Justjody Madagascar Holiday adventure

At the end of 2019 after a tough year, it was time for holiday, this time an island world somewhere in Africa would do. Madagascar it would be then.

Madagascar is an island country in the Indian Ocean, approximately 400 kilometres (250 miles) off the coast of East Africa. At 592,800 square kilometres (228,900 sq mi) Madagascar is the world’s 2nd largest island country. The nation comprises the island of Madagascar (the fourth- largest island in the world) and numerous smaller peripheral islands. The one I visited was Nosy Be  is the second largest island off the northwest coast of Madagascar. Nosy Be is a busy tourist resort and attracts visitors from all over the world but 90% are from France and Italy.

Nosy Be means “big island” in the Malagasy language. The island was called Assada during the early colonial era of the 17th century. Nosy Be has been given several nicknames over the centuries, including “Nosy Manitra” (the scented island).

Upon arrival in Xmas eve, the drive to the Palm Beach Resort, the poverty on the island is visible for everyone to see but what captured my imagination the first few hours on the island is the humbleness and happiness of the locals.

Upon arrival at Palm Beach Resort & Spa which overlooks the ocean, the resort also features an outdoor pool (where I spent a lot of time) buffet restaurant and a spa and wellness centre and has a bar, a terrace, a kids’ club and a 24-hour front desk. Other facilities offered at the property include evening entertainment on selected days. The room was glorious. The staff were extremely friendly and did whatever they could to accommodate and help us. Hotel was spotless.

Besides the great facilities at the resort we also visited a few of the neighbouring islands, and the main city Hell-Ville, a must if you ever visit Madagascar.

The island is rich with sea and water adventures that you van experience on a surfboard, canoe, speedboat or just a swim that you can enjoy in the hot Indian ocean.

The local cuisine is something to get use to but definitely worth a try, The seafood is delicious, fresh and compares to the best in the world.

The local (homemade) rum is available at the local markets and is also worth a try,  just be careful it’s very potent and could leave you with  hangover for three days. I can confirm this.

The holiday was affordable and I got value for money. Euro and US Dollar together with the local Malgassiese ariary are the excepted forms of payments.

For Holiday deals to Madagascar click here

https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/SmartDeals-g479206-zft9672-Nosy_Be_Antsiranana_Province-Hotel-Deals.html