There are many unique hotel concepts around the world. From the one-room mobile Hotel Everland that is transported to different rooftops around Europe to the rooms inside massive concrete drainpipes of Dasparkhotel, hoteliers are finding innovative ways to create a unique hotel experience.
Just opened on February 15, 2009, the Jumbo Hostel is the latest entry into the unconventional hotel market. Parked at the entryway to the Stockholm Arlanda Airport sits a decommissioned 747-200 jumbo jet converted to a hostel.
“I was getting ready to expand my hostel business in 2006 when I heard about an old wreck of an aircraft for sale at Arlanda. Since I had for a long time wanted to establish my business at Arlanda I didn’t hesitate for a second when this opportunity struck,” said Oscar Diös, owner of the unique hotel.
The first phase of construction commenced in January 2008 with the dismantling of the interior of the plane. 450 seats were removed as the interior was stripped to make room for new walls and furniture. The hostel was built much like any hotel with attention to climate control, energy standards, and building codes.
In the summer of 2008, the plane was towed to its final destination at the entrance to Arlanda. The landing gear was secured in steel cradles with a concrete foundation for a spectacular landmark and portal to the airport.
The hostel features 25 rooms and 85 beds, an onboard café, a lounge on the second level, and an observation deck on the wing of the jumbo jet. All rooms include free internet and a flat-screen TV.
The Cockpit Suite features panoramic views out of the cockpit windshield with two adjustable beds and the only room with a private bathroom and shower. Parts of the original controls were saved in place as curiosities. Other private rooms are Private 1-2-3 for up to three adults and a Twin bedroom for two adults.
True to the hostel name, adventurous travelers can rent just the bed and share a Dorm room with three other travelers in the four-bedroom. Bathrooms and showers are shared throughout the hostel.
Not only is the Jumbo Hostel providing needed accommodation for the Swedish airport, but the hostel has also already garnered a large amount of international media attention.
“It’s just fantastic and unbelievably exciting to finally be able to show something so unique and special for the rest of the world,” said Gisela Olsson, Site Manager at the Jumbo Hostel.
So, to all the travelers seeking the most unique and interesting accommodations, here is another one for your list.
