Tropical Islands Resort is an artificial tropical resort located about 60 kilometers south of Berlin and is housed within the largest free-standing dome in the world. This massive airplane-hanger-like structure is 360 meters long, 210 meters wide, 107 meters high, and is supported by 14,000 tons of steel. It is large enough to host 8 entire soccer fields. Even the New York Statue of Liberty (93 meters) could stand upright in it, and the Paris Eiffel Tower (322 meters) could lie in it. |
The Dome offers enough space for the skyline of Berlin's Potsdamer Platz including the Sony Centre, the gatehouse and the Daimler Chrysler skyscraper. |
At 5.5 million m³, it is one of the largest buildings on Earth by volume, and is the world's largest single hall without supporting pillars inside. The structure was commissioned as an airship hangar in November 2000, but the airship it was intended to house – the CL160 – was never built. The company went bankrupt in mid-2002. Two years later, Tropical Islands Resort was opened. |
Inside the dome is the world’s largest indoor rainforest with 30,000 trees, bushes and groundcover. There are carnivorous plants, banana trees, coffee bushes, jungle creepers and other exotic plants. A kilometre-long path winds through the forest and a bridge over the mangrove swamp gives great views. The windows on one side of the dome are transparent, allowing real sunshine to come in and nourish over 500 species of plants. |
Guests can lie on the 200 meter-long man-made beach, swim in the an artificial sea and enjoy warm 26 degrees Celsius weather all year round. The tropical sea is lined with sandy beaches and dotted with small tropical islands decorated with grass huts. Against the grey hangar wall is a backdrop of a blue sky with a few clouds. |
Surrounding the pools are re-creations of famous architectural wonders from Asia like Angkor Wat, the Balinese Temple Gate, a longhouse from Borneo, and a traditional Thai house. Ponds and canals wind their way around various activity sites, and large Buddha statues are everywhere. |
The complex is open year round, 24 hours a day, with a multitude of attractions to keep you busy. There is a swimming pool, large enough to accommodate up to 8,000 visitors a day, a 25 meter water slide, mini-golf course, restaurants serving gourmet meals, shopping pavilion, bars, daycares, and even overnight camping on Paradise beach. |
Tropical paradise even has some environmentally-conscious features, such as recycled water from the swimming pools being used to water the plant life found inside, which itself grows from custom-made soil made of sand, organic waste, clay, and tree bark. Natural UV light is also able to permeate through the dome and give plants access to sunlight and warmth.
|
And because of the humidity found within, water condensation periodically gathers inside the dome, which then falls back down producing spontaneous rain showers, further adding to the resorts tropical climate. The resort is located in the municipality of Krausnick, in Brandenburg, Germany, about 60 km south-southeast of Berlin and an hour’s drive away.
|
This is How Mountain Goats Defy Physics and Gravity
They're known to be able to defy the laws of physics, and today we'll discover exactly how they do that.
These Places in Britain Are Ones That You'll Never Forget...
There's a lot more to the United Kingdom than just London, as these amazing destinations will prove to you. Take a look at 14 traveler hotspots in the UK.
Haven't Been to Switzerland? This Will Send You Packing!
Enjoy a high quality video tour picturesque resort town Interlaken, Switzerland
Who Knew the US Has So Many Hidden Romantic Spots
These 10 lesser known holiday destinations are both original and romantic. If you live in the US they may even be closer than you thought!
Eltz Castle - A Spectacular Medieval Treasure Trove
The spectacular Eltz castle has been owned by the Eltz family since 1157. This is the medieval structure's fascinating story.
A Vacation in the Clouds: a Nuclear Powered Airplane Hotel
This hotel takes off and never lands. The best part? It can stay airborne for several years.
These Maps Illustrate Little-Known Facts About America
These maps explain the United States in the most fascinating ways.
Perhaps the Most Scenic Train Rides in the World...
Although there are much quicker ways of traveling, using a train is arguably much more picturesque than the others. Here are the 7 most scenic train rides.
The Tyrol Cow Festival - Celebrating With 100,000 Cows!
The Tyrol Cow Festival is an incredible occasion with 100,000 cows!
When You Go to Japan, It's Like You're on Another Planet!
Japan is a country that'll surprise you so much, you'd be forgiven for thinking that you've arrived in another country. Take a look!
Winter Hikers, Gather Round for the Best Tip of the Season
Here's how advanced snow hikers layer clothing in the winter.
These Rooftop Bars Around the World Have Views to Die For
Rooftop bars are great spots for some rest and relaxation, but the 20 you're about to see offer some of the best views (and drinks) in the world.
Sci Fi Tech: Only YOU Can See This Airport Flight Board!
Finally, all the time wasted on deciphering airport screen information is over! Detroit Airport recently unveiled the coolest airport invention we've seen!
Utrecht is the Netherlands’ Underrated Gem
If you’re looking for a big city with the vibe of a quaint small town, Utrecht may be the perfect choice for you. 10 of the city's best locations.
What 16 Different Countries Consider the BEST Comfort Food
Here is a list of the most indulgent dish from 16 different countries around the world, all of which are widely considered to be comfort foods
I've Never Seen Gardens as Beautiful as the Japanese Ones
These Japanese gardens will leave you just wishing for a calm walk in such a beautiful place.
12 Great Wineries for Fine Wine and Architecture
These wineries are spectacular! Their impressive facilities are without a doubt, a sight to behold.
Visit Prague, One of the Most Stunning Capitals in Europe
Why not take a stroll through this incredible, historical old town? You won't regret this!
COLLECTION: 9 Incredible Festivals From Around the World
his unique interactive image is your gateway to exploring nine of the world's most vibrant and unique festivals.
Denmark Has So Much to See, You Won't Know Where to Start
Denmark is a beautiful little country, forming part of the European region known as Scandinavia. Attractions abound in this nation. Here are the top 10 places.
9 Small American Towns that Are Prettier than a Postcard
The beauty of rural America is often overlooked, but there are some absolutely breathtaking small towns in the US.
Batumi, the Most Charming City On the Black Sea Coast
Read everything you need to know about Batumi and its alluring tourist destinations.
The Terracotta Army: 7,000 Warriors Strong
A Chinese emperor left a standing army behind him upon his death, both to protect him and for the world to admire. Welcome to the terracotta army.
15 Infrastructural Wonders That Will Take Your Breath Away
Let’s take a look at 15 pictures of stunning engineering marvels of our world.
14 Small Towns and Cities That Reveal Austria's True Charm
Get to know Austria's lesser-known cities and towns. They may be small but they tell the true story of the beautiful country in their humble and wonderful way.
Meghalaya: An Indian State Blessed With Endless Beauty
Meghalaya is a beautiful state in the northeast corner of India, which is filled with numerous natural wonders and cultural excitements.
These Past Architectural Designs Were Ahead of Their Time
Architecture in the 20th century was so unique! Here are some amazing examples.
15 Photos That Show Why Japan is an Amazing Place to Live
Take a look at these pictures which show why Japan is light-years ahead of the rest of the world.
See 13 Of the Most Magical and Breathtaking Sites in Vietnam
After visiting Vietnam, a country of natural beauty, fascinating history, and authentic cultural heritage, I compiled a list of 13 must see sites!
See the Sights of Europe With Our 20-Country Collection!
This collection of 20 countries will let you you drop in on each of them through the posts below and see what is most gorgeous about that country.
These Murals Change the Way People Look at Hospitals
Italian artist Silvio Irilli adds color to hospitals with his delightful murals.
Admire 8 Tourist Attractions in Every Season of the Year
From New York to India and then to the distant reaches of Lake Baikal, here is how 8 famous tourist destinations look like in every season
8 Glorious Places on Earth That Are Largely Untouched
Here is a look at some of the most amazing untouched destinations on Earth that are inhabited by very few people.
15 Fantastic Islands Perfect for a European Adventure!
These hidden gems offer a uniquely magical addition to your European getaway.
Catch the Fall At These Gorgeous Locations...
Fall is coming soon, and with it these beautiful places awake to a colorful and beautiful existence. Here are a few of the most beautiful locations to enjoy the beauty of the fall at.
10 Majestic Medieval Castles You Have to See
If you ever wanted to know what it feels like to live like royalty, all you need to do is visit one of these amazing places.
Take a Scenic Ride Through Europe’s Highest Alpine Railway
Embark on a journey all the way to Jungfrau mountain in the Swiss Alps, 3.454 meters (8.051 ft) above sea level, on a train!
People Say That Bruges Is THE Place to See Lace Being Made
Bruges is renowned for its traditional lace-making, with its intricate patterns and designs. This is the story behind how it came to be what it is today.
I Watched this Video and Now I’m Planning a Trip to Ghent
Sweet trappist beer, golden Belgian fries and this gorgeous skyline- what else could you ask for?
Discovering 10 of the Oldest Nations in the World!
Bet you didn’t know these countries were so old!
Discover 9 Attractions on the Wonderful Balearic Islands
Sun, sea, beaches and resort cities - for all these and much more you don't have to go to the Caribbean islands, just fly to the Balearic Islands off the coast of Spain ...
Take a Walk Among 11 of London's Greatest Sights
Join us on this virtual journey, accompanied by informative explanations, and get a taste of the wonders that London has to offer.
16 Unique Grocery Store Innovations That Will Delight You
These supermarkets are using clever ideas to attract customers!
The Most Breathtakingly Beautiful National Parks in Japan
These Japanese national parks will delight all nature enthusiasts.
This Exotic Coast Must Be Seen to Appreciate Its Beauty
This place puts other tropical paradises to shame.
12 Gifts Mother Nature Gave the World...
12 incredible places that are hard to believe are real.
Thailand Never Looked More Enchanting than In This Video...
Never have I seen a video shot with more love for its subject matter. Thailand is indeed one of the most stunning places on earth.