The Royal Livingstone Hotel Victoria Falls Zambia by Anantara

Housekeeping went out of their way, the rooms felt spotless. The wildlife outside was just amazing. The welcoming drums and dancers were amazing.

Overall We had previously visited in 2009 and loved the hotel, so when we were coming back to Southern Africa, we decided to return. Much remained the same on our return, but service standards had dropped, and the food quality deteriorated. We weren't expecting any bargains, but the value for money was pretty poor. The Good. 1. Some things never change. The location is perfect, overlooking the Zambezi, and a 10-minute walk to the Falls- access available at all times. The view as you arrive through the reception and to the river is totally stunning. 2. The bar was a favourite location. The traditional decor is lovely, and it it is a great place to sit and watch the world go by. It also had the best food offering and service. The menu is standard international fayre but is very good. Staff were very helpful. 3. Some of the staff were excellent and helpful, such as Edward on the main desk and everyone in the bar. 4. The grounds also remain beautiful with the zebra, giraffe, and deer wandering around about. They are really well maintained. 5. We hadn't tried the spa before.it is in a great location beside the river, and the massages we had were excellent. Also, reasonably costed. A taster massage at check-in was a good idea. 6. Rooms are nice and have good a/c. Bathrooms have nice shower areas. 7. We organised trips to Botswana and across to Zimbabwe. They both went well and were easy to book. The Bad. 1. The standard of service has definitely dropped. The breakfast room staff were not good- rushed and forgetting orders. We also had a room service request for breakfast forgotten. To be fair, the staff were apolgetic when we called, and it arrived about 40 minutes late. 2. The food was decidedly average. The first night, we went to Kubu. It is in a great location. Service was uninspired, and the food very bland. Breakfast was rushed- we arrived 15 minutes before the end of service and were clearly seen as a burden. We wanted to sit outside but were told there were no tables- we counted at least 2. The best meals were via the bar. 3. The initial check-in wánt bad, but we didn't realise there was a minibar hidden behind a drawer front. In addition, the instant coffee in the room was unexpected in a 5 star hotel. 4. The shower was not good. It took an age to heat up- I gave up the first day altogether. 5. Value for money was not great. The food and drinks were expensive in the hotel. Pricing in USD seems to have made it easier to increase pricing points. The worst example was when we asked for a transfer to the airport, 20 minutes away. Many hotels offer free shuttles, and when I heard the hotel had one, I was aztounded to hear it would cost $150. A taxi costed $50- the one we got to the hotel at the airport cost $40.

Fabulous spot and a lovely hotel but they know how to charge. A double Grey Goose and tonic is $42. That is twice the price of a high end London Bar. Extraordinary. Rooms are great. The location is perfect. Views are wonderful. The roaming wildlife on site is just fabulous but bring a full wallet. Food is ok but not outstanding. Breakfast is best

Beautiful hotel and setting on the river bank. Excellent service and food. Giraffe, zebra and buck roaming the gardens of the hotel was a novel experience. Our room, though generally still in excellent condition, showed its age in places. However renovations have commenced and the renovated rooms should be near perfect.

If ever given the opportunity to visit Zambia - take it - such a beautiful country. Livingstone, Victoria Falls and hotel all top class.