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AFRICA<br />
awards guide 2016<br />
<strong>Travel</strong> & Hopsitality <strong>Awards</strong>, recognising the best that the travel industry has to offer<br />
Morocco<br />
UNIQUE<br />
LUXURY<br />
SOUTH<br />
AFRICA<br />
The country<br />
that has it all<br />
Dive<br />
IN<br />
Mauritius<br />
<strong>www</strong>.<strong>thawards</strong><strong>com</strong>
Contents<br />
6<br />
Editors Letter<br />
–––––––––<br />
7<br />
Meet the team<br />
–––––––––<br />
8 – 9<br />
Judging Criteria<br />
–––––––––<br />
10<br />
Hotel Winners<br />
–––––––––<br />
26<br />
Tour & Activity Winners<br />
–––––––––<br />
Name of Landscape/Hotel<br />
36<br />
Full Winners List<br />
–––––––––<br />
2 3
EDITOR’S LETTER<br />
Wel<strong>com</strong>e to the 2016 edition of the <strong>Africa</strong><br />
<strong>Awards</strong> guide, part of global series, in this edition<br />
you’ll find our full list of hotel winner along with<br />
an in depth profile on a select few including the<br />
stunning Fairmont Nile City in Egypt, the unique<br />
Mara Concord Game Lodge in Kenya and the<br />
downright amazing Le Meridien Fisherman’s<br />
Cove in the Seychelles.<br />
Finding the perfect place to stay is only half the<br />
trip the other half is selecting the best things to do<br />
once you’ve made it and with our tour & activity<br />
winners you’ll find the best of the best. Diving<br />
<strong>com</strong>panies, yacht charters and wine tours are but<br />
a few of our profiled winners.<br />
Enjoy<br />
Katherine Lozell<br />
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF<br />
TEAM<br />
Dennis Mayhew<br />
CEO<br />
Raja Kamran<br />
MANAGING DIRECTOR<br />
Katherine Lozell<br />
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF<br />
Marcs Bacera<br />
ART DIRECTOR<br />
Craig Alexander<br />
AWARDS DIRECTOR<br />
Zoe Watkins<br />
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING<br />
Mark Tierney<br />
DIRECTOR OF SALES<br />
Emma Jade<br />
Jacqui Irvine<br />
Joseph Wilton<br />
SENIOR WRITERS<br />
Antoine Jackson<br />
Dave Chen<br />
SENIOR DESIGNERS<br />
Stanley Lucas<br />
Brian Anson<br />
Zack Ford<br />
Peter Clement<br />
Lindsay Evans<br />
AWARDS MANAGERS<br />
Brian Anson<br />
ACCOUNTS MANAGER<br />
Stanley Lucas<br />
Costin Marcel<br />
Sarah Patel<br />
RESEARCH MANAGERS<br />
Harry Singh<br />
CREDIT CONTROLLER<br />
4 5
CRITERIA<br />
Location<br />
Location is one of the most important factors, but also one of the most subjective,<br />
as the ‘ideal’ is very much determined by the type of visitor and the type of<br />
hotel itself. However, there a few factors we take into consideration when determining<br />
the winners of location-based awards. The first is convenience; that<br />
is, hotels that are easy to travel to. Many of our winners in this category are in<br />
convenient locations, such as adjacent to airports, close to beaches or found<br />
in the heart of easy-to-navigate cities. We are always impressed when hotels<br />
go the extra mile to take the hassle out of traveling and offer such additional<br />
services as airport shuttles or car hire services. However, we’re always excited<br />
to <strong>com</strong>e across a hotel that is, to use a familiar phrase, off-the-beaten-track. A<br />
hotel that can offer something a little different, in terms of natural surroundings,<br />
can make the difference between a good holiday and an incredible one.<br />
Style & Design<br />
It is no question that style and design plays a big part in selecting our awards<br />
shortlist. A guest will form an opinion about a hotel as soon as they arrive so<br />
it is important to us that all our winners make those first impressions count.<br />
We’re certainly not partial to a particular period of architecture – but whether<br />
we’re judging a gothic castle or an environmentally friendly lodge, the criteria<br />
remains the same. We consider factors such as architectural features, use of<br />
materials, creation of spaces, décor and the overall feel. We love it when we<br />
find a hotel that tells a story though its design and construction, or offers a<br />
design that is sympathetic to the natural surroundings of its location.<br />
Excellence in Service<br />
Excellence in Service is an important category, as customer service can often<br />
be responsible for having guests return year after year. We look for the hotels<br />
and tour operators that go out of their way to please their guests, those<br />
that provide a personal level of service and take the time to get to know each<br />
visitor so that they might anticipate their every need. This can be something<br />
as simple as a 24-hour concierge desk, a hotel manager who offers a personal<br />
greeting or a tour guide who is happy to create bespoke private tours – but<br />
whatever it is, we are always pleased when we encounter staff that have been<br />
trained in the art of customer satisfaction.<br />
Marketing<br />
In today’s modern age, a hotel or tour operator cannot rely on word of mouth<br />
to get their message out into the world. As social media has be<strong>com</strong>e a vital part<br />
of everyday life, we like to see <strong>com</strong>panies that go the extra mile to engage with<br />
their guests, both past and future. Attractive and informative websites and engaging<br />
and honest content and what we look for when judging a <strong>com</strong>pany’s<br />
use of marketing; how well they display their services, how up-to-date their<br />
content is, how well they get their brand message across, and, most importantly,<br />
how well their marketing can tempt us to go and see what they have to<br />
offer for ourselves.<br />
Facilities<br />
Award-winning guest rooms <strong>com</strong>e in all shapes and sizes, but they all have one<br />
thing in <strong>com</strong>mon – a home-away-from-home feel. The <strong>com</strong>fort of the facilities<br />
on offer are of vital importance; we look for luxurious linens, stylish bathrooms<br />
and a coordinated colour scheme that work together to create a cohesive sense<br />
of relaxation. Additional touches, such as <strong>com</strong>plimentary toiletries, free wi-fi<br />
or tea and coffee making facilities are always a bonus in making us feel wel<strong>com</strong>e.<br />
We’re always impressed to find hotel rooms that embrace technology<br />
and offer amenities like tablets or smart thermostat systems, but this does not<br />
always necessarily trump the traditional – four poster beds, ornate fireplaces<br />
or antique furniture can add a touch of decadence to a hotel stay.<br />
6 7
HOTEL<br />
WINNERS<br />
8 9
Botswana<br />
AVANI Gaborone Resort & Casino<br />
HOTEL<br />
Cape Verde<br />
Oasis Praiamar<br />
HOTEL<br />
HOTEL OF THE YEAR<br />
BEACH FRONT HOTEL OF THE YEAR<br />
Botswana’s premier hotel, AVANI Gaborone Resort & Casino, perfectly blends <strong>Africa</strong>n style with modern luxury. As part of<br />
the AVANI global chain, our judges were impressed by the high level of service and facilities on offer while enjoying proximity<br />
to the finest attractions Gaborone has to offer; the hotel is located close to the Central Business District and the Gaborone Golf<br />
Course, making it a particular favourite among those visiting the city on business. Other features include the largest casino in<br />
Botswana, a fully serviced gym, a unisex hair salon, children’s entertainment, a range of local tours and experiences and several<br />
outstanding restaurants, ensuring that guests need not go far to find something to intrigue their interests. Guest ac<strong>com</strong>modations<br />
include luxury rooms and suites and a spacious presidential suite, all designed to capture a home-away-from-home feel.<br />
Visitors can enjoy a tasteful <strong>Africa</strong>n-inspired setting and relax in the heart of the city.<br />
Nestled on a clifftop overlooking the sea, Oasis Atlantico Praiamar Hotel offers breathtaking views of a landscape rich in history.<br />
Located in Praia, the largest city in Cape Verde (and also an important fishing port) the hotel offers 119 rooms, three<br />
deluxe suites, and a presidential suite, all characterised by a bright and fresh décor and outstanding amenities. This simple yet<br />
chic design is carried throughout the hotel, creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity. The best views can be found in<br />
the Panorama Bar which serves delicious cocktails, or in Prainha restaurant, where you´ll traditional Cape-Verdian gastronomy<br />
and an exquisite range of sea food. When not drinking in the views, guests can enjoy such services as a swimming pool and<br />
jacuzzi, a gym, relaxing massages or excursions around the historic landmarks of Praia.<br />
AVANI Gaborone<br />
Resort & Casino<br />
4727 Chuma Dr, Gaborone,<br />
Botswana<br />
Tel +267 361 6000<br />
minorhotels.<strong>com</strong>/en/avani/<br />
Oasis Praiamar<br />
Prainha, Cidade da Praia, Santiago<br />
Tel (+238) 260 8440<br />
oasisatlantico.<strong>com</strong>/en/praiamar/<br />
10 11
Ivory Coast<br />
Radisson Blu Hotel, Abidjan Airport<br />
HOTEL<br />
Egypt<br />
Fairmont Nile City<br />
HOTEL<br />
HOTEL OF THE YEAR<br />
AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE<br />
Airport hotels usually offer little more than convenience, particularly for frequent fliers whose only concern is securing a<br />
decent night’s sleep before an early flight. However, for Radisson Blu Hotel, Abidjan Airport, convenience and proximity<br />
to the Ivory Coast’s largest airport were not the only factors that were considered when choosing the recipient of this award.<br />
Additionally, it is the Radisson Blu’s internationally renowned reputation and <strong>com</strong>mitment to guest satisfaction that helped<br />
secure its well-deserved win. The guest experience is at the heart of everything at Radisson Blu Hotel, Abidjan Airport, with an<br />
emphasis on maintaining a carefully designed, instantly recognisable brand synonymous with high standards. The hotel offers<br />
261 rooms and suites, featuring warm, contemporary tones and high-class fittings. Other features, such as the one touch service<br />
buttons featured in every room, the Super Breakfast buffet and 24-hour airport shuttle, further demonstrate how far the<br />
hotel is willing to go to maintain high levels of satisfaction.<br />
The first thing that drew our attention to Fairmont Nile City was not its prestigious location on the bank of the Nile, though<br />
that certainly adds to the experience. But what really makes a stay here special is the way the hotel offers an advanced technological<br />
design to perfectly the serve the needs of even the most discerning, 21st Century visitor while still blending seamlessly<br />
with its natural surroundings. With a view of the pyramids in the distance, Egypt’s history is never far away, but this can be<br />
enjoyed in the most modern and luxurious of settings. All guest rooms feature an open concept bathroom with sliding shutters,<br />
rain showers and exclusive bathroom amenities by Le Labo. Fairmont Nile City also offers a range of luxury dining options,<br />
world class spa and health club facilities and an incredible rooftop pool, all designed to transport guests into a world of <strong>com</strong>fort<br />
and class.<br />
Fairmont Nile City<br />
2005, Nile Corniche, Egypt<br />
Tel +20 2 24619494<br />
fairmont.<strong>com</strong>/nile-city-cairo/<br />
Radisson Blu Hotel,<br />
Abidjan Airport<br />
Boulevard de l’Aéroport, Abidjan,<br />
Côte d’Ivoire<br />
Tel +225 21 22 20 00<br />
radissonblu.<strong>com</strong>/en<br />
12 13
Kenya<br />
Fairmont The Norfolk<br />
HOTEL<br />
Kenya<br />
Mara Concord Game Lodge<br />
HOTEL<br />
AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE<br />
BOUTIQUE HOTEL OF THE YEAR<br />
Whether visiting Nairobi for business or pleasure, it is clear that Fairmont The Norfolk has been designed with the guest in<br />
mind. The full range of services includes an award-winning signature restaurant, a spa and health club, and a high-class business<br />
centre <strong>com</strong>prising of eight conference rooms and four executive boardrooms, which offer an alternative setting the city’s<br />
Central Business District which is located nearby. Special ac<strong>com</strong>modations are provided for families, such as a Lifestyle Cuisine<br />
programme for younger gourmands, a baby-sitting service and a range of engaging activities that will introduce the whole<br />
family to the historical and cultural highlights of Nairobi. Our judges were particularly impressed by the range of speciality<br />
rooms and luxury suites available, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed stay amidst a busy city setting.<br />
Located on a 26-acre plot on the bank of the River Mara, Mara Concord Game Lodge offers its guests a boutique hotel experience<br />
like no other. With just 65 guest chalets (including one VIP cottage) all visitors are afforded an unrivalled level of<br />
service while situated in incredible natural surroundings. Every care has been taken to ensure guests can <strong>com</strong>pletely immerse<br />
themselves in the setting; when not enjoying guided nature walks and game drives, visitors can enjoy such amenities as beauty<br />
therapy and massage services, open-air fine dining and unique conferencing facilities. Mara Concord Game Lodge prides itself<br />
on providing authentic experiences in Kenya while maintaining high levels of customer service; despite the rustic setting,<br />
guests can still enjoy modern conveniences such as high speed wireless internet, laundry services and a swimming pool.<br />
Fairmont The Norfolk<br />
Harry Thuku Rd, Nairobi, Kenya<br />
Tel +254 (0) 20 2265000<br />
fairmont.<strong>com</strong>/norfolk-hotel-nairobi/<br />
Mara Concord Game Lodge<br />
Lemek Conservancy to the northwest<br />
of Maasai Mara , 00100 Talek,<br />
Kenya, Narok 00100<br />
Tel +254 711 111333<br />
maraconcord.<strong>com</strong><br />
14 15
Madagascar<br />
Carlton Madagascar<br />
HOTEL<br />
Morocco<br />
Le Diwan Rabat - MGallery by Sofitel<br />
HOTEL<br />
AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE<br />
UNIQUE LUXURY HOTEL OF THE YEAR<br />
Carlton Madagascar’s motto is ‘feel like home’ – and it was immediately clear to our judges that a truer word had never been<br />
spoken. The hotel is internationally renowned for its dedication to providing outstanding service with a Malagasy twist; 171<br />
stunning rooms and suites offer a range of luxuries including stylish marble bathrooms, HDTV’s and free airport transfers.<br />
Wellness and leisure services include a leisure centre, <strong>com</strong>plete with a semi-Olympic swimming pool and tennis courts, a beauty<br />
centre and a grand casino, ensuring that every moment can be spent indulging in pleasure. A range of restaurants and bars<br />
offer an eclectic range of traditional and contemporary cuisine. We were also impressed by Carlton Madagascar long-standing<br />
<strong>com</strong>mitment to corporate social responsibility in line with its core values of working together and personal development.<br />
Morocco may well be a land of traditions, but it can also offer an explorer unique and unexpected experiences – and those who<br />
seek the unexpected in Rabat should look no further than Hotel Le Diwan Rabat. To stay at this hotel is to truly embrace the<br />
spirit of travel. Rooms are inspired by the essence of the Orient while capturing the sights and scents of <strong>Africa</strong> – and this juxtaposition<br />
of cultures is reflected throughout Hotel Le Diwan Rabat. Dining options include French and Mediterranean cuisine,<br />
while Le Bar XO offers a soothing atmosphere and an eclectic blend of jazz and tapas served in a specially designed tagine.<br />
Those that wish to indulge in Moroccan culture can do so in the on-site spa and enjoy a traditional hammam. Our guests were<br />
impressed by this seamless blending of cultures which created a truly unique stay.<br />
Carlton Madagascar<br />
Rue Pierre Stibbe Anosy Madagascar<br />
Tel + 261 20 22 260 60<br />
carlton-madagascar.<strong>com</strong>/en<br />
Le Diwan Rabat - MGallery<br />
by Sofitel<br />
Place de l’Unité <strong>Africa</strong>ine, 10005<br />
Rabat, Morocco<br />
Tel (+212) 05 3020 0390<br />
sofitel.<strong>com</strong><br />
16 17
Seychelles<br />
Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove<br />
HOTEL<br />
South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Cape Royale Luxury Hotel<br />
HOTEL<br />
AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE<br />
HOTEL & RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR<br />
The most impressive thing about a stay at Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove is not the stunning views of the famed Beau-Vallon<br />
Beach, though it certainly adds to the atmosphere of luxury and romance. Nor is it its stunning range of spacious and decadently<br />
decorated ocean front suites – the judges favourite feature of this hotel is its <strong>com</strong>plete <strong>com</strong>mitment to customer service. All<br />
guests are given access to Let’s Chat 25/7 software, which provides constant access to the hotel’s staff and services. Available<br />
on WhatsApp, BBM and iMessage, guests can stay in contact with Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove before, during and after<br />
their stay, ensuring their every whim is taken care of. In addition to Let’s Chat, our judges were also impressed by the range<br />
of activities on offer, allowing visitors to explore a range of cultural, historical and thrilling attractions and see a different side<br />
of the Seychelles.<br />
Cape Town is world renowned as a food lover’s paradise and nowhere is this more evident than at Cape Royale. The hotel<br />
boasts eight spectacular restaurants and bars, all conveniently located on one floor, inviting guests to take a culinary journey<br />
around the world. A dazzling range of cuisines is on offer, including French, Thai, Italian, Indian and Middle Eastern, allowing<br />
visitors to enjoy their favourites or discover new tastes or indulge the senses. Visitors will find an eatery to suit every occasion;<br />
the laid-back Shift Espresso Bar is perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing, while an evening at the Zenith Sky Bar<br />
will add a touch of romance to special holiday. When not exploring the full range of gastronomic delights on offer, guests can<br />
also take advantage of such fantastic amenities as the Casuarina Wellness Spa, golf course or the private beach.<br />
Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove<br />
Bel Ombre, P.O. Box 35, Mahé,<br />
Seychelles<br />
Tel +248 4677 000<br />
lemeridienfishermanscove.<strong>com</strong><br />
Cape Royale Luxury Hotel<br />
47 Main Road, Green Point<br />
Cape Town, South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Tel +27 (0) 21 430 0500<br />
caperoyale.co.za/<br />
18 19
South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
<strong>Africa</strong>n Oceans Manor on the Beach<br />
HOTEL<br />
South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Sabi Sabi<br />
HOTEL<br />
SEA VIEW HOTEL OF THE YEAR<br />
SAFARI LODGE OF THE YEAR<br />
What do you picture when you think of an establishment that offers five-star beach-front luxury? Whatever image you conjure<br />
up, <strong>Africa</strong>n Oceans Manor is sure to exceed your every expectation. A stay here is defined by uninterrupted sea and mountain<br />
views, and a peaceful yet sophisticated atmosphere – the stunning, seaside setting is woven into everyday life, inspiring a stay<br />
that is inspired by the sights and sounds of ocean-front living. Guest ac<strong>com</strong>modation is offered in either <strong>Africa</strong>n Oceans Manor<br />
or the exclusive <strong>Africa</strong>n Oceans Villa, the latter providing direct beach access. All spacious rooms are categorised by light and<br />
airy décor and luxurious amenities, adding a touch of splendour to your stay. Guests are encouraged to make the most of the<br />
incredible South <strong>Africa</strong>n landscape; enjoy a game of golf, take a family bike ride, relax in the Jacuzzi, swim in the ocean or enjoy<br />
a picnic at sunset, specially prepared by the hotel’s chefs.<br />
When choosing to undertake an <strong>Africa</strong>n Safari holiday, look no further than Sabi Sabi. Situated within the world-renowned<br />
6,5000 hectare Sabi Sand Wildtuin in the South-Western section of the Kruger National Park, Sabi Sabi has been offering<br />
safari adventures since 1979, and well deserves its reputation for excellence – not just in terms of the wildlife experiences<br />
on offer, but also providing first-class levels of luxury. When not marvelling over their proximity to the <strong>Africa</strong>n wildlife, our<br />
judges were admiring the ac<strong>com</strong>modation on offer; Sabi Sabi provides four separate luxury lodges, each with its own theme and<br />
style; the Selati Camp offers a much more romantic atmosphere, while the Bush Lodge and Little Bush Camp offers a level of<br />
contemporary class one would not expect to find in the wild. Earth Lodge, literally carved out of the surroundings, is a haven<br />
of avant-garde simplicity and has been named the most environmentally sensitive lodge in <strong>Africa</strong>.<br />
Sabi Sabi<br />
4 Jameson Avenue, Melrose Estate,<br />
Johannesburg, South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Tel +27 13 735 5771<br />
sabisabi.<strong>com</strong><br />
<strong>Africa</strong>n Oceans Manor<br />
on the Beach<br />
7 Bob Bouwer Crescent, Bayview,<br />
Mossel Bay, South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Tel +27 (044) 695 1846<br />
africanoceans.co.za/<br />
20 21
HOTEL<br />
Tanzania<br />
Golden Tulip Dar Es Salaam City Center Hotel<br />
HOTEL OF THE YEAR<br />
Tunisia<br />
Medina Solaria And Thalasso<br />
HOTEL OF THE YEAR<br />
HOTEL<br />
A modern hotel in a historic city; Golden Tulip Dar Es Salaam City Center Hotel offers a stay of contrasts defined by four-star<br />
luxury. Although located in the heart of Dar Es Salaam, the hotel provides a quiet and dignified respite from the surrounding<br />
tourist attractions. With just 55 rooms and suites, guests can be sure of a personalised and attentive service. All guest ac<strong>com</strong>modation<br />
offers sweeping city panoramas or beautiful sea views and <strong>com</strong>e <strong>com</strong>plete with such added touches as flat screen<br />
TVS, state-of-the-art-music systems, luxury bathrooms and <strong>com</strong>plimentary gym access. The help desk is open 24 hours a day<br />
to ensure needs and enquiries can be handled swiftly and professionally, no matter the time of day, and the Citrus Restaurant<br />
offers seasonal breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, which is perfect for visitors on the go.<br />
Medina Hotel Solaria and Thalasso is a deserving winner of Hotel of the Year. The great location, wide array of activities onsite<br />
and nearby, and unmatched Tunisian service will make your Solaria and Thalasso experience truly unforgettable, whether<br />
you’re travelling on business, with a family, or a seeking a romantic getaway. Located in Hammamet, the hotel is held in high<br />
regard for its standard of guest rooms and suites, which offer understated luxury and <strong>com</strong>fort. Leisure services include a<br />
premiere thalassotherapy centre and fitness centre, an outdoor pool, golf and dedicated children’s entertainment services,<br />
ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. A variety of cuisines can also be found at Solaria and Thalasso, with six<br />
restaurants and bars serving everything from traditional <strong>Africa</strong>n delicacies to casual poolside snacks. The hotel also offers a<br />
dedicated conference centre, further cementing its promise to offer every guest the perfect stay.<br />
Golden Tulip Dar Es Salaam<br />
City Center Hotel<br />
Jamhuri St, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania<br />
Tel +255 22 2129351<br />
goldentulip.<strong>com</strong><br />
Medina Solaria And Thalasso<br />
Rue de La Medina, Yasmine<br />
Hammamet, 8050, Tunisia<br />
Tel (+216) 72 240 211<br />
medina.<strong>com</strong>.tn<br />
22 23
Morocco<br />
Kenzi Menara Palace & Resort<br />
Country Hotel of the Year<br />
HOTEL<br />
Guests of Kenzi Merara Palace & Resort will find themselves in an incredible setting. Situated directly opposite the Agdal<br />
Royal Gardens, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the manicured lawns and dappled citrus groves, with the Atlas Mountains<br />
standing resplendently in the distance. Inspired by the Arabo-Andalusia tradition, all 236 rooms feature impressionist-style<br />
architecture and a warming mix of Moroccan colours and textures to create a relaxing environment steeped in luxury. The hotel<br />
staff go to extraordinary lengths to foster a peaceful atmosphere and deliver seamless service; guests are offered such services<br />
as transfers, a baby-sitting service, a boutique shopping centre and 24-hour concierge team – small but wel<strong>com</strong>e touches that<br />
add another layer of refinement and relaxation to your stay. Guest facilities also include a spa and gym, indoor and outdoor<br />
pools and a business centre and conference rooms.<br />
Kenzi Menara Palace & Resort<br />
Zone de l’Agdal, Avenue Mohamed VI, Marrakech, Morocco<br />
Tel +212 (0) 5 24 45 99 00<br />
kenzi-hotels.<strong>com</strong><br />
24 25
TOUR &<br />
ACTIVITY<br />
WINNERS<br />
26 27
Cape Verde<br />
Alwaysailing<br />
TOUR<br />
Egypt<br />
Emo Tours Egypt<br />
TOUR<br />
Sailing Company of the Year<br />
Award for Excellence in Service<br />
Few can visit Cape Verde and escape the lure of sun, sea, and ideal year-round sailing conditions and, as such, visitors are<br />
spoilt for choice when it <strong>com</strong>es to engaging the services of a local sailing <strong>com</strong>pany. However, our judges were particularly impressed<br />
with Alwaysailing and the exclusive experience that can be found on board ‘White Time’. A luxury ocean racing yacht,<br />
White Time offers sailing trips around the west coast of Sal Island from the bay of Santa Maria, but the beautiful views are just<br />
one of the many delights to be enjoyed. The well-experienced crew, led by Captain Eugene, are dedicated to meeting the personal<br />
requirements of every guest. An all-inclusive service can be found on board, from hotel pick up and drop offs, an open<br />
bar, use of the snorkelling equipment to the delicious lunch served at your leisure. The vessel is also out-fitted to the highest<br />
standards and offers incredibly <strong>com</strong>fortable guest quarters and amenities such as wi-fi and air-conditioning.<br />
Emo Tours are a <strong>com</strong>pany of trusted, passionate travel specialists who create customised luxury tours that truly capture the<br />
spirt of Egypt. All tours are <strong>com</strong>pletely based on their guests’ interests and schedule, guaranteeing customised itineraries and<br />
one-of-a-kind journeys tailored to your every desire. Our judges admired the sheer scope of experiences on offer, from private<br />
Nile cruises and cosmopolitan city breaks to historic tours and overnight stays in the heart of the desert; guests can enjoy day<br />
trips or multi-day excursions and travel <strong>com</strong>pletely at their own pace. Emo Tours Egypt have carefully cultivated excellent<br />
relationships with hotels, transfer <strong>com</strong>panies and tour guides, meaning all guests can be sure of a highly personalised and<br />
trusted service.<br />
Alwaysailing<br />
Santa Maria, Ilha do Sal, Cape Verde<br />
Tel +238 956 44 20<br />
alwaysailing.<strong>com</strong><br />
Emo Tours Egypt<br />
10 Ahmed Ragheb Street, Cornish El-Nile |Garden<br />
City, Cairo 11519, Egypt<br />
Tel +202 39753431<br />
emotoursegypt.<strong>com</strong><br />
28 29
Mauritius<br />
Pro Dive Mauritius Ltd<br />
TOUR<br />
Kenya<br />
Safari Kenya Watamu - Day Tours<br />
TOUR<br />
Diving Company of the Year<br />
Safari Company of the Year<br />
At Pro Dive Mauritius, a PADI five-star diving resort, professionality and responsibility service is at the heart of everything<br />
they do. To reach a five-star rating, Pro Dive had to demonstrate its ability to offer the full range of PADI scuba programmes,<br />
have an excellent section of dive equipment and offer activities that promote aquatic environmental responsibility – however,<br />
it is clear that Pro Dive go beyond these requirements to also ensure they provide the best possible customer service and experience,<br />
no matter the diver’s level of experience. Capitalising on Mauritius’ excellent diving conditions, Pro Dive offer a range<br />
of diving courses and excursions, from ‘First Bubble’ courses for beginners to PADI certification. Thrilling night dives and<br />
private dives, with use of Pro Drive’s luxury cruiser, are also available.<br />
Safari Kenya Watamu offers day tours to the most famous game reserves and tourist attractions across Kenya, and is the ideal<br />
choice for those who may be travelling on business or else short on time. Both group and private tours are available and guests<br />
can visit such locations as Masai Mara, Tsavo East and West, Hell’s Kitchen and Robinson Island; whether you seek a traditional<br />
game safari or wish for a more unique and hands-on experience, such as a walking tour, Safari Kenya Watamu can offer an<br />
experience that exactly suits your needs and expectations. All tours offer hotel transfers and a delicious lunch, while staff are<br />
on hand to cater for your every need, helping you get the most out of your day.<br />
Pro Dive Mauritius Ltd<br />
Centre de plongée à Trou aux<br />
Biches Ile Maurice<br />
Tel (+230) 265 6213<br />
prodivemauritius.<strong>com</strong><br />
Safari Kenya Watamu<br />
Jacaranda Road, Watamu,<br />
Kenya<br />
Tel +254 72 84 62 534<br />
safariwatamu.<strong>com</strong><br />
30 31
Morocco<br />
Said Private Day Tours<br />
TOUR<br />
South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Cape Town Helicopters<br />
TOUR<br />
Tour Company of the Year<br />
Unique Tour Company of the Year<br />
Said Private Day Tours offer visitors to Morocco the chance to ‘travel their way’. Catering exclusively for those who seek<br />
luxurious, VIP experiences, a Said private tour is characterised by luxury vehicles, five-star dining experiences and out of the<br />
ordinary experiences. With a focus on catering for travellers visiting Morocco from Spain, Said is particularly popular among<br />
those who wish to discover the exotic delights of Marrakesh’s bustling streets or the natural wonders of Tangiers. Our judges<br />
noted that Said Private Day Tours is <strong>com</strong>mitted to providing the very highest levels of customer satisfaction; guides are multi-lingual<br />
and go above and beyond to show their guests a side of Morocco beyond the usual tourist experiences. Customisable<br />
trips, including overnight stays, can also be arranged; the <strong>com</strong>pany is happy to suggest routes and activities that will best match<br />
your desires.<br />
A luxurious way of exploring a new destination is to see it from the skies – and Cape Town Helicopters can provide tour experiences<br />
that are truly out of this world. The unique experience starts with the aircraft, because at Cape Town Helicopters, they<br />
believe this has a direct impact on the quality of the experience. The <strong>com</strong>pany uses a fleet of Airbus helicopters, which provide<br />
unrivalled levels of <strong>com</strong>fort and open cabin designs that afford 180 degree views for all passengers, in addition to having a low<br />
impact on the environment in terms of noise pollution. In addition to this <strong>com</strong>mitment to eco-friendly tourism, our judges<br />
were also impressed by the range of tours on offer, including scenic tours, adventure flights and VIP experiences such as<br />
mountain picnics. Cape Town Helicopters goes above and beyond to create the best possible experiences – all passengers are<br />
provided with state-of-the-art Bose noise-cancellation headphones and tours are recorded onto a memory stick so that guests<br />
can re-live the experience long after it has ended.<br />
Said Private<br />
90030, Tangier, Morocco<br />
Tel +212 661 29 60 83<br />
saidtours.<strong>com</strong><br />
Cape Town Helicopters<br />
220 East Pier, Breakwater Edge, V&A Helipad,<br />
V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Tel + 021 418 9462<br />
helicopterscapetown.co.za<br />
32 33
South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Cape Town Wine Tours<br />
TOUR<br />
Kenya<br />
Governors’ Balloon Safaris<br />
TOUR<br />
Culinary Tour Company of the Year<br />
Award for Excellence in Service<br />
South <strong>Africa</strong>n wine is renowned the world over, and now visitors can explore the country’s oldest and most established wine<br />
routes with Cape Town Wine Tours. In addition to day tours to the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek winelands, our judges also<br />
enjoyed the private and tailor-made options; visitors can travel specifically to their favourite wineries or visit hidden gems not<br />
available on the standard tours. Private ‘wine and dine’ tours are also available, which <strong>com</strong>bines the best sights of the winelands<br />
(and four tastings) with world-class cuisine. Each tours are led by a knowledgeable team of guides whose passion for the winelands<br />
of South <strong>Africa</strong> – and the desire to share their expertise – shines through.<br />
Governor’s Balloon Safaris is an offshoot of Governors’ Camp Collection, the pioneering luxury tented safari camp, so guests<br />
can be sure of quality and satisfaction. Priding themselves on an impeccable safety record, a Governor’s balloon safari takes<br />
adventurers on a dawn flight along the Mara River and out across the Eluai Plains, drifting wherever the breeze takes you. All<br />
guests are guaranteed to enjoy fantastic views of the landscape and its wild inhabitants as they wake up to a new day. To further<br />
enhance the experience, Governor’s Balloon Safaris cap each flight with a decadent champagne breakfast, cooked and served<br />
where ever the balloon lands.<br />
Cape Town Wine Tours<br />
Milnerton 8005, South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Tel +27 21 551 0467<br />
Governors’ Balloon Safaris<br />
Mara Triangle - Maasai Mara National Reserve,<br />
Kenya<br />
Tel +254 20 273 4000<br />
governorsballoonsafaris.<strong>com</strong><br />
34 35
AWARD<br />
WINNER<br />
LISTINGS<br />
36 37
Ghana<br />
Mauritius<br />
Hilton Garden Inn Tangier<br />
City Centre<br />
HOTEL &<br />
ACCOMMODATION<br />
WINNERS<br />
Algeria<br />
Az Hotel Vague d’Or<br />
Hotel<br />
Hotel Eden Phoenix<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Angola<br />
Hotel Presidente Luanda<br />
Hotel<br />
Benin<br />
Novotel Cotonou Orisha<br />
Hotel<br />
Botswana<br />
AVANI Gaborone Resort &<br />
Casino<br />
Hotel<br />
River View Lodge<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Burkina Faso<br />
Royal Beach Hôtel<br />
Hotel<br />
Cape Verde<br />
Hotel Santantao Art Resort<br />
Hotel<br />
Smartline Crioula Hotel<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Oasis Praiamar<br />
Beach Front Hotel<br />
Cameroon<br />
Hotel Zingana<br />
Hotel<br />
Central <strong>Africa</strong>n<br />
Republic<br />
Ledger Plaza Bangui<br />
Hotel<br />
Chad<br />
Hilton N’Djamena<br />
Hotel<br />
Republic of Congo<br />
Atlantic Palace Hotel<br />
Hotel<br />
Ivory Coast<br />
Radisson Blu Hotel, Abidjan<br />
Airport<br />
Hotel<br />
Egypt<br />
Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa<br />
Hotel<br />
Fairmont Nile City<br />
Award for Excellence<br />
in Service<br />
Steigenberger Al Dau<br />
Beach Hotel<br />
Beach Front Hotel<br />
Serenity Fun City Resort<br />
Family Friendly Hotel<br />
Equatorial Guinea<br />
Grand Hotel Djibloho<br />
Hotel<br />
Ethiopia<br />
Capital Hotel and Spa<br />
Hotel<br />
Kempinski Hotel Gold<br />
Coast City<br />
Hotel<br />
Kenya<br />
InterContinental Nairobi<br />
Hotel<br />
Fairmont The Norfolk<br />
Award for Excellence<br />
in Service<br />
Mara Concord Game Lodge<br />
Boutique Hotel<br />
Windsor Golf Hotel &<br />
Country Club<br />
Country Hotel<br />
Ocean Village Club<br />
Beach Front Hotel<br />
Jambo Mara Safari Lodge<br />
Safari Lodge<br />
Madagascar<br />
Hôtel Colbert – Spa & Casino<br />
Hotel<br />
Carlton Madagascar<br />
Award for Excellence<br />
in Service<br />
Laguna Blu – Resort<br />
Madagascar<br />
Beach Front Hotel<br />
Mali<br />
Wellness Hotel Aurora<br />
Hotel<br />
Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok<br />
Resort & Spa<br />
Hotel<br />
The Residence Mauritius<br />
Award for Excellence<br />
in Service<br />
The Westin Turtle Bay<br />
Resort & Spa<br />
Beach Front Hotel<br />
Morocco<br />
Selman Marrakech<br />
Hotel<br />
Paradis Plage Surf Yoga<br />
& Spa<br />
Award for Excellence<br />
in Service<br />
2Ciels Boutique Hôtel<br />
Boutique Hotel<br />
Le Diwan Rabat – MGallery<br />
by Sofitel<br />
Unique Luxury Hotel<br />
Heure Bleue Palais –<br />
Relais & Châteaux<br />
Hotel & Restaurant<br />
Royal Atlas & Spa<br />
Hotel & Spa<br />
Kenzi Menara Palace &<br />
Resort<br />
Country Hotel<br />
Best Western Hotel Toubkal<br />
Modern Hotel<br />
Business Hotel<br />
Hôtel & Ryad Art Place<br />
Marrakech<br />
Riad<br />
Mozambique<br />
Maputo AFECC Gloria Hotel<br />
Hotel<br />
Diamonds Mequfi<br />
Beach Resort<br />
Award for Excellence<br />
in Service<br />
Namibia<br />
Lüderitz Nest Hotel<br />
Hotel<br />
Nigeria<br />
Le Meridien Ogeyi Place<br />
Port Harcourt<br />
Hotel<br />
Rwanda<br />
Urban by CityBlue Kigali<br />
Hotel<br />
Sao Tome and Principe<br />
Pestana Sao Tome<br />
Hotel<br />
38<br />
39
Senegal<br />
Cape Grace Hotel & Spa<br />
Hotel & Spa<br />
Togo<br />
Terrou-Bi<br />
Hotel<br />
King Fahd Palace Hotel<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Seychelles<br />
Hunter’s Country House<br />
Country Hotel<br />
The Capital Mirage<br />
Modern Hotel<br />
<strong>Africa</strong>n Oceans Manor on<br />
the Beach<br />
Hôtel Eda-Oba<br />
Hotel<br />
Tunisia<br />
Medina Solaria And<br />
Thalasso<br />
Hotel<br />
TOUR & ACTIVITY<br />
WINNERS<br />
Constance Lémuria<br />
Hotel<br />
Le Meridien Fisherman’s<br />
Cove<br />
Award for Excellence<br />
in Service<br />
The H Resort Beau<br />
Vallon Beach<br />
Beach Front Hotel<br />
South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Sheraton Pretoria Hotel<br />
Hotel<br />
Intercontinental<br />
Johannesburg<br />
Sandton Towers<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Kleinkaap Boutique Hotel<br />
Boutique Hotel<br />
Leeu House<br />
Unique Luxury Hotel<br />
Cape Royale Luxury Hotel<br />
Hotel & Restaurant<br />
Sea View Hotel<br />
Sabi Sabi<br />
Safari Lodge<br />
Tanzania<br />
Golden Tulip Dar Es Salaam<br />
City Center Hotel<br />
Hotel<br />
Ramada Resort Dar<br />
es Salaam<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Colosseum Boutique Hotel<br />
& Spa<br />
Boutique Hotel<br />
Hideaway of Nungwi<br />
Resort & Spa<br />
Beachfront Hotel<br />
The Residence Zanzibar<br />
Resort<br />
Radisson Blu Palace Resort &<br />
Thalasso, Djerba<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Iberostar Averroes<br />
Beachfront Hotel<br />
Uganda<br />
Laico Lake Victoria Hotel<br />
Hotel<br />
Zambia<br />
Royal Chundu<br />
Hotel<br />
Tongabezi Lodge<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Angola<br />
Eco-Tur<br />
Tour Company<br />
Botswana<br />
Kalahari Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Mosu Safari Tours<br />
Safari Company<br />
Cape Verde<br />
Boa Vista Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Cabo Verde Diving<br />
Diving Company<br />
Alwaysailing<br />
Sailing Company<br />
Cameroon<br />
Discover Cameroon Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Republic of Congo<br />
Congo <strong>Travel</strong> and Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Ivory Coast<br />
Mandinka Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Egypt<br />
Egypt Tailor Made Day Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Emo Tours Egypt<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Falcon Adventures<br />
Adventure Company<br />
Scuba Seekers<br />
Diving Company<br />
Ethiopia<br />
Yama Ethiopia Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
The Gambia<br />
Arch Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Ghana<br />
Kumasi Walking<br />
Tour Company<br />
Kenya<br />
Marco Polo Safaris<br />
Tour Company<br />
Governors’ Balloon Safaris<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Donamasai Day Tours<br />
Cultural Tour Company<br />
Skydive Diani<br />
Adventure Company<br />
Safari Kenya Watamu – Day<br />
Tours<br />
Safari Company<br />
Buccaneer Diving<br />
Go Addis Tours<br />
Diving Company<br />
Cultural Tour Company<br />
40<br />
41
Madagascar<br />
Dodi’s Lemur Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Love Bubble Social Diving<br />
Diving Company<br />
Mauritius<br />
Electro-Bike Discovery<br />
Tour Company<br />
Pro Dive Mauritius Ltd<br />
Diving Company<br />
Morocco<br />
Said Private Day Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Sahara Tours 4x4<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Toubkal <strong>Guide</strong> Day Tours<br />
Cultural Tour Company<br />
Marrakech By Air<br />
Unique Tour Company<br />
Palma Quad<br />
Adventure Company<br />
Marrakech Food Tours<br />
Culinary Tour Company<br />
Mozambique<br />
Mabeco Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Peri-Peri Divers<br />
Diving Company<br />
Namibia<br />
Wild Dog Safaris<br />
Tour Company<br />
Seychelles<br />
Edelweiss Day Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Whitetip Divers<br />
Diving Company<br />
South <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Hike Table Mountain<br />
Tour Company<br />
Table Mountain Walks<br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Siviwe Township Tours<br />
Cultural Tour Company<br />
Cape Town Helicopters<br />
Unique Tour Company<br />
Face Adrenalin – Bloukrans<br />
Bungy<br />
Adventure Company<br />
Cape Town Wine Tours<br />
Culinary Tour Company<br />
Lion World <strong>Travel</strong><br />
Tailor Made Tour Company<br />
Tim Brown Tours – Durban<br />
Safari Tours<br />
Safari Company<br />
Blue Wilderness Shark<br />
Adventures<br />
Diving Company<br />
Tanzania<br />
Twanga Touring Company<br />
Tour Company<br />
Shadows of <strong>Africa</strong><br />
Award for Excellence in<br />
Service<br />
Zanzibar Quad Adventure<br />
Adventure Company<br />
<strong>Africa</strong>n Scenic Safaris<br />
Safari Company<br />
Mafia Island Diving<br />
Diving Company<br />
Tunisia<br />
Engaging Cultures <strong>Travel</strong><br />
Tunisia<br />
Tour Company<br />
Dive Center: Blue Dolphin<br />
Djerba<br />
Diving Company<br />
Uganda<br />
Kampala Walking Tours<br />
Tour Company<br />
Zambia<br />
Mukuni Big Five Safaris<br />
Tour Company<br />
42 43
AFRICA<br />
awards guide 2016<br />
<strong>www</strong>.<strong>thawards</strong>.<strong>com</strong>