Park Hyatt Zanzibar

Park Hyatt Zanzibar is one of the best-known luxury hotels in Stone Town, set on the beachfront in Shangani within the UNESCO-listed old town. Part of the hotel occupies Mambo Msiige, a 19th-century Zanzibari mansion, which is joined to a contemporary wing. Forbes Travel Guide notes that guests can ask for rooms in the historic section, which is worth doing if you want period character rather than a modern room.

Hyatt lists 67 rooms, including 11 suites, and the choice is broadly between ocean and city views. Facilities include an ocean-view infinity pool, a spa with treatment suites using local products, a fitness centre, room service, concierge, laundry and meeting space. Digital check-in and a digital key are offered, and there is self-parking, which is unusual in the old town where most hotels cannot be reached by car. The hotel has direct access to the beach in front.

Dining is a strong point. The Dining Room has, in Hyatt's words, the warm and opulent feel of a traditional Omani colonial home, and Forbes Travel Guide describes cooking that draws on the island's spice trade, with seafood and local produce seasoned with clove, cinnamon and cardamom. The Beach House is a more relaxed waterfront venue for seafood and spiced cocktails, popular at sunset.

The hotel suits couples, honeymooners and travellers who want luxury comforts while staying inside the old town. It is expensive, particularly in the high season, so it is less suited to budget travellers. Families can stay, but the hotel's appeal is mainly its service, pool and location rather than dedicated children's facilities. Forbes Travel Guide lists the hotel as soon to be rated, so its star assessment was not yet published at the time of writing.

The location is excellent for exploring on foot. Forbes Travel Guide puts the Forodhani Gardens night market about five minutes away on foot and the House of Wonders less than ten minutes' walk, with the Old Fort and the rest of the seafront sights also within walking distance. Zanzibar's airport is roughly 16 to 20 minutes by car, and spice farms about half an hour away. The Freddie Mercury Museum and several Shangani restaurants and bars are a short stroll.