Ponta Anchaca

Set on an island in the Atlantic just off Guinea-Bissau, this is a lovely beachfront place to unwind. There are cultural activities on a nearby island too.

For a resort feel on an island off West Africa's coast, this is a good spot. The large bungalows have AC, electricity, wifi, hot water, and more. The tides can affect landings. Staff will do what they can for you.

The cottages come in more than 40 layouts for singles, couples, families, and groups. Each has a porch decorated with local wood carving, a hot water walk-in shower, its own toilet, mosquito nets, split system AC, and some kind of sitting area. They use native materials like hardwood and reed fibers. Housekeeping is excellent, and all the staff were absolutely great. WiFi is available in the central area and in most cottages. The central space has an excursion shop and local woodwork and handicrafts for sale. Meals are offered as breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the full bar is self-pay. Breakfast includes Portuguese juices, coffee and tea, an egg and omelet station, fresh fruit, and yogurt. Lunch and dinner come with an appetizer, main, and dessert. The French chef makes fish, seafood, pasta, and meat dishes. I especially liked the captain fish, grilled shrimp, ceviche, skewers, and stuffed crab with light sauce. Desserts include ice cream, flan, mousses, lava cake, and a favorite we called the cannon ball, a huge dark chocolate shell with sweet filling inside. The presentation is spectacular. The bar is often open for cocktails, wine, and beer. On Rubane, the resort gives you a waterfront island stay. Dining is open air, with several small settings and a larger group area lit with twinkling lights.

We were anchored offshore, apparently the only yacht to visit in years. The experience was incredible. Manageress Shalange and the staff went out of their way to accommodate us and help with the authorities. The food was out of this world. I'd love to return and get married there one day.