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Madagascar's capital city of Antananarivo ("Tana") often gives a false first impression of this island-nation. As the country's economic and cultural hub, its noise and chaotic air of busyness can be bewildering. But beyond the hubbub the landscape is laid-back, habitats are varied and interesting, and wildlife is unique. Carlton Tana sits in the heart of the bustle, near a small, tranquil reservoir that's a peaceful anchor in the bustle. With a touch of class, this decent-sized hotel, plus its 24-hour room service, spa, and collection of restaurants, helps restore weary, jet-lagged travellers.
From $120 person/night
The on-site spa with its chilled atmosphere and full range of treatments.Perfect post-flight bliss!
After a morning spent exploring the city, or attending to business, it's good to lounge poolside beneath an umbrella or in the shade of a towering palm.
The Bistrot, open from 07:00 am until 01:00 am, is perfect for a coffee and a pastry or other small, original dishes.
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.
Trawling Tana's bustle of streets is unlikely to be your prime motive for visiting Madagascar, but the city is certainly worthy of a day or two. Its history of royalty and conquest is a fascinating foil for the rest of the country's wildlife-centric spaces. The mix of French, Southeast Asian and myriad tribal identities make for colourful cultural festivals, of which there are many. Enjoy the markets, and the elevated views from the the 17th-century palace of Manjakamiadana.
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