While most hotels boast about unbeatable locations, comfort and technological advancements, there’s one property in the Middle East that’s gone polar opposite by claiming to have “the worst view in the world”.
‘The Walled Off Hotel’ is an artistic property, which opened earlier this year by controversial street artist, Banksy, in the West Bank city of Bethlehem.
Located right on the border of Israeli and Palestinian occupied territories, the property puts travellers in close proximity to the centre of the Holy City, offers easy access to local restaurants and bars and it comes with a truly one-of-a-kind view – the concrete wall designed to separate the two territories.
Image: walledoffhotel.com
No, this is not a joke.
According to a Q&A section on the property’s website, Banksy financed and set up the leisure facility to mark 100 years since the UK took control of Palestine, which “helped kick start a century of confusion and conflict”.
Image: walledoffhotel.com
Each of the establishment’s 10 rooms look out at the 700km wall and its watchtowers built by the Israeli government, while three of the rooms are also decorated with thought-provoking interior artwork.
Rooms vary in price but start at $30 a night for ‘Budget’ accommodation featuring surplus items from an Israeli military barracks and a bed. The priciest room available is the Presidential suite equipped with ‘Dead Sea’ bath minerals, a library, home cinema and of course, the unforgettable view.
Image: walledoffhotel.com
For those who simply want to see the hotel without booking a night’s stay, the museum and art gallery are open to non-residents every day from 11.00am – 7:30pm. The piano bar is also open every day to visitors from 11.00am – 10.00pm.
Image: walledoffhotel.com
Although the website assures guests that the property isn’t “aligned to any political movement or pressure group”, it does come with a few security measures, including 11pm lockup and no-roof access without prior permission from the Israeli military.
Visitors are also discouraged from aggressive drunkenness or public nudity.
‘The Walled Off Hotel’ is only expected to operate during 2017, interest in the property may see its existence extended.