bthere: Inflight Magazine Brussels Airlines

INBRIEF

A round up of travel news from Brussels Airlines’ long-haul network

Hotel with a view:
The Country Lodge Complex, Sierra Leone

Where is it? Hill Station, Freetown; tel. +232 22 235589, countrylodgesl.com What is the view? Built on the site of an old British hill station overlooking the city, the hotel has fantastic views of Freetown and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.

What to expect? An eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary. Once a private mansion, the original décor has been updated in cool, modern neutrals.

What you need to know? The Country Lodge boasts two restaurants serving international cuisine like Japanese sushi and beef fillet Madagascar. There’s also a fully equipped gym and a fabulous pool that’s swiftly found favour with Freetown’s expat families.

Why go there? Sierra Leone is re-emerging as a tropical beach destination. Freetown itself is an enchanting city with a lively nightlife scene and some great restaurants.

What can you expect to pay? Prices from €98 per night.

African tourism on the rise

According to the World Bank, there were about 800 million global tourists last year and nearly 24 million went to Sub-Saharan Africa. This influx of tourism on the continent (comprising both international and domestic tourists) has meant increased earning and employment potential for local businesses and farmers. International hotel chains are being encouraged to employ locally-based staff and source local products, which is not only helping to sustain local communities, but it is also cutting operating services for hotel owners.

Rwandan cards

Cards from Africa employs orphans to make paper by hand which they can then use to make greeting cards, notelets, calendars and light-shades. They’re a great idea for Christmas cards (if you get your order in early) or for any occasion.

You can buy the cards online at cardsfromafrica.com, but if you’re planning a trip to the Rwandan capital then you can drop by the workshop on your way to/from the airport. It’s located 10 minutes from Remera near the airport and is open to visitors from Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm. It’s fascinating to see how the paper is made and you can also buy some great light-weight presents to take back home.

A different sort of holiday

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) might not spring to mind as a likely tourist destination for your next holiday. But for the discerning traveller it’s a hugely rewarding and exciting country with plenty on offer from gorilla treks and eco tours to river cruises and city tours.

Go Congo (gocongo.com) is a locally based tour operator tailoring tours ranging from a few days to a few weeks for an unforgettable holiday. They can also organise day excursions from Kinshasa for those travelling to the Congolese capital for a short trip but who want to take some time out to get to know the country a little better.

Wrap around
Wrap up warm this winter with a colourful Kikoy scarf. Made in Kenya with 100% cotton and a fleece lining, the scarves come with their own matching bag and are available in a range of colours. €41.95. www.kikoy.com