Escape to Paradise: VOI Amarina Resort, Nosy Be, Madagascar
Escape to Paradise: VOI Amarina Resort, Nosy Be – Honestly, Maybe It's Heaven, But with a Few Quirks! (SEO Optimized Review!)
Okay, friends, let's talk VOI Amarina Resort on Nosy Be, Madagascar. Forget the perfectly curated Insta-shots, because I'm here to give you the real deal. Is it paradise? Well, it's definitely aiming for the stars, and sometimes, it hits them. Sometimes… it fumbles a little. But hey, that’s what makes an experience memorable, right? So buckle up, because this is going to be a wild ride!
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, Sadly.
Let's get the slightly awkward stuff outta the way first. Accessibility. This is where VOI Amarina needs some serious work. While they do have Facilities for disabled guests, and an elevator, the terrain around the resort felt a bit… hilly. I didn't see any specific ramps, and the pathways weren’t always smooth. It's important you call ahead and REALLY get a detailed breakdown if accessibility is a must. I'm gonna be honest, this area let me down a bit.
Internet: Freedom or Frustration?
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms? Yes! Glorious! But… and there's always a "but"… the connection wasn't always the fastest. I mean, hey, you're on an island! So, Internet is available, and Wi-Fi in public areas is a thing, but don't expect to be streaming 4K movies. Internet [LAN] is an option in some rooms, which is good if you need a more stable connection for business or whatever. (Speaking of which, they have all the business facilities you could need, but honestly, who goes to Nosy Be to work?)
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe… Mostly!
Okay, this is where VOI Amarina really shines – they know how to handle the pandemic. Daily disinfection in common areas? Yep. Anti-viral cleaning products? You betcha. Staff trained in safety protocol? Absolutely. They even have hand sanitizer EVERYWHERE. The physical distancing of at least 1 meter was pretty well enforced. I saw evidence of professional-grade sanitizing services, and the whole place just felt clean. They even have options like room sanitization opt-out available! Just FYI, like any resort in this climate, you want to Rooms sanitized between stays, especially with so much greenery and wildlife.
Food, Glorious Food (and Drink!)
The food at VOI Amarina is… well, it's varied. Let's be real. The Breakfast [buffet] was a feast! Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, all the usual suspects… and the coffee/tea in the restaurant flowed freely. I loved the Breakfast service and how they had a pretty great Buffet in restaurant. I had a few meals at their Restaurants, and they had an A la carte in restaurant option, as well as International cuisine in restaurant. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was pretty decent, but I had a craving for the classic vanilla and found the Desserts in restaurant a little underwhelming.
The Poolside bar and the Happy hour were AMAZING. Seriously, watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand? Pure bliss. They have a Snack bar, so no need to rush around. They have coffee shop too, a lifesaver between meals. They also have a Vegetarian restaurant! The Poolside bar was also a lifesaver.
One niggle, the Bottle of water I kept getting felt a bit… warm. Not complaining, but it's a small detail that could elevate everything. The Room service [24-hour] was a lifesaver after those long days by the pool!
Relaxation & Things to Do: Paradise, Found (Mostly!)
Look, the main reason you go to Nosy Be is to chill. And VOI Amarina delivers on that front.
Swimming pool [outdoor]? Several! Lovely! Pool with a view? Oh yes, absolutely. I probably spent too many hours just staring out at the turquoise water. Spa? Oh, it exists, and it's fabulous. They have a Sauna, which I didn't use because, honestly, it was hot enough already! But they have a Spa/sauna and Steamroom.
I treated myself to a Body scrub and a Massage. The massage was… incredible. Seriously, melt into a puddle incredible. I'm talking about my muscles letting go and my mind quieting down. Pure bliss! They even have a Foot bath, which I just wanted to spend my whole trip in!
For the Kids:
They have Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, and Kids facilities, I didn't travel with kids, but I noticed them running around, having a blast. So bonus!
Rooms: Your Cozy Hideaway
Okay, so the non-smoking rooms is a win. The Air conditioning works (phew!). The complimentary tea was a nice touch. But OMG the bed! The extra long bed was a lifesaver. I'm a tall guy and those extra inches saved my sanity. The Blackout curtains did a great job of keeping the sun out. There was a coffee/tea maker and a Refrigerator. Plenty of Toiletries and towels.
I personally like a balconye with a view. If you can, request a room with one.
Services & Conveniences… They’ve Got You Covered!
Air conditioning in public area? Check. Daily housekeeping? You betcha! Concierge? Super helpful. Currency exchange? Awesome. Laundry service? (Important!) The Safe dining setup was also great.
Getting Around:
Airport transfer is a must (Nosy Be isn’t exactly easy to reach). They have Car park [free of charge] if you want to drive. Their Taxi service also came in super handy.
The Quirks and the Charm:
Now, let’s get real. The resort isn’t perfect. The language barrier, while not terrible, can lead to some funny misunderstandings. Sometimes things move… slowly. And remember, this is Madagascar! Things run on "Madagascar time," which means you learn patience.
But that, my friends, is part of the charm. It’s the imperfections that make the experience authentic. It’s the genuine smiles of the staff, the unexpected beauty of the sunsets, and the feeling of being completely, utterly disconnected from the everyday world.
The Verdict:
VOI Amarina Resort is well worth a stay. It's a solid choice for a relaxing getaway, especially if you want a safe and clean environment. It's not flawless, but the good far outweighs the bad. Just be prepared for a few quirks, embrace the "Madagascar time," and prepare to fall in love with the island. I know I did.
My Honest Offer: BOOK NOW and Get "Madagascar Bliss" (and Maybe a Free Cocktail!)
Ready to escape to paradise? VOI Amarina Resort is offering a special deal for you:
- Book your stay now through [Date] and receive:
- 15% off your stay.
- A complimentary cocktail at the poolside bar upon arrival. (My personal favorite!)
- Free Wi-Fi throughout your stay (because, let's face it, you'll need it to post those envy-inducing photos!)
- Use code [Promo Code] at checkout!
Don't wait! This offer won't last forever. Book your escape to paradise today! You absolutely deserve it. Trust me! Go!
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Okay, buckle up, buttercup! This isn't your grandma's itinerary. We're heading to VOI Amarina, Nosy Be, Madagascar. And trust me, this trip is going to be a glorious, chaotic mess. Here's the (highly tentative) plan:
Day 1: Arrival and That First, "Oh My God, Look!" Moment
- Morning (like, whenever the heck the plane lands): Okay, so Madagascar. Didn't quite think it would be this… vibrant. The airport? Let's just say it's charmingly… rustic. And the heat! It hits you like a brick wall painted with sunshine. Seriously, I might sweat off several pounds before lunch. Finding our transfer to VOI Amarina might be a challenge - the guy holding the sign with my name looks less like a professional driver and more like a slightly bewildered farmer. But hey, adventure, right? (Trying to be optimistic here, folks.)
- Afternoon: Finally, finally, we arrive. VOI Amarina. Pictures lied. It's even more stunning. The turquoise water? Ridiculous. The palm trees? Like something out of a… well, a postcard. We check in, and the first thing I do? Collapse on the bed for a solid five minutes, just breathing. Then, I actually venture out onto the balcony. And it hit me. That "Oh my God, I'm actually here" sensation. You know the one? It’s intoxicating.
- Evening: Dinner. Buffet. Always a gamble, but hey, I'm starved. Tried some local dish – Zebu. I think. Don’t ask. Let's just say it was… an experience. Followed by a cocktail at the beach bar. Sunset. Magical. Staring at the stars afterward made me feel all the feels - a cocktail of awe, existential dread, and the overwhelming feeling of being ridiculously, wonderfully lucky.
Day 2: Diving Into… Everything
- Morning: Snorkeling! Supposed to be "world-class." And… it was. The coral, the fish… like swimming in a goddamn aquarium. Got a little panicked at one point when a particularly flamboyant fish came a little too close for comfort. Turns out, I’m not as brave as I thought. Afterward, I ended up with a terrible sunburn on my back. Oops.
- Afternoon: This afternoon was planned as a relaxing massage. It was not. Apparently, my body did not agree with a massage. I felt that my body parts were swapped at the same time. I'm never getting a massage again. Maybe I'll stick with a nap.
- Evening: A cultural show. Which was fun, even if I didn’t understand a word. Malagasy music is pretty infectious - I’m pretty sure I was bobbing my head like a total idiot. The food? Pretty good, actually.
Day 3: Nosy Komba & Lemurs (The Day I Almost Lost My Mind, in a Good Way)
- Morning: Boat trip to Nosy Komba, the island of lemurs. The boat ride was… bumpy. I spent most of it gripping the edge of the boat and praying to whatever sea gods were listening. Arrived, somewhat green around the gills, but ready to face the lemurs.
- Afternoon: Lemur encounter. Okay, this was the highlight. The absolute highlight. These tiny, fuzzy, wide-eyed creatures just hopping all over you, grabbing your shoulders… it was insane. I got a lemur on my head! Seriously. I was speechless. And completely smitten. Afterward, we visit the island's craft market.
- Evening: Back at the resort, I was completely wiped. Dinner was a blur, followed by a total blackout sleep. I feel exhausted because I never imagined myself surrounded by lemurs.
Day 4: Island Hopping and Total Relaxation (Maybe)
- Morning: Another boat trip! This time, to Nosy Tanikely. Supposed to be the best snorkeling spot. I got over my fish fear, thank God. The coral was amazing—and the water was crystal clear. Felt like I was flying.
- Afternoon: We found a perfect, secluded little beach. Spent the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and reading a book (finally managed). It was utterly blissful. Pure, unadulterated relaxation.
- Evening: A fancy dinner at the resort. The food was divine. I actually dressed up. Which feels weird, given what a mess I’ve been other days. Followed by another cocktail at the bar. More stars. More awe.
Day 5: The "I Never Want to Leave" Blues & Goodbyes… (Maybe)
- Morning: Final thoughts of packing. Taking a last look at the beach and remembering the incredible moments of the last four days.
- Afternoon: A final massage, this time more relaxing. A final swim. A final cocktail.
- Evening: Departure. The airport feels even more… charmingly rustic. The flight home? Long, emotional, and filled with the crushing weight of reality. But also, with the beautiful memories of a chaotic, wonderful trip.
Quirky Observations & Rambles, Because Why Not:
- The Malagasy people are wonderfully friendly. Even when you don't understand a word they're saying.
- I packed way too many clothes. And not enough sunscreen.
- Mosquitoes are relentless. Bring the bug spray. Seriously. You've been warned.
- The internet is… spotty . Embrace it. Disconnect. Be free! (Or, you know, slowly go insane like me.)
- I swear, I could live on fresh fruit.
- I miss my lemur friends.
Closing Thoughts (Yes, I Have Them):
This trip wasn't perfect. There were hiccups, moments of panic, and plenty of sunburn. But it was an adventure. It was a reminder to breathe, to be present, and to embrace the chaos. Madagascar. It was a real rollercoaster of emotions, but I can say I can't wait to go back. And if you can make it to VOI Amarina Resort? Just go. You won't regret it.
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Escape to Paradise (Maybe?): Your VOI Amarina Resort, Nosy Be Survival Guide (and Rant-Fest)
Okay, so, is Nosy Be actually a paradise, or are we being lied to? Tell me the TRUTH!
Alright, settle down, drama queen. Paradise? Well... it *can* be. It's like a really delicious, yet slightly moldy, piece of cheesecake you find at the back of the fridge. The potential is there! The beaches are seriously stunning – think blinding white sand and ridiculously turquoise water that makes you want to slap yourself for not bringing a better Instagram game. But, and this is a HUGE but, it's Madagascar. Expect a little chaos, a little dust, and a *whole* lot of humidity. The "paradise" badge needs a bit of maintenance. For my own experience, some of the paths were in rough shape, not something to expect from a five star resort.
Anecdote Alert! I remember wandering off the beaten path – literally. Ended up knee-deep in what I *think* was mud, trying to photograph a chameleon. Beautiful chameleon, btw. Worth the grime, maybe. But not the potential tetanus shot.
The VOI Amarina – worth the splurge? Be honest, because I'm broke after booking the flights.
Hmph. "Splurge." That's one way to put it. Let's just say, depending on *when* you go and what deal you snag, it could be. The rooms are generally nice-ish, you know, they'll do. The pool area is lovely – feels like a proper vacation photo setup once you get past the initial "OH GOD, I'M SO PALE" panic. The staff is mostly lovely, though sometimes you get the feeling they've heard the same questions a thousand times. They try, bless their hearts. Do I consider it a five star resort, personally, based on the room upkeep and certain amenities, probably not.
Rambling time! Okay, so the food. Ah, the food. It varies. Sometimes it's amazing. Other times… remember that slightly moldy cheesecake? Yeah. The buffets are a mixed bag, but the a la carte restaurants are worth a try, especially the seafood. Get the lobster. You deserve it. You really do. Especially after that flight.
Food, glorious food! What's the deal at the VOI Amarina? I'm a picky eater, and I don't want to starve.
Okay, picky eaters, listen up. You're not doomed, but you might have to get creative. The buffet is your friend… and your enemy. It's got the basics: pasta (usually overcooked), salads (be careful, food poisoning is a thing in Madagascar), and some grilled options. The on-site restaurants are your best bet for a slightly more curated experience. The Italian place is generally safe, the seafood is usually (emphasis on usually) fresh and delicious. Don't be afraid to ask about allergies - or to just outright say "I WANT THE LOBSTER." Embrace the chaos!
Emotional Reaction Alert! I actually had a moment of pure, unadulterated joy when I bit into a perfectly grilled piece of fish. It was transcendent. Almost brought a tear to my eye. Almost.
What about the activities? Do I have to just lie on the beach and get bored?
Bored? Never! (Well, maybe sometimes, but not *all* the time). The resort itself has the usual suspects: pool, beach, water sports (snorkeling is generally decent, but go further out for the REALLY good stuff), a spa (expensive, but hey, you're on vacation!). Then there's Nosy Be itself – you can get a boat trip and see whales, lemurs, some amazing islands, all this stuff.
Minor rant! The excursions are where things get messy. The guides are often fantastic, and the scenery is breathtaking but *prices vary wildly*. Do your research. Talk to people. Haggle. Don't get ripped off! I got a bit lost in the haggle to be honest.
The beach! Is it as amazing as the pictures make out? Or is it just a load of seaweed and disappointment?
Okay, the beach. The reason you're *really* going. IT'S GOOD. It's seriously good. Picture this: Powdery white sand, warm turquoise water, a gentle breeze… You’ll be in your zen, just a quick walk away from your favorite beverage. There *might* be some seaweed. It depends on the tides and the time of year, and sometimes the cleaning efforts are sporadic. But generally, it's dreamy.
Quirky Observation: I spent an entire afternoon just watching the crabs scuttle across the sand. It's mesmerizing. More entertaining than most of the things I see on TV.
What's the vibe? Is it all couples canoodling, or is there a bit of…life?
It's a bit of both! You get a lot of couples, sure, but also families, a handful of solo travelers like me, and small groups. It's not a wild party scene, which is a good thing, because Madagascar isn't ready for that level of chaos. The bars are busy enough in the evening, the shows vary in quality (but hey, effort!), and there's usually *some* kind of entertainment.
Opinionated Language Alert! The shows are… something. Some are genuinely good, some are… enthusiastically amateur. Embrace the awkwardness. It's part of the experience.
Okay, I'm sold. But what about the practical stuff? Like, is there Wi-Fi? Are there mosquitoes? What do I pack?!
Alright, practicalities. This is where things get a little…Madagascar-y. Wi-Fi: It exists. Sometimes. It's not the super-fast, reliable stuff you get at home. Embrace the digital detox! I wouldn't rely on it for work. Mosquitoes: YES. Bring repellent. And maybe some extra repellent. And an anti-Hotel Near Me Search
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