Iconic British graffiti artist and political activist Banksy is trying his hand at the hotel business. According to the Guardian, the anonymous street artist opened The Walled Off Hotel to the media Friday.
The 10-room property sits along Bethlehem's barrier wall in the West Bank separating Israel from the Palestinian territories. But because it's located just outside the town in an area under Israeli control, Israelis can visit legally.
The hotel's nine guestrooms and one suite will be available for booking on the hotel's website later this month. The Walled Off Hotel will feature a "colonial" theme and chefs serving up afternoon tea to visitors as well as a museum. As one would expect, the hotel features a plethora of Banksy's works. The Guardian's Emma Graham-Harrison shared a series of first looks inside the new hotel.
While the art is sure to capture guests' imaginations, the property won't be winning any travelers over with its views.
It's hard to argue with the price, though, with budget bunk beds set to go for under $37 a night.
The Presidential Suite will presumably cost more and for good reason.
According to the Guardian, the hotel's aim is to spark dialogue as well as bring much-needed jobs and tourists to Bethlehem. The property will also host exhibitions by Palestinian artists in an effort to bring their work to a wider audience.
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