Zero Star Hotel Opens Near Zurich

(MoneyWatch)  I know I usually write about the airline world, but I saw this article and just had to write about it. Apparently, a new "zero star" hotel has been opened outside Zurich, Switzerland. My guess is that it's going to be a big hit. These days with the economy hurting, going downscale seems to be cool.

The hotel, called the Null Stern (that's, Zero Star in German), is setting new lows for amenities. For about GBP 6 per night, you'll get a bed in a former nuclear bunker. The walls are concrete, there are no windows, and there are no decorations. There's not even any heat. You apparently need to fill up hot water bottles to keep you warm. People have to take turns taking showers and you can only hope they don't run out of hot water. Sounds great, right? You can see a video of the Null Stern, but if you don't speak German, it may be a little dull.

So why the heck would anyone stay here? Well, it's pretty cheap. No, it's really cheap, and that's cool. When you hear the Wall Street wives saying things like coupons are "all the rage now," you know things are changing. No, I don't expect to see any bankers staying at a place like this, but maybe those who are less fortunate will be looking to go more downscale as well.