Posted on 04/04/2008 6:48:45 PM PDT by blam
Enjoy your stay... at North Korean embassy
By Harry de Quetteville in Berlin
Last Updated: 1:52am BST 05/04/2008
North Korea, one of the poorest countries in the world, is reportedly raising much needed funds by transforming parts of its Berlin embassy complex into a backpacker hostel.
The deal would see North Korea, famous for the secretive regime of dictator Kim Jong-il, throwing open the doors of former diplomatic buildings to budget travellers from around the world.
The large embassy compound is located in former East Berlin close to tourist attractions including Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate.
A display case outside contains photos of a stony-faced Mr Kim receiving presents from officials, and a note stating that he "enjoys the absolute support and trust of his people".
Yards away, mechanical diggers and forklift trucks are at work, renovating a building in the shadow of the North Korean flag.
Still under plastic wrapping over the building's foyer, a large yellow-lettered sign reads: "City Hostel Berlin".
On its website, City Hostel notes that it signed a contract in December to occupy the building, which it describes as "formerly the consulate of North Korea".
"Our aspiration is to make your stay more pleasant and your trip to Berlin unforgettable," reads a message.
The hostel contract comes with North Korea heavily reliant on food aid to prevent starvation among its population of 23 million.
A spokesman for the North Korean embassy dismissed the reports as Japanese propaganda, however.
"The rumours about this hostel are based on Japanese media reports, but they are not correct," the spokesman said.
"The Japanese media are very much influenced by their government and they probably gave out this wrong information because they are our enemies."
Seems to me that many of the buildings in North Korea could use a fresh coat of paint.
Kim Jong Il does his Tom Bodette routine:
“We reave the ronery light on for you”
And say goodbye to your vital organs.
Now that funny LOL!
LOL!!
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