Zanzibar Mvuvi Resort

Mvuvi resort in Zanzibar was a bit too difficult to find but the moment we were welcomed by Hany we knew this was IT. A guest entering few minutes after us told us this was her 10th!! time she returns to the resort. The place was indeed superb.

Run by an Italian-Egyptian couple, Silvia and Hany, who beyond being very hospitable, keep this 6-rooms resort unspoiled and they seem to be the only ones who manage to do so.

They wouldn't compromise with the 'one size fits all' style that has taken over nearly any other resort.

Other Holiday Hotels, Beach Rentals and Holiday Villas 

The decor is loyal to African style - from the stunning straw roof to the crude, yet stylish, wooden towel holders and shell soap dish.

The Italian cuisine is equipped with local ingredients.

You won't find the abundance and luxury found in a 5 stars hotel (we booked one in advance for a couple of nights) but the quality can't be beaten.

Plates include many pastas with nothing but fresh fish, sea food, fresh tropical fruits.

All done with a perfect Italian touch - never too fried or spiced, never sacrificing quality for abundance.

The whole place feels like a summer villa of one big family.

A lot thanks to Silvia's and Hany's personal attention to every guest.

You don't like any of today's lunch starters? - will tuna carpaccio do? Silvia actually checks out daily during breakfast with everyone about any special requests for lunch/supper/afternoon activity/room comfort.

You'll find your way there even if you are a veggie or staying away from sea food.

The tea time continues the same line.

Guests gather for tea and cookies while Silvia and Hany small talk with everyone, yet making sure everybody's needs and wills are met.

They will organize snorkeling/diving tour on the best time for a fair price (Hany is a dive master who knows very well the sea, its tides, weather changes, underwater sites), advise on anything they know about the Island and just pass the little time off they have with the guests.

All in a friendly, not just professionally polite, manner.

Don't expect a pool, its a tiny one. There's a magnificent ocean right there.

I spare the words about the serenity and beauty of the beach and water

I never came back to the same hotel twice due to chronic curiosity and need for change, Mvuvi Resort will probably be my first deviation from this habit.