Upendo Beach House

The communal areas are divided into several small spaces to create a sense of intimacy. Thatched lapas double up as cushioned chill spots and dining areas, while the open-sided bar has an airy feel and a beautiful wooden countertop. Bench swings, bean bags and palm trees surround the infinity pool, and sunloungers in front of it allow you to lie with your toes in the sand. The à la carte menu offers deliciously contemporary dishes. (We recommend the seafood platter!)

There's accommodation for everyone, from the simple double Makuti suites to the larger one-, three- and four-bedroom villas. The Makuti bandas, built one above the other, may lack complete privacy, but they're airily splendid, with lots of wood and splashes of colour, and en-suite bathrooms. (Ask for one with sea-facing views.) The villas are very private, each with its own pool and terrace; while the larger three- and four-bedroom options have spacious lounge areas, fully equipped kitchens and personal staff.

Upendo can organise any of the activities so loved by Zanzibar's regular visitors. The diving and snorkelling are world class (you could see mantas and dolphins). Kite-surfing, deep-sea fishing and kayaking are available nearby. Sailing back in time on a dhow, or visit to the ancient alleyways of Stone Town, the island's main hub. Hike in Jozani Forest to see endemic red colobus monkeys, tour one of the island's spice farms. Or sunbathe – the choice is yours...