I thoroughly recommend the Paradise Lodge, Arba Minch. It is a characterful and friendly resort with amazing views. The staff are universally friendly and helpful. The rooms are in the form of traditional thatched huts, comfortable and airy. The beds are very comfortable, the furniture is locally made and full of character and there is plenty of hot water and good quality toiletries. They are not in a modern style, but are spotlessly clean The rates were very reasonable and we thought it excellent value for money. There is a restaurant with a splendid view serving Ethiopian and international food; especially recommended are the fish from the local lakes. The Ethiopian beer is excellent and cold. Excellently located close to one of the University Campuses and a short distance from the city, the resort runs along a ridge, overlooking the two lakes of Arba Minch and the Rift Valley, with far-reaching views over the forest. Great for stargazing because of the clear air, the resort is also very peaceful and quiet, so that we could hear hyenas calling a long way away, down in the forest at night. A charming family group of beautiful Colobus monkeys lives in the trees of the resort; they mind their own business up in the tall trees and don't bother the guests, but are very beautiful black and white creatures with long white tasselled tails. We were very sorry to leave and will certainly stay there again.
