Al Johari Hotel in Zanzibar Island

We are more than happy about the restaurant service at Al Johari Hotel in Zanzibar Tanzania. The cook makes perfect food. The waiters and waitresses are polite. We don't usually give tips but in this restaurant we felt like it. It is not 5 star and, if you've enjoyed (and/or need) the high end beach resorts available elsewhere on the island, then perhaps Al Johari will fall short of your expectations.

But if you are looking for location and convenience to explore the historic town with comfortable surrounds and accommodating staff then the hotel will be an option.

Yes there is no elevator - we were on the third floor - and the restaurant and bar are on the fourth floor but it was never an issue for us.

And no we didn't carry our own 30kg luggage. We loved the hotels proximity to the vibrancy of Stone Town with a short stroll to the waterfront, the many restaurant options, the daily local market, the historical buildings, and many shops - all those narrow winding laneways which demand you explore.

The decor is in keeping with a restored merchant's house and our room which looked into local living rooms complete with the cooking smells came complete with a 5 am alarm (the local call to prayer) and the accompanying roosters but we think that is all part of the experience and the charm (and we are not easily pleased).

We found breakfast adequate and whilst the choices might be restricted the staff was eager to ensure you were satisfied or that your eggs, etc were as ordered.

A special thank you to Salum who from our first contact/inquiry went out of his way to ensure we had the best driver, day trip, etc.