Zanzibar Serena Hotel

Zanzibar Serena Hotel offers an immersive journey through Stone Town's storied past, overlooking the turquoise Indian Ocean amid Sultans' palaces, Portuguese forts, ancient dhow harbours and colourful bazaars. Opened in 1997, the hotel was carefully restored from two historic seafront buildings u2014 an 18th-century Chinese doctor's residence and the 19th-century former Extelcoms House u2014 a restoration that contributed to Stone Town's recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Each of the 51 rooms and suites blends coastal elegance with Swahili heritage: whitewashed walls, high ceilings, carved wood furniture, brass lanterns and French doors opening onto private balconies with ocean views.