In Germany, Life's A Beach

This is not your everyday blue lagoon. It has palm trees, waterfalls and white-sand beaches, but it lies under the vaulted roof of a former zeppelin hangar 60 km south of Berlin.

The Tropical Islands Resort opened in December to the rhythm of Brazilian samba bands. Banking on the novelty of being Northern Europe's first indoor tropical getaway — and the Germans' reputation as dedicated beach lovers — Malaysian businessman Colin Au paid $18 million in 2002 for the abandoned hangar after zeppelin maker CargoLifter went bankrupt. He spent $91 million creating the resort, a sparkling lagoon surrounded by thatched huts.

Visitors can enjoy the tropical climate — 25-28°C and 60% humidity — 24 [an error occurred while processing this directive] hours a day, 365 days a year. Au imported more than 12,000 plants and trees to give the island an authentic feel. There are Floridian palms, Central American banana and pineapple trees, and a 140-year-old fig dug out of the Thai jungle. Besides enjoying a brief reprieve from Germany's damp and chilly weather, guests can also take samba lessons and drink fruit-and-rum cocktails under thatched roofs.

A four-hour ticket costs $20 during the week and $26 on weekends, which includes transfer from the train station in Brand. tel: (49-35477) 60 50 50; www.my-tropical-islands.com