Banksy Opens The Walled Off Hotel To First Guests From Across The Globe

Just three metres away from the controversial and violent wall that slices through the West Bank, Banksy's nine-room hotel is completely booked out for its first few months. Designed by the renowned British graffiti artist Banksy, visitors have been given an unconventional view of the Holy Land.

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Hotel Manager Wissam Salsaa spoke when doors first opened on Mon 20 March, “We have arrivals today from six different countries, and I think most of our clients are flying just to stay here,” He added, "Everyone that came here thinks this is the most amazing project for letting the voice of the Palestinians be heard."

Many guests have stated that the hotel is "bizarre" and "like a painting".

On arrival guests are asked to put down a 1000 USD deposit to deter theft of the many new and original Banksy artworks that clad the wall of the hotel. Guests are also encouraged to explore the possibility of painting on the wall - A graffiti supplies store next door labelled 'The Banksy Shop' offers a variety of materials that enables you to make your mark.

Over 50 Palestinian staff will continue to run the hotel and over 50% of it's profits will go back to the Palestinian people. The hotel management says the venue actually carries a message of coexistence, and Israelis are welcome to come and get to know the other side.

“It’s exactly one hundred years since Britain took control of Palestine and started re-arranging the furniture -- with chaotic results,” Banksy said in a statement. “I don’t know why but it felt like a good time to reflect on what happens when the United Kingdom makes a huge political decision without fully comprehending the consequences.”

We look forward to reporting back with more Banksy updates soon, and for anyone who plans to visit the unique hotel do feel free to get in touch with us!

This is Hang-Up's Banksy updates. Over and out.