Hotel - The Pride of Africa, Melrose Arch

18 March 2014 - Being a member of the Institute of Directors (IoDSA) I am fortunate enough to get a platinum Prokard from Protea Hotel. Part of the benefits include free nights at a selection of their establishments. Mark and I had won a break away to Clifftop Exclusive Safari Lodge, so decided to stay over at the African Pride Hotel before departing early the following morning to the Lodge. They have a valet service (R85) but we were happy to park in the underground parking lot (R75 for up to 24 hours parking).

CHECK-IN: The check-in was quick and easy.

ROOMS: Huge extra width, extra length bed. Besides the seven pillows already on the bed, they have a separate pillow menu to select from. I was more than happy with my amazingly soft, felt like a down, pillow and heavy down duvet. I liked the added detailed touches, there were snacks galore (not from the mini bar) - M&M's, shortbread, coconut ice and toasted mielie-kernels.

BATHROOM: The bathroom had a huge bath and a separate shower. The bath was adorned by two bright yellow rubber ducks. The towels were huge white, fluffy bath sheets. The second towel was however a lot smaller and a bit difficult to wrap your head in after a shower.

GENERAL: I peaked into the conference room area, and there are a number of conferencing rooms. They look great but I am sure they also have a great price tag to go with it, however this is only an assumption.

I found the red and green lighting a weird combination making the hotel quite dark with a sombre ambiance. I did however like the flowers made from recycled cans as part of the décor.

RATING 8.5 / 10