The Cocoon

Would you stay in a cocoon? That's the latest question travelers are being asked as the latest concept in hotel rooms is being rolled out in South Africa. It's aimed at the frequent traveler or one that's just simply on a tight budget. This 12 square meter room fits everything you need including a double bed, shower, toilet, basin, hanging space and flat screen TV. Pretty unbelievable.

You're probably thinking that that is quite a snug fit and you would be right but at R449 per night, you're getting all modern conveniences in an super clean space with energy saving appliances and furnishings made from recyclable material, at a great rate. It's a double whammy, good price and you're helping the environment that, let's not forget, has recently become a hot topic.

Central to the clever cocoon design is the Totem, a floor to ceiling column which houses the basin and a work surface. Despite being functional it serves to divide facilities from the bed yet blends quite well into the room. The shower is water-efficient, the toilet is water-saving and the LED lighting and energy-efficient air-conditioning switches off automatically when you're not around.

The first cocoon rooms were competed at the OR Tambo Formula 1 Hotel last year, followed by the Hotel Formula 1 Durban. These are the first of their kind in Africa, quite an impressive title to have. Africa on the forefront of Eco friendly change. But we're not the only ones, the cocoon room has proved hugely popular in Europe, where space is at a premium, green consciousness is highest in the world and cleanliness a big priority, with many travelers averse to carpets in particular. A little quirk that most travelers seem to share.

In terms of frequent travel and a place to rest your head while you're dealing with the craziness of your trip, then the cocoon is the perfect solution and you get to score some Eco brownie points!