What’s it Like?
Firstly, the hotel is in a great location, if you need to be in close proximity to the airport. Thereafter, my first impression was of an imposing structure, rising up before me, with a huge security gate manned by two guards. So, security – check. Within the secure area, plenty of spacious parking, which is unusual for the area. Once inside, I was greeted by a well-decorated reception area, clad with modern furniture, paintings and photographs of historical figures, such as Bob Marley, Victor Uwaifo, Malcolm X and Mother Teresa.
Where is it?
The hotel is located within the Alausa district, a few minutes from the Lagos state secretariat, the Ikeja governor’s office, and the local golf course. The hotel is approximately 15 minutes’ drive from Murtala Mohammed International airport, depending on the traffic. Also, adjacent to the hotel is a new shopping mall, offering stores and brands such as Shoprite, Woolworths, Mr. Price, Truworths etc.
Room Facilities
The five-storey De-Renaissance hotel has 57 spacious rooms, made up of 32 standard rooms, six family rooms, eight mini suites, 10 executive suites and one presidential suite. From a décor point of view, all rooms are an eclectic mix of European and contemporary African style, and are equipped with either a double or twin beds, with bedside chair. Each room has a 32-inch LCD TV, showing selected satellite channels, and the hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi access – ideal for the business traveller. Additional features are the rather comfortable bathrobe and slippers, air-conditioning and 24-hour room service. De-Renaissance sets up its different rooms to serve different purposes. In this regard, the family rooms come with twin double beds, suitable for a family of four, whilst the executive, mini and presidential suites all come with settees suitable for having visitors on a short stay.
Restaurants & Bars
The hotel has a restaurant located directly opposite the reception area, which serves a combination of local Nigerian, Chinese and continental cuisine. The hotel provides a buffet service, as well as an a la carte offering, and the restaurant itself is tastefully furnished. I enjoyed the selection of food, and the restaurant experience was pleasant, from start to finish. The breakfast buffet gets under way at 06h30 and runs until 10h30, whilst the lunch buffet and a la carte menu is served between 11h30 and 15h00. Dinner is served from 18h30. There are two bars on the property, with one located adjacent to the restaurant and the other a poolside bar area, which can accommodate approximately 40 people. The poolside bar is surrounded by palms, giving a tropical feel to the area overlooking the pool. A nice, relaxing environment in which to enjoy a post-work drink.
Business & Meeting Facilities
The hotel has three air-conditioned conference rooms, all on the ground floor. They are able to accommodate 20, 100 and 300 delegates, respectively, in a variety of seating styles. All three conference rooms come with multimedia facilities, including Internet access, sound system, white boards and projectors.
Leisure Facilities
As mentioned, the hotel has an inviting pool, whilst there is also a gym with a number of cardiovascular workout machines and weight-lifting facilities.
Verdict
An excellent option on the mainland of Lagos, for travellers who are looking for a good location close to the airport, and one that has good service, food, and all the basic amenities required by the business traveller.
Contact
Address: 172 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja, +234 8038332548, derenaissancehotelng.com
Afam Anyika