Hidden Truths: Why Hotels Avoid the 13th Floor

Hello, fellow explorers of the curious and the cryptic! Have you ever stepped into a high-rise building or hotel elevator, only to notice a peculiar absence—the mysterious vanishing of the 13th floor? Buckle up as we embark on an in-depth journey to unveil the intriguing history, global prevalence, real-world examples, and even hotels that defy superstition.

The Origins of Triskaidekaphobia (Fear of 13):

Let’s delve deep into the historical roots of this superstition:

• Ancient Babylon (1700 BC): The Babylonians revered the number 12 for its inherent completeness. To them, 13 was viewed as an irregular number, disrupting the harmony of their numerical system.
• The Middle Ages: Here, Christianity’s influence becomes pivotal. The Last Supper, with its 13 individuals, including Judas Iscariot, who would later betray Jesus, added a layer of mistrust around the number.
• Hindu and Norse Beliefs: In Hinduism, the Sanskrit word “trayodashi,” meaning “thirteen,” is associated with imperfection, further perpetuating the fear. Norse mythology includes the story of a troublesome 13th guest at a party of 12 gods, leading to chaos and tragedy.

When Did the Trend of Skipping the 13th Floor Start?

• Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries: As skyscrapers began to dominate city skylines, the fear of 13 started to take hold in modern architecture. Architects and builders, who were often superstitious themselves, responded to public demand by excluding the 13th floor from elevators and room numbers. This era marked the birth of the modern superstition.

Real Examples of the 13 as an Unlucky Number in Pop Culture:

• Apollo 13 (1970): NASA’s Apollo 13 mission faced a near-disastrous explosion in space, emphasizing the ill omen associated with the number.
• Friday the 13th Franchise (1980s): A series of horror movies bearing this ominous date further cemented the fear of the number 13 in popular culture.

The Global Phenomenon:

The most intriguing aspect of the missing 13th floor is its universal presence. Unlike many superstitions, which are often tied to specific countries or cultures, triskaidekaphobia transcends borders. This shared human quirk has captivated people worldwide, regardless of cultural backgrounds, making it a global phenomenon.

Hotels That Defy the Superstition:

While most hotels avoid the 13th floor due to superstitions and cultural beliefs, some bravely defy this convention. These establishments recognize that the fear associated with this number is unfounded and instead embrace the opportunity to offer their guests a unique and memorable experience. By disregarding the stigma attached to the 13th floor, these hotels demonstrate a progressive mindset and a commitment to providing exceptional hospitality. They understand that superstitions should not dictate everyday decisions and are willing to challenge the norm in order to offer their guests an unrivaled stay.

• The Four Seasons Hotel, New York: The Four Seasons embraces the 13th floor, offering a luxurious experience with stunning views of the city.
• Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza: This historic hotel proudly features a 13th-floor restaurant, the “Palm Court,” known for its grandeur and elegance.

Isn’t it captivating how superstitions shape our world in such unique ways? The mystery of the 13th floor, steeped in history and perpetuated through cultures, continues to bewilder and fascinate travellers worldwide. Whether you choose to embrace or defy superstition, the 13th floor remains an enigmatic part of our architectural and cultural landscape.

In addition to the popular superstitions mentioned earlier, there are several other intriguing beliefs and customs related to travel and hospitality that people around the world follow.

Other Travel and Hospitality Superstitions Worldwide

• Shoes Off in Japanese Homes: This custom extends beyond politeness; it symbolizes leaving the dirt and negativity of the outside world behind when entering a home.
• Lucky Coins in European Fountains: Tossing a coin into a fountain is believed to make a wish come true in Europe.
• Spilling Salt: In many cultures, spilling salt is considered bad luck. To ward off the misfortune, one must throw a pinch of salt over their left shoulder.
• Knocking on Wood: This superstition involves knocking on wood to ward off bad luck or to ensure that a recent string of good luck continues.
• The Evil Eye in Mediterranean Cultures: This belief holds that jealous or malicious gazes can bring about misfortune. To protect against the evil eye, people often wear charms or amulets, such as the “nazar” in Turkey or the “mal de ojo” in Latin America.
• Avoiding Room 309 in South Korea: In many South Korean hotels, you’ll notice the omission of the 309th room. This is due to the pronunciation similarity between the number “309” and a phrase that signifies separation or parting ways.
• Avoiding Whistling Indoors in Russia: Whistling indoors is frowned upon in Russia, as it is thought to bring about financial loss or unwanted guests. It is believed that whistling can attract evil spirits or invite bad luck into the household.
• Beekeeping Charms in Slovenia: Beekeeping holds great cultural significance in Slovenia, and beekeepers often incorporate various superstitions into their practices. One famous ritual involves painting vibrant honeycomb patterns on the front of beehives to ward off evil spirits and ensure the success of the bees.
• Covering Mirrors during Storms in Greece: In Greek folklore, it is believed that mirrors attract lightning during storms. To protect themselves from this supposed danger, some people cover their mirrors during thunderstorms.
• The Curse of the Pharaohs in Egypt: The curse of the pharaohs is a superstition that suggests anyone who disturbs a pharaoh’s tomb will be cursed with misfortune or even death. This belief gained notoriety during the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922.

So, as you step into that hotel elevator, do you feel a shiver down your spine or simply a sense of amusement? Share your thoughts, stories, and your own superstitions from around the world below! 🌍✈️