50 Shades of Grey: do it yourself

It’s the fastest-selling paperback in history. It’s the biggest publishing phenomenon since the Da Vinci Code and Harry Potter. If you haven’t read, or even heard of Fifty Shades of Grey by British author E L James, it’s an erotic tale of the relationship between literature student Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey. Mills n’ Boon it ain’t.

With Fifty Shades breaking sales records and getting respectable readers hot under the collar on commuter trains from New Jersey to New Malden, it’s no surprise that someone is cashing in on its success. An enterprising hotel in Seattle, where much of the story is set, is offering guests the chance to experience Steele and Grey’s exploits for themselves. 

Seattle’s Hotel Max (Trip Advisor’s ‘Sexiest Hotel 2010’) is cashing in on interest in James’ story, many of whose scenes take place in luxury hotels, by offering guests a ’50 Shades of Seattle’ package. As Grey is a millionaire who is fond of the high life, as well as the odd exotic practice behind closed doors, it is appropriate that this is a luxury package, including a chauffeur and a helicopter tour of the US west coast city. At £1254 for two nights, it’s not cheap, but for some it may beat Blackpool on a rainy day.

Eager readers of the book will know that metallic duo Steele & Grey first meet in Fingers, Ipswich, sorry, Portland, Oregon, and yes, you’ve got the chance to recreate their lurid liaisons here too. The Heathman Hotel revels in its new-found celebrity status by offering the Charlie Tango package – named after Grey’s beloved chopper. The package will set you back £1720 per night, including a bottle of wine and yes, a helicopter ride.

If you can’t get yourself stateside for a Grey getaway, check out our 10 suggestions for romantic breaks in Europe. Fancy a book in bed instead? Here are our top 30 holiday reads.