Alcatraz could be turned into a hotel

Alcatraz, the notorious former prison in San Francisco, could be converted into a hotel. The National Park Service, which runs the Californian island, says the plan offers a unique historic, wildlife and visiting experience. In 1850 Alcatraz became a military reservation and 11 years later a military prison; from 1934-63 it was an infamous federal penitentiary, housing criminals such as Al Capone. It is believed the hotel would be in a guard house rather than cell-blocks. National Park Service spokesman Rich Weideman stated: ‘People are constantly saying they want to see more of the island. A hotel would be the ultimate experience in visitor access.’