WITH global warming melting the world’s ice caps at an increasing rate, the latest innovation in hotels could soon be all the rage.
The world’s first underwater hotel, created by Crescent Hydropolis Resorts, a German company, is expected to open in Dubai by the end of 2008 with 500 rooms beneath the surface of the Gulf.
The water-tight rooms will cost from £515, ranging up to £3,440 for suites, and will be connected to the landing station by tunnel.
There are plans for a ballroom, a spa, restaurants (one serving Lebanese food), bars and shops, all under water.
Also projected are properties in Monaco, Oman and China, with potentially as many as 2,000 rooms, 70-90m (230-295ft) deep, if the Dubai hotel is a success.
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But won’t it feel claustrophobic? A spokeswoman for the Dubai tourist board said: “I couldn’t possibly comment.”
Details: Hydropolis (www.hydropolis.com).