Cost savings by all means

Munich. The first space hotel is still pure fantasy, but the way to it is taking shape: Virgin Galactic founded by the British multi-entrepreneur Richard Branson will probably transport ordinary people on a weekly and later on, a daily basis into space from 2011. 110 kilometres above the Earth, these first "space tourists" will experience zero gravity and unforgettable views of the planet Earth. Last Tuesday, Will Whitehorn, President Virgin Galactic, presented the details in Munich. At his side: the first German tourist willing to pay 200,000 dollars for her childhood dream. Space flights for tourists can be regularly booked from July 1, 2009. There will only be one single travel agency per country selling these flights. The travel agencies have to apply for an "Accredited Space Agent" licence. This is a new era of tourism. It is getting serious.