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Date Published: 21/11/2022

Malaga opens its first Japanese-style capsule hotel

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The futuristic Malaga hotel features the latest in smart technology

Malaga opens its first Japanese-style capsule hotel

The future of tourist accommodation has arrived in Malaga with a Japanese-inspired capsule hotel, providing state-of-the-art facilities in a pocket-sized setting to suit all budgets.

Operating under the brand Futurotel and located just a few metres off the La Malagueta beach, the hotel features 40 capsule rooms offering all the comforts and luxuries of normal accommodation but tucked into a tiny space.

Situated on Calle Maestranza in the heart of the city, the capsule hotel is "a concept based on being able to bring lodging to all budgets," according to Pedro Martín, Futurotel's advertising director.

The hotel model is already proving hugely popular in Valencia and Madrid but the company “ended up choosing Malaga because it's amazing, the city is in fashion,” he added.

A smaller price and less space doesn’t mean guests have to scrimp on their creature comforts though. The futuristic rooms boast all the latest technology, equipped with everything from high-tech TVs and enormous beds to smart bathrooms with heated toilet seats. Smart mirrors allow visitors to read hands-free or watch TV, while the hotel lobby features a state-of-the-art gaming area, a private jacuzzi, kitchen and vending machines, which offer drinks and even hot meals.

Capsules can be personalised and upgraded with fridges, full television packages, bespoke mattresses and pillows specific to your sleep position.

Mr Martín admits that the capsule hotel model “shocks” some people, but those who try it once tend to want to repeat the experience. In fact, so successful has the opening in Malaga been that the hotel has exceeded 90% occupancy every month.

For Mr Martín, what most attracts people is “the experience”: “This is like a hostel with a VIP experience and at a cheaper price. In summer the price rises, but during other months it is between 40 and 60 euros per night”

It seems the sky is the limit for the futuristic Futurotel, whose next move will be to open a nine-room property in Granada in mid-January.

Images: Booking.com

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