Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
By the 1930s Lusaka had developed into a sizeable town, and in 1935 the capital was moved here from Living-
stone, to take advantage of Lusaka's central position. The railway never reached Egypt, but Rhodes' dream was
remembered when the name of the main street was formally changed to Cairo Rd - the name it still has today.
Sleeping
Lusaka's sleeping options are pretty spread out, although if you're looking for a back-
packers there are several within a few blocks of one another. In central Lusaka midrange
and top-end options are peppered around Rhodes Park and Embassy Triangle; in Greater
Lusaka most accommodation tends to be in the east off Great East Road, in the direction
of the airport. An important factor to keep in mind is proximity to restaurants; often this
means the closer to a mall the better.
CENTRAL LUSAKA
HOTEL
Southern Sun Ridgeway $$$
( 0211-251666;
www.southernsun.com
;
cnr Church Rd & Independence Ave; s/d incl
breakfast ZMW1,445/1,602; )
Deservedly popular with in-the-know expats and a
coterie of international business and government types, the Southern Sun is a no-brainer
for those seeking an affordable low-key, comfortable city centre option. Adrian Penny, the
experienced South African GM, runs the operation like a tight ship, quick to respond and
cater to guests' every need. Rooms are tastefully done in muted tones; those in the
'weaver' block wing are the most newly renovated (all are due to be refurbished by the
summer of 2013). Past the foyer is an inviting outdoor sitting area surrounding a fishpond
and
Musuku
, a restaurant serving possibly the best breakfast and dinner buffet in the city.
A pub, small gym, large outdoor pool area and free wi-fi round out the offerings. Con-
veniently on the premises are a Barclays Bank, offices for South African Airways and
Proflight.
Taj Pamodzi Hotel $$$
( 0211-254455;
www.tajhotels.com
; Church Rd; s/d incl breakfast from US$300/325;
)
An oasis of luxury and tranquility with fastidiously trained staff, the Taj is a
welcoming cushion for travellers transitioning between the bush and home. Featuring
HOTEL
