Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Note that
hotely
usually means a restaurant/snack bar rather than accommodation, but
some also have rooms.
Most mid-range and budget hotels will do your washing for you at a very reasonable
price. This gives employment to local people and is an important element of responsible
travel. In upper-range and top-end hotels laundry can be disproportionately expensive!
HOTEL CATEGORIES: WHAT YOU GET FOR YOUR MONEY
Luxury
The top hotels and lodges are truly luxurious. They are, without exception,
foreign-owned,butmostshowagoodsensitivity totheneedsofthelocalpeople.Onesuch
French owner explained that as foreigners their conscience dictates that they do not appear
asneo-colonialsandsotheygooutoftheirwaytocontributetocommunity-basedprojects.
Top end
These are either a cut above the average upper-range hotel or are in an expensive
part of Madagascar, such as Nosy Be, where all prices are higher.
Upperrange
Theseareverycomfortablehotelswhichcanbefoundinallmajortownsand
tourist centres. They have all the trappings that upmarket tourists expect: TV, minibar, and
perhapsabusinesscentrewithinternetconnections.Theywillhaveen-suitebathroomsand
restaurants with good food. The larger ones are popular with groups, so check the listed
number of rooms if you're looking for a more intimate atmosphere.
Mid-range
These are often just as clean and comfortable, and most have at least some en-
suite rooms. There will be no TV beaming CNN into your bedroom, but you should have
comfortable beds. The hotels are often family-run and very friendly.
ACCOMMODATION PRICING IN THIS TOPIC
Listsofaccommodationpresenthotelsinpricebandsaccordingtothecostofatypical
double room. (The key below can also be found inside the front cover.)
