Paradise found

[WRITER: Ngosa Chungu ] [ PHOTO: Le Elementos Hotel ]

There is nothing more luxurious than having options. That is what Manthis offerings in Zambia provide - different experiences that ultimately deliver the same promise because they take advantage of their unique settings to create unforgettable getaway experiences - in tune with their environment and specific to the traveller in mind.

Le Elementos is a hidden gem of a boutique hotel located in the heart of Lusaka that is a pleasure to discover and rediscover. Tucked away off one of the main feeder roads in the capital, resides this oasis for the city dweller to take a much needed staycation, a multifunctional space for events and business needs, or a conveniently positioned home away from home for the business traveller. The earthy tones of the building material, the vibrant colour palette of the decor, the use of natural light through open plan spaces and skylights, as well as the beautifully landscaped deck, create a relaxing feeling of serenity. The hotel manages to shield itself from the hustle and bustles of the city, cocooning you from the moment you step through its glass doors. At night the lighting design creates a glow both outside and in projecting a gravitas that adds to this warmth. The place invites you to make it your own, no matter how you encounter

it. As you explore, you realise this is somewhere you can come back to over and over again, because it can easily adapt to your needs to continually create unforgettable experiences. The best thing about Le Elementos is the staff. The environment they create matches the modern comfort of the rooms and the quiet elegance of the spaces. Every time you walk in, you are greeted with signature Zambian warmth and hospitality. Everyone is eager to attend to your needs and the service is impeccable. If you are staying to get away, you can let go of the heaviness of life, as everything is taken care of. If there for business or an event, you can count on not having to worry about troubleshooting, for everyone is there to ensure that your use of the outdoor or indoor spaces runs smoothly. No matter your intentions, the service ensures that your stay and purpose is uplifting. The intimacy of the surroundings is matched by the way you are catered to.

This ethos extends to Manthis’ rural option in Western Province. Although set deep in Limulunga, a spralling town one and a half hours from Mongu, Ikithe evokes the same sentiments and is able to mirror the functions that make sense in its setting. As you trek through the white sand, undulating as your car cuts through the slippery terrain, you wonder whether you will sink before you get to swim in Lake Makapaela. The drive is part of the experience - it sets your mind for what you are about to witness. As the town transitions from buildings and road, to sand pathways and village dwellings, you shift down to a different speed and start to look at things through a different lens. Ikithe’s gates are suddenly upon you and as you drive up to the reception area, you are greeted with a rustic luxury that whets the appetite for a stay rooted in nature, tradition and delivered with the class modernity has to offer. The boutique lodge is designed to blend in, paying homage to its surroundings. Following the natural line set by Lake Makapaela, the establishment is built to lead to and honour the water, echoing the traditions of the tribes that live in the area. Even with all the modern amenities, you still feel like you are at one with nature, in another place and time. No more so than at night, with no light pollution to dim the brightness of the stars in the sky. The rooms feel like they have sprung from the ground, shaped like tree trunks that have been hollowed out to create a set of intimate spaces, giving the feeling of a special, personal getaway. The natural tones and use of stone and wood coupled with the afrochic decor create a magical ambience, like the place rose up from the sand to create this oasis in the “desert”. The communal multi purpose areas are no different - the great hall with the traditional instruments and seating evokes a majestic intimacy, the dining areas each feel contained yet are open to the beauty of the scenery and the pool area is designed to create community. Lake Makapeala does not disappoint no matter when you interact with it. The fact that you are able to access such untouched beauty is an indulgence that encourages a humble and respectful reflection on being able to travel to such an amazing site of natural beauty. This is a spot to lose yourself in, whether to escape and recharge for pleasure, or to provide a conducive bonding environment without distractions on for a workshop or retreat.

What makes going out to Ikithe truly worth it is the interaction with the community that live around the lake. Watching local fishermen go out for their daily catch offers the perfect opportunity to practice those amateur photography skills. For a more hands on experience, you can go on the water yourself in the same boats they use and cross the lake with a guide, to hike through a village situated on the other side. You can also visit the village next door on a guided tour by foot, and purchase curios made by local craftspeople. The fulfilment from holistically contributing to the rhythm and economy of the area adds another dimension to visiting.

If you are looking to visit Lusaka but don’t want to feel like you are staying in the city, Le Elementos is the perfect place to base your trip around. If you yearn for an unconventional beach experience in unchartered territory, the adventure of Ikithe is what you are looking for. Both locations offer a chance to find paradise in the most unexpected places and will have you planning your next trip back before you’ve even left.