Royal Sakalava

We thought the hotel was a decent deal for the money. Other bay resorts didn't offer better value in my view, even though their ratings were higher. Those ratings seem inflated. I'm judging with travel around the world in mind, including differences in local and regional economies. The place feels rustic more than resort-like. Hens, geese, cocks, and zebus wander around freely. That may or may not suit you. If you need to be up at 5 am, the animals will make sure of it, which was a nice change for us. The location is pleasant, much like the other resorts on the bay, and the pool is a plus. Rooms are simple and practical. The large ceiling fan over the bed is great, and the solar panels mean power all day and night, so the fan can keep running while you sleep. In Madagascar, that's not something to take for granted. The windows have mosquito nets and metal grates, which add security and let you sleep with the windows open. There's no mini-bar to keep drinks cold, though the cleaning team does a good job. The waitresses are kind and always greet you with a smile. At the restaurant, the salads are fresh, tasty, and generous, and the shrimp wok is good. The chicken wrap, including a vegetarian version on request, is tasty and filling. Penne Siciliana is just okay. The chips are fried too much, so choose roasted potatoes if you're picky. The pizza oven was only running on the weekend when there were more guests, perhaps because it was near the end of the season. A half-board room costs about the same as at other hotels around the bay, though this one is a little cheaper and simpler. You can pay by cash or bank transfer only. It's a good base for a watersports holiday, including kitesurfing and wingfoiling. Book an instructor through them if you can. Their instructors are cheaper and just as competent as those at the other schools. We made the mistake of choosing another school after being told it was better, and paid more for an experience that wasn't better. The bay is overrated overall. Prices in Madagascar are high and rising, while services aren't improving at the same pace.