(96 rooms) Blue Jacket St, P Bag 31, Francistown; tel: 241 3872; fax: 241 3766; email: thapama@global.bw; web: www.cresta-hospitality.com/hotels/thapama.htm
Near the centre of town and the bus station, this is probably Francistown's best-known hotel, though it's somewhat lacking in character. Centrally located, near the southern end of town by the roundabout, the Thapama is a four-star business hotel, complete with air conditioning and TVs in the en-suite rooms, and – as the name suggests – a casino for guests. Popular with visitors is the health and sports centre, which features air-conditioned squash courts and a gym, while outside there is a swimming pool, and facilities for golf and tennis. The hotel boasts two bars, of which the pool bar serves light meals as well as drinks, and the Ivory Grill, with both buffet and à la carte meals. Transfers from the airport just 3km away are complimentary.