China Turns Old Soviet Aircraft Carrier into a Luxury Hotel

Launched in 1972, the Kiev was once the pride of the Soviet Navy. But in need of cash, Russia and Ukraine sold it and another carrier called the Varyag to China. Although the Varyag is at sea, China has converted the Kiev into a luxury hotel:

This is the Kiev, currently anchored in the Chinese port of Tianjin. Once she was the flagship of the mighty Soviet navy’s Pacific fleet. Now she’s available for business retreats, intimate getaways or simple relaxation.

That’s because the Chinese have bought the aircraft carrier and transformed her into a floating luxury hotel.

The Kiev will stay permanently docked. Much as a Soviet-era sailor might resent the indignity, Kiev won’t go back out to sea. She’ll entertain guests and clients at anchor, a bizarre museum to a different country’s naval power.

View a slideshow of the hotel's fancy interiors at the link.

Slideshow and News Story -via DVICE | Photo: Xinhua