Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Most lodges have their own bar, most of which are fairly sedate; if you're after a more
overland and expat scene, try the Old Bridge Backpackers or Okavango River Lodge. Of
the restaurants, Sports Bar has the best and liveliest bar. For a more African vibe, there
are, of course, numerous
shebeen
(illegal drinking establishments) serving home-brewed
sorghum beer to a local crowd; the staff at your hotel or lodge can point you in the right
direction for this sort of off-licence fun.
Motsana Arts Cafe $$
(
www.motsana.com
;
Shorobe Rd, Matlapaneng; meals P45-60; 8am-8pm; )
Housed in an innovative new arts complex northeast of town on the road to Shorobe, this
cool, casual and sophisticated cafe serves up burgers, salads, paninis, Cajun chicken with
avocado and all-day breakfasts, with free wi-fi thrown in.
CAFE
Hilary's $$
(off Mathiba I Rd, Maun; meals from P50; 8am-4pm Mon-Fri, 8.30am-noon Sat)
This
homey place offers a choice of wonderfully earthy meals, including homemade bread,
baked potatoes, soups and sandwiches. It's ideal for vegetarians and anyone sick of greasy
sausages and soggy chips. We're just sorry it doesn't open in the evenings.
INTERNATIONAL
SECURITY IN MAUN
Botswana is an extremely safe destination in which to travel, but as the centre of the country's tourism industry,
Maun has not been without its problems. A rise in petty theft (usually from cars or campsites, but rarely with viol-
ence ) may have diminished thanks to a police crackdown, but it still pays to be careful - don't leave valuables or
bags in parked cars in the city centre and lock them away if you're sleeping in a tent at one of the campsites.
French Connection $$
(Mophane St, Maun; meals from P45; 8.30am-5pm Mon-Sat)
Close to the airport but
on a quieter backstreet, this fine little place serves up salads, baguettes and other light
meals in a shady garden setting. The roast beef sandwich is perfectly executed.
FRENCH
