Fly me to the moon: Space hotel sees 2012 opening

"Galactic Suite," the first hotel planned in space, expects to open for business in 2012 and would allow guests to travel around the world in 80 minutes.

When guests are not admiring the view from their portholes they will take part in scientific experiments on space travel.

"I'm hopeful that the impact of seeing the earth from a distance will stimulate the guests' urge to value and protect our planet." - Xavier Claramunt, company director