And just like that – educational invitations were back!
Time to pack, dust off the suitcases, and board three flights from Cape Town to Pemba in northern Mozambique. It turned into an epic journey but the LAM Mozambique Airline provided us with all the comforts required; and my fellow travellers were just as excited about the journey as I was.
On arrival at Pemba Airport, the hotel staff met us with cold hand towels, chilled beers, and smiles that could light up an entire village. What a welcome! After being bundled into 4x4s that the hotel uses for transfers, we drove 45 minutes through villages and back roads to the Mozambique beach resort Diamonds Mequfi Beach Resort.
The hotel was closed for 2 years due to Covid and the staff were beyond ready to welcome their first guests. The General Manager and his team welcomed our group of 12 with freshly squeezed juice and gave us a brief introduction to the property and its facilities.
When looking out over the resort from the foyer, you will see the Indian Ocean and the resort’s 40 charming cottages. These beautiful cottages are generously spaced out with ocean views, day beds and patios, allowing us to soak up the afternoon sun.
Small touches such as Italian coffee, bottled water, international adapters and evening turn-down services (with sweet treats from the chef) gave us a sense of luxury.
Activities included early morning beach walks to watch the sunrise, rock pool exploring, kayak and stand-up paddle boarding in the tropical inter-tidal mangroves that border the property.
The heat was pretty intense. With temperatures in the high 30s, we spent a lot of time in the magnificent pool. A highlight was our water-aerobics class with Carlos. He was 1 of 3 staff members who stayed at the hotel during its closure as the incredible pool had to be maintained.
Fun was really had as we worked our way through the cocktail menu of the resort’s all-inclusive offering. We also enjoyed the local beers and wines from South Africa and Portugal, which the bar staff serve with aplomb.
Gloriously fresh seafood was on offer throughout our stay at the Mozambique beach resort. Pastries were served warm straight from the oven. And the Head Chef offered a range of Indian-inspired vegetarian dishes that were full of flavour and spices.
A visit to this part of the world from Cape Town takes some travel time, but once you have checked in and zoned out it’s 100% tropical abandon! And you will have a great time. A gracious thanks to our hosts at Diamonds Mequfi Beach Resort.
Contact us if you’d like us to plan your next incentive trip.
Written by Katie Keane