Serena
Zanzibar also belongs to the Aga Khan Foundation and is the
best standard hotel in town. Set by the sea, and close to
everything, it is a good address if you want good service
and peace.
Formerly
known as Emerson and Greene, this old renovated Arabian house
has beautifully decorated rooms and suites, each of them different,
that make one believe in the 1001 nights stories...Its tower-top
terrace is renowned for its view, as it is set in the heart
of Stonetown, and for its delicious food, worth a try, even
when not staying at the hotel.
Beyt
al Chai
Also
known as Stonetown Inn, this lovely hotel, situated opposite
Serena, is a renovated Arabian private house, decorated
and furnished with taste, and only has six rooms. The atmosphere
is charming and the service simple, but good.
This
hotel is built besides the ancient ruins of St Mary's School,
of Mbweni Mission, for freed slave girls in late 19th century,
between Stonetown and the airport. Here you will find peace
after a day in town, as well as a special atmosphere and
a friendly staff.
The
first owners planted a botanical garden around it, with
more than 650 different plants coming from all over the
world, including the famous Kew Garden. It is nice to stroll
around in the garden and the ruins.
Dhow
Palace Hotel
Dhow
Palace Hotel is also in a renovated Arabian house, with many
staircases and windy corridors. The roof-top terrace gives
you a nice view on the roofs of Stonetown. All rooms are air-conditionned
and have a mini-bar. The pool situated in the lobby is beautiful
to see, but generally easier to use for children...
Mtoni
Marine Centre
Mtoni
Marine Centre is by the sea, 5 minutes from town by car.
Simple and nice, it is perfect for families, as it offers
a swimming-pool, the beach and a garden to run around. The
restaurant has good reputation, with a very romantic setting
in the evening, as the tables are directly on the sand.
Africa
House Hotel
Africa
House, former British Club, is the most famous meeting
point of Stonetown at sunset. Everyone comes here to admire
the view, over a fresh beer or cocktail. After many years
of being a building site, it has at last become a hotel,
which tries to give an insight into the past.