[10 Things I Love About...] Maputo

Carlson Rezidor has also recently opened the Park Inn by Radisson Hotel in Tete which offers business travellers previously unavailable luxury and convenience in the mining district of Mozambique. Contributing Editor Brian Berkman asked Fernando Gruenberg-Stern, Radisson Blu Hotel Maputo GM about 10 Things He Loves About Maputo.

by Fernando Gruenberg-Stern, general manager, Radisson Blu Hotel Maputo: 10 Things I Love About Maputo

1. I love arriving in Maputo whether by plane or by road: Mozambique is so different from other countries, even those in Africa, as most of the people smile all of the time. This makes for a wonderful welcome and is something that never fails to impress me. I know that this friendliness will be an asset for our hotel with a staff made up predominantly of local citizens.

2. I adore the beaches: Maputo acts as a gateway to some of the world's most pristine beaches and our hotel in Maputo offers easy access to the city's main beach. Mozambique is the perfect destination for the beach-lover due to its tropical climate, clear warm waters and clean, sandy beaches. I love the weather and its effect on the moods of the people.

3. Mozambique is a gem for travellers searching for underwater snorkelling or diving adventures: A definite must is a boat trip to Inhaca Island which leaves from Maputo Harbour. The island offers exquisite coral reefs and an abundance of marine life.

4. The traditional architecture in Maputo is incredible: This is especially so of examples from the brilliance of the Pancho Guedes who built the most amazing private houses and buildings. A walk through Maputo is the best way to see the city and experience its culture. By foot you can explore the Cathedral, Natural History Museum, Jardim Tunduru Botanical Gardens, and Museum of the Revolution.

5. Our newly built Radisson Blu Hotel: It stands majestically facing the Indian Ocean and the island of Catembe. I take delight in the contrast between the architecture of the hotel and the traditional Maputo buildings and how it is already a landmark in the city, offering both our guests and local residents a luxury that was previously unavailable.

6. What I truly love about Mozambique is that the locals have a great tolerance towards different ethnic groups: There is no animosity to be felt and the people make you feel very comfortable. You can move around without any worries.

7. The Central Market in Maputo: It is alive with a distinctive Mozambique flavour. The market will give you a true feeling of day-to-day Maputo life with locals selling anything from fresh fruit and veggies to curios, woven baskets and other crafts.

8. I love to go out in the evenings on the weekend: It's a great opportunity to see the eclectic mixture of young and old people celebrating together - they always seem to have a reason to party. I am in awe of their exquisite music and dance and their cultural heritage as well as eating whatever is offered, like peri peri chicken straight from the grill.

9. The Associação Núcleo de Arte: The gallery houses the studios of over 100 artists, sculptors and ceramic artists, and is situated close to the Radisson Blu Hotel Maputo and regularly houses amazing exhibitions.

10. The Maputo Special Reserve (Maputo Elephant Reserve): The reserve is roughly 70km from Maputo and is home to more than 200 elephants. A rugged landscape with a remarkable coastline and large array of vegetation, animals and birdlife, it is a truly wild place.

For more information go to http://www.radissonblu.com/hotel-maputo.