If you want to break out of the routine and embark upon a weird and wonderful trip of a lifetime, then read on!
Unique vacations that you’ll not find anywhere else really should be on everyone’s bucket list (it was certainly on mine!).
Here are some of the best, and weirdest places, we’ve discovered.
1. The Ice Hotel, Sweden
One to tick off the bucket list! This incredible hotel is located just 200 kilometers from the Arctic Circle and is constructed entirely of ice.
It is assembled each year with ice and snow and is open from December through April.
The hotel has an ice bar, an ice chapel, and various ice sculptures.
A team of architects, artists, and designers from all around the work together each year to reinvent the construction, ensuring each time that it is unique. It’s a must-see for any aspiring architect.
There was a range of rooms on offer at the hotel from a simple ice bed to more luxurious suites with hot tubs and private saunas.
Don’t worry, warm clothing and specialist sleeping bags are provided to ensure guests stay warm and cozy. You won’t feel cold at all!
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A range of winter activities were available at the hotel and surrounding area including:
- Snowmobiling: Motorized vehicles designed to travel over snow and ice. The Ice Hotel insists their guests wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet, goggles, and warm clothing. This is incredible and well worth the money!
- Dog sledding: This is a popular activity in the area with many tours offering to take tourists out onto the frozen lakes and snow-covered forests.
- Cross-country skiing: Sweden is known for its beautiful and extensive cross-country ski trails. It might be a little too adventurous for some, but if you like your active holidays like me, it’s definitely worth a shout.
The Ice Hotel offers a totally unique vacation for those willing to brave the cold!
2. The Mushroom Dome, California
This sweet little dome stands at just 14 feet in height and is built from a combination of polycarbonate panels and wood.
The Mushroom Dome has been featured in many TV shows and has a cozy, relaxing interior. The accommodation comprises a full kitchen, a bathroom and shower, and a loft bedroom. It feels incredibly spacious once you are inside!
This is a super popular choice with nature lovers who love the uniqueness of this little mushroom hideaway.
For the more active vacationer (not everyone, unfortunately!) There are plenty of mountain biking trails nearby.
The quaint village of Aptos is just a stone’s throw away and offers a range of shops and restaurants. The city of Santa Cruz is also a short drive away if you are craving a break from forest life!
3. The Door to Hell, Turkmenistan
This is probably one of the most unique tourist destinations you could visit. In response to the question “Where’s your next vacay?” “Turkmenistan!” is certainly a surprising answer!
Turkmenistan is home to the impressive Darvasa gas crater, also known as The Door to Hell. In 1971 this natural gas crater collapsed, leaving behind a huge hole in the ground.
If you love a bit of geology or geography, this is certainly the spot for you!
It was thought that the release of toxic chemicals could be prevented by setting fire to it. Originally, it was estimated it would burn for two to three days, but, incredibly, it is still burning today!
Turkmenistan was incredibly scenic; you’ll be surprised at how beautiful it is! You can visit the majestic Karakum Desert as well as the Caspian Sea Coast.
The ancient city of Merv is close by too. It was once an important city on the famous silk road trail and history buffs will love learning about its history.
If you are thinking of visiting, a word of caution! Turkmenistan has a strict visa policy and visas need to be obtained well in advance.
The weather can also be extreme with incredibly hot summers and temperatures well below freezing in winter, so make sure you pack appropriate clothing.
4. The Island of the Dolls, Mexico
Not one to visit if you are easily creeped out!
The Island of the Dolls, or Isla de las Muñecas is located in the Xochimilcan canals, south of Mexico City.
Legend says that a local man who lived alone found the body of a young girl floating in the canal.
Shortly after this eerie discovery, he found a doll floating in the same section of the water. He believed it was somehow linked to her death and hung it from a tree as a mark of respect.
I love horror so stories like this one greatly appeal! It is a little creepy, but so amazing to see.
I’ve since learned that the man died in 2001 and the island is now maintained by his family. It certainly is a beautiful and unique destination to visit, but a one-off!
5. Coober Pedy, Australia
Coober Pedy is a small town of around 1,695 people located in South Australia. It was founded as recently as 1915.
The most striking feature of the town is that many of the residents live in underground dugouts, built to shelter from the extreme Australian heat.
You can explore the underground opal mines, museums, hotels, and homes, which are insane!
This unique way of living may seem quirky, but the main goal is to keep the temperature comfortable all year round for its residents. Sounds like a good idea to me!
The surrounding outback scenery is incredible. You can travel over the impressive landscape in a hot air balloon to really appreciate the natural beauty of the area – it’ll certainly be an unforgettable experience.
For movie nerds, Coober Pedy has also been featured in many films and TV shows including Mad Max and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.
Final Thoughts on Weirdest Places to Take a Vacation
Life is for living! Why not explore the world by heading straight into some of the most daring, unusual spots we could find?
Make memories to last a lifetime, get some incredible photos to share with friends and family (who may all think you’re crazy!) and make some tales to tell!
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