Have just arrived back in the UK having stayed at the hotel for 7 days. Location wise I doubt you will find any better in Freetown. It is a prefect setting with two pools and stunning views and sunsets over the ocean. In march it was extremely hot so I often took dips in the pool or just chilled on a sunbed. I really enjoyed the food and you must try the red snapper which was very fresh and tasty.
What to eat for breakfast?
Breakfast was lovely as well and I had a fresh omelette each morning with bread and beans followed by pineapple and paw paw. Coffee was OK and there was ample fresh juice. The waiters and waitresses I found to be very friendly will get you an extra glass of juice, (apple, orange, pineapple) or coffee if required. Very polite and will always acknowledge you.
My only frustration was my room in the original old wing. It was right beside the car park and a ongoing generator, which makes a constant humming noise 24/7. I am a heavy sleeper so it never woke me up but it was always in the background so I never felt that real peace and quiet I like. Cars also stop and manoeuvre just outside the window. One guy was playing music from his phone at 6am until, I told him to stop. I agree with other reviews that the room was a bit tired and in Europe would rank at 2 to 3 star for the price but in freetown these are good standards.
A meal before you morning flight
The shower is a trickle and the toilet extractor is noisy. TV was excellent, great picture and plenty of sport channels for me, when I was relaxing. The maids kept the rooms clean to a very good standard. The staff at reception were also very helpful and can get you a taxi whenever or in our case assistance with SIM cards and phone credit. I found the WiFi to be good and used it in my room and by the pool. It was better by the pool. I was not on business so did not require it constantly but when I did use it, it worked fine, far better than I thought it would. Security was excellent and an unwanted guest would struggle to enter the compound which has high surrounding walls and 24 hour security guards on the gate. Very safe in that respect. They really want you personally to be safe and for your property to be safe.
You can now have breakfast, which includes chicken stew, rice, beans and toast, before 7am if you have an early flight.
Freetown today March 2013
In summary I would definitely return to this hotel again but would pay more to have a room in the new wing. Do not go by the car park! For 1st timers I would advise that when coming to Sierra Leone, be aware that generally things work to about 80%. There is always something that just won't work the way it should. Something always needs updating or fixing but once you accept this then you will not be frustrated by things you would expect in other parts of the world. It is an up and coming country with massive recent developments and lots more ongoing construction being done. Have an open, none judgemental view of freetown and you will enjoy your stay.
Stayed March 2013, travelled with family