Carlton Tana

Modern furnishings and sleek designs permeate this five-star hotel. La Terrasse serves a hearty buffet breakfast in a window-lined room that overlooks a broad veranda and the pool patio. Another restaurant and two bars round out the dining options. Outside are plenty of umbrellas and natural canopies for refuge from the sun. The gardens have a tropical feel and attract a variety of birds and butterflies – even the occasional chameleon. Other facilities include a tennis court and fitness centre.

The hotel's 171 rooms offer varying degrees of luxury and space. Regular rooms are equipped with two twin or one large bed. Superior rooms enjoy marginally more space, enough for a small breakfast table. Premium rooms are the most plush, with king-sized beds and large picture windows looking on to the reservoir. All have en-suite bathrooms with marble counters, separate showers, tubs and double basins. Wi-fi (acceptable but not always super-fast), plasma TVs and 24-hour room service is standard.

While classically a destination for business travellers, Carlton's slick executive services make it convenient for anyone passing through Tana.