Sarimanok

The sunset from the deck is truly spectacular, and the rooms are quiet and peaceful at night. I enjoyed my stay, and the pool was clean. Rooms were clean too, with good beds, plenty of space, a minibar, air conditioning, fan, and safe. The restaurant was good, though vegetarian choices were limited. Staff were helpful, but should wear uniforms or at least similar colors. The place is right on the beach, so you can step off the deck and into the ocean. The beach isn't the best, but it's still beautiful. The street is extremely primitive and busy, and almost nobody speaks English. There is a pharmacy and a few tourist excursion shops nearby. Some upkeep is needed. The sun has faded the pool cushions and they need replacing; reception has a funny smell. Small details are worn or loose, like the mirror finish not being properly attached, the very old toilet seat, and old paintings.

There are still plenty of good points: good rooms and beds, a nice atmosphere, friendly staff, a small but okay pool, a good restaurant, good views, and a great location by the beach and close to everything. But management seems to have lost some focus, and this used to be one of the best hotels in Nosy Be. The most frustrating part for me was the Wi-Fi. It kept asking me to log in, then worked badly once connected. It was one of the worst internet services on the island, and blaming Nosy Be doesn't fit when other hotels, like Blue Velvet, have fast, reliable internet. If you need internet, staying here will be very frustrating. I also had water leaks, noisy air conditioning, and the air conditioner dripped water onto my notebook. There was a smell of wood wax, and the air conditioner blew onto my bed and made me sick.

A very good hotel, and it's easy to rent quads right next door.

The food at this restaurant is tasty, and save room for the delicious ice cream. Harry Ratiarison's live music made the meal even better.