Holiday in Madagascar

Q: I would love to visit Madagascar and would like to spend some time at a resoprt in Nosy Be. Could you recommend a small, laid-back resort which offers great value for money? - Mike Thomas

A; There is a wide range of accommodation options on Nosy Be. If you want a real "getaway" resort, then check out the Sakatia Lodge. It is located on the little island of Nosy Sakatia, situated 2km off the north western side of Nosy Be Island. The lodge, which has nine bungalows en suite, offers deserted white sand beaches, turquoise water and a coral reef for snorkelling and diving. The island, which has no roads, is only 6.5kms long and 2km wide. It is run by Jose and Isabella Vieira, who have lived in South Africa (www.madagascat.co.za). Other resorts you could try are the 10-room L'heure Bleue Bungalow Hotel (which is located on the beach and has a swimming pool) and the Sakatia Towers guest house (a seven-room resort located on a hill with a great view). If you don't intend spending an extended period in the country and the main purpose of your trip is to holiday at Nosy Be, it might be best to book a package that includes international and domestic flights, accommodation, a night in Antanarivo and airport transfers. You can book packages through Selftour Holidays (www.selftourafrica.co.za), Exotic Vacations (www.exoticvacations.co.za) or Africa Trails (www.africatrails.co.za). (21/11/10)