The Neela Boutique Hotel

After entering Neela Hotel through grand Zanzibari doors, discover a serene setting that merges old and new with seamless aplomb. Dining takes centre stage at the Breadfruit Restaurant, which serves an array of locally-inspired dishes including the lobster brekkie bun in the morning and the Swahili seafood curry for dinner. Reserved only for guests, the Parlour Lounge offers light bites and specialty brews using the finest beans from Kenya and Tanzania. In the evenings, head for the Views Rooftop Bar for drinks surrounded by the flicker of candlelight.

Under the guidance of interior designer, Nelly Levin, the rooms are all imbued with elements borrowed from Stone Town and enjoy a clean, uncluttered style. All 14 are afforded a King-size bed donning high thread count linens, well-equipped mini bars, smart TVs and aircon. The open-plan bathrooms are elegant and with bronzed hardware and rainfall showers, while the Superior rooms have a standalone bathtub as well. These rooms also enjoy a sitting area with a cushy indigo chair and pouffe, perfect for catching a little shut-eye.

The Neela enjoys a fabulous central location, ensuring sightseeing is as easy as can be. The hotel is just minutes from Forodhani Gardens and their iconic nightly food market, and you can also delve into the history of Stone Town at the ruins of the Old Fort, the House of Wonder, and the Palace Museum. For a fabulous day out, catch the ocean breeze and sail along the coast in a traditional dhow, then visit Prison Island and stop for a sandbank barbecue, before heading back to land to explore the wild and beautiful Jozani Forest.