Taj Pamodzi: An Extravagant Business Hotel In The District of Lusaka, Zambia

Lusaka is the largest city and is the capital of Zambia. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in Central Africa and is the center of economic, political and cultural activities. It is a metropolis bustling with life from the busy streets to the local market and huge malls. Hotels are plenty, but there are only a few 5-star hotels around, one of which is the Taj Pamodzi Hotel. It is conveniently located just 22 kilometers away from the airport and 5 kilometers from the city center. It is an extravagant 5-star business hotel, so expect to come across businessmen, diplomats, and other VIPs while strolling around.

This hotel is owned by the Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris which is a chain of hotels and resorts. This company is a part of the Tata group, one of India’s largest business conglomerates, the same company who owns Jaguar and Land Rover. They operate one of the most luxurious hotel chains in the world! As of now, they operate a total of 99 hotels all over, only two of them being in Africa: One in Capetown and one in Zambia.

All the extravagance started when I got a last minute upgrade to business class from Johannesburg to Lusaka. It all happened because of pure luck! It was an amazing experience for me. I know I always fly but not on business class! Ha!

After 2 hours of comfortable flight and A LOT of leg space–I finally arrived in Lusaka. I had my pre-approved e-visa and paid 50 USD for the visa on arrival. I didn’t have a printed copy of the e-visa, so I just tried to show them the one on my phone. The lady at the immigration told me to have it next time. My bad! Anyway, there were no questions asked whatsoever. But make sure to have your yellow fever vaccine paper just in case.

As I stepped out of the airport, a lovely lady on a White XJL Jaguar was waiting to drop me off at Taj Pamodzi Hotel. It was my first time riding a Jaguar, by the way. So I was completely in awe during the entire time I was in there. I can’t help but take a photo of every angle of the car cos it’s not every day that I get to ride on a Jaguar!

THE ROOMS IN TAJ PAMODZI HOTEL AT LUSAKA, ELEGANCE IN EVERY CORNER

As soon as I arrived, 3 of the Top Management Officials welcomed me with such warm African hospitality. I feel like a real VIP. I was ushered to my bedroom which is a Junior Executive Suite: it has a massive living room, a dining area, a luxurious bath and a balcony overlooking the stunning City of Lusaka.

The room is painted with earth tones, elegant pieces of furniture can be found in every corner, lavish curtains hang over the huge windows, it is truly a masterpiece.

I rushed to the stylish bath, and the set of toiletries is an eye candy. Each piece is beautifully packed and have a crisp scent. I loved it. I wish I could bring a lot home for Jonathan! I’m sure he’ll love it too.

Aside from the 32’ LED TV, minibar, and DVD player, a coffee machine is also provided. The room is equipped with a wall‐to‐wall carpeting, and independent air conditioning controls with 3‐speed fan motor and heating connected to the central air conditioning of the hotel, Electrolux personal safes, smoke detectors and fire sprinklers, electronic locks, and international direct dial phones with speed dial keys and voicemail.

The room size ranges from 23.78 up to 71.43 square meters. Each room was sprawling over the 9-floor property. Guests can have access to the lounge and enjoy booze and good food at the 8th & 9th floor. Don’t forget to drop by during the happy hour! And by the way, rooms are inclusive of breakfast.

Other services & amenities include:

• 24-hour in-room dining
• Housekeeping service twice daily – morning cleaning and evening turndown
• Choice of pillow
• Fruit basket

THE FACILITIES AT TAJ PAZMODI HOTEL AT LUSAKA

Business Centre- Being a business hotel, Taj Pazmodi isn’t complete without a business center, workstation, and a high-speed internet! And they also provide typing/printing services, photocopying, courier service, binding services as well as a hotel/travel arrangements. So if you have an important meeting, there’s nothing to worry about!

Fitness Centre- Guests have an exclusive access where a wide range of state-of-the-art fitness equipment awaits. After a tiring work out, why not relax at the pool or calm your senses at their steam and sauna rooms?

Labyrinth Garden- Labyrinth Gardens is believed to have this healing effect on our mind, body, and soul. So if you’re having a tough day, just walk around, and you might just feel better.

Squash Court- There are two courts which are open from 6:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M. Rackets and balls are also available on demand. So make sure to bring your proper squash attire!

Jiva Spa- I can finally indulge on a couple’s retreat at the Jiva Spa. Unfortunately, Jonathan wasn’t there to join me. He’ll probably regret it by now. Ha! So instead, I got their signature Jiva Treatment with an incredible 2-hour massage, facial, and a 1-hour body scrub. So that’s a total of 4 hours of mind, body and soul rejuvenation! What made it so much better is that all their products are all organic from India and are made exclusively for Jiva Spa. They have oils, powders, soaps and creams that smell so good and is effective! I am giving it a 5 out of 5 rating! I am really grateful since I can still clearly remember the time three years ago when I was the one doing the Ayurveda Massage to our clients so we can earn money.

Other leisure services include:

• Babysitting
• Car hire service
• Currency exchange
• Doctor on call
• Express laundry/dry cleaning
• Florist
• Laundry shop
• Travel assistance

THE FOOD

They gave me a private tour of the kitchen, and I must say, it is a privilege! It is ISO Certified which means that they have met the International Standards which are needed to ensure the safety of the global food supply chain. They have successfully demonstrated their ability to control food safety hazards to ensure that food is safe.

I met the Executive Chef, Mr. Shanjay who made sure that I will be able to try their famous Zambian Cuisine. He gave me snacks to munch on. He likewise prepared eight local dishes for lunch such as Fried and Roasted Sweet Potato, Chikanda Quiche, Pumpkin Fritters, Toba Mutwe and Sweet Mbalala. They are all so good! I think I gained another pound from eating all of these!

They also have a Zambian, Indian and Chinese Chef. So during my 3-night stay, I was able to taste a little of each delicacy. They all have this exquisite taste that I almost felt that I was on the eastern side of the planet. Haha! It was all so delicious I couldn’t even decide which one is my favorite. Knowing how they prepared each viand just made me love it even more!

AREA GUIDE

Lusaka National Museum- This cultural history museum tells the story of Zambia in four main sections: ethnography, witchcraft, history and contemporary art.

Chaminuka Safari- It is a vast 10,000-hectare property with protected wildlife! If you follow our journey, you’d know that we don’t go to a zoo or any place where animals are held in captivity, but I was curious because the hotel staff told me that place is beautiful and the animals are well taken care of. So I organized a private tour with the front desk and they were extremely helpful. After an hour of travel time, I saw the animals and decided to go walk with cheetahs. According to my guides, one of the cheetahs were rescued when it was only 2 weeks old after its mother was killed from poaching. It’s really sad, I hope poaching would stop. It was such a humbling experience for me to be able to walk side by side with these powerful yet friendly creatures.

Pakati Sunday Market- Indulge your senses in the beauty of Zambian artistry. See their beautiful paintings, woodcarvings, textiles, handmade jewelry and a whole lot more! Bargaining is a must

Cathedral of the Holy Cross– A good place to relax, contemplate and just take a breather. It has a marvelous architectural design that you would appreciate.

Lower Zambezi National Park- Book ‘on the land’ and ‘on the water’ tour and get to see plenty of elephants, zebras, antelopes, etc. It’s nice to see humans respecting animals and the environment. The park is closer to Lusaka – about three hours drive, compared to other national parks. A four wheeled vehicle to go here is a must!

FAQ: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TAJ PAMODZI HOTEL

1. What are the room rates at Mystik Life Style Hotel?

Check the latest room rates at the Hotel’s website | Agoda | Booking.com | Expedia | Tripadvisor | Hotels.com | Hotelscombined

2. What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in time is 2 PM and check-out time is 11 AM.

3. Is there Wi-Fi?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available. And it’s high speed!

4. Is smoking allowed?

The rooms are non-smoking, but there is a smoking area.

5. Is there an ATM at the property?

Yes, and there’s a money exchange service too.

6. What is the nearest airport?

The property is a mere 30-minute drive from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.

7. Is airport shuttle service available?

Yes, for a fee.

8. What are other attractions nearby?

The Freedom Statue, Munda Wanga International Park, and Namwande Gallery.

9. Are shopping areas close?

Definitely! The property is just 5 kilometers from the city center where the shopping areas are located.

Note: I stayed as a guest in Taj Pamodzi Hotel. However, all opinions are based on my personal experience.

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