Giraffe 'neighbors': US 20-something's animal-themed lodging goes viral
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- A unique animal-themed accommodation in Oklahoma, USA, allows guests to stay near giraffes.
- The 'Safari Stay' facility, created by 23-year-old Cameron Grant, offers an immersive experience with giraffes and over 100 other animals.
- The accommodation has gained significant popularity, with viral TikTok videos and bookings from across the United States.
In the heart of Oklahoma, a unique venture is capturing the imagination and drawing visitors from across the nation. 'Safari Stay,' a brainchild of 23-year-old animal enthusiast Cameron Grant, offers an experience straight out of a dream: sleeping mere steps away from giraffes.
I made my childhood dream of 'sleeping with animals' a reality.
Grant transformed a farm stable into an accommodation where guests can share a space with giraffes, fulfilling a childhood fantasy. This isn't just about proximity; it's about a deep, immersive connection with wildlife. The popularity has exploded, evidenced by over a million views on Grant's TikTok, with reservations pouring in from all over the US.
What sets Safari Stay apart is its commitment to providing an educational and interactive experience. Beyond the giraffes, the facility houses over 100 animals, including zebras, camels, kangaroos, and sloths. Guests, guided by staff, can feed and interact with these animals, making it more than just a stay โ it's an adventure.
There are very few places in the world where you can sleep next to a real giraffe.
Operating with all necessary wildlife permits and USDA licenses, Safari Stay ensures a safe and legal operation. This dedication to welfare and authenticity is what resonates with visitors seeking an extraordinary escape. The sheer novelty of sleeping next to a giraffe, a rarity worldwide, makes this Oklahoma gem a must-visit destination for animal lovers.
A family even drove 23 hours from New York to meet Yoshi the giraffe.
Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.