Below are this traveler’s top picks for hotels in Douala , Cameroon . Rates are accurate as of July 2009, but please call in advance for latest updates.

Ibis Douala Hotel

Located in the center of the Banajo business center and just 5km from the Akwa theater district, this hotel features 160 A/C rooms with comfortable beds and spacious bathrooms. You will also find a restaurant and bar open 24/7, a terrace with a swimming pool, and free secure parking. Free shuttle service between the airport and hotel (7km apart).

Rate: ~$121 USD/night

Le Meridien Douala

Ranked consistently high by travel guides, Le Meridien hotel, overlooking the Wouri River , is located near the main commercial and banking areas of Douala . The hotel features an outdoor pool, hotel casino, meeting rooms, comfortable non-smoking rooms with great views of the city, and a restaurant with a variety of international cuisines. Complimentary newspaper, hair-dryer, in-room safe, kitchenette and mini-bar provided in each room. Twenty-four hour business center and currency exchange available. This hotel is close to the Flour Market, the Municipal Museum , an the Maritime Museum . You can also walk to Limbe beach and Lob Waterfalls.

Rate: ~$150-$200 USD/night

Hotel Sawa

Just ten minutes from the airport (with free shuttle), Hotel Sawa features an impressive 288 rooms and 13 suites. Secured outdoor parking and business center available. Comfortable rooms showcase spacious bathrooms, A/C, internet connection, full mink-bar, telephone, TV, and terraces that offer great views of the city. The hotel also has a game room and excellent on-site restaurant. Breakfast can also be served in the room at no additional cost. Unlike the other hotels, Sawa features an impressive, well-kept tennis court.

Rate: $100-$150 USD/night

Pullman Akwa Palace

Built in 1986 this relatively cheap twelve-story hotel located in the center of Douala business district features 125 rooms with AC, refrigerator, satellite/cable TV, maid service, in-room safe, and a mini-bar. Business, currency, and photocopy services available. A hairstylist is also on call. The on-site first-class restaurant has also received great reviews.   Unlike most of the city’s hotels, pets are allowed here!

Rate: ~$75 USD/night

Minotel Vallee Des Princes Hotel Douala

Located in the historical quarter of Akwa and just a stone’s throw away from daytime shopping and nighttime casinos, this hotel is one of the most dynamic in all the city. Features 24 hour reception, A/C, banquet facilities, hot tub, business center, satellite TV, swimming pool, fitness room, mini-bar, safe deposit box, high-speed internet, and a delicious on-site restaurant.   The discounted traveler’s best choice in all of Douala !

Rate: ~ $75/night