Leading article: Country for hire
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.One might have assumed that renting an entire country would be the most extortionate of transactions. But the Principality of Liechtenstein is allegedly available for a remarkably reasonable £40,000 a night.
The website Airbnb, which is advertising the country, suggests the tiny Alpine nation could be used for "events, corporate retreats and conferences".
But are they missing a trick? Rather than touting Liechtenstein to the global conference circuit, they should surely be targeting the international super-rich – and their egos. They should throw in the opportunity not only for people to have the run of the nation for a few days, but also to be crowned temporary king (for an appropriate premium, of course).
But the Liechtensteiners should also be careful. People have been known to take small souvenirs (bathrobes, ashtrays and the like) from hotel rooms. And the more expensive the hotel, the more people feel entitled to take. So when their wealthy overlords have departed, Liechtensteiners would be advised to count their castles.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments