Tropical Islands

A Day at Tropical Islands Berlin | Bon Appétit

"Housed in a repurposed WWII-era airfield hangar about an hour from Berlin, this cavernous tropical dome recreates a warm, humid vacation world with sandy beaches, a man-made “sea” the size of three Olympic pools, and what is billed as the world’s largest indoor rainforest—roughly 50,000 plants across some 600 species—plus exotic fish and resident flamingos. Inside are oversized attractions and amenities: a record-setting water slide tower, a snaking waterslide system, a lazy river, a massive wellness and spa complex with oversized crystals and a carved stone elephant, mini golf, hot-air-balloon rides, themed theaters, restaurants serving signature excesses (think corn poulard with popcorn and solid salmon teriyaki), overnight tent accommodations, and family-focused play areas including a 275,000-ball ball pit. The environment is carefully staged—UV-filtered light, piped nature sounds, faux sunsets and imported Southeast Asian structures by commissioned artisans—but that artifice produces mixed effects: the steady high-seventies heat, 50% humidity, limited fresh air, pervasive echo and condensation can feel stifling and prisonlike, and the simulated atmosphere highlights limits of authenticity (captivity concerns about flamingos and other wildlife cropped up for the author). It’s extremely convenient and kid-friendly—an affordable substitute for overseas travel with virtually everything a short walk away—and draws many visitors (about 1.2 million last year, with around 40% staying overnight), yet for some the place’s theatricality and sensory intensity leave them restless rather than rejuvenated." - ByAlex Ronan