Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel

Nicely appointed hotel with a laid-back atmosphere that is great for families and folks launching on a safari. There is a lovely pool and a large, open grassy area. There was a kids' birthday party on the grass one afternoon. Staff is helpful, courteous, and responsive. Rooms are large. Breakfast buffet with all the usual bells and whistles. Relatively speedy internet for Dar. There is a small executive lounge if you pay a few bucks more. If you are on a high-powered business trip, you're probably better off at the Hyatt Kilimanjaro, which seems to be the center of the action, close to government offices, has posher digs, fancy stores, more dining options, etc. But you also get more stress there as well as everything is more "switched on." So to relax, the Serena is your place.