20 Old Buses That People Turned Into Hotels
Everybody loves a hotel, after all, a hotel’s aim is to make you feel comfortable, loved and relaxed. Yes, a hotel might just be a luxurious version of your house or apartment, but everything is that much bigger and that much better in a hotel. For instance, the beds are larger, the bedspreads are comfier, the bathrooms are cleaner and the showers are always hotter. Food is available twenty-four seven without the effort of having to make it, and of course, there is always the mini bar. Hotels really are the best thing in the world, and the best thing is, you don’t even have to clean up after yourself.
However, although they might already be amazing, it doesn’t stop people from trying to improve them. These days, people go to extreme lengths to modify as much as they possibly can from everything to absolutely anything. That’s right, from turning old factories into trendy new apartments to old motorcycles into futuristic dreams or nightmares, modifications and conversions really are the number one most fashionable thing to do at the moment. Nevertheless, sometimes people can get a little too imaginative, especially when it comes to where we put our heads at night. In fact, the new craze to hit the recent conversion and modification bandwagon is the fad of turning large busses into modern and conventional hotels. So, let’s take a look at 20 old busses that were turned into hotels (seriously).
20. THE BIG GREEN BUS
This converted British built MCW 1982 West Midlands Metro Bus spent it’s last few years in service as a school bus and clocked up a massive 689,000 miles during its lifetime as a moving vehicle.
The bus was destined for the scrap heap but was taken home for a recycling project and transformed into something quite magical.
Situated in the heart of Sussex, United Kingdom, it is designed for those picky holidaymakers who don’t quite the dirt and grit of the outside world. The bus is fully fitted with a kitchen, lounge/dining area, log burner and wet room, and that’s just downstairs. Furthermore, the upper deck has three bedrooms which all have windows so you can still enjoy the view.
19 THE SOUTH CAUSEY INN
This classic 1960’s Trafalgar Square Bus is one of the UK’s finest bus hotels and one of the coolest transformations on the list. Inside, there are flat screen TV’s, Bluetooth speakers, WIFI and even a roll-top bathtub. Plus, to top it all off, the bus hotel pays homage to the monumental number 10 Downing Street by replicating the famous door. In fact, the only modification on the outside of the bus is the new door, with everything else the same as when they bought it. So, the next time you fancy a bit of British pomp mixed with the glamorous outdoors, try the South Causey Inn.
18 BETSY BLUE, BEETIE & BILLIE BUS
Betsy Blue, Beetie & Billie Bus are three beautiful buses that have been converted into popular hotels in Shropshire, UK. Betsy Blue is a 181 Leyland Atlanteen which can host up five people.
Billie is a 1990 West Midlands “Wimpty” which sleeps 6 people and has its own private decking an hot tub.
Beetie is the newest of the bunch and although it is open to the public it is still being worked on. Furthermore, horses are also allowed on the land, so if you want to bring your pet pony along head to Shropshire.
17 THE MAJESTIC BUS
The majestic bus is situated in the middle of the countryside in the beautiful United Kingdom. The bus is smaller than usual buses and is a former Bedford Panorama, therefore it might be unfamiliar to many. To make things that little bit better, the bus is also extremely environmentally friendly and is completely solar powered and self-sustainable. Plus, it offers its guests miles and miles of rolling green hill views which add to its stunning appeal. The bus sleeps four people, and is perfect for a family getaway, so what are you waiting for? Go book yourself a room.
16 TAI TAI MOUNTAIN PARK
Tai Tai Mountain Park, which is situated in the Shanxi Province of China, is a park dedicated to the transformation of over forty previously abandoned buses.
The idea was to offer the general public something new as well as being environmentally friendly.
Park president, Guolin Han stated, “These abandoned buses are cheap to buy and it’s a great reuse of waste.” The busses also have separate themes, such as Mickey Mouse and Hello Kitty, plus they are all filled to the brim with the latest mod cons. And, if that wasn’t good enough, they are also cheap and cost a measly $50 dollars per night.
15 BERTRAM’S HOTEL
This magical transformation of a London Style double-decker bus is very special and is named after the Miss Marple novel, Bertram’s Hotel. The owner is a huge Agatha Christie fan and decided to open in the hotel in honor of her work. The hotel sleeps up to five people and has a retro and old-school feel about it. The bathroom is situated right next to the original driving seat with the small money tray acting as the soap dish. Furthermore, it also has its own cocktail bar as well as a large selection of Agatha Christie books. So the next time you fancy a reading holiday with a cocktail by your side then come to the Bertam’s hotel.
14 CABIN BUS
Known as the moving hotel (original), the bus is used to transport people from the sunny sands of Los Angeles to the groovy streets of San Fransico. The journey covers a whopping 650km and does so in complete style.
In addition, the Cabin bus sleeps up to 24 people and assigns travelers with individual pods so that they can sleep in comfort.
There are also reading lights, luxury amenities and even a lounge area where passengers can gather together and share travel stories or even just enjoy some additional space to relax in. Fancy travelling overnight like a superstar? This moving hotel is the one for you.
13 HOSTEL BUS
The best thing about staying in a bus hotel is the price, especially when it’s just $10 a night. That’s right, this converted school bus is one of the cheapest hostels in the world but at least it provides you with a roof over your head. It might not be one of the most glamorous on the list, but its cozy atmosphere and basic amendments certainly make it an experience. In fact, it’s the people that really make it, with travelers on a budget usually the most exciting people. Sadly, the hostel doesn’t offer a kitchen or a bathroom, but you’ll always have somewhere to rest your head… hopefully.
12 THE BUS STOP
The Bus Stop Hotel is situated in the East Lothian countryside in the heart of Scotland, UK. Not only does this converted bus offer its guests a luxurious experience, it is also extremely aesthetically pleasing. In fact, the roof has been converted to all glass so holiday makers can watch the stars from their beds and enjoy some tranquility.
Furthermore, the bus has a wood stove for the colder evenings along with a wood-fired hot tub which is located on your own private decking area.
You can sip champagne and relax in the hot tub all while taking in the unbelievable views The bus also offers views of the Lammermuir Hills which is ideal for a romantic getaway.
11 LA CHANCHITA
The La Chanchita is a 911 Mercedes-Benz bus which was first converted into a truck and then finally into a luxury bus hotel. Back in the day, the bus was a former Buenos Aires 1960s city bus, but thankfully it has been given a new lease of life. In fact, the hotel is made for extreme sports fanatics and enables them to discover South America by traveling through the continent with people on board.
The hotel usually travels in the winter months as this tends to be the most difficult time for tourists to find help when traveling.
The hotel is also very basic as the creators want to reflect the type of company and lifestyle they are attempting got promote. Despite the basic setting, the bus sleeps up to six people and has an excellent heating system as well as hot water.
10 ROTEL TOURS
Rotel tours first began all the way back in 1945 and have been transforming retro buses ever since. The company is willing to take guests anywhere in the world, be it across Russia, through Africa or a long trip around Europe. Tourists sit at the front of the bus during the day and are able to enjoy the amazing views while traveling. Then, in the evening, the passengers move to the back of the bus where they can enjoy a peaceful nights sleep in the 6x3ft pods. The hotel bus was designed so that tourists weren’t stuck in one place and gave them the option of moving around and exploring new cities.
9 THE CERIDWEN CENTRE
The newly renovated 1964 Leyland Double Decker bus is based in Eifi Valley, Wales, and is one of the countries best-kept secrets. The bus is also extremely eco-friendly and can hold up to six guests at a time. The location is perfect for those who love the countryside and prefer to be at one with nature. In fact, there are no TV’s or Digital radios on board and you can forget about WiFi. The bus is a far cry from modern life and encourages you to sit back, relax and be in the moment. So if you fancy getting down and dirty with nature get yourself a spot on this bus hotel and leave your laptop and cell phone at home.
8 WEACHE BUS
This charismatic converted double-decker bus is situated in South-West Wales and offers its guests some of the most stunning views in the world.
The bus, which is a lot bigger on the inside than on the outside, holds up to six people and offers its guests a wood burner, electric oven, lounge area, fridge and even a washing machine.
Yep, this bus is definitely the epitome of glamping, and also provides visitors with 22 acres of private fields, so make sure you pack your walking boats. Group prices begin at a measly, $100 per night which is a bargain when you really start to think about it.
7 THE SHADY DELL
The Shady Dell is designed to that you think you have stepped into the past and is more of a museum than a family resort. However, it is a resort and holds a number of large campers and buses that have been transformed into amazing and stylish hotels. Located in Bisbee Town, Arizona, USA, the trailer park is ideal for those who are looking for a spot when coming off Highway 80.
Furthermore, the whole park is extremely retro and offers its guests a completely new and unique experience. Sadly, the park only has basic amenities, with cooking facilities such as overs and stoves virtually nonexistent. However, chargrills are often given to staying guests so that they can enjoy some tasty home cooked food in the 1930s.
6 BERTIE THE BLACK BUS
Bertie the bus is located in the tiny village of Sturminster Marshall, Dorset, England, and offers its guests stunning views and excellent amenities. The bus, which is referred to as he by its owners, has electricity, running water, a fully equipped kitchen, an electric oven, fridge, a fire, a dining table for 8 people and 3 extremely comfortable double beds. Yes, it really does have it all. The bus is also ideal for families, mostly due to its space, and is perfect for young children who like to run around. It even has its own football posts as well as a veranda to sit under while watching the sunset and eating that wonderful British food.
5 THE NOMAD BUS
The Nomad Bus is a traveling hostel that offers its guests a tour of one of the most beautiful countries in the world, Norway. Formally a traditional school bus, the Nomad Bus is now a family run hostel on wheels and supplies travelers with basic accommodation for a cheap price.
In fact, the hostel also works with wedding parties, sports teams and work events as well as family holidays and lone rangers.
Furthermore, once you have arrived at your chosen destination, you can use the rooftop as a decking area and relax while enjoying the views.
4 ESJAN BUS
The Esjan busses are located in the beautiful setting of Iceland and take their name from the stunning mountain that looms over them. In fact, the Esjan mountain is known as the queen of the mountains that cover the region, which is situated just 25 minutes away from the capital, Reykjavik.
The buses have been converted into 3 units fitting 8 people each and are perfect for large groups.
Furthermore, a bathhouse is also located beside both busses and holds a toilet and hot showers. To make things even better, the busses each have their own entrance, kitchen and running water and both hold a mixture of double and single beds, as well as bunk beds.
3 SWEDISH CABIN IN THE WOODS
Sweden really is one of the best countries in the world, especially when you see the kind hotels that it has to offer. For instance, the Swedish cabin in the woods is a converted bus with an additional rooftop deck. Located on the outskirts of Stockholm, Sweden, the bus has lots of space to hang out and relax as well as 4 twin sized beds. However, it is the deck that really stands out as the most stunning feature and comes complete with a grill and a picnic table. Sadly, there is no bathroom nor kitchen, but a nearby community bathroom is nearby.
2 BEDROAM
Located in York, England, Bedroam is a brand new holiday company with the intention of enticing holiday goers to the glorious surroundings of the English countryside.
The bus, which interestingly takes its inspiration from contemporary Japanese design, is just as fancy as any other hotel and is extremely popular with groups and families.
In fact, the bus can sleep up to 18 people and offers each guest a luxury sleeping pod with their own personal storage unit. Furthermore, the bus hotel offers power sockets, towels, two bathrooms, a lower deck and lounge area and outdoor waterproof awning area.
1 THE BRANDY BUS
The Brandy Bus is an old-fashioned school bus that has been converted into a cozy and original guest house. Located in Nairobi, Kenya, the bus is hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the town center and is billed as the perfect place to escape. The bus has four beds, two double and two single, and also has a fully modified bathroom and kitchen. Furthermore, the converted masterpiece also has Wifi, enabling you with all those creature comforts that you are so used to. In fact, the bus also has access to a tennis court as well as a stunning garden and outdoor seating area.
Sources: airbnb.com, stagecoachbus.com, pinterest.com, majesticbus.co.uk
