Carti Homestay, Panama

If you want to experience desert island life without rubbing shoulders with amorous honeymooners, then the Carti Homestay could be just what you’re looking for!

Just don’t expect chilled champagne on arrival or 24 hour room service here, because the Carti Homestay is all about giving you an authentic rustic experience.

Located in the archipelago of San Blas, you’ll live alongside the indigenous Kuna Yala family and have the chance to experience their colourful traditions, culture and beautiful island home.

As you might expect, much of island life is centred around the surrounding Caribbean Sea, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. Seafood is a speciality at Carti Homestay, so expect to sample lots of freshly caught lobster, octopus and crab during your stay.

Riverside Capsule Hotel, Japan

If you’re planning a far eastern adventure, then be sure to include a visit to one of Tokyo’s many capsule hotels – one of our favourites is the Riverside Capsule Hotel in Asakusa district.

A uniquely Japanese experience, capsule hotels are inspired by the pursuit of efficiency of space and functional comfort – which basically means you won’t have room to swing a cat!

But don’t let that put you off! We’ll admit that the capsules do resemble human-sized microwaves, but these futuristic, tube-like compartments are actually pretty comfortable.

Accommodation is arranged dormitory style, but female travellers needn’t worry! The Riverside Capsule Hotel offers a ladies only floor, which means you won’t have to put up with any snoring from the encapsulated male guests.

Wigwam Motel, USA

The Wigwam Motel is a legendary pit-stop on America’s Route 66. So much so, that it inspired Disney Pixar to feature it’s own ‘Cozy Cone Motel’ in the movie ‘Cars‘.

Built within the city limits of San Bernardino in 1949, the motel’s 19 wigwams make up their own mini village which welcome weary road trippers looking for somewhere a little different to rest up.

Those of you who prefer your creature comforts to an authentic tribal experience needn’t worry, the only place you’ll be hunting for food here is at the nearby supermarket! You can even forget about gathering firewood, as each Wigwam comes complete with its own convenient barbecue!

Chapel Christmas, Japan

Are you one of those people who wished it could be Christmas every day? Do you start counting down the days to the holiday season in June? Well wait no more, because Hotel Chapel Christmas offers the full festive experience 365 days a year!

Definitely one of the weirdest hotels we’ve seen, this Tokyo ‘love hotel’ offers couples the chance to enjoy a romantic yuletide getaway surrounded by all the trappings of a traditional Christmas.

OK, so it might not be a genuine winter wonderland but we defy anyone not to be charmed by this brilliantly bonkers hotel!

Hakone Ginyu, Japan

Nestled deep within the Hakone Mountains of Japan lies Hakone Ginyu, a traditional Ryokan guesthouse where you are encouraged to “take your ease in the bosom of nature”.

Mountainous bosoms aside, the hotel has adopted the philosophy that “nature is the best physician”. And since each room offers such eye-popping views of the surrounding landscape, we’re inclined to agree with them!

The hotel itself is a fabulous fusion of classic and contemporary design, and at Hakone Ginyu they’re big on the small details too! The copperplate room keys are so pretty you’ll begrudge handing them back, and the handcrafted coffee cups are almost too nice to use!

During your stay, keep your eyes peeled for the delicate pin striping which adorns the hotel woodwork. They’ve been hand painted by skilled artist Mr. Ishii – better known to his friends as Mooneyes!

Soneva Gili, Maldives

Live the life of a castaway at Soneva Gili, where you can experience desert island living without missing out on life’s little luxuries!

You’ll need your sea legs just to get here though, as this hotel is only accessible by taking a twenty minute speed boat ride from the international airport at Malé.

On arrival, check-in to one of seven ‘Crusoe Residences’ which stand alone in the Indian Ocean, offering total privacy for you and that special someone. But don’t worry, if cabin fever starts to set in, just hop into your private rowing boat and make the short journey back to shore and civilisation!

Chole Mjini, Tanzania

Chole Mjini is located 100 Km south of Zanzibar on the tiny island of Mafia. But don’t worry, you won’t be sleeping with the fishes here or waking up with a horses head in your bed!

Instead you’ll be roosting in one of seven rustic tree-houses, and enjoying a truly back-to-basics lifestyle. Shed your inhibitions (and clothes) in one of the open air showers, but leave your hairdryer at home because there’s no electricity here!

A you might expect from a tree house hotel, bird watching is excellent at Chole Mjini. You’ll also get the rare opportunity to observe the local population of giant Madagascan bats. No need to pack your garlic though, we’re told they’d rather nibble on fruit than your neck!

Post Ranch Inn, USA

For the last word in dramatic views, look no further than Post Ranch Inn.

This luxury hideaway is nestled high on the cliffs of Big Sur, California, giving guests a unique position from which to enjoy the breathtaking coastline.

The organic architecture of the resort is designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, and includes such a variety of accommodation you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Each one is designed to showcase a different aspect of the spectacular scenery, so whether you decide on mountain, forest, cliff or ocean you’re pretty much guaranteed a room with a view.

Nevada City Hotel, USA

Saddle up partner and take a ride out to the Nevada City Hotel, where you can experience life as a rootin’ tootin’ cowboy in America’s Old West.

Originally a stage stop in the 1860s, the hotel now offers an authentic slice of pioneer life. Hang up your Stetson in one of the hotel’s ten rooms, or spend a fistful of dollars on one of the plush Victorian suits.

At the end of a long days sightseeing, mosey on down to the hotel saloon, where you can dust off your boots and enjoy a whisky or two. Just don’t get into any bar brawls while you’re there, or face getting run out of town!

Shady Dell, USA

Mid-century modernism is alive and well at Shady Dell, where you can experience 1950s Americana in full Technicolor!

Here you can stay in one of eleven vintage Airstream trailers, which have been lovingly restored to an authentically retro standard. There’s no mod-cons here, so expect classic radios, phonographs and televisions which broadcast in only two colours.

Round off your day with a visit to Dot’s Diner, where you can enjoy classic all-American food. Hamburgers, hot dogs and shakes are all on the menu so you’re unlikely to go hungry!

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