Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 22 248 95; le_karthala@yahoo.fr; 48 Rue Andriandahifotsy; r Ar50,000) The
Karthala's motto is 'a little bit like home', and Ariane and her family certainly have a way
to make guests feel welcome: it's all about the long afternoons/evenings spent chatting in
the pretty garden courtyard. The rooms do need updating, the bathrooms in particular, but
on the whole, the place is spacious and clean. Rooms under the roof share a bathroom but
are quieter. Rates include breakfast.
Chez Francis
HOTEL €€
( 22 613 65; hotelchezfrancis@yahoo.fr; Rue Rainandriamapandry; r Ar41,500) With
its spotless tiled floors, pine furniture and bright interior, Chez Francis is reminiscent of a
holiday camp or youth hostel. Ask for a room with a view.
Le Royal Palissandre
LUXURY HOTEL €€€
( 22 605 60;
www.hotel-palissandre.com
;
13 Rue Andriandahifotsy; d from €87;
) The rooms at the Royal Palissandre are unremarkable but the facilities definitely
aren't:youwon'tgetenoughofthesweepingcityscapes, andtheheatedpoolwithitsexotic
garden is to die for. Rates include breakfast.
Hôtel Le Jean Laborde
HOTEL €
( 22 330 45; labordehotel@hotmail.com; 3 Rue de Russie; d Ar44,000-59,000, without
bathroom Ar22,000-27,000) The welcome is pretty grumpy but this small hotel at the heart
of Isoraka still does a brisk trade thanks to its excellent location and budget-friendly prices.
The rooms have threadbare green carpet and pink walls, but the place is well kept and the
more expensive rooms are very spacious.
Hôtel Raphia
HOTEL €€
( 22 253 13; hotelraphia@moov.mg; Rue Ranavalona III; d/tr Ar46,000/56,000, without
bathroom Ar41,000/51,000) This family-run Haute-Ville option comprises an eccentric se-
lection of wood-clad rooms with a traditional feel. All are spotless and those at the top have
views. Guests get a 10% discount at the restaurant.
Hôtel Isoraka
HOTEL €€
( 22 355 81; saka@malagasy.com; 11 Rue Ramanantsoa; r Ar36,000-41,000) The
Isoraka would be an excellent budget choice were it not for its lack of facilities and very
noisy location. Rooms are clean, colourful and good value for the neighbourhood, but
earplugs are a must.
