Hôtel Résidence Khadija

The pool area was beautiful and well cared for, with an outdoor shower and clean tables and chairs. The hotel itself was generally clean, and I liked the food, especially the fish Yassa. The rooms and good-sized closet were clean too, though the open shower sends water across the tiles, so watch your step. The safe also wasn’t bolted down, which seemed like an easy target for thieves. We had loudspeaker noise late in the evening and again around 8 a.m., making it hard to sleep in or get the rest we needed. I hope that was a one-off. Staff were quiet but friendly when spoken to; don’t expect a big smile or warm greeting at reception. The airport is fairly close, and the hotel is in Thies. They say they offer an airport shuttle, but Bernard arranged a taxi with Raymond Diop driving. Raymond wouldn’t tell us the fare and said to ask Bernard, which was puzzling. We took three rides: from the airport, about 20-25 minutes away, to the supermarket and back, then back to the airport. I gave him $100 to exchange so I could pay, but got no change. Bernard kept saying I didn’t owe the driver anything. I went to his office, explained the problem, and worked out the exchange rate, but got nowhere. Both men seemed nice, yet the whole thing left me wondering if something was going on. Raymond kept referring me to Bernard, and Bernard kept wavering. I told them at the front desk that I felt I’d overpaid, but got no explanation. The money was gone. Get a clear, fair price first, since they may just throw out numbers. Without changes, I’d hesitate to stay here again.