Reviews of Strand Hotel
Wildlife sightings and reviews
75 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Strand Hotel and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
"Good location, bad service"
The problem with the Strand Hotel is the service. Apparently we are not the only people to notice this - a local guide told us that residents of Swakop do not go to the Strand because the service is known to be so bad.
Some papers were left for us at reception the evening before our 'kayaking with seals' trip explaining the arrangements. Reception rang our room and said they would bring the papers up to us - but they never arrived and I had to go and get them later that evening. The papers were in the office waiting for someone to deliver them. The next morning our pre-packed breakfast was not ready and we had to wait some time for it to be prepared. We then went to the restaurant for lunch and our order did not arrive. When questioned, the rather surly waitress said it wasn't her fault but her colleague's - but she had actually placed our order at the bar instead of in the kitchen. The meal eventually arrived nearly an hour after we ordered it. The next morning at breakfast, no-one came to offer us tea or coffee and we had to go and ask. Communication seems to be lacking and the staff do not seem at all motivated to provide a good service.
On walking round Swakop we noticed lots of other hotels in the town and we would suggest travellers stay at one of these rather than the Strand, despite its scenic location." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia; 6n in Botswana; 3n in Zimbabwe; 2n in South Africa
"Lovely modern Hotel. Very Enjoyable."
There is ample parking and we were greeted warmly on arrival by the concierge and the reception staff. Reception was busy at the time we arrived and we did wait awhile but that was fine as we sat and enjoyed the modern interior lobby, the ocean and complimentary ice tea. Our extended wait resulted in a lovely ocean view room which was appreciated since we were staying for three nights.
Room was beautifully decorated in a contemporary decor with subtle and pleasing colours and spotlessly clean. All the usual amenities were available and we were very comfortable. Wi-fi was also good in all areas including our room. We also availed of the laundry service at the hotel which was very efficient. We did not use the gym or spa facilities so cannot comment.
We ate in the attached Brewer & Butcher during our stay and enjoyed it. Nice atmosphere, food and beer and hospitable staff. In fact all the staff we interacted with during our stay had beautiful smiles and a warm personality which we encountered all over Namibia, and if they did not immediately know the answer to our question or query quickly found somebody who did.
Breakfast selection was excellent and enjoyed in a bright dining room overlooking the beachfront and waves - Perfect.
It was pleasant to be in a small town and have time to wander and explore on foot and we found Swakopmund quaint and delightful.
As a side note, Sabina from Expert Africa had recommended a day trip with Turnstone Tours to Sandwich Harbour, and we cannot thank her or recommend this trip enough. It was one of the highlights of our entire trip...of which there were admittedly many.
We shared the day with another English couple also booked via Expert Africa and all four of us had a thoroughly fantastic day. Berger, our guide was an engaging character and a perfect host. He truly gave us a special experience and an unparalleled lunch spot on top of a sand dune. Highly recommended!
Great stay at The Strand and in Swakopmund and happy with the choice of accommodation suggested." See all these reviews: 22n in Namibia
"Excellent stay"
Excellent restaurants , memorable breakfasts." See all these reviews: 17n in Namibia
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"Best massage ever at this hotel!"
"Great location in Swakop"
Our room was very cold and the air conditioning would only cool, not heat. We did report it to reception but unfortunately they didn't manage to fix it during our stay.
It was a little bit difficult to find as it's on a one way system (you have to approach from the coastal access road)." See all these reviews: 12n in Namibia
"Strand Hotel review"
We got a "standard room" which was as far away from reception as possible with no view. It would have been nice to be upgraded as the hotel was not full.
The Ocean Cellar restaurant is excellent." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
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