As the days grew shorter and darker in Northern Europe, we yearned for a sunny escape from the chilly Danish winter. This year, our adventure took us to the enchanting island of Zanzibar, Tanzania—a destination we had long dreamt of exploring.Our journey began on a Friday afternoon, and after a stress-free flight, we landed at Zanzibar Airport early Saturday morning.
For the first leg of our trip, we had chosen The Residence Hotel, nestled on the serene southwest coast of the island. The moment we stepped out of the airport, we were warmly welcomed by the hotel’s friendly drivers, who ensured that the final hour of our journey was smooth and comfortable.Upon arriving at the hotel, we were captivated by the elegant lobby, the breathtaking view of the turquoise sea, and the impeccable hospitality of the staff. A refreshing welcome drink set the tone for the day, followed by a delicious breakfast buffet that offered our first taste of Zanzibar’s vibrant cuisine.
After breakfast, we were escorted to our luxurious villa, complete with a private pool, a spacious living room, and a bathroom featuring an outdoor shower. It was the perfect retreat. But first, we indulged in a much-needed nap to recharge our energy. Refreshed and recharged, we headed to an à la carte lunch where we savored mouthwatering curries, freshly baked bread, and local delicacies. The hotel spans an impressive 32 hectares, so the rest of the afternoon was spent exploring its green property, pristine beach, and a variety of activities available to guests. One of the first delights we encountered was the local wildlife—playful monkeys swinging through the trees, tiny elephant shrews scurrying about, and the elusive Aders’s duiker. These enchanting creatures brought the property to life, although their unexpected movements occasionally startled us, prompting a few laughs!
Nights at The Residence were equally magical. Guests were treated to lavish dinner buffets and à la carte options at two restaurants. Each evening brought something new: live bands, movie nights under the stars, and themed dining experiences such as local cuisine, Asian nights, and street food feasts.One highlight was our dinner at the Pavilion restaurant, where a romantic arrangement of just a few tables under a canopy of stars created a truly intimate atmosphere. The attentive staff ensured it was a night to remember, with exquisite dishes that delighted our palates.
The Residence offers a wealth of activities to keep guests entertained. Each villa is equipped with bicycles, making it easy to explore the sprawling property. We loved starting our mornings with a sunrise bike ride to the gym, followed by invigorating fitness classes. A yoga session led by a kind and patient instructor was particularly memorable, even as we struggled to perfect some of the poses—resulting in plenty of laughter.
One of our favorite experiences was a beachfront cooking class, where we learned to prepare traditional Zanzibar dishes. Known as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar is renowned for its rich flavors, and it was fascinating to see how local spices elevated simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Cooking on the beach, under the guidance of a skilled chef, felt magical. The best part? Enjoying our creations with the sound of waves in the background. We even brought the recipes home and can’t wait to recreate them.
Another highlight was a traditional dhow boat ride on our penultimate day. With a cheerful crew and stunning coastal views, it was the perfect way to soak up the sun and admire the island’s beauty from the water. Our stay at The Residence Hotel was nothing short of extraordinary. From the warm, attentive staff to the cozy villa, incredible wildlife, and a wide array of activities, every detail made our visit unforgettable. It was the perfect antidote to the cold Danish winter, and we are already looking forward to returning.
Excitingly, the hotel is set to undergo renovations in 2025, promising an even more spectacular experience next time. We can’t wait to return and see what new delights await at The Residence Hotel in Zanzibar!
Our villa details:
The Resort:
Activities:
Cooking class
Yoga Sessions
Spa
Dhow trip
Evenings:
