Fugu Geodesic Dome Cabins
There’s just something about the design of the incredibly efficient mathematical tent known as the geodesic dome that has always intrigued us. While we’re not currently in the process of opening our own hotel, Fugu…
Lexus Designed a Handful of Space Vehicle Concepts
Lexus and Toyota have produced their fair share of otherworldly concepts over the years, but nothing like the truly out of this world collection of space vehicle concepts like the ones you see here. Created…
Sky Haus
Although the Sky Haus looks like its living room furniture was stolen from my uncle’s basement, the rest of it is epic in its layout and serene surroundings. Located a couple of hours from Seattle…
This Cocktail Lounge Is Built Inside an Airplane Cabin
Years ago, we dropped the news that Eero Saarinen’s iconic TWA Terminal that was part of JFK International Airport was getting converted into a new boutique hotel that would check all the vintage luxury meets…
Matthew McConaughey X Wild Turkey Australian Whiskey Cabin
Matthew McConaughey being named Wild Turkey Creative Director was certainly alright, alright, alright on a number of levels, but we would be the first to admit we weren’t quite sure exactly how that was going…
The Artefact Hybrid Yacht Has Built-In Solar Panels
What makes the Artefact Hybrid Yacht stand out from most combustion-engine builds is that it can run on its battery alone for a bit, without relying on fuel to push the hull forward.
The new 262-foot Artefact Hybrid Yacht boasts five decks and green-centric design elements that aim to provide silence and stability. As of this writing, the boat is undergoing sea trials before it eventually reaches delivery period next summer.
In making this new build, the goal for German shipyard Nobiskrug was to make something that could be operated as silently as possible. As a result, the design comprises a steel hull and composite superstructure, courtesy of maritime architecture legend Gregory C. Marshall. You’ll find 248-feet sundeck-mounted solar panels and a large battery storage system, both of which enable Artefact to operate silently for short bursts. That is, without relying on any combustion engines.
Also worthy of highlight is its DC-bus diesel-electric variable-speed Azipod-propulsion and dynamic-positioning systems. These advanced elements negate the need to drop anchor onto the fragile seafloor, while ensuring efficiency and lower emissions.
Custom six-blade propellers minimize noise and vibration as it maximizes performance. Moreover, you’ll find a wastewater-recycling system onboard, which filters and refreshes water for use in technical systems.
All these design choices have enabled the Artefact Hybrid Yacht to pass the International Maritime Organization’s Tier III emissions regulations. It arrives as one of the very few superyachts to achieve this feat. As for living quarters, you get eight staterooms and 12 crew cabins. And you’ll find all guest social areas in low-acceleration zones for more serene cruising.
Photos courtesy of Nobiskrug
Kanu Private Island Is What Exclusive Is All About
If you want a really, really, really exclusive getaway, there’s no better way to hide from society than renting the Kanu Private Island. It redefines exclusivity, offering a slice of isolated respite for a few hundred dollars a night.
The 2.5-acre resort offers utmost privacy for people who just don’t want to stroll around crowd-addled beaches. The space offers five private villas measuring in at 1,000 square feet apiece, enough for 10 kids and 10 adults. Therefore, the Kanu Private Island is perfect for multi-family retreats.
Part of the all-inclusive rate for a week’s stay is arrival by a quick 15-minute private boat — or even a local flight. Guests can also enjoy free meals prepared by a private chef and drinks made with local ingredients. You also get to unwind thanks to multiple complementary massages.
For those looking for something a bit more adventurous, Kanu Private Island has you covered. You’ll find kayaks, paddle boards, and snorkeling gear at the ready when the itch for adventure comes up. The resort will even provide a personal boat captain to guide you in your exploration.
A week long stay costs about $4,000, and that accommodates 8 adults, which averages out to $500 a night for each person before taxes. Not bad. Not bad at all. Okay, so the Kanu Private Island is not cheap. But the all-inclusive package sounds like a pretty awesome deal. Not to mention that fact that you’re getting an entire island all to yourself. Hit the link below for more information on booking.
Photos courtesy of VRBO
Bishops Hill Encampment Is Modern But Old-School Camping
The Bishops Hill Encampment, from Fearon Hay Architects, would like to bring back old-school camping, but with a modern twist.
The camp consists of a pair of small structures resting on an estuarine headland. Each building features a mixture of exposed timber framework with matching timber shutters, topped off with natural oil finish. The resulting look is soothing, outdoorsy. Faithfully evincing the vibe of those good old days of classic camping glory.
The space perches on a sloping land that descends to the waterline, which adds authenticity to the whole setup. Placement, after all, is an often overlooked element in architecture. The space surrounding a structure is often just as important. The structure comes spaced, too, which creates a sheltered central space for outdoor hangouts.
Don’t let the word “camping” make you think this looks any less beautiful or refined, though. If not for the deliberately quaint timber work, this would qualify just as any fancy glamping spot would. But instead, we get something in the middle, with design elements reminiscent of classic camping but fitted for the modern era via modern aesthetic touches.
You’ll see it in the vintage natural-oiled cladding that intertwines with the open-air atmosphere, working together to bring back the vibe of a bygone camping era without losing the spirit of a new one. If you ever find yourself in the Tawharanui Peninsula, make sure to stop by and see the Bishops Hill Encampment for yourself. More information when you hit the link below, and check out more photos of the space, too.
Photos courtesy of Fearon Hay Architects
LeVen 90 Yacht For Your shallow Depth Adventures
The LeVen 90 is probably the shortest yacht you’ve ever encountered — the thing has a depth of just 4.5 feet. Really, really tiny. But not in performance. Made specifically for shallow water adventures, this wee ride packs a slight punch, still.
The shallow LeVen 90 build is made possible thanks to the use of Voith Linear Jets, which offer propeller protection, low noise and vibration, and high efficiency at a low maintenance. The all-aluminum performance yacht cal slip into anchorages or even reach white beaches where other, much bigger yachts fear to dock.
The LeVen 90 comes from the Dutch word “Level,” which means “life” in English. It is the brainchild of Florida-based entrepreneur Lucas Silva who was seeking a yacht to cruise on with his family to his beloved Exumas island chain in the Bahamas.
Designed with the outdoor lifestyle in mind, the LeVen 90 boasts a nearly 40-foot-long sundeck, with expansive bow seating, plus a huge rear Opacmare Transformer swim deck for launching kayaks or jet skis. You also get full-width doors that open up the main salon to the rear lanai deck, which Silva calls The Great Room. And instead of the forward end of the cabin transforming into a helm station, Silva uses it as an open space, full-width eat-in galley. With huge central island and bar stools, to boot.
Below deck, guest passengers can stay in the four en suite staterooms. Cabin crew, meanwhile, can stay in the addition two staterooms.
For power, we’re talking a pair of 1,900-hp MTU V12s which will push the yacht to a top speed of 26 knots. Also onboard is 3,170 U.S. gallons in fuel capacity, which translates to a range of around 400 nautical miles.
Photos courtesy of LeVen Yachts
Enjoy A Frightful Stay At The Monster Suite Inspired By Guillermo Del Toro
Lately, there’s been an upsurge of horror movies coming out. Looking at the trend, it looks like a lot of people are enjoying the kick of adrenaline from jumps scares and more. With Halloween just around the corner, it is a great time to test your courage. When it comes to freaking out a person, it is not always about monsters and serial killers out to get you. With the right atmosphere and visual stimulation, you can achieve a similar effect. An awesome opportunity comes in the form of a night in the Monster Suite.
This limited-time offer is available as part of an ongoing event at the Museo de las Artes in Guadalajara, Mexico. Guillermo del Toro is showcasing his talents to craft movies that inspire your imagination. While most of these films are visually stunning, others can be downright frightening. The establishment is currently hosting the Oscar-winning director’s En Casa Con Mis Monstruos exhibit. Ultimately, everything is in place to enhance the experience.
The Monster Suite looks like a fancy hotel room with classic décor. However, the props and other items that share the room with you are anything but. There an illuminated chamber that holds an unknown creature and glass jars with severed appendages. Furthermore, there’s a creepy porcelain doll in a vintage dress that might move when you least expect it. Aside from the haunting accommodations, guests get to enjoy an exclusive private tour of the exhibit at night. A stay in the Monster Suite is definitely not for the faint of heart.
Discover more about the museum: here
Images courtesy of Hotels.com
Sinot Aqua Superyacht Uses Liquified Hydrogen
Meet the Sinot Aqua Superyacht, a new concept yacht that is as innovative as its name is super mundane. Don’t let the moniker throw you off — this is a boat well worth considering.
The Sinot Aqua spent a development period of over five months, and in that span the designers figured out what would make it stand out: liquid hydrogen. That’s right — this is the first marine vessel to be fully powered by liquified hydrogen.
Lateral Naval Architects developed the hydrogen propulsion system that promises smooth and silent sailing at a longer range. With zero emissions. Again, zero emissions. So, how does that work, exactly?
The liquified hydrogen, which will be stored at -253 degrees Celsius in two 28-ton vacuum isolated tanks, is converted into electrical energy via proton exchange membrane fuel cells. The power will provide propulsion, in addition to the auxiliary system and hotel services. The result? A noise-free sustainable sailor that offers a top speed of 17 knots, a cruising speed of 10 to 12 knots, and a range of 3,750 nautical miles. Sander Sinot, the designer, says:
“Our challenge was to implement fully operational liquid hydrogen and fuel cells in a true superyacht that is not only groundbreaking in technology, but also in design and aesthetics.”
The interior space offers plenty of room. You can fit 14 guests and 31 crew. You also get a super luxurious 50-foot VIP suite taking up the front half of the upper deck. Also included? A 360-degree observatory. Plus an indoor health and wellness center with a hydro-massage room, yoga space, and workout floor.
Photos courtesy of Sinot
This Vision Venture Camper Concept Is the Future Of Travel
We love it when folks go all out in their concepts. This one, travelers will surely love. The Hymer Vision Venture is a concept camper that imagines what traveling will look like in a few years.
Hymer, a German firm that makes campervans and motor homes, teamed up with a chemical engineering company called BASF to build a concept what spending a few days off the grid will look like in 2025, realistically.
At the heart of it? A Mercedes-Benz Sprinter — the same van drivers use to deliver Amazon packages. But this one comes with a custom-made body that hides such humble origins, then clears out plenty of space for a pretty sick cabin that can comfortably shelter two passengers.
Some of the components involves 3D printing, a method that makes this campervan terribly unfit for mass-production. However, only some parts go through that process. If you look at the back part, you’ll see that the Vision Venture fully opens to give the passengers a nearly uninterrupted view of the surrounding nature.
Step inside, look down, and you’ll see the wood flooring, which makes the whole floor seem like an outdoor deck. A small but clever touch that bridges the gap between indoors and outdoors. Hymer even added a built-in BBQ if you feel the urge for some good ol’ backyard grub.
In the cab, you’ll find a full kitchen, a bathroom, and a staircase leads to the roof-mounted bed. For a camper, the Vision Venture surprisingly looks organized and not cramped at all. Much of what you’ll see inside also come from natural materials like wood. As a result, it almost looks like a super chic nature-inspired abode.
Photos courtesy of Hymer
Aura Eco Bamboo Airbnb Rental House
Talk about a serious getaway. If you want to have one of the most unique Airbnb experiences of your life, just take a look at this bamboo house located in Abiansemal, Bali, Indonesia. The two-bedroom,…
Cheetah Plains Game Lodge Is Surprisingly All About Relaxation
Don’t get the name wrong. The Cheetah Plains Game Lodge puts relaxation front and center. Set in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in the Kruger National Park in South Africa, the lodge turns traditional safari-style architecture on its head. All this to create a new kind of safari experience that feels authentic. But also as soft-blowed an experience as possible.
Employing state-of-the-art sustainable architecture that incorporates an afro-minimalist aesthetic, the Cheetah Plains Game Lodge pits many different forms against each other, challenging our notions of landscape. The result? A beautiful contrast between things that usually don’t go together but find, here, a thread of harmony amid differences. Here’s lead architect Stefan Antoni on the design:
“The architecture exists to enhance the experience of the outdoors — not to mimic it, but to complement it so that guests may experience the bush more directly, more immediately.”
You’ll find three private houses, comprised of a central building that houses a formal lounge, living room, dining area, and gourmet kitchen. Individually housed bedrooms make up the bulk of this space. They come arranged around the main structure and complete with their own outdoor bathrooms.
The interiors of the Cheetah Plains Game Lodge loosen into an expansive sun terrace and heated swimming pool. Moreover, you’ll find the African greenery enveloping this calm and serene unwinding spot. To protect this slice of paradise, the resort runs mostly on off-grid energy through solar power. What’s more, their grey-water is recycled to lower consumption. Plus, game drives are taken on electric Land Cruiser safari vehicles for least pollution footprint.
Oh, and did we mention each house comes with its own hospitality team? Check it out by hitting the link below.
Photos courtesy of Cheetah Plains
The Pelican Dayventure Is A Cooler But Also A Sling Bag
As Steven Universe has taught us, fusions are a good thing. Pelican agrees, which is why it’s combined a cooler and a bag to make the next best thing for any burly travelers out there. Especially those who can’t leave their beer cans behind.
Thus comes the Pelican Dayventure Cooler/Sling Bag. If you know Pelican, you’re already familiar with its topnotch storage solutions. Pelican’s products are must-haves for any outdoor nut, offering exception insulation, protection, weatherproofing, and excellent chill retention. Just to name a few, of course. With over four decades of expertise in the business, it took on a new challenge by creating a robust and durable cooler solution you can literally carry.
The Dayventure Sling, as it’s officially called, is perhaps not the most pleasant-looking cooler we’ve ever encountered. But looks, of course, aren’t everything. And if all you care about is functionality and reliability, aesthetic shouldn’t really be a problem, anyway. What it lacks in presentation, it makes up for in incredible utility. You get a lightweight pack that features durable, puncture-resistant materials. Not to mention a compression-molded base to maintain its capsule-like structure as you go about the country.
Among the other highlights include its leak-resistant, waterproof zipper enclosure. This should provide easy access to all the beverages you plan to lug with you on trips. The Pelican Dayventure Sling has space for up to four wine bottles and 12 cans, roughly 8.5 liters of overall storage. It’s pretty slick, and you can get one now by hitting the link below.
The Sonny Portable Bidet Is An Eco-Friendly Personal Hygiene Gadget
Over the years, were are gradually learning new ways to improve personal hygiene. As such, we are going to touch-up on a routine can happen at any time — the call of nature. Going number one is pretty much fool-proof because we just let it run its course. For those who can spare a few more seconds, maybe wipe off the remaining moisture. Number two is more challenging in a sense, because of the cleanup job that comes right after. Therefore, it’s time to make it a little easier with the help of the Sonny portable bidet.
For centuries mankind has been using various stuff to wipe our bums clean. The invention of toilet paper continued to enforce that wiping is the only the way to go. However, studies tell us that this practice is akin to that of just spreading peanut butter all over. In other words, one big mess. Water is the best way to get all of the nasty stuff off. Those who have tried using a bidet can attest to its effectiveness and now you can have one handy in your pocket.
Installing a bidet at home means that you are saving a lot of money on toilet paper. Moreover, less usage means that it’s better for the environment. Sadly finding one can be difficult when you travel so the Sonny portable bidet is there to help. This portable personal cleaning gadget sports an anodized aluminum tube with a refillable water tank inside. A compact motorized pump sprays water out the business end and can last up to three weeks on a single charge. The set even includes a stylish charging dock that holds it horizontally while juicing up.
Images courtesy of Sonny
Y7 Yacht
If you follow yachts at all, you might already be familiar with the work of Michael Schmidt Yachtbau. His latest creation is the Y7 Yacht, a towering beauty with heapings of Scandinavian design.
The 70-foot S/Y Bella is the first of the new Y7 range. It’s built in Germany and comes with a smattering of really cool stuff, like carbon fiber masts and trees. That’s standard, by the way. There are five different below-deck layouts available, with the standard design containing a main bedroom, VIP cabin, and a saloon.
The other layouts, meanwhile, offer two cabins brimmed with double beds. Another one has an office area, even, just in case you need to work even while at sea. The rear of the yacht includes a tender garage to which dinghies or jet skis may be attached.
At just 29 tons, this is one of the more lightweight yachts we’ve seen. But make no mistake — this thing packs heft, with nearly 300 square meters of sail area. This allows the boat to move on wind power when other similarly sized yachts are still running their engines.
The hallyards, sheets, and stretches are hidden to the steering columns, allowing the helmsman operate alone. Sure, there are more sophisticated yachts on the market, especially if money is not a problem for you. This, however, comes as a refined experiment on minimalism and maritime prowess, and you shouldn’t skip it. You can find more information about this new yacht by hitting the link below.
Photos courtesy of Y Yachts
Lovtag Treetop Hotel By Sigurd Larsen
While on vacation, some folks choose to book their stay at a fancy hotel. Others choose more unique offerings that provide breathtaking views and unique experiences. Personally, we would recommend that our readers choose the latter, because of the awesome memories it would impart. Don’t get us wrong because we’d gladly accept top-class accommodations in a heartbeat. However, we feel that you can get more out of your excursion if you go for something like the Lovtag Treetop Hotel.
This might seem ludicrous for some, but on paper, this concept is actually impressive. Sigurd Larsen, the architect behind this exciting project absolutely knows what people want. It’s undeniable that our childhood memories have in one way or form included treehouses of some kind. Perhaps embracing what our inner kid wants is making us want to unwind and relax in one. This woodland getaway can be found within a small forest near Als Odde. This is a rural area a little ways north of Denmark that is great for hiking, biking, and fishing.
Each of the nine cabins is designed with nature in mind and built around a towering pine tree. Supported by durable metal stilts, guest make their way up a wooden walkway. These structures feature a modern room with a double bed, kitchen, toilet, shower, and a double sofabed. The fun doesn’t end there as a rooftop terrace is places you high above the ground to let you admire the stunning view. Moreover, the location is close to the Mariager Fjord and the sea. The Lovtag Treetop Hotel is now accepting reservations for around $294 a night, which is surprisingly reasonable.
Images courtesy of Lovtag
Bowlus Road Chief Endless Highways Camper
A brief history lesson: Back in 1934, the Bowlus Chief Chief made its debut and not long thereafter introduced luxury living on the go. It is, as they say now, the original silver bullet. 85 years on, that hasn’t changed much, but the trailer needs a tune-up. And a tune it has received.
The Bowlus Road Chief Endless Highways Camper charts a cathartic return with modern upgrades in tow. This Endless Highway model features a 26-foot exterior that almost looks unchanged. It sports the same aluminum shell, the original care of aircraft engineer Hawley Bowlus.
Come inside and you’ll find an interior finished with wood walls and ceilings. It’s got a master bedroom as well, complete with a king-size bed. There’s an en suite teak and chrome bathroom, a four-person dining space, and a kitchen. There’s even a sofa and armchair that you can convert into twin beds.
For extra comfort, the camper trailer also comes with heated floors, a cellular booster, and even a private network. Continuous hot water is available, which could be a godsend especially if you’re traveling to high-temperature locations. Charging stations are also available just in case you need to re-juice your selfie shooters. It’s all powered by lithium-ion phosphate systems. That means you can stay off the grid for days at a time and not have to worry about losing power or the means to survive and brave the backcountry.
Unfortunately, this doesn’t come cheap. The Endless Highways starts at $185,000, with financing available for as low as $942 a month. Hit the link below to find out more.
Photos courtesy of Bowlus
Carapate Teardrop Trailer
We’ve featured many an angular teardrop-style campers, but none of them are as impressive as the Carapate Teardrop Trailer. This French-made camper is a must-have if you’re planning a countryside trip with your lover, best bud, or just yourself.
French startup Carapate Adventure’s mini-caravan is a rolling wooden trapezoid with rounded corners, playful colors, and an enormous amount of style. Who said your camper has to look bulky and its aesthetic has to be an afterthought?
Inside, you’ll find a modular bed layout that maximizes space but also saves some by removing elements when you don’t need them. There’s also an indoor and outdoor kitchen. Plenty of windows, too, in fact nearly as much as a greenhouse. Suffice it to say that natural light isn’t a problem if you like that in your campers.
There are a series of upgrades that add even more function and comfort, but these are optional.
Purists, we know what you’re thinking — this isn’t strictly a teardrop-style camper. You’re right. In fact, Carapate Adventure admits as much, saying the shape doesn’t resemble the conventional teardrop-style trailer. Still, the Carapate Teardrop Trailer borrows heavily the effortless style and sheer utilitarian sensisiblies of the classic tear.
This also has a pretty huge door, which is great. Not only does it give the indoor space some more room to breathe, it also lessens the divide between the inside and the outside. Camping is all about braving the outdoors, anyway, and this is perfectly captured in the Carapate.
Photos courtesy of Carapate Adventure