World’s worst hotel apologizes after 40 years of abysmal service

“Could you help me with my suitcase,” the man asked the bellhop.

“Sure,” the bellhop replied. “Try using the handles.”

If this scenario played out in any normal hotel, a guest would clamor for better service. Not at the Hans Brinker Budget Hotel in Amsterdam, where after 40 years of disappointing travelers, the establishment—which proudly touts itself as the world’s worst—is using its latest campaign to apologize. Worldcrunch reports that the pitch is part of a successful 16-year history of controversial, negative advertising. Due in part to a “legal note” on its website cautioning visitors to book “at their own risk,” marketing manager Dave Bell says many are “surprised that we actually have mattresses.” Some guests even bring sleeping bags.

Meanwhile, travel carrier Air New Zealand teamed with Peter Jackson on a new “Hobbit”-themed in-flight safety video, “An Unexpected Briefing,” in which the notable film director makes a brief cameo: