Dodola Lodge

The stay was disappointing. My room was dusty throughout, the sheets had a strange smell, and the air conditioning wasn't working properly, with no cold air at all. At checkout, the receptionist, a young woman with short hair, was rude. She didn't greet us or say good morning, and went straight to reminding us that checkout was at noon, although we were just 10 minutes late. I had booked around 6:00 PM and told reception I'd arrive late, at about 9:00 PM, which they already knew. Even though I booked well after the official 2:00 PM check-in time, I was charged the full amount and then strictly required to leave by 12:00 noon the next day. It didn't meet my expectations.

For the price, I expected better facilities and found the value disappointing, even though the rooms were spacious. I was told over the phone that parking was available, but the space holds only about four cars and is roughly 50 meters from the main entrance. There’s no porter, so luggage has to be dragged along a narrow road from the car, and it’s difficult to stop in front of the entrance. There’s also no lift, no restaurant on site and no toiletries provided.

The hotel has a lot going for it: it’s cute and cozy, right across from the beach, and the rooms get plenty of natural light. The big bay window and nice balcony add to the appeal. But the welcome at the front desk was cold and dismissive, as if we were an inconvenience. My partner and I couldn’t figure out what had happened, and from other reviews it seems this may be a recurring pattern. First impressions matter. I know it’s not a five-star resort, but there should still be a basic level of courtesy. The ceiling fan didn’t work, the safe was out of order, the AC didn’t blow cool air, and the stairway to the rooms was poorly lit. I can overlook minor maintenance problems if staff treat us decently, but we felt like another sucker walking in. That’s especially sad because Mauritius relies so heavily on tourism. A friendly greeting and some genuine care could make a big difference, even without luxury amenities. For that reason, I wouldn’t recommend the hotel to friends, family or colleagues. I hate writing negative reviews, and as a business owner myself I know the economy makes things hard, but this stay left me genuinely disappointed. Five stars for the location and potential, minus two for the cold welcome.

We felt at home in this villa, and it worked especially well for a longer stay. It had two bedrooms, a full bathroom with a washing machine, a complete kitchen, a lounge and a balcony. The host made sure we had what we needed, and the place was cleaned regularly. Shops and restaurants are nearby, and the beach is right across the way. We loved it and would recommend it.