Background
After a two-year closure, the Polana Serena hotel recently re-opened its doors to clients, with a more modern look and a new level of sophistication. The expansion and refurbishment cost around US$25m.
What’s it Like?
The hotel now offers hospitality of international standards. It is chic and professional. Already a magnificent sight from outside, the hotel seems to get even more beautiful inside. The spacious lobby has a modern look, yet it still has the same character the hotel always had. It is also where you will find the first escalator ever installed in Mozambique, which is in working order, and adds to the splendour of the property.
Where is it?
The Polana Serena is the most well-known hotel in Maputo, so it really isn’t hard to find. It is located close to the central business areas, but is more towards the beach, so certain rooms offer stunning views of the ocean. It is in one of Maputo’s most prestigious avenues and is within easy reach of the international embassies, governmental buildings, shops and restaurants. Mavalane International Airport is a 15-minute drive away.
Room Facilities
Unfortunately, while I was visiting the hotel, it was during a soft opening so I didn’t get to experience all the hotel had to offer. The rooms had never seen guests so were not quite ready. They are spacious with all the right amenities, but while I was there, not all of them were working. The beds and linen provided for a great night’s sleep, and the decor in the room was really beautiful. The rooms have a mini bar, a fair amount of cupboard space and a work desk. While the telephone and flat-screen television were not working yet, I’m sure this has already been resolved. The bathrooms are also large and generous in terms of space – they have both a shower and bath and exquisite finishes. Hopefully, by now, the hot water gets hot a little quicker and doesn’t come out of the showerhead brown like I experienced it.
Restaurants and Bars
The hotel has new (or in some cases, repositioned) bars to offers its guests and other visitors. The revamped Polana Bar and the Aquarius Restaurant and Bar offer classic cocktails, cigars, and light menu options, with views over the pool and ocean. The Veranda Restaurant is an all-day restaurant with themed buffets, à la carte menu and French patisseries. A new restaurant, the Delagoa Restaurant, opened at the beginning of October. This restaurant offers a French fine dining experience.
Business and Meeting Facilities
Four new meeting rooms for smaller events have been added with state-of-the-art conference facilities. There is also a fully equipped business centre available. The ballroom has also been re-opened to offer the perfect setting for all special occasions. The hotel has a residents’ guest lounge.
Leisure Facilities
The Polana Serena now boasts a Maisha Health Club and Spa. The gym is available to all guests of the hotel and is in the same area as the spa. There are a number of treatment rooms, a juice bar and a pool in the facility.
Verdict
The Polana Serena has an updated look that will maintain its status as the iconic upmarket hotel of Maputo. It is not only beautiful but has all the facilities and services needed by both business and leisure travellers.
Contact
Tel: (+258) 212 41700 or 212 4800
Website: serenahotels.com
Chana Viljoen