Add Some Excitement with These Unique Accommodations
You’ve heard about Airbnb, right? In case you’re one of the few who needs the lowdown on Airbnb, it’s a site where travelers can book alternative accommodations from hosts.
It connects those with a space to spare to those who need a place to stay. While you have to forfeit things like a constant supply of fresh, clean towels and a concierge desk, that’s outweighed by the opportunity to rent an actual house or apartment — or, even something quite a bit more unique.
Check out these options for the best of Airbnb that are a far cry from your standard hotel.
Shark Aquarium, Paris, France
Airbnb recently unveiled one of the most unique rooms you could possibly spend the night in, but if you have a fear of sharks, look away now. This is very first underwater bedroom hosted by Airbnb, where the only thing separating guests from 35 sharks is a 360-degree, transparent wall.
You can find it at the Aquarium de Paris in Paris, France, where it’s submerged in an 800,000-gallon shark tank.
Host Fred Buyle, a world-record-breaking free-diver, underwater photographer and shark conservationist, welcomes guests and provides a guided tour through the aquarium along with an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the world of sharks, including how they live, why they’re so misunderstood and their importance to the ocean’s ecosystem.
An intimate meal, complete with underwater, shark-filled scenery is also included.
The Bow Top Gypsy Wagon, Helston, Cornwall, UK
Ever wanted to live like a gypsy? Now you can, at least temporarily.
Visit Cornwall, England and you can stay in this gypsy wagon, something that was popular for about 70 years between the late-18th and early-19th century. Set in the countryside, guests enjoy a wood stove, though unlike the wagons used in the days of yore, it does offer electricity and gas or electric heating.
While there isn’t much room, the views and tranquility more than make up for the lack of space.
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King of the Castle, Galway, Ireland
Here’s your chance to live like a king, or a queen, and in the spectacular Emerald Isle no less. Peter, the owner, spent a decade refurbishing this 600-year-old medieval castle, complete with a toilet and bath, something that was lacking back then.
He also says that while there are some cobwebs, there are lots of winding staircases and it gives guests the “real Irish castle experience.”
The Seashell House, Isla Mujeres, Mexico
“Little Mermaid” fans, this unusual home is for you. It looks as if it was taken right out of the Disney movie, and its setting is absolutely magnificent.
Even if you aren’t a fan of the popular film, if you’re a beach lover you’ll be in paradise as it sits on Isla Mujeres in the Caribbean Sea, an island considered to be one of the most stunning in the entire region.
You’ll feel as if you’re at one with the water, with the tables, beds and even shower heads all themed around shells.
Dog Bark Park Inn, Cottonwood, Idaho
Dog lovers rejoice — here in Cottonwood, Idaho, you can stay inside a giant dog. Owner Francis Conklin claims it’s the only place in the world one can sleep with 26 dogs and still get a good night’s rest.
Known as the “largest beagle in the world,” the beagle-shaped, one-unit inn is dog-themed throughout. It features 26 carved dogs and provides dog-shaped cookies for guests to enjoy.
Of course it also allows “responsible pets arriving with their well-behaved humans” (with prior approval).
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Aroma(n)tica Treehouse, San Salvatore Monferrato, Alessandria, Italy
This treehouse overlooking the Italian countryside sits among the fragrant linden trees and other aromatic herbs. The view alone is worth the stay, but you’ll also be able to say you camped out in a treehouse.
You’ll also get access to facilities in the adjacent mansion, which includes a swimming pool, wine cellar and a garden.
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Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, New South Wales, Australia
What could be more romantic than a lighthouse stay? Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse promises a truly magnificent escape from “real” life, in this isolated, tranquil area located within Myall National Park.
Guests enjoy sweeping views along an unspoiled stretch of Australian coastline and are surrounded by striking natural beauty. You’ll also have easy access to hiking trails, diving and surfing.
Houseboat, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Houseboats are available on Airbnb too, and some even come with a house cat, like this one located in Amsterdam. Now you don’t have to miss out on feline company, and you can enjoy what the owner refers to as “poetic views over the canal,” along with a wild garden.
In the summer, you can even hop right into the canal and enjoy a refreshing dip.
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A Classic Yacht, Cinque Terre, Italy
Many dream of living on a yacht and this Airbnb booking provides just the experience. This classic 60-foot yacht built in 1948 has been lovingly restored for guests to enjoy their nights on the water in one of Italy’s most breathtaking areas, Cinque Terre.
Moored at Le Grazie in Porto Venere, the Rondine II remains docked, however, sailing around the UNESCO World Heritage Site can be arranged for a trip you won’t soon forget.