The Baraza Resort & Spa in Zanzibar is one of the most stunning hotels I’ve ever been to, located on award-winning Bwejuu Beach. A true sanctuary of refinement that transports us to the era of the Sultans where the exuberance of Arab, Swahili and Indian fusion design predominates. It is included in the Top 60 of the best new hotels in the world and when we spend a few days in this tropical paradise, we easily understand why.
As soon as we enter, in the elegant lobby, decorated with luxurious furniture, colorful paintings and exotic tapestries, we are warmly welcomed by the team that made us feel as if we were at home. Part of a collection of four hotels, The Zanzibar Collection, the Baraza stands out for its unique atmosphere of sophistication that envelops us as soon as we arrive. The resort has only 30 villas, with one or two bedrooms and a Royal Sultan Villa, which gives it a very peaceful and exclusive atmosphere throughout our stay. All accommodations are incredibly stunning and designed to feature classic Swahili architecture where hand-carved wooden elements, brass lanterns, African art, majestic beds and bathrooms where vibrant fabrics and soft textures predominate. In our two-bedroom Sultan Villa, measuring 193 square meters and with a garden, terrace and private pool, we were able to enjoy unique moments of leisure in the open air and with all the privacy we needed.
You will want to browse the tropical gardens, listen to the sound of waves and exotic birds, drink freshly harvested coconut water, let time pass, explore the hotel facilities and the surrounding nature. The main pool is stunning and large, overlooking the Indian Ocean, with cocktails, snacks and tea time in the Chai Lounge. But pure relaxation happens at Spa Frangipani, one of the largest spas in Zanzibar, where we can enjoy a relaxing massage. It features a lap pool and sophisticated Swahili style, enhanced with fragrant candlelit scents, essential oils and spices. The therapists, professionals hailing from Thailand, Bali and India, offer a wide range of specialist massage techniques and treatments, including the famous Thai massage and the Sultan’s Bath, a signature Baraza treatment.
Another highlight is the gastronomy. A menu that fuses the flavors of Africa, Asia, India and Persia, in a selection of sublimely spicy dishes that change every day and with a constant diversity and quality with an abundance of seafood and fresh fish. There are options for all tastes, including children. Themed dinners on the terrace of The Sultans Dining Room to the sound of live Taarab music, African voices, the moonlight between the palm trees, the light breeze… all of this conquered us and left memories that we know we will keep forever. During our stay we were spoiled with some surprises such as an exclusive lunch, feet in the sand, with a privileged view over the turquoise blue sea and with fresh and local ingredients.
One of the aspects that most distinguish Baraza is the incorporation of local culture in all aspects of the resort, whether in the cuisine, activities or even the choice of music. All the small details are a tribute to the people of Zanzibar and this attention is paramount for anyone who really wants to feel and live the culture of a country and for me, this is one of the most interesting aspects when we travel. Our experience at Baraza was simply exceptional. The attention to detail, the professionalism of those who know how to welcome, the excellent service and the luxurious design make this one of the best hotels in the world. It made me want to go back and live it all over again!
By Carla Branco
INFO: www.baraza-zanzibar.com