Originally a tea house owned by a wealthy merchant, Beyt al Chai is an exceptionally highly-regarded hotel in which to stay in Stone Town. Indeed its name actually translates as 'House of Tea', in Swahili. It is also the sister hotel to the equally highly regarded Bluebay Beach Resort and Sultan Sands Resort, both of which are located in the Zanzibar East region, home to Zanzibar's very best beaches.

With only six, en-suite, rooms - of which we think the two 'Sultan' rooms are the best - the atmosphere is intimate and welcoming. Authentic Zanzibari furniture and luxurious furnishings provide the ideal environment for much more than an overnight stay.

Although there are numerous other restaurants in the area, the hotel's own restaurant has become known as one of Stone Town's finest, with a cuisine that fuses the best of Zanzibar and Europe.

A comfortable Residents' Lounge, together with a well-stocked bar, completes the picture, and the presence of a friendly and welcoming team of staff makes this one of our top recommendations.