Zanzibar has hotels in every category, including two Hilton DoubleTree properties. One is in Stone Town and the other at the northernmost tip of the island, in Nungwi. The island lies east of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in the Indian Ocean.
Through the hotel I booked a transfer from the airport to Nungwi, about 70 kilometres away. The vehicle — a Toyota Land Cruiser — was well maintained by African standards and the air conditioning worked perfectly. As a bonus there was Wi-Fi on board, which felt reassuring when you can check your location on Google Maps.
Check-In
Check-in ran smoothly but seriously by COVID standards — every new arrival had their temperature taken. Our Hilton rate included both breakfast and the evening buffet. Thanks to Hilton Gold status we received a room on the second floor, several discounts at the restaurant, no surcharge for room service, and 2 drink vouchers at the bar.
The front-desk staff were very friendly and attentive. Luggage was brought up to the room later. Since I wanted to try out my new stand-up paddleboard, I had travelled with more luggage than usual.
Room
In the spacious room a fruit platter and a bottle of red wine were already waiting as a welcome gift. The beds had been decorated with a flower heart — without us having requested it. The holiday got off to a wonderfully positive start.
The shower and bathroom were clean and tidy. As this was my first stay in Africa, my expectations were modest — a clean bathroom was all I asked for.
Our room featured a generously sized, comfortable double bed covered with a mosquito net, as is customary in Africa. Power outlets were available for both local and EU plugs. The Wi-Fi was generally stable and worked throughout the resort. The resort also has a pool with a well-stocked pool bar. Sun loungers on the beach fill up quickly, which is probably a reflection of how well the hotel is occupied. Food and drinks can be ordered and enjoyed both at the loungers and by the pool.
The buffet was a wonderful experience for us Europeans. Temperature checks were carried out consistently at the entrance, and disposable gloves were mandatory in the buffet area. Both the morning and evening selections were varied, and the freshly grilled fish in particular was a real treat. That said, Europeans should still be mindful of what they eat and not sample everything that catches the eye.
The resort is well situated in Nungwi and offers plenty of ways to spend your holiday — whether you’re after a pure beach break or snorkelling excursions. There are magnificent coral reefs and a paradise-like sea just nearby.
Verdict
Zanzibar is well worth the trip, whether as a beach holiday or as an add-on after a safari. Prices are lower than, say, the Maldives, and you quickly get to know the locals, who always have an insider tip up their sleeve.
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