Here’s an interesting question for most travellers: is being in a fantastic location the most important thing for you, or does staying in luxurious accommodation take precedence?  In a way, Komba Forever, a simple little lodge located near the southern tip of Nosy Komba island in the Nosy Be archipelago, brings this whole question into sharp focus. You see, Komba Forever, despite the simple nature of its accommodation, lies on an absolutely sensational stretch of beach, the most gorgeous certainly on Nosy Komba and probably one of the most attractive beaches in the entire Nosy Be archipelago!

A gorgeous 200-metre-long stretch of golden sand, it’s actually shared with the most luxurious and upmarket lodge on Nosy Komba, the very highly rated Tsara Komba lodge. So the good news is that depending on your budget, you can choose whether you want to enjoy what is essentially the same stunning location, staying either in wonderfully stylish luxury (at a price) or rather going with the unpretentious simplicity (and much lower price tag) of Komba Forever. Clearly for many people the combination of a sensational location and more modest accommodation at a reasonable price is a hugely attractive one, as Komba Forever is one of the most popular lodges in the entire archipelago, with availability being quite tough to find at many times.

There are 4 simple bungalows at Komba Forever, which lie dotted amidst the lush tropical gardens that stretch up the hillside above the wide sandy beach. Whilst they all feature the traditional style and build method found in many similar Madagascan bungalow lodges – think wooden floors with reeded walls and ceilings – the layouts do vary slightly, with 2 of them (of around 30 sqm) suited to accommodating a couple, another of a similar size which adds a mezzanine level with an extra bed (which is perfect for a couple of smaller kids), and finally there is a spacious 2 bedroomed family bungalow with a large shared bathroom.

Whilst very simple and quite old fashioned/traditionally styled, the rooms are all scrupulously clean and comfortable and fitted with mozzie nets to keep the pesky critters at bay. Private decks with seating means that you can relax and enjoy views out over the lovely beach and ocean beyond accompanied by delightful bird song! They are quite private and spaced out, with some located just above the beach and others further up the hill with arguably better views but obviously being a bit more of a slog to reach.

As mentioned previously, the star of the show here is obviously the gorgeously attractive beach which to our mind is definitely the best on Nosy Komba! Wide, with gorgeous soft golden sand and gently shelving, it’s great for a dip when the tide in (and you just have to wade out about 50 metres to reach the deeper channel for a refreshing dip at low tide) There’s also decent snorkelling on a coral reef just around the corner from Komba Forever heading west.

If you’re craving an escape from the noise, hustle and bustle of modern city life, Komba Forever is just about the perfect antidote! It’s blissfully quiet and isolated here, with just the occasional friendly islanders, mainly smiling children, walking past on the near deserted beach. There are kayaks to paddle around the calm waters off the lodge, but if you do feel like venturing further afield, friendly lodge staff will take pride in showing you the trails through the forest to see more of lovely Nosy Komba - just beware that it’s quite a slog uphill at times, but there are glorious views from the top of the island which serve as ample compensation! Otherwise, you can head by boat to nearby Nosy Tanikely for great snorkelling at this little protected island, including the unmissable opportunity to swim along with the numerous green turtles to be found here. Similarly, you may enjoy an excursion to the Lokobe reserve, or even a day out deep-sea fishing!

But many guests will prefer to spend their days simply chilling in the idyllic surrounds of the lodge itself. The communal dining/bar/lounging area is located a little up the hill so you can enjoy the lovely views whilst sipping on a delicious freshly squeezed fruit juice or smoothie - or perhaps something a little stronger and cocktail-ey! The other stars of the show here have to be Komba Forever’s wonderfully friendly team and the delicious food on offer here! You can read for yourself the numerous rave reviews on social media about the stunning dinners on offer in particular, with ultra-fresh seafood the main attraction! And whilst a simple island lodge like this is obviously slave to what produce is in season or being caught at the time, what’s noticeable is the variety and imagination typically on show from the kitchen here. In fact guests staying for 2 weeks at a time marvel about how no dishes are repeated during the course of their stay!