Maison Abaka

The island nearby is easy to reach from here, but getting help was difficult since the staff didn't speak English. We paid 228 euros for two nights, laundry, and a breakfast that amounted to a basket of bread, two tiny butter packs, and two teaspoons of jam. The portions were so small and there was so little variety that we asked for more twice, which the staff didn't seem to appreciate. The room wasn't clean either: the sheets were stained and the bathroom faucet was clogged. Not worth the price.

The staff were surly, and there was a terrible smell of poultry droppings right outside the entrance. The place isn't centrally located, and animals roam indoors without being cleaned up after regularly. Our vegetarian meal, just two melon slices, a couple of raw vegetables, and rice, cost 25 euros. Breakfast was adequate, though an extra cup of tea cost more. We'd stayed here 10 days earlier, before arriving in Senegal, and returned for our last night. The room seemed untouched: sand was still on the floor, along with a handkerchief I had dropped. The sheets were dirty, with hair from other guests, and I noticed insects on the bed that are found in bird or poultry feathers. We had to insist before they changed the sheets, and even then they didn't clean the floor. Avoid this place.

I’d come back. It’s a little off the beaten path, and without French it can take some figuring out to explain the destination to taxi drivers. For an airport pickup, I’d arrange it through the hotel. Mayoro was punctual, polite, and quick. Inside, the rooms are comfortable, kept clean, and well maintained. The food was tasty, nicely presented, and convenient, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The foam beds were very comfortable, too. The decor has a fun mix of hotel and art museum, and the sweet, extra-friendly “house pets” were a delight. It may seem out of the way, but once you're there, it feels just right. Great value.

The owner is a bit of an odd lady, and I felt awful seeing the birds kept in cages in such poor conditions, with their droppings left uncleaned. They were noisy all the time. Please stop locking up animals. They’re living beings like you and me. The rooms also feel humid. Not a great place to stay.