Tembo House is a highly attractive hotel. Firstly, it is one of the few hotels in Stone Town to be set on the beachfront. Secondly, it has a lovely big swimming pool. Thirdly, its rooms are decorated beautifully in traditional Zanzibari style. It has a small beach and views across the ocean to the small coral islets on the horizon (Zanzibar's satellite islands).

The beach at Tembo House offers a sandy spot to unwind after a busy day in Stone Town, but if you want to swim rather use the hotel's spacious pool. It's a much cleaner and safer option. The front terrace provides a quiet spot to sit and watch the sun dip into the Indian Ocean with a soft drink in hand. (In keeping with strict Muslim law, alcohol is not served at this hotel. You can satisfy your thirst in one of the pubs a short distance down the road.)

Tembo House is a glamorous hotel with influences from India, Africa and the Orient. There are stained glass windows, antique furniture, carved doors and lots of lovely pot plants. There's a sundeck for developing your tan and a lovely sitting room enclosed in stained glass.