Successful brands sell a lifestyle and not just products. Japanese retailer Muji is no exception and, beginning this year, conveys its minimalist, quality aesthetic to travelers visiting Shenzhen and Beijing in China with two new hotels.

Muji Hotel Room in Shenzhen, China – Photo Courtesy: Muji

Designed to reflect an “anti-gorgeous, anti-cheap concept”, the hotels meet this much-touted experiential travel trend that for Muji simply translates into: “walk as much as you can, wherever you can; eat well; sleep well; stay fit.” (Amen!) As usual, their “brandless quality” comes at a price (from $150 to $400 a night).

And who knew that street artist Banksy opened a temporary hotel in Bethlehem? Same as any fashion designer does, uh? No. The Walled Off Hotel is located just feet from the barrier that separates the West Bank from Israel and does not aim to generate money but to raise awareness of the situation in that area.

Entrance to the Walled Off Hotel by Banksy in Bethlehem – Photo Courtesy: Addy Cameron-Huff @ Flickr

Prices range from $60 to $965 per night and bookings can only be made until February 1, 2018, but the museum and art gallery are also open to non-residents looking for selfies. From active to “activist tourism” then, just when Palestine is the world’s fastest-growing tourist destination, according to the UNWTO.

Update: bookings at the Walled Off Hotel have been extended to November 30, 2018.