Ecolodge de Palmarin

I visited almost five years ago, and this place still comes to mind. I've never been anywhere more peaceful. I hope I get the chance to return one day.

This is a lovely, very quiet spot, but it's not a high-end hotel, so keep your expectations simple. The clay houses were comfortable for our family, and the beds were good. They brought an extra bed for our 9-year-old. There aren't any baby cribs, so plan for that. Breakfast was simple but enough, and the dinners were fantastic. The hotel arranged a fishing trip that the whole family enjoyed. My husband caught fish, and the hotel cooked it for our dinner, such great service. We also loved the clean, calm beach and its views. My daughter had fun collecting shells and climbing the many trees around the property. I'd stay again if I had the chance. Take the usual mosquito precautions for West Africa.

If you're thinking of Africa, this is an excellent option for getting past the usual obstacles. But it may not suit travelers who mostly choose Radisson hotels for their trips. The food is fresh and good, though breakfast could be a little better. Knowing French is a real advantage when communicating with the staff.

There’s so much to do here: hike, cycle off road, canoe to nearby islands, or visit the fish market for unbelievably cheap seafood to barbecue with Gazelle beer, Bouye, or Bissap. The food and location are both great, just amazing. The rooms could use some work before they’d be truly world class.