New, Odd Life For Retired Boeing 747

If you've ever travelled Europe, you know that hostels can provide an economical alternative to hotels, allow you to experience local culture, and introduce you to some interesting characters. That is, if you're willing to share tight quarters and a bathroom with strangers.

If that sort of thing doesn't bother you, maybe you're a candidate for The Jumbo Hostel -- "Jumbo," as in created from a retired Boeing 747 jumbo jet. CNN International reports the plane is being refurbished, and will open to the public this December.

Swedish businessman and entrepreneur Oscar Dios has been running hostels in Uppsala, Sweden for the past five years. He's putting 25 rooms in the airliner, which hasn't flown since its previous owner, Transjet Airways, folded in 2002.

"We were looking to expand the business but it was more or less impossible to find reasonably priced housing at the airport," Dios said. "The plane was in a terrible state when we first saw it, but we contacted the owners and gave them a fairly good offer, I think."

The old 747 may have been more economical than a new building, but it's still not cheap. Without giving specifics, Dios confirmed the renovation costs will run into six figures. He says the inside will meet building codes, and the look of the outside of the plane will change very little, except for removal of the engines. Even the wings will be retained, and used as scenic walkways for views of the airport.

So, how much? Dios says each roughly 60-square-foot room will sleep three people, and cost about $150 US per night. If you just want to drop by the cafe and walk the wing, expect to pay about $35 for two hours.

And, if you don't want to share a bathroom? Well... in the world of hostelry, you're talking "luxury item." You'll need to reserve space on the top deck... including the cockpit suite, which comes with a private bathroom for $700 a night. Dios says he envisions that as a honeymoon suite.

Let us know how that works out, when you tell your fiance you want to spend your wedding night sleeping in a big aluminum tube with 83 of your closest friends!

FMI: www.jumbohostel.com/