Rivo Ramanamisata, a resident of Sainte-Marie, Madagascar, and manager at the local center of diving Bora Dive and Research, has shared her favorite spots in the island. As a member of the tourism board at Sainte-Marie, she is well-versed in the island's attractions and hidden gems. Her go-to restaurant is the Restaurant au Princesse Bora Lodge & SPA, which offers stunning views of the lagoon and delicious dishes prepared by Chef Armel.

When it comes to her favorite dishes, Rivo Ramanamisata recommends trying the crabe au coco at Chez Nono or traditional Malagasy cuisine such as Hena sy Tsaramaso, a hearty meat and bean dish. For drinks, she prefers a cold beer, enjoyed in moderation, of course. In her free time, Rivo Ramanamisata enjoys listening to music and playing the guitar with local musician friends. She is also an avid cyclist and volleyball player.

For shopping, Rivo Ramanamisata supports local businesses and promotes Malagasy products. Her favorite stores are Co'Cool and Comptoir des îles, both located in the city center, which offer natural products made in Madagascar. When it comes to socializing, she suggests starting with a quiet aperitif with friends, followed by a night out at the Beach Club, a new restaurant and lounge bar in Sainte-Marie, or the popular Case à Nono nightclub.

For those looking to escape, Rivo Ramanamisata recommends taking a stroll along the eastern part of Sainte-Marie and visiting the Ambanihy bay, which she finds always astonishing. Another favorite spot of hers is the île aux Nattes, where one can disconnect and unwind. As for future plans, Rivo Ramanamisata has always dreamed of cycling along the RN5, a challenging but exciting adventure.

Rivo Ramanamisata recently participated in an ecological project called "Nettoyage des lagons et des sites coralliens," which involved cleaning up the lagoons and coral sites with local villagers from the south of Sainte-Marie. She is proud to be part of this initiative, which aims to protect the island's natural beauty. The project is a testament to her commitment to preserving the environment and promoting sustainable tourism.

In addition to her love for Sainte-Marie, Rivo Ramanamisata has a deep appreciation for the island's cultural events. She cites the Cetamada gatherings and the Festival des Baleines as memorable experiences that bring people together and showcase the island's rich heritage. These events are a great way to experience the local culture and meet new people.

Rivo Ramanamisata's passion for Sainte-Marie and its people is evident in her recommendations and stories. Her insider knowledge makes her a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore the island and experience its unique charm. Whether you're looking for dining, shopping, or leisure activities, Rivo Ramanamisata's top picks are sure to enhance your visit to Sainte-Marie.

Key points

  • Rivo Ramanamisata's favorite restaurant is the Restaurant au Princesse Bora Lodge & SPA.
  • She supports local businesses and promotes Malagasy products.
  • Rivo Ramanamisata recently participated in an ecological project to clean up the lagoons and coral sites.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.