On a cold and snowy day, I can’t find much love for the great outdoors. My genetic makeup pushes me more towards the tropical regions where I can park my butt in the sand and listen to the sound of the waves. There’s something about constant 70-80 degree weather that is extremely appealing to me. The whole idea of bundling up to go outside is for the birds! Jeans and a t-shirt, or shorts and a tank top, that’s more my style!
With a tropical paradise less than 40 miles away from Berlin, the city of Brandenburg, Germany has an attraction capable of entertaining up to 6,000 visitors a day. With the daily temperatures of the region ranging from the low 30’s to the mid 60’s, a tropical escape so close sounds like it would be an absolute hit. The Tropical Islands Resort, is the largest free-standing hall (without supporting pillars inside) in the world. Prior to the transformation to a tropical resort, the hall was known as the Aerium, an airship hangar almost 1200 feet long, 700 feet wide, and 350 feet high. The Aerium was originally built to protect huge airships from the elements. Purchased by the Malaysian corporation named Tanjong in 2003, this airship hangar was about to undergo a major change. Tropical Islands Resort boasts an internal temperature of 78 degrees and is home to the largest indoor rainforest in the world, a beach, a plethora of tropical plants, and numerous swimming pools, bars, and restaurants. Open around the clock, every day of the year, this sounds like a fantastic destination whether you’re seeking an escape from the cold, or you’re looking for a beach vacation on a budget.
Approaching the resort.
How many indoor theme parks do you know of that offer rides in hot air balloons?
A closer view of the hot air balloon.
Even when it’s a dark and dreary day outside, this resort offers great views with blue skies!
As you can see, there are many loungers. The resort also has tanning beds for those that would prefer a little darker skin to complete their beach experience.
One of the resident canaries.
Flamingos are seen mingling in the resort’s 50,000 plants that make up this very large, man-made rainforest.
There’s even a kiosk with spiders and insects on display.
A couple of hot tubs on a platform inside the pool.
Comfortable and authentic looking beach housing for the overnight guests.
Nighttime fun in the illuminated pools.
There are many themed bars and restaurants at the Tropical Islands Resort.
A nice overview of the pool and surrounding tropical village that features accurate copies of traditional buildings from Thailand, Borneo, Samoa, and Bali.
There is a nice play area for the kids.
Plenty of water to play in, for the young and old alike.
Private tents are available for a little rest and relaxation, or for a rustic overnight excursion.
You can relax on the beach in Germany all year-long!
Surrounded by snow as you’re walking to the awaiting 78 degree beach, just inside the building.
The resort is capable of accommodating 6,000 guests per day.
With tons of twists and turns, these slides look like a lot of fun.
Check out the video below of Casey and Owen’s adventure in the crazy German water park.
H/T: Wikipedia
With the spastic weather that we have, Tropical Islands Resort would be a very welcome addition to my home town’s department of tourism. I don’t really care about the price. I’d be one of the first people in line for a season pass. A facility as magnificent as this would quickly become my home away from home.