If you choose Zanzibar for the exotic, romantic, 1001 vibe.... stay at least one night in Stone Town, and specifically in 236 Hurumzi. This hotel is an old merchant's house restored by the former owners Emerson & Green. Its 24 charming rooms and suites are all different but are all full of Zanzibari antiques, carved doors, big stone bathtubs, colorfull glass, walls and decoration ( http://www.i-escape.com/236-hurumzi/overview)
We stayed in the semi open Pavillon suite, at the top floor, a spacious blue/white/yellow room with painted filligree wood arches, a little veranda and small private deck with panoramic Stone Town views. Stunning and very romantic to sleep in the open air in a harem-like bed (as they call it).
http://236hurumzi.com/
One big remark about this hotel: it has a big charm factor for its unique style and rooftop views, but you should not expect 5 star service, its not perfect and the antique furniture is not selected primarely for its comfort. As it has been a while since we stayed there I just checked the recent reviews, ranging from excellent to horrible.... Be ware to expect an authentic experience more than a shiny polished international hotel treatment.
If you would like to play it safe, book a room elsewhere, but - please - have dinner in the The Tower Top restaurant of 236 Hurumzi and make sure you will be there around sun set. Sit down (bare feet) at Persian carpets/pillows, enjoy a cocktail while gazing at the Indian Ocean and you will definitely think you fly away on a magic carpet....
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