Sunday, October 24, 2010

New Hotel in Europe: Stockholm's Langholmen Prison Hotel on the Island

In the July/August issue of the European Travel Commission's newsletter, they highlighted several new and upcoming hotels in Europe. We'll be taking a closer look at some of these hotels this week but we're always interested in hearing your recommendations for hotels in Europe. So send 'em our way.

This new hotel in Europe is really cool. In the middle of Stockholm, there's a leafy island that used to be home to Sweden's largest prison. But now it's Sweden's newest and funkiest hotel, the Langholmen.

The Langholmen has a bit of everything, including both hotel and hostel style rooms, a conference center, restaurant, and even a beach "just beyond the prison wall". There's also a prison museum that opens every afternoon, with guided tours available in summer. And like many modern-thinking Scandinavian establishments, free Wifi access is available throughout.

As for the hotel rooms, yes, until 1975 they were prison cells, but since then, plenty has changed. While the cell doors still look a touch threatening, inside each cell has been converted into a comfortable single or double room with bathroom. The prison entrance hall is now the reception, and includes a 24-hour cafeteria. And much better service than the prisoners used to experience

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