Discovering Cresta Lodge Harare: A Welcoming Oasis in Zimbabwe

As the exotic veil of Zimbabwe slowly lifted before me, Cresta Lodge Harare became a warm and reassuring haven during my journey. The experience remains vivid in my memory. I. Arrival: Convenience and Warmth Upon arrival at Harare International Airport, the pre-booked hotel shuttle was already waiting at the designated location. The driver enthusiastically helped me with my luggage and introduced the city's unique features along the way. The 21-minute drive passed quickly. The hotel's prime location at the intersection of Corner Samora Machel Rd and Robert Mugabe Rd filled me with anticipation for my upcoming explorations. Stepping into the hotel lobby, the skillful blend of wood and leather elements, illuminated by warm lighting, created a welcoming atmosphere. The front desk staff efficiently checked me in, providing thoughtful recommendations for nearby attractions, giving me an initial understanding of this unfamiliar city. II. The Room: Cleanliness and Comfort Combined Opening the door to my room, a fresh scent greeted me. Although the hotel opened in 1993 and was renovated in 2013, some of the hardware appeared slightly dated, but the overall maintenance was excellent, with every corner spotlessly clean. The soft bed, paired with high-quality linens, felt like sinking into a cloud. The sitting area by the window, furnished with two comfortable chairs and a small coffee table, offered a pleasant spot to bask in the sunlight. The complimentary Wi-Fi provided a stable connection, allowing me to share my travel experiences at any time. The bathroom was well-designed, equipped with all necessary toiletries, and offered a consistent supply of hot water, washing away the day's fatigue. III. Dining: A Taste of Zimbabwe The hotel's breakfast was truly impressive. The restaurant was spacious and bright, with attentive and friendly service. The wide variety of food included both Zimbabwean specialties like cornmeal porridge and cassava cake, as well as Western options such as bread, eggs, and bacon. Complemented by local fruits like the sweet and sour custard apple, the meal was refreshingly delicious. I also savored the local coffee, its rich aroma filling the restaurant, energizing me for the day ahead. IV. Service: Attentive Care Throughout my stay, the hotel staff's service was exceptionally warm and welcoming. Whether it was helping me book reservations at local restaurants or answering my questions about attractions, they always maintained a smile, demonstrating patience and professionalism. When I felt unwell, the staff promptly contacted a nearby clinic and thoughtfully followed up on my condition, making me feel cared for like family in a foreign land. V. Surroundings: Exploring Harare's Charm The hotel's location provided easy access to Harare's major attractions. A short taxi ride took me to the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, where the rich collection of indigenous art and artifacts excavated from the Great Zimbabwe ruins deepened my understanding of Zimbabwean history. The Gothic architecture of Harare Cathedral was also breathtaking, its unique style standing majestically against the blue sky. In addition, the bustling nearby commercial streets offered a variety of unique shops selling wooden and stone carvings, showcasing the rich African culture. Cresta Lodge Harare, with its convenient location, comfortable accommodations, attentive service, and diverse dining options, added many wonderful memories to my Zimbabwe trip. It was not just a place to stay, but a window into understanding this vibrant city. If I have the opportunity to return to Harare, I would undoubtedly choose to stay here again, continuing my travel story.