Frills? Who Needs Frills?

With the struggling economy, hotels have been scaling back their amenities in an effort to save cash. The Wall Street Journal reported earlier this year that large chains have been removing hand lotion, sewing kits, and other former freebies from their rooms, and limiting their hours for restaurants and bars. But some hotels are celebrating their frugality: Introducing the world's first zero-star hotels. Switzerland's Null Stern Hotel for example, occupies a 1980s nuclear fallout shelter. It's more of a hostel, really, with four double beds and six single beds arranged in two large open rooms that are adorned with antique beds and furniture. Says one of the hotel's designers, "We wanted to create a space of contrasts... Like sugar and fish. They are two things that naturally don't go together, but matched up they make people think, for good or bad. For us it's an art installation before it's a hotel--a place where people can think about their surroundings."

San Diego's Rancho Bernardo Inn--normally a swank hotel and spa--offered a similar deal last month. The "Survivor Package" ranged from $19 to $219, offering a progressively lower rate depending on which amenities you decided you could live without. Can you skip breakfast? Your rate is $199. No breakfast or A/C? That'll be $159. No breakfast, A/C, linens, lights, toiletries, or a bed? A night in an empty room will only cost $19. The promotion seemed popular (though I haven't quite figured out why), as reservations were completely sold out. But it begs the question: What are hotels willing to (not) offer to lure guests to their property?

Photo: Null Stern Hotel