The high living costs appear to be doing little to dampen holidaymakers’ appetites, with travel companies reporting a resurgence in bookings not seen before the lockdown. In response, existing and brand-new hotels, such as the Neela Boutique Hotel in Stone Town, Zanzibar, are readying themselves to welcome an influx of guests from around the world.
Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town, Zanzibar, is the latest to announce its opening and will be welcoming its first guests in July. A second Neela Collection is scheduled to open in 2024.
The boutique hotel in the heart of Zanzibar’s cultural jewel is aimed at families, adventurers and business travellers alike. Part of the Neela Collection, internationally renowned interior designer Nelly Levin (above) has placed comfort and relaxation on par with luxury in its 14 deluxe and superior rooms.
Seamlessly marrying vintage and new elements, the hotel draws inspiration from Stone Town’s rich cultural history and African, Arab, Indian, Persian and European influences. Guests can immerse themselves in an experience which is steeped in tradition yet have all the modern-day comforts for a memorable stay.
All superior rooms boast king-size beds, a luxurious standalone bath in the room as well as a separate ensuite bathroom and large shower. Meanwhile, the deluxe rooms are comfort epitomised, offering a choice of king-size or twin beds and an ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower.
High thread counts bedding will help to rest that much more heavenly especially given the stresses much of the world is experiencing in the current climate.
The landmark historic building has been restored to a high standard, with each space having a unique look and feel to it that only a heritage building can offer. There will be something to discover and experience as you enter each room.
Aside from bespoke interiors and service, the hotel aims to wow its guests with its unique food and beverage options. The in-house Breadfruit Restaurant & Café will offer a fantasy of flavour embracing Stone Town’s myriad influences.
Here’s something to make your mouth water. The Lobster Brekkie Bun comprises a potato bun, poached butter lobster, scrambled eggs, kewpie mayo and black sesame, while The Benedict is like no other iteration of the breakfast classic: Mahamri muffins, pulled goat, poached eggs, semi-dried tomatoes, Zafarani hollandaise, and herb shoots.
Innovation also abounds at Breadfruit Restaurant & Café, where guests will be treated to meals like The Neela Kamba Roll, an indulgent dish combining local lobster, lobster bisque, mayo, chives, and togarashi served on a milk roll.
To burn off the copious said food, there are plenty of activities to get involved in. The Neela Collection has partnered with a local tour operator offering sunset cruises on a traditional dhow (one or two-masted Arab sailing) to swimming with dolphins and kitesurfing. Adventure enthusiasts will be thrilled. Many other activities can be tailor-made so guests can take home memories as well as their belongings.
Developed by husband-and-wife duo Steve and Raju and a local partner, the Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town aims to plug the gap of an undersupply of high-end luxury hotels in the city.
The capital of the Zanzibar archipelago, Stone Town (below), has been the primary trading post on the spice, silk and slave trade routes for over a millennium. A melting pot of cultures, the vibrant city is a labyrinth of chaotic alleyways interspersed with imposing terracotta roof limestone houses with ornately carved doors.
Steve and Raju have undertaken major projects across Africa, Asia and the Middle East and are developing another oceanside boutique hotel in Fumba scheduled for opening in 2024, further cementing The Neela Collection as the hotel group of choice in Zanzibar’s vibrant cultural heart.
The Neela Collection was born from the desire to offer beautiful locations for families to spend quality time together while enjoying the freshest seasonal food surrounded by stunning natural beauty and the rich culture of Zanzibar.
Each of the properties in The Collection, which are either restored landmark heritage buildings or architecturally designed and built using local craftsmanship and international experts, have distinct personalities rooted in and authentic to their location.
The Neela Boutique Hotel Stone Town will welcome its first guests on 15 July 2023.
The Neela Collection – Where and How?
For more information on The Neela Collection, visit www.neelacollection.com.
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