8 of the most unusual places to stay around the world

How many people can say they’ve slept in a real-life tipi? Along the banks of the Thompson River in Canada is the perfect place to spend some quality time, surrounded by mountains, meadows and the meandering river.

Once you’ve had your fill of the heart-pumping river rapids, in the evening why not take a dip in the hot tub, before a cosy night under canvas?

Each tipi is decked-out with comfy double beds and flickering candles (for extra ambience), so you can cosy up under a duvet and catch a glimpse of the stars above. The best bit? With each tipi facing eastwards, you’ll always be greeted with the warm morning sun on your face. Who needs Netflix?

Costa Rica is well-known for its lush rainforests, incredible wildlife and the mighty Arenal volcano. If this sounds like your dream list, then this next spot is perfect for you.

We’re totally in love with the Observatory Lodge. And that’s because it’s the only hotel situated in the heart of Arenal National Park. Fling open those curtains and you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the mist-shrouded mountain, accompanied by a chorus of morning bird-song. The huge observation deck is made for sky gazing and the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows mean that you’re never too far from an amazing view.

Known as the ‘lake of seven colours,’ Bacalar Lagoon is like a beautiful optical illusion. Situated on the Riviera Maya, you might mistake its hues of shimmering blue for the Caribbean Sea, but this freshwater lake is 34 miles from tip-to-tip.

Staying by the lagoon in one of our hand-picked eco villas is pure magic. Before daylight breaks, hop in a twin kayak and glide along the still lake as the birds awaken, and enjoy a first-class view of the sunrise. Now there’s a moment you won’t forget in a hurry!

“Bacalar Lagoon was my favourite spot on the whole of the Riviera Maya. I’ll never forget the night we arrived. We changed into our swimming costumes and, armed with head torches, ventured just minutes from our lodge to the wooden jetty, where we slipped into the serene waters and floated beneath the starlit skies. With no light pollution, it was so vivid and dream-like.”

Hannah, Rickshaw Team

It’s really not hard to fall under Japan’s spell. As far as sacred mountains and ancient forests go, Koyasan is up there with some of the world’s greatest. One of the most sacred regions in Japan, this atmospheric town is a real treat for spiritual seekers.

But the cherry on the cake is where you stay at the end of the day. And it doesn’t get more fitting than an ancient Buddhist monastery. It may be simple, but it’s the most authentic way to experience the peaceful atmosphere of this Buddhist holy place. Get ready to channel your inner zen because, in the morning, you’re perfectly situated to witness the monks’ morning prayer – a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Admittedly, hiking to the rim of an (active) volcano crater and sleeping in a tent on its slopes might not be the most glamorous of settings for a romantic getaway, but the views you’ll share together at the top, and the utter feeling of accomplishment (and relief!) is totally unmatched by any all-inclusive spa resort.

Now this kind of adventure isn’t for the faint-hearted, but if you think normal is boring and want to opt for a completely different way to spend some quality time together on holiday, then it doesn’t get much better than scaling the crater of Mount Rinjani, Indonesia.

After a long day of climbing, you’ll have a hearty hot meal prepared over a stove, with sweeping views of the crater lake before you. Oh, and to top it off, at sunset you can snuggle down in your tent, beneath a crisp starry sky. Lava-ly!

With colossal peaks of the Andean mountains painted onto the horizon and rows upon rows of green vineyards, the Maipo Valley is one of Chile‘s most idyllic spots to enjoy a little downtime. Don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sip some of the region’s top vino. And you can even take a leisurely cycle through the rolling wine valleys – but it’s best to avoid doing both at once! Hic…

At night, you’re bound to dream of grapes as you drift off in your bizarre bedroom for the night; a giant converted wine barrel. Now that’s not something you see every day.

When you think of the best places to unwind in Thailand, the classic beaches and islands of the south probably spring to mind first. And while there are plenty of idyllic spots to choose from, if you’re looking for somewhere magical to share with that special someone, then it would be a crime to miss Khao Sok National Park off your list. After all, it’s just a hop, skip and boat ride from the main station of Surat Thani, in the south.

Here, part of the magic is the journey you make to your home for the night. Travelling by longtail boat, you’ll weave between karst cliffs on Lake Racha Praba, before docking at the jetty. Here, rows of simple wooden raft houses await. Totally surrounded by jungle and lake, this place is designed to have you reconnecting with nature (and each other!). So why not while away your hours in the pages of a good book, a game of cards or the occasional dip in the lake to cool off?

There’s something pretty romantic about staying in the heart of a vibrant new city. Especially when it’s packed with plenty of Latin flavour! Welcome to Salvador de Bahia – Brazil‘s party capital. Looking out across Bahia de Todos os Santos – All Saints Bay – this place has an incredible care-free atmosphere. The combination of Indian, Portuguese and African influences give the whole city a unique feel. But one of our favourite parts about staying here is the hotel itself.

Nestled in the heart of the old historic centre, this brightly coloured colonial mansion boasts gorgeously colourful themed rooms; designed to make guests “feel like Gods.” What’s not to love?