Serena Inn

Resort Pictures

Idyllically situated on the sea front of ancient Stone Town washed by the aquamarine waters of the Zanzibar channel redolent of the scent of cloves and flanked by an exotic melange of sultan s palaces Portuguese forts ancient dhow harbours dark slave markets and bright bazaars the Zanzibar Serena Inn is a haven of tranquillity and opulence amongst the bustle of Zanzibar

The hotel is situated in two historic seafront buildings the old Telegraph Building and the Chinese Doctor s House which have been beautifully restored

Faithfully restored and lavishly embellished with a jackdaw collection of antique clocks crystal chandeliers fretwork screens carved staircases Persian rugs and brass-studded doors the interior design concept is a fusion of authenticity and opulence that reflects the very essence of Zanzibar

The island of Zanzibar also known as Unguja is known as the Spice Island because of its long-standing association with the clove industry

Accomodation

Its interiors echo the rich Arabian influences and indigenous East African roots Each room is cool white and constructed to the traditional design of a Swahili house which is dependant upon the length of the mangrove poles that make up its ceilings Adorned with arched niches antique plates and brass lamps and featuring traditionally carved furniture cool-ceramics intricate fretwork draped beds and louver doors giving onto wrought-iron balconies overlooking the Persian-bath pool and azure bay beyond each room reflects a blend of essential Zanzibar and world-class elegance

The dark wood of the furnishings is offset by the cheerful blue and yellow tones of the bedspreads and curtains All bedrooms overlook the azure waters of the Indian ocean

There are 3 variations on the rooms the Deluxe room Prime room or Suite

Each room is comfortably furnished with the following amenities bathrobes mosquito nets beach towels cable TV balcony air conditioning mini-bar telephone hairdryer safe radio refridgerator and a work desk The Prime rooms and the Suites have their own hammocks on the balcony

Dining

You can dine on traditional Swahili cuisine as well as a range of international dishes in the Baharia restaurant Lobster crab and fish are usually on the menu as are fresh fruit and vegetables Zanzibar s herbs and spices are used creatively to tantalise the taste buds

Constructed so that the waves lap to within inches of its open windows and the lateen-sailed dhows pass within metres of its tables the Baharia Restaurant features lazily whirring fans a jewel-glass atrium mangrove-pole ceiling fretwork screens Omani carvings Persian rugs and bright Swahili artefacts

The Zanzibar cuisine meanwhile is a glorious melee of freshly caught seafood fresh picked spices luscious fruit and delicately flavoured vegetables You will enjoy exclusive Seafood Restaurant on our open-air terrace with magnificent views over the Zanzibar channel

The restaurant has huge windows which open out to the Indian ocean and mainland Tanzania Try to book one of the tables close to the window By day you can gaze at the dhows plying the blue water and in the evenings you can watch the lanterns of the distant fishing boats dancing on the water The restaurant service is friendly efficient and professional

A team of chefs creates sumptuous meals which are served in convivial surroundings Local seafood is a specialty the variety matched only by the different methods used in its preparation

Recreational Facilities

To keep you busy in the day water sports and other recreations are offered including excursions to nearby islands and Jozani Forest which is home to many rare species Visits to Stone Town s historical landmarks scuba diving and snorkelling trips trips to the various theatres and museums where a unique range of events and entertainment including the House of Wonders and the Old Dispensary await you

Traditional displays of Swahili dance music and cultural performance Nightly performances of Taarab Music a combination of African Arabic and Indian influences that was first played in the 1820 s at the Sultan s palace Taarab is usually performed by a singer and accompanied by an orchestra comprising the Kanun similar to a zither accordion the nay flute and drums Nightly wildlife and cultural talks videos and film shows

The Serena Inn offers a peaceful and refreshing haven in which to unwind after a busy day However if you need further encouragement to relax the hotel has a new beauty salon which offers a selection of massage treatments using aromatic tropical oils

The hotel offers trips to a private beach at Mangapwani 30 minutes away where there is a watersports From here you can also visit the infamous caves where slaves were hidden during the illegal slave trade which took place after slavery was abolished by Britain in the late 1800s

Watersports and a variety of activities are offered including snorkelling fishing catamaran sailing dhow rides glass bottom boat trips scuba diving sailing windsurfing and swimming

Other activities include lazing next to the pool jogging running hiking shopping biking board games and photographic excursions

Services available at Serena include conference facilities with modern audio and visual equipment Souvenior shop housekeeping laundry valet babysitting boutique gift shop news stand internet connection library and foreign exchange For the discerning traveller Serena Inn is an ideal base for exploring the natural and historic wonders of this famous Spice Island Its elegance construction is a blend of Muslim culture and contemporary state of art

There are a few hotels in the world you visit for the hotel itself and not so much for the country surrounding it and Zanzibar Serena Inn is one of them

If you re after lavish comforts excellent service and fine dining the Zanzibar Serena Inn is one of the most stylish places to stay in Stone Town It however does belong to one of the largest hotel chains in Tanzania Serena Hotels so if you d prefer something more intimate and personal this may not be the hotel for you

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Star Rating:
Distance from Airport:	9km

Resort Facilities