Having spent a good month staying in fairly nasty French B&B’s and hotels, I often found myself dreaming about my ideal place to rest my head. As a first installment, I thought I’d compile a list of the top 10 geekiest hotels in the world. If you’ve got any to add to the list, drop them in the comments!
1. Hotel 1000 – Seattle, USA Why stay here? – Virtual Golf, super fast wifi and you can change the artwork on the wall with your iPhone
Winner of the Hospitality Tech Magazine 2008 award for innovation, the Hotel 1000 is a nerds dream palace. Any hotel with a golf simulator in it is a winner in my book, but this place also has what they call “a fully integrated IP infrastructure”. That may not sound cool, but when you find out that you can personalize hotel room temperatures, wall art, ambience (and more) all from your iPhone, you’ll be forgiven for letting a solitary tear rolled down your cheek. Rooms start at $199 per night which seems pretty reasonable to me.
2. Wild Canopy Reserve – Southern India Why stay here? You get to live like an Ewok and nerd out to nature at the same time.
Due to land disputes, the Wild Canopy Reserve is currently closed. But we feel it’s worth featuring anyway. 50 feet up, you’ll get a birds eye view of all the local wildlife (elephants, leopards, tigers and more). The rooms are luxurious and there’s even a jacuzzi. This hotel makes the top 10 list for 2 reasons – i) It has great “nature nerd” appeal ii) Those wishing to fulfil their dream of leaving like ewoks can get pretty close here.
3. Hotel @ MIT – Boston, USA Why stay here? – Jonny 5 is in the lobby.
Trust MIT to produce a hotel like this. If you have an “@” in your name, that definitely qualifies you for this list. Not only does the Hotel @ MIT have a super geeky name, there is also a robot in the lobby, in-room laser printing, equations on the bed sheets and Chemistry problems on the bathroom walls. I really wouldn’t be surprised if the mini bar fridge was full of mountain dew and the cheetos.
4. Hotel Sidi Driss – Matmata, Tunisia Why stay here? – It’s the closest Star Wars geeks will ever get to Tatooine.
That’s right folks, for a price, you too can stay on Tatooine. Star Wars geeks the world over flock to these Berber caves year round. Amazingly, you can stay here for less $50 a night. Unfortunately no sign of “womp rats” or even T-16’s for that matter.
We know, we know – days getting shorter and a sudden reliance on your sweater drawer don’t exactly make one think of “surfing”. After all, what does a typical Google search for surfing destinations come up with? Surfing in Santa Cruz… surfing in Maui… surfing in Indonesia… surfing in… Alaska? [Ed note: say whaaa?] While surfing is generally thought of as a warm-weather sport reserved for tropical locales like Hawaii or Southern California, in reality you can surf anywhere in any part of the world provided there’s a decent swell and you have a good wetsuit. Even here in Northern California near San Francisco, people surf regularly almost all year round in the chilly Pacific Ocean.
So why not take your skills to other places where you’d never think surfing would actually exist? You might even find a few hidden gems devoid of aggressive locals trying to protect their turf. While some of these places are for hardcore athletes, we’ve also rounded out the list to include some places that beginners could go to experience uncrowded waves. So pack up your wetsuit, rashguard, and your board and get going!
Alaska
34,000 miles: that’s the amount of coastline Alaska has to offer. Somewhere, there’s gotta be a mile or two of pristine beach perfect for surfing right? Of course, most of Alaska is bitterly cold for much of the year, but the two best places with decent surf are reportedly Southern Alaska near Kodiak Island and the fjords along the Canadian border.
In fact, one of the most unlikely surf shops in the world is in Haines, Alaska, located deep inside the Alaska Panhandle and only reachable by ferry from Juneau, Alaska’s capital. If you head up to Haines to surf the fjords, be sure to get a hoodie or t-shirt from the Lost Coast Surf Shop so you can say you surfed Alaska– you’ll get tons of gnarly cred amongst your most adventurous friends.
Falkland Islands
Over 28 years ago, this archipelago in the Southern Atlantic Ocean was the flashpoint for a bitter territorial dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom. The Falklands War was a 74 day-long conflict over who really owned the islands, which culminated with the Argentinians invading in April, but being summarily booted out by the Brits in June. Since the war, tourism has steadily increased, with cruise ships visiting the port of Stanley on a regular basis and wildlife enthusiasts landing to view penguins, sea lions, and seals. Images: Strange Ones/Flickr, tobyadamson.co.uk/Flickr
So, how are the waves? If you like completely empty breaks where your only observers will be the local Gentoo penguin population (or even the odd school of dolphin), then check out Bertha’s Beach or Surf Bay on East Falkland. Just note there are 128 minefields left over from the war, so check in with the local authorities and tread lightly if you plan on trekking from beach to beach.
Mozambique
Over 20 years ago, Mozambique — a large country on the southeast coast of the African continent — was wracked by a civil war that had lasted almost 15 years, displaced millions of people, and littered the country with minefields. Today the country is a burgeoning tourist destination because of its vast nature and game reserves, eco-tourism opportunities, and over 1,400 miles of coastline. Images: Erik Cleves Kristensen/Flickr, jon hanson/Flickr
Mozambique may not be for the luxury traveler. Even though the Mozambican tourism economy is one of the fastest-growing in the world, infrastructure is still vastly underdeveloped compared to some of its African counterparts like Kenya or South Africa. But if you’re looking for a cheap and quiet bungalow, a relaxed atmosphere with welcoming locals, and untouched swell, then Mozambique might be for you.
And compared to Alaska and the Falkland Islands, you can easily get away with wearing boardshorts for most of the year. Some of the best spots are Tofo, Ponta do Ouro, and Barra Beach, with Tofo being one of the premier sites for whale shark diving in the world– awesome!
Madagascar
Head east across the Mozambique Channel and you’ll find yourself on the island nation of Madagascar, sometimes referred to by scientists as ” the eighth continent” because of flora and fauna that aren’t found anywhere else on Earth. While most visitors head to Madagascar to check out the unique ecology (which is sadly degrading year-by-year because of unchecked deforestation), the country’s geographical location makes it an ideal location for surfers looking to take on a challenge. Images: Bernard Gagnon/Wikipedia, bigjonbristol/Flickr, HïLôqui/Flickr
Like Mozambique, you won’t find a lot of infrastructure here to help you during your trip. Unless you’re flying, transportation from the capital of Antananarivo, which sits almost dead-center in the middle of the country, to the coast can be difficult. However once you reach the Indian Ocean the surfing is incredible, with the southwest and southern parts of the country offering the best all-around spots. Beginners through advanced surfers will find some excellent beach breaks and point breaks near places like Lokaro Island and Ifaty, the latter of which is only accessible by a 4WD adventure up the coast from the Air Madagascar destination of Toliara.
Morocco (المغرب)
The rich Arab-Berber history in Morocco spans over 1,000 years in cultural centers such as Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier, and Fes. From the Atlas Mountains, which can reach to heights over 13,000 feet to the edges of the Sahara Desert, Morocco has “adventure-travelers’ paradise” written all over it. Images: surf_3s/Flickr, Peace Correspondent/Flickr
You’re a surfer? Well, then head straight to Agadir and use it as a jumping point for some of North Africa’s premier surfing spots. Even the pros come here during the off season to take advantage of winter swells and world-class waves. Even with all of the talent that arrives in Adagir, there are plenty of spots up and down the Moroccan coast that are empty for most of the year. And what better way to end a day of surfing than with some hearty Morocco cuisine in your belly? Can’t get much more satisfying than that!
Ireland
Like Alaska and the Falkland Islands, Ireland doesn’t exactly evoke thoughts of being a surfer’s paradise. However, the island isn’t all rolling green hills shrouded in a constant drizzle. Because of its location in the North Atlantic Ocean, Ireland has a number of varied spots where locals take advantage of excellent waves as well as some decent skies under which to surf.
Images: doublexx33/Flickr, Nathan A/Flickr
In fact, Ireland is known locally for its friendly, laid-back surf culture and is a great place to learn if you’ve never managed to get out and try before. Many a surfing school have opened up over the last few decades in County Donegal, County Sligo, and in Northern Ireland. While you’ll still have to wear a wetsuit, the late summer months offer friendly weather and moderate swells for the beginner. Still not convinced? The Irish Surfing Association has a fantastic website, full of information on schools, shops, and surfing etiquette.
Great Lakes (lake surfing)
You don’t normally equate the Midwest with surfing, but America’s “Third Coast” has been a popular spot for surfing since the 1960s. Lake Michigan has several quality beaches which are uncrowded, save for the burgeoning population in Chicago that are taking their boards into the shoreline near the city. In fact, the Great Lakes often have better surfing than the largest, warmer body of water to the south– the Gulf of Mexico. So unless you’re interested in surfing as a hurricane approaches, Lake Michigan offers a longer, albeit slightly colder, season with waves that rival those on the East and West Coasts. Images: Bob Tema/Flickr, chrislipseyshred/Flickr
Sheboygan, Wisconsin is normally known for its famous bratwurst, Whistling Straits golf course and for having the tallest flagpole in the United States at the Acuity Insurance headquarters. Also on the list is the Dairyland Surf Classic, which is the largest freshwater surfing contest in the world. If the waves are right, surfers come from all over to take advantage of the swells. If not? Well, it’s a good way to end the summer on the Great Lakes.
River Severn and the Eisbach (river surfing)
If it isn’t the most bizarre surfing experience you’ll ever encounter, its gotta come close to it. “Tidal bore” is a phenomenon where incoming tides, or flood tides, are pushed down river creating “waves”. This incredibly rare occurrence happens in the Amazon River, creating waves up to 13 feet in height. Other places it has been recorded are the River Severn in West England and the Eisbach in Munich where the unique construction of the river allows surfers to take on a “standing wave”, a constantly flowing stream of water that allows surfers to ride for as long as they wish, provided they keep their balance on the board. Images: the sea the sea/Flickr, Wind/Wikipedia
If you’re wondering who would be crazy enough to try and surf on a river, look back to 1955 when World War II veteran Jack Churchill became obsessed with the sport of surfing while stationed in Australia. Upon his return home, he constructed his own surfboard and was the first to try out the 5 foot Severn Bore, making it a popular river surfing spot to this day.
Apart from being famous for its breathtakingly picturesque location, Europe has always been associated with Skiing. From France to Greece, you get to choose from some of the most beautiful and less explored skiing destinations in the world. Europe offers far more skiing and snowboarding trails than any other part of the world. Let’s have a look at ten skiing locations that make Europe one of the most sought after ski destination.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Nestled in Ampezzo Valley, Cortina d’Ampezzo enjoys the title of the most beautiful winter playground in the world. It is not only the most famous ski resorts in Italy but is one of the most important and sought after ski resorts in the world. Apart from offering great skiing experience, the slopes offer picturesque view to the valley. This is only place which provides clear distinction between Dolomites and rest of the Alps.
The picture perfect location combined with exciting slopes makes this resort top destination for the up market crowd from all over the world. The beauty of these slopes has been captured in many James Bond movies as well.
Val D’Isere, France
Skiing in Val-d’Isère dates back to 1930’s after a drag lift was built on the slopes of Solaise. Being named as the most famous resort for experts, Val D’Isere can easily pass as the all round destination in whole of Europe. The resort offers a range of ski schools and has something to offer everyone from beginners to experts. It offers modern chairlift and cable cars with most modern lift system you could think of.
No wonder the resort is one of the busiest in whole of Europe. If the ski is worth the way up, the journey will not disappoint you as well. The view on the way up to the Val D’Isere is spectacular and looks just out of Narnia series.
Igls, Austria
Located in the “Capital of the Alps”, Innsbruck, Igls offers a combination of old world charm and access to some of the world’s finest ski resorts. The charming village is surrounded by some of the best skiing in Austria. Beginners can start with the lower slopes while intermediates can try the pistes in Igls itself. For advanced skiers, there is a possibility of eight ski areas totaling 295 km all accessible by free ski buses.
Two time host of Winter Olympic Games, Innsbruck has lot more to offer than skiing. If you’d like an adrenaline pump, a ride down the Olympic bob slight at 100 km per hour is highly recommended. Other adventures offered include ice skating, floodlit skiing, tobogganing. If you’d like to take a break from skiing, there are some rich museums and galleries to draw your attention as well.
Kandersteg, Switzerland
The village of Kandersteg could easily pass for the most picturesque centre for mountaineering. More people land in this destination for the scenic view and tranquility the village offers. Best known among beginners, it is one of the best places to learn skiing. The slopes here are easy and daunting and give learners enough space to test their techniques.
Courchevel ski resort is built for nothing but Winter Sports. It is made up of four villages which are named after thir altitudes in meters- Courchevel 1300, Courchevel 1550, Courchevel 1650, Courchevel 1850. It boasts of about 370 miles of pistes and is is a part of the Trois Vallees ski area.
Courchevel 1850 – the highest located resort district has been quite popular with the rich from all over the world. Guests arrive on their private jets and if your pockets are deep, it’s worth experiencing the air here. There is room for everyone and if you’d like to go for a ski resort just like any other part of the world, you could choose from the villages from 1650 and lower. The mountain has skiing range for both intermediates and experts.
Wengen, Switzerland
With a terrain of 112 km over 53 pistes, Wengen is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland. Wengen is an ideal location if you are looking for a combination of absolutely beautiful views and classic architecture. Only accessible by road, the village has excellent slopes for intermediates.
It also has ranges for experts but is best known among intermediates and snowboarders. More than skiing, the village rates high for the charm and tranquil alpine beauty.
Chamonix, France
Charmonix offers some of the best mountain skiing in whole of Europe. With 12 ski areas, the valley is apt for skiers at all levels. The valley offers beautiful views and draws crowd from all over the world for its excellent skiing conditions and picturesque scenery. It is located right next to the peak of Mont Blanc and offer range of recreational activities. It is the oldest ski resort in France and has great ski slopes for children and ski area for intermediates and experts as well.
The highest resort in Andorra, Pas de la Casa has an excellent snow record. It is placed on the border between France and Andorra. Before it got combined with Soldeu, the resort had the biggest ski area with highest lift served terrain in Andorra. Now it gas 186 km of pistes and is favored for its southern latitude.
The slopes are more suitable for intermediates than beginners and experts. Image source
Pelion Mountain, Greece
While talking about beautiful locations for skiing, Pelion Mountain is easily one of the noteworthy locations. The best part about the ski resorts here is that not many people know about it and skiing here is still not explored completely. Greece has been gaining popularity for skiing among other winter sports. Pelion Mountains offer majestic scenes and is one of the most preferred destinations for those who have discovered the ski terrains here.
Newstift is a favorite with family and friends looking for skiing all year round. With 28 lifts, the resort offers skiers 7382 feet of vertical descent. Best suited for beginners and snowboarders, it has some regions for experts and intermediates as well. With finest skiing conditions and largest glacial ski resort, a small portion of the resort is covered by snowmaking.
As summer hits its stride many might be opting for the stay-cation this year, but for those adventurous green travelers headed out into the world to do some eco-exploring, we’ve rounded up our top picks for the best eco-hotels and hostels around the world! From high-flying airplane hostels to tranquil eco-lodges to stunning hotels made from reclaimed industrial materials, there’s a world of incredible eco-accomodations out there - read on for our top 5 picks. Happy Travels!
Travelodge lands in the top 5 for its Uxbridge outpost, built from 86 different shipping containers by Verbus Systems. While the rooms and exterior cladding may make this look like any other motel, the modular construction process by which it was built saved considerable time, money, and materials - so much so that the savvy global motelier is planning to erect a 307-room version at Heathrow for a savings of up to 10 million pounds ($18.6 million). Once it’s built, the Heathrow shipping container motel will make the perfect first night’s stop for a green traveler on the move.
Once in Europe, the cozy De Vrouwe van Stavoren Hotel in the Netherlands is a must-see for the green traveler. These giant 14,500 liter casks once flavored thousands of bottles of Beaujolais. Today, they offer guests a good night’s rest and a great story to tell friends. Rather than being destroyed, the four casks were salvaged and transported from France to Holland where they now have a second life as modest, self-contained accommodations for travelers (and their pets). The giant barrels house sleeping space for two people and a sitting room. Private bathrooms are attached.
From there it’s a long but adventurous hop to Inner Mongolia. Deep in the heart of the Gobi Desert is Three Camel Lodge, an eco-resort that is equally devoted to environmental and cultural preservation. Guests stay in traditional Mongolian gers or yurts. Besides supporting efforts to preserve the population of indigenous Gobi flora and fauna, the Lodge recycles organic waste for use as fertilizer at local farms and work with local farmers to raise chickens, pigs, and livestock. They also launched a “No Plastics in the Gobi” program, working with locals and small businesses to encourage the use of cloth bags.
Straight from Middle Earth, the Gyreum Ecolodge is the first lodge in Europe to be awarded the EU Eco Label and a recent finalist for the LAMA Awards as the Best Ecofriendly Building. This 100 ft diameter solar and wind powered circular fort is half buried in the County Sligo earth and constructed from renewable resources. Did we mention that it’s also aligned to three solar events and points towards surrounding megalithic cairns? Accommodations are simple but perfectly adequate. Hobbits not included.
We head a bit farther north to visit the Jumbo Hostel, an eco-hostel that soars to the top of our list this summer. This 747-200 logged countless miles during its years of service but an early retirement to the landfill is not in the stars (or skies) for this particular plane. The jet now houses weary travelers in compact 6 square meter rooms. Some lucky visitors may even get to sleep in the cockpit, and soon more rooms will be added to the mechanical part of the plane. The interiors are decorated in simple and modern Scandinavian style and still feature the original lounge and first class seating.
An honorary mention goes to one of the best not-yet-built eco-hotels, the Oil Rig Platform Resort and Spa designed by Morris Architects for the Radical Innovation in Hospitality Design Competition. This smart design would take the oil rig, one of the most recognizable icons of dirty energy, and re-invent it as an eco-haven powered by completely renewable energy sources.
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All you art collectors out there. Here is a chance to get a Giclee copy of some of Ian M Sherwin work. Ian is planning on doing a whole series of Marblehead, Massachusetts paintings. His work is amazing.
![cortina []](http://www.travelet.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/cortina-.jpg "cortina []")
![val disere []](http://www.travelet.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/val-disere-.jpg "val disere []")
![igls,_alpes,_austria []](http://www.travelet.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/igls_alpes_austria-.jpg "igls,_alpes,_austria []")
![Kandersteg []](http://www.travelet.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Kandersteg-.jpg "Kandersteg []")
![Courchevel []](http://www.travelet.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Courchevel-.jpg "Courchevel []")
![wengen swiss []](http://www.travelet.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/wengen-swiss-.jpg "wengen swiss []")
![Chamonix []](http://www.travelet.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Chamonix-.jpg "Chamonix []")
![Pas De la Casa []](http://www.travelet.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Pas-De-la-Casa-.jpg "Pas De la Casa []")
![Pelion Mountain []](http://www.travelet.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Pelion-Mountain-.jpg "Pelion Mountain []")
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