Hotel Hints

The single most important safety advice that can be given to a guest here relates to the ocean. Do not swim in the sea. The currents are dangerous just off Lomé among confused powerful undercurrents (barre) so well known by all local people, speaking tragically of several lost lives yearly fishermen even dare hardly go slightly offshore for fear apparent even on their faces when talking about it! Let your stronger swimming companions also keep out because they may tire before getting back; let’s use only walking along beaches or sunbathing near them while observing how fishers operate but doing actual swimming within some pool at this hotel where management probably warns clients too yet needs serious consideration.

The West African CFA Franc (XOF) is the currency in which Togo remains a heavily cash-based country. The hotel’s point-of-sale system does accept credit cards- more commonly Visa than Mastercard- but sometimes the connection falls “momentarily” down due to network issues. You will need cash to pay drivers, buy souvenirs or tip anyone on the staff. There are ATMs in town but better safe than sorry to have Euros (easily exchanged) or some stash of CFA.

And, be prepared for the tropics. The hotel is surrounded by lush greenery and that means mosquitoes mostly at dusk and dawn. There is malaria in Togo so bring strong insect repellent, make sure your room has a mosquito net or keep the doors closed. Also, this “slow service” reported in reviews is a cultural reality; dining is considered an activity to be enjoyed gradually. If you are starving, place your order long before you get to that state or better still order a drink sit back enjoy the garden view while waiting.