Page 15 - traveling73 eng

The inner journey
At the end of the road, Madagascar
leaves a mark that does not fade. It is
not a destination to be conquered or
fully understood. It is a place to be ac-
cepted. It teaches you to look slowly,
to listen, to recognise life in what is
simple.
Its red-earth tracks, its forests wra-
pped in mist and its upside-down
trees are not just landscapes: they
are metaphors. In them, one senses
an ancient lesson about patience, si-
lence and respect.
When the sun goes down on the Ave-
nue of the Baobabs and the children
run between the giant trunks laughing
into the wind, one understands that
life, here, follows another rhythm.
Madagascar is not visited, it is
crossed. And whoever crosses
it never returns the same — one
is always touched by the island.
AUTHOR’S JOURNEYS
Travel notes
How to get there
Departure from Madrid or Barcelona to the Malagasy capital,
Antananarivo (Tana). Normally with a stopover in Paris, Kuala
Lumpur or Johannesburg. Arrival at Ivato Airport (near the city)
to settle in for the first nights. It is advisable to book the flight in
advance and plan transfers from the airport to the hotel (official
taxi or pre-arranged transfer).
Where to sleep
Hotel Carlton Madagascar (Antananarivo)
A classic of the city – located in Anosy, with comfortable rooms,
views of Lake Anosy and the royal palace. Ideal for settling in at
the start of the journey
Radisson Blu Antananarivo Waterfront
(Antananarivo)
Modern hotel, good location by the water, rooftop restaurant with
views. Perfect for a comfortable stay after the flight before heading
inland.
If you want something more intimate and connected to the lands-
cape (and you are travelling south or west) you could consider a
lodge in the area of the baobabs or the Malagasy savannah (al-
though it will require a transfer).
Where to eat
To give your journey a local, gastronomic flavour with a touch
of contemporary design, here are four recommendations in An-
tananarivo.
La Varangue: European-Malagasy style restaurant considered
among the best in the city. Ideal for an elegant opening dinner.
Marais Restaurant: Fine dining in Madagascar with local
products reinterpreted. Good for an auteur-style feature wishing
to explore design, space and gastronomy.
Cafe Du Musee: A little more informal, good atmosphere, and
well located for a relaxed meal after exploring the city.
Restaurant Sakamanga: For a more authentic experience,
with a local atmosphere, where you can try traditional Malagasy
dishes (such as ravitoto or trondro maina) and feel the pulse of
the city.
- 15