Radisson Collection Berlin hotel reopens after the exploding aquarium
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The Radisson Collection Berlin hotel was famous for having a huge aquarium in its lobby. Long term readers will recognise the photo above because we used it for many years to illustrate Radisson articles.
Called the AquaDom and built at a cost of €12m, it was 45 feet high and contained 1,500 tropical fish.
The hotel called it ‘the largest free-standing cylindrical aquarium in the world’ although I’m not sure there was much competition for that title.
In December 2022, the aquarium exploded. Luckily it happened in the early hours of the morning and no humans (it was bad news for the fish) were killed.
The hotel has now reopened after a full refurbishment and is looking smart. If you got Radisson Rewards VIP status via our recent offer then this could be a good place to try it out.
The hotel is not risking another aquarium. Instead, the lobby is filled with a ‘Living Tree’, image below.
To quote:
One of the hotel’s most remarkable features is the “Living Tree” vertical garden in the nearly 1,000-square-meter lobby. Towering 24 meters high and up to 20 meters wide, this lush installation is adorned with nearly 2,000 plants, creating an ever-changing visual spectacle. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the greenery enhances air quality, absorbs noise, and contributes to a serene environment. A state-of-the-art irrigation system ensures optimal conditions, while dynamic lighting adapts to different times of the day and special occasions, transforming the ambiance of the lobby.
You can find out more about the hotel, and book, here.
Who won our China Airlines competition?
Last month we ran a competition to win two return business class flights with China Airlines to Taipei
This prize was generously donated by China Airlines to allow one of our readers (and a friend) to experience the service enjoyed by Rhys in his review of their Premium Business Class on the A350-900, and spend some time in Taiwan.
We can now announce the winner of this competition:
- Alex T
Alex has accepted his prize, so if you are an Alex T and have not heard from us, then this is not you!
Many thanks to China Airlines for providing this great prize, and to everyone who entered.
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How to earn Radisson Rewards points and status from UK credit cards (March 2025)
Radisson Rewards does not have a dedicated UK credit card. However, you can earn Radisson Rewards points by converting Membership Rewards points earned from selected UK American Express cards.
These cards earn Membership Rewards points:
- American Express Preferred Rewards Gold (review here, apply here) – sign-up bonus of 20,000 Membership Rewards points converts into 60,000 Radisson Rewards points. This card is FREE for your first year and also comes with four free airport lounge passes.
SPECIAL OFFER: Until 27th May 2025, the sign-up bonus on the ‘free for a year’ American Express Preferred Rewards Gold card is increased from 20,000 Membership Rewards points to 30,000 points. Points convert 1:1 into Avios (30,000 Avios!) and many other programmes. Some people may see even higher personalised offers. Click here to apply.
- The Platinum Card from American Express (review here, apply here) – sign-up bonus of 50,000 Membership Rewards points converts into 150,000 Radisson Rewards points
SPECIAL OFFER: Until 27th May 2025, the sign-up bonus on American Express Platinum is increased from 50,000 Membership Rewards points to a huge 80,000 points. Points convert 1:1 into Avios (80,000 Avios!) and many other programmes. Some people may see even higher personalised offers. Click here to apply.
- American Express Rewards credit card (review here, apply here) – sign-up bonus of 10,000 Membership Rewards points converts into 30,000 Radisson Rewards points. This card is FREE for life.
Membership Rewards points convert at 1:3 into Radisson Rewards points which is a very attractive rate. The cards above all earn 1 Membership Rewards point per £1 spent on your card, which converts to 3 Radisson Rewards points.
Even better, holders of The Platinum Card receive free Radisson Rewards Premium status for as long as they hold the card. It also comes with Hilton Honors Gold, Marriott Bonvoy Gold and MeliaRewards Gold status.
We reviewed American Express Platinum in detail here. You can apply here.
Got a small business?
You can get free top-tier Radisson Rewards VIP status with the new Capital on Tap Pro Visa credit card for small business. Clck here to apply.
Capital on Tap Pro Visa
10,500 points (=10,500 Avios) plus good benefits Read our full review
