This is an oasis in the chaotic city of Cotonou. It was a Sheraton property. It has a feel of a well thought out design. But this hotel is nothing like any Sheraton hotels. The owner of it just hasn't invested any money in its upkeep. The setting is nice. But the amenities are deteriorating. The bathroom was not clean. The service was mediocre. If the city of Cotonou was not so messy, I wouldn't call it an oasis. But the reality is, this is already the best hotel in the city.

Since my last review about my stay in September 2006 I have stayed again at the Marina for 2 weeks in January 2007 and for 3 weeks spanning February and March 2007. What I stated in my original review still stands; my January stay was fine, however, my most recent stay was trying because the hot season has just begun (daytime temperatures between 35-40C) and the hotel's central aircon is not effective under those conditions; the director of the hotel explained to me that the system was 25 years old and that I was in a poolside bungalow at the "end of the line". The hotel provided me with a fan but nevertheless some nights were uncomfortably hot.
The phone service from the room broke down for about a week and wireless internet access suffered as well.
All signs that there is insufficent investment in renovation by the hotel's owner, i.e. the government of Benin (the hotel is run by a private hotel management firm - european I think - and the managing director does his best with what he's got)
To add to the experience, although this is outside of the hotel's control, Benin is experiencing severe shortages of electricity so that power cuts are frequent; the hotel's generator did its best to keep up but kept breaking down. To top it off water supply was cut a few times by the utility company because pumps could not be activated.
I might be returning to Cotonou next May or June and I think I will try the newly renovated Novotel next door and let you know in a review how that went.
Cheers,
Ian Davies

This former Sheraton Hotel lives a bit from its former glory - decor, facilities and the general feeling are more of the African 80ies. Despite the elevators that did not work it is the best choice in town. Standard is definitley better than the Novotel and you can negotiate a good rate at the reception. The rooms are nice and spacious, all with a balcony either facing the sea or the park side. Aircondition is ok and not too noisy - and a must in this very hot and humid place.

The bar and restaurant attact the usual African mix of business people, local dignitaries, hookers, volunteers and expats. The sports facilities and the pool are very good, spacious and well kept. Staff is very friendly and the curtesy shuttle to the airport comes for free.

If something is not as expected - don't forget, it's Africa and not Dubai!

We could only stay 2 nights. But what a place. OK the rooms are a bit on the old side, staff though are great and service is superbe. They have a good communications centre in their lobby with wifi internet access.
The pool and sports facilities are their greates assets.
We will be back