Reviews of Strand Hotel
Wildlife sightings and reviews
78 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
"Strand Hotel review"
Swakopmund itself was a bit cold, which we had expected, but we fitted in some quad biking, after a bit of confusion at the hotel whereby one of the staff seemed very keen on a particular company and booked us in when we had said we wanted to think about it first and consider other options. It all worked out in the end, though." See all these reviews: 18n in Namibia
"Strand Hotel was a great place and great loca"
"Very smart hotel"
I took an excursion to Walvis Bay and boat trip which was well-run and worthwhile." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia
"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
"Strand Hotel review"
"Strand Hotel review"
"Strand Hotel review"
"Strand Hotel review"
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Other lodges in Swakopmund & Walvis Bay
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Cornerstone Guesthouse
Cornerstone Guesthouse is a small friendly B&B in a peaceful residential area. It's just a short walk from Swkopmund's waterfront & amenities.
Sam's Giardino
Welcoming, professionally run, and mildly eccentric, Sam’s Giardino lifts the level of hospitality in Swakopmund to unusual heights.
The Stiltz
Not your typical guesthouse, The Stiltz occupies a glorious location over the Swakop River on the edge of Swakopmund.
Villa Margherita
Villa Margherita is a beautifully renovated B&B in the heart of Swakopmund, with comfortable, well-appointed rooms, and friendly and attentive staff.
Beach Lodge
Right on the sea front, Beach Lodge offers good standard accommodation and its own restaurant, 15 minutes’ drive from Swakopmund.
Lagoon Lodge
Lagoon Lodge is a quirky little guesthouse located right on the edge of Walvis Bay Lagoon, a good spot for watching the flamingoes that frequent the area.
The Delight
Colourful and contemporary in style, The Delight is a relatively large hotel within a short walk of Swakopmund's waterfront, restaurants and main attractions.
Swakopmund Guesthouse
Swakopmund Guesthouse is a family-run B&B, boasting comfortable and high-quality rooms with a maritime touch.
Brigadoon
In a quiet residential location, Brigadoon is conveniently located for the Swakopmund waterfront and amenities.
Hansa Hotel
With a very central location in Swakopmund, the traditional Hansa Hotel is reliably good, though it is quite formal.
Secret Garden
Secret Garden Guesthouse is well located in the centre of Swakopmund not far from the sea. With a seaside feel, it has its own small restaurant and bar.
Sea Breeze
Just north of Swakopmund, the delightful Sea Breeze Guesthouse is bright and well-looked after with welcoming and helpful owners.
Organic Square
Organic Square is a modern guesthouse across two properties in the centre of Swakopmund.
Cornerstone Apartments
Cornerstone Guesthouse’s three self-catering apartments, each in its own unique location, work well for families or groups of travellers seeking space & privacy within a comfortable, contemporary setting.
Desert Breeze
Not your typical Swakopmund guesthouse, Desert Breeze occupies a glorious location overlooking the Swakop River and the desert beyond.
Pelican Point Lodge
Pelican Point Lodge sits on a remote peninsula offering panoramic views of the ocean and is only accessible by 4WD or boat.
Namib Guesthouse
The Namib Guesthouse is a small, modern B&B, set in Swakopmund's peaceful Kramersdorf area. It's just a short walk from the coast and many amenities.
Oyster Box Guesthouse
Oyster Box Guesthouse is a small, modern and comfortable B&B, overlooking Walvis Bay Lagoon.
Pearls Beach Pods
With a beachfront location, superb sea views and easy access to the amenities of Swakopmund, The Pearls Beach Pods combine privacy with a high standard of luxury.
Swakopmund Sands
The relatively substantial Swakopmund Sands Hotel lies in a quiet area of the town, close to the beach yet within walking distance of tourist amenities.
