3 minute read
DO YOU WANT TO TRY THE TRILL OF CAMPING WITH THE COMFORT OF A HOTEL ROOM? Go for Funky Cabins
BY RUDINA HOXHA & JOSE PINTO
FULL INTERVIEW BELOW:
How did you come up with the idea of building an innovative concept like the Funky Cabins? What inspired you to invent that concept?
There were two reasons why we started the funky cabins. First, I love the outdoors. I went camping all the time, hiked, and really had a passion for living in the open. However, camping has always been somewhat of a deterrent in terms of comfort. When the pandemic started, we were becoming aware that more and more people wanted to go outside but among themselves, not in crowded areas in the typical accommodation spots. So, we thought that we could finally kick off a concept of high-end camping in Albania, as was the trend elsewhere in the world.
What does the Funky Cabins concept offer?
The Funky Cabin combines the thrill of camping with the comfort of a hotel room. The current models are an obvious improvement from the first prototype. The cabins now have heating and cooling. And their own silent power generators. The design is 100% proprietary. This means that we design and manufacture our own cabins. They all come with integrated 4G Wireless internet. Most importantly, different from glamping, we can take the cabin anywhere, no matter how remote the location. Lastly, the toilet. Each cabin comes with its own toilet. It is entirely designed by us as well. It is self sustainable and it doesn’t need links to the city’s sewage system.
Rizvan Kurti
How much does one night at Funky Cabins cost? Are they available throughout the year? Any special packages?
One night starts from 40-50 euros, including breakfast and cabin décor. Dinner and outdoor activities are optional, and available.
What markets are you looking for the Funky Cabins?
Mainly couples, young individuals, working nomads, remote lifestylers, and with disposable income of middle-upper middle.
What are the development plans for the Funky Cabins? Do you intend to expand this concept?
We plan to open 5 static locations in Albania to accommodate for beach, snow, lake, forest, and urban landscapes. We plan to expand by 10-12 cabins each season.
How crucial was the support of EU Challenge Fund? Did it cover only funding or even know-how or other aspects?
The Challenge Fund grant allowed us to 4x our current operations. We are now able to accommodate 13 cabins (up to 40 people) at the same time per location. We received the grant as well as legal and operational know how.
