Tikitam Palms Boutique Hotel

The archipelago of Zanzibar off Africa's east coast is a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania known for its white sandy beaches and the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Tikitam Palms Boutique Hotel, which opened in 2018, is located on the east side of Zanzibar on one of those pristine stretches of sand, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and swaying palm trees.

This chic hideaway is an idyllic spot for honeymooners or couples looking for luxury and privacy. In fact, you can even get married at this tropical getaway.

Mouthwatering dishes of Swahili, Indian and Arabic origin are created in the two restaurants: Samaki Restaurant is right on the beach, and you'll find Jua sitting under the huge baobab tree. Expect freshly-caught grilled seafood, exotic fruits, and fragrant dishes using local ingredients.

Breakfast is served from 7.30am, but if you don't feel like leaving your room, room service is available.

Each of the 4 rooms and 4 villas at Tikitam Palms Boutique Hotel have been designed individually with African, Swahili and Safari themes; all are air-conditioned, fitted with flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Choose the Bahari villa and enjoy a beachfront location with ocean views, and a freestanding bathtub. Go for the Coconut room and be surrounded by the shade of tamarind trees, and greeted by a terrace large and vistas to the water.

A stay at Tikitam Palms Boutique Hotel isn't just about the sun, sea and beach; Zanzibar has plenty of wonders to enjoy and explore. Head south and inland an hour and go monkey spotting at Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, home to the red colobus species, or take a tour of an organic spice farm. And of course, a stay on Zanzibar wouldn't be the same without heading out to the coral reef for some diving or snorkelling, or if you prefer to be beach-bound, head out with a mask and fins directly from there. Alternatively, spend a day in a traditional wooden dhow boat; if you're lucky the dolphins may join you.

Stone Town on the west coast is the cultural and historical heart of Zanzibar; it's well worth taking a day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its maze of alleyways and street vendors (we picked up a painting on our visit). We recommend booking a walking tour with a local guide: take in the historical slave market (now the site of the Anglican Cathedral Church of Christ), the House of Wonders, Forodhani Gardens, and buy the likes of cloves, pepper, cinnamon and turmeric at Darajani Bazaar (haggling optional).

Free parking is available.

Free Wi-fi is available.