White Sands, Zanzibar
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Villas dotted between lush, brightly coloured gardens; al fresco breakfasts while monkeys jump over your head from tree to tree; cocktails from the roof terrace while watching the sun go down - a stay at Zanzibar White Sand offers all this and so much more...
Accommodation
Guests at Zanzibar White Sand have the option to book either a double room in a communal space or their own private villa (one-bed, two-bed or, the pièce de résistance, the five-bed Presidential villa). The Cinnamon and Luxe rooms have private entrances and terraces, with shared amenities, but the villas offer the ultimate in seclusion - each being carefully positioned so as not to overlook another. Interiors are neutral and calming, offering a perfect respite from the often searing heat, decorated with carefully sourced antiques and pieces made by local craftsmen. Wifi and TV on demand come as standard.
The Presidential villa is ideal for large families or group holidays and includes a private terrace, pool and garden, outdoor shower, rooftop hot tub , spacious lounge (complete with projector screen) and fully equipped kitchen. You'll also get your own private butler who will ensure you want for nothing during your stay - or keep you well topped up with Piña Coladas by the pool.
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Food and drink
You never have need to leave the resort (should you not want to) thanks to the variety of food on offer; the main Doors to Zanzibar restaurant features a blend of local Zanzibari cuisine and international flavours, while the Beach BBQ restaurant offers a selection of organic salads and fresh seafood - just a stone's throw away from the ocean whence it came. Once a week a barbecue buffet is served around the main pool, where local Maasai warriors come to perform traditional dances and display their hand-crafted products.
Of course, in-room dining is readily available should you not feel the desire to leave your villa some days - there's something deliciously indulgent about having a breakfast spread laid out for you ready and waiting when you come downstairs in the morning. For something truly memorable, a private chef is available to hire for the evening, who will whip up a bespoke menu to your taste and serve it by candlelight in your villa garden.
The hotel also has several bars - but the most special is the sunset champagne roof terrace. Where better to enjoy your sundowners?
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What to do
The resort is situated on the stunning Paje beach; beautifully untouched and uncrowded, at times you'll feel as though you have the whole place to yourself, save for a few wandering Maasai warriors and local fisherman. If you're lucky, you might spot a brightly coloured starfish nestled in the sand. Hotel security is high; night guards prevent anyone accessing the resort from the beach at night (or vice versa), while there are also attendants on watch throughout the day.
The hotel can help to arrange an array of activities, from snorkelling and fishing expeditions to local spice tours. Paje is renowned as one of the top kite-surfing spots in the world and Zanzibar White Sand has its own luxury kite-surfing club - but bear in mind that its a seasonal activity; the best times are from June to September and December to March, although lessons and equipment are available all year round.
A visit to Stone Town - the old part of Zanzibar City, the main city of the island - is a must. Formerly the centre of the spice and slavery trade in the 19th Century, it was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 2000 and the winding streets are chock-full of artistic and cultural history, so you'd benefit from a tour guide. It was also the birthplace of Freddie Mercury, so commemorative plaques, shops and monuments paying tribute to the Queen frontman abound.
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Wow Factor
It's hard to pick just one at Zanzibar White Sand; the accommodating staff and service were second to none, the amenities faultless. But the real draw here has to be the location itself; that beach is truly something to behold.
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Book it
Book the Zanzibar White Sand Presidential Villa with luxury villa experts and travel tastemakers Edge Retreats from $1,880 USD (approx. £1,450) per night including breakfast. For a one-bed beachfront villa it is from $730 (approx. £562), including breakfast with Edge Retreats. For reservations and enquiries, visit edgeretreats.com or call 0203 355 6077.
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