Upendo Zanzibar: One of Zanzibar's Best Boutique Hotels
Dreaming of where to travel to when travel restrictions ease?
It’s been a difficult time for travel but I still want to share some of my favourite places with you in order to provide some inspirations for when things are a little easier. Somewhere that is a must for everyones travel bucket list is Zanzibar, otherwise known as ‘Spice Island’, situated off the East coast of Tanzania, Africa. Upendo Zanzibar has two locations on the island, one in Stone Town - Uppendo House, and one on the East coast of the island called Upendo Beach. I’ve stayed at both and wanted to share my experience with you.
Upendo Beach.
This small boutique hotel located on the south east coast in Michamvi about a 45 minute drive from Stone Town or the airport on Zanziabr. This was the first Upendo property to open ? years ago. It has since grown and now offers 5 suites and villas, with a mix of contemporary design with a sense of Swahili charm. I stayed in the Shiva Villa, a fully services 5 bedroom vill with a private pool and outstanding sea views. My favourite relaxing spot was the double swing bed on the patio, shaded from the intense African sun, and was perfect for watching the tide come and go and people watching on the beach. The bathrooms are all equipped with large rain showers and there are some rooms with custom made bath tubs which are a great way to end the day.
Breakfast was included and was a lovely mix of fresh fruit, and a American style breakfast with eggs, beans, mushrooms and toast. In ther evening there are somtimes local musicians to entertain you before you retire inside.
There are many excursions that can be booked or like me you can just enjoy the relaxation time with a good book. A perfect place to de stress, just make sure to use your mosquito spray in the evenings. The beds all have large mosquito nets and the room attendants are great at making sure none have snook inside.
Upendo House - Stone Town.
Perfectly located in the middle of the historic old town, this hotel is newly opened in Feb 2020 after undergoing vast renovations. It’s modern but still in keeping with the cultural charm pf the city. The rooftop bar and pool are is not to be missed on can also be enjoyed by those visiting in the evening happy hour for a cocktail at sunset. The cocktails were the best I have had in a long time and they also make a variety of non-alcoholic ones also. The rooms are small but equipped with all the basic requirements and are spotless. The staff are wonderful and work very hard to provide an excellent service during your stay. All health and social distancing rules were adhered too making the stay feel very safe. This small hotel is the place ot be if you are staying for a couple of nights in Stone Town. Also, make sure you do get a tour guide to take you around and explain the full history of the city to you, it’s incredibly interesting and such a mix of cultural influences.
