Dear Jonno
I saw your ‘tented getaway for campers’ concept in the issue of 2 September, and am looking to build something similar for tourists on a 33ha island property in the Zambezi River.
I would like to start with six chalets on the river frontage. They should be attractive and different, but I would like the cost to be kept fairly low. My preference is thatched roofs, but I haven’t decided on the walls. Please advise!
Kind regards
Denny
Dear Denny
Because of your development’s unusual location on a river island, you will have to plan it all carefully to ensure that it is as practical and functional as possible. Here are some aspects to consider:
- Which visitors are you trying to attract?
- What activities – fishing, birding, nature walks or boating, for example – will you offer?
- Will it be self-catering or will you provide meals?
- What are the flood levels of the river?
- Have you considered protection against crocodiles and hippos? The houses may also need burglar bars and screens to keep out monkeys and mosquitoes.
- How will you expand the development in time?
In the layout, I have shown a basic one-bedroom unit, with a side porch that can be a kitchenette or a second small bedroom. I have also provided a plan for a communal drinking and dining area. This sort of facility is crucial in a tourist development, as it enables guests to socialise in comfort.
Shown too is the lower river end of the island, with possible facilities.
I suggest that the buildings be rustic but substantial: a simple vertical and horizontal poled structure on a solid foundation, with on-site wall materials and a thatched roof with chicken mesh for monkey-proofing. This is better than a tented unit, which would require more upkeep in the long run.
Give me a call and we can discuss all the options.
Kind regards
Jonno
