. Accessible only by an hour-long boat ride, guests ascend into eight circular treehouses for a true escape into nature. Each thoughtfully designed space includes mosquito netting, curtains, and basic amenities, blending the lines between indoors and the wild. Join guided excursions for dolphin watching and visits to indigenous villages while savoring delectable local cuisine.
Embark on a remarkable journey, where every moment unfolds a new story, and each night leads you into a world of comfort and wonder.