Experience more with less at these cosy futuristic capsule stays
The trend for capsule stays is on the rise, with more and more ‘pod hotels’ opening up all over the world, and what’s more, they’re evolving to appeal to style savvy travellers looking for comfort and class without all too many frills and fuss. The self-contained accommodation comes with all the essentials and is ideal for short-stay and for budget travellers so they can focus on exploring the destination. Capsule pod stays are ideal for travellers seeking both an inexpensive stay and an alternative experience.
Booking.com, the global leader in connecting you with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, has delved into its more than 1.5 million properties in more than 122,000 destinations around the globe to look at some of the best places offering quirky capsule stays. From where it all began in Japan, to new openings in Australia, take a look at these small yet stylish stays. After all, less is more!
Tokyo, Japan
Where the capsule hotel began, Japan is full of these unique and stylish stays and they’re a great way to save money if you’re planning a trip to this vibrant and buzzing city. Travellers love Tokyo for its sci-fi cityscapes, incredible cuisine and quirky shopping - with Booking.com travellers endorsing it for food, convenient public transport and shopping. Make sure you snap a city view from the top of a skyscraper, explore the backstreets of Harajuku and try some Michelin starred food. The top nationalities that booked over the past year include Chinese, Taiwanese and Australians.
Where to stay: Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado Shinjuku is right in the heart of Tokyo, a two minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station and a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. The hotel has an internet café, a mist sauna, jet bath, massage chair and guests will be welcomed with complimentary green tea.
Sydney, Australia
Australia is the latest to join the capsule hotel trend, as its first Japanese inspired capsule hotel launched earlier this year. Whether it’s for the sightseeing, shopping or surf – Sydney is an incredible city to explore, come day or night. New restaurants and bars are always popping up, the beaches are great for surfing or relaxing and you don’t have to go far to uncover wonders such as the iconic Blue Mountains. Booking.com travellers endorsed Sydney for sightseeing, harbour and shopping and the top nationalities that booked over the past year are Chinese, British and New Zealanders.
Where to stay: The Pod is located in the heart of the Sydney Central Business District and just 10 minutes’ walk from Central Train Station, close to Capitol Theatre and Darling Harbour which boasts restaurants and shopping centres. Each pod has a king single bed and personal reading light, air conditioning, shared bathrooms, kitchen and shared lounge.
Singapore
Singapore is fast becoming a sustainable and green destination, and alongside its diverse shopping, easy transport links and instagrammable food it’s definitely one to add to your list. Not to mention, just a short trip outside of the city centre, you’ll find hiking trails, wildlife and botanic gardens. You’ll be busy exploring day and night so staying in a clean and stylish capsule stay is all you need! The top nationalities that have booked trips to Singapore over the past year include Indonesians, Malaysians and Chinese and the top endorsements from the travellers of Booking.com are clean streets, food and sightseeing.
Where to stay: Capsule Pod Boutique Hostel is located near Chinatown Heritage Centre, Sri Mariamman Temple, offering guests a clean, cosy and cheap stay in a great spot for exploring the city. Guests get an individual locker, luxury bedding and access to a kitchen and roof terrace. If you are travelling with kids there is also the Family Pod.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is an assault on the senses and one of the greatest destinations for adventurous foodies with its many street food stalls and buzzing restaurants. Exploring the city’s streets, you could end up on a boat trip, exploring hidden markets, gazing at Buddhist temples or in a roof top bar overlooking the city. Top nationalities that booked over the past year include Chinese, British and Germans and the top endorsements from the travellers of Booking.com are temples, street food and sightseeing.
Where to stay: The LAF Hotel Aree is a capsule hotel that offers all you need for a good night’s stay – air conditioning, a TV, kettle, toiletries, an onsite bar and self-serving breakfast. Situated near the BTS station Ari, it’s easy to explore the wider world of bustling Bangkok.
Taipei, Taiwan
Another great find for foodies, everyone eats out in Taipei – and no wonder as it’s full of incredible night markets (Shilin Night Market is a favourite), and weird yet wonderful restaurants (hold your nose when you try the ‘stinky tofu’!) For stunning views, travellers should make their way to the Taipei 101 skyscraper. For culture, visit the National Taiwan Museum and Tianyuan Temple and take the perfect picture at Shimen Wedding Plaza with its beautiful backdrop. The top nationalities that have booked Taipei over the past year include Japanese, Korean and Chinese and the top endorsements from the travellers of Booking.com are night markets, street food and convenient public transport.
Where to stay: UZ Hostel is a quirky place to stay for travellers on a budget, offering a clean and comfortable night’s stay with a TV, toiletries and slippers. You won’t want to stay in long as Nanya Night Market is within walking distance, offering some of the most delicious local cuisine you’ll ever have!
Moscow, Russia
Full of art, history and culture, Moscow never fails to impress. Visit the Kremlin, Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral first then peruse the museums to immerse yourself in this country’s iconic history. The architecture will no doubt overwhelm you with its many beautiful churches and cathedrals. The capital is home to some of the best performing arts in the world so make sure to book tickets to the ballet at Bolshoi Theatre. The top nationalities that have booked over the past year include German, Ukrainian and Chinese and the top endorsements from the travellers of Booking.com are museums, architecture and history.
Where to stay: InterQUBE Chistye Prudy is just 100 yards from Chistoprudny Boulevard and Sovremennik Theatre with cafes, shops and restaurants is just five minutes’ walk away. Each capsule sleeps one or two people and comes equipped with comfortable bedding, safety deposit box, air conditioning, clothes rack and shared bathrooms – what more could you need?