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On the northern edge of bustling Lilongwe, tucked into the leafy ambassadorial district, is the super-stylish Latitude 13. Originally built as a private house, it's now a sleek design hotel and totally different to anything else on offer in Lilongwe - or Malawi for that matter! From the cutting edge design, to the monochrome interiors and the fabulous facilities (including the bistro-style restaurant, funky bar, and outdoor pool), no detail has been overlooked. And at only 30 minutes drive from the airport and 10 from the markets and shops of Lilongwe's old town, it really is a pretty perfect stopover.
From $150 person/night
The artwork in the hotel is stunning and most of it is made or sourced from all over Malawi. A wonderful showcase of local talent and creativity – and most of the pieces are available to buy too.
Mingle with the bright and beautiful of Lilongwe at the weekly Friday sundowners in the bar and then head to the restaurant for a feast of African, Mediterranean and Asian flavours.
Latitude is a popular spot, especially at the weekends, and the bar and pool area can sometimes get very… lively!
It's hard to miss the sleek, white lines and the contemporary tiled roof of the hotel, and the exterior design sets the tone for what's to come... Inside, you'll find airy, high ceilings and exposed beams, patterned wallpaper adorned with striking black and white photographs, and lots of Afro-chic furnishings thrown in for good measure. The restaurant feels modern and fresh, with food to match, whilst the bar is buzzing and always lively. The expansive gardens are tranquil and the swimming pool and loungers, glittery and enticing.
The six individually-styled rooms stretch out from the main area, overlooking the gardens, and all are a lesson in clean, elegant design, with polished black floors and walls, exposed brickwork and plenty of geometric fittings and fixtures. Bathrooms are open plan, but with private rain shower and toilet, and there's a sunken bath tub in the centre of each room. Garden suites have private outdoor terraces but all rooms have a mini, indoor seating area. If you're staying for a few nights, book one of the fully-equipped apartments.
The venue often hosts parties, concerts, Ted-style talks, art exhibitions, movies, fashion shows and workshops, so ask around when you arrive for what's on the agenda. If you need a bit of break, head straight to the spa for a blissful treatment (or two or three). The hotel can also book private cars and drivers if you fancy exploring the sights of Lilongwe, even for an hour or two.
Very nice city hotel. We lucked out and enjoyed Malawi dancing and drumming from a few groups--they were entertainment for a business dinner being held there. Nobody seemed to mind that we were not part of the group, and yet enjoyed the show. Very generous. Again, food excellent.
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