540 SLEEPOVER: Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa

How perfect do you like your island idylls?

Fancy a long weekend away from Nairobi? Already sampled many of Kenya’s best oceanfront hotels? Want to try somewhere different that is only a relatively short hop from JKIA? Well, you could do a lot worse than spend a few days in Zanzibar.

If there is a problem with Zanzibar, it is choosing where to stay. It’s a tricky decision, but you can’t go far wrong with the Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa. And if you like your beach resort Swahili style – and who doesn’t – then this is the one.

Located in Kiwengwa on the east coast of Unguja, less than an hour from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, this is the premier property of the Bluebay Hotels Group. Dotted with over 1,000 palm trees and set in 30 spacious acres, the Blue Bay Beach Resort is classy and unhurried.

Accommodation

The spacious accommodation is offered in graduated levels of indulgence:

• If you are watching the shillings, choose one of the garden bungalows which overlook the resort’s beau

• Or trade up to a superior cottage with ocean views

• Junior suites are next to the ocean with a veranda, private garden and are worth paying extra for

• And for those with money to splash around, there are two ‘super-deluxe’ Sultan rooms where it is said that even pampered sultans would want to stay.

Images courtesy of: Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa

Often it’s the dining experience that really makes any stay – and the Bluebay doesn’t disappoint. The Makuti Restaurant has views over the swimming pool and the ocean beyond. Catering for those who have booked half-board, it offers various themed buffets with live entertainment.

However, for that special occasion or for those seeking a truly gourmet evening, it has to be the sand-in-your-toes Bahari Grill. The Bahari serves some of the island’s tastiest seafood, Italian and most succulent steaks – all in the most romantic of settings. It’s best to pre-book a table, though. Alternatively, The Blue Marlin Restaurant offers beach barbecues and the pool bar boasts an enticing selection of wines and spirits.

This resort caters not only for those who prefer whiling away their time on the beach, but also for those who like action-packed days filled with activity. Even guests who want to combine business and leisure are looked after, with conference facilities, a 24-hour business centre and special group incentives.

Images courtesy of: Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa

Oasis Spa

The property also features the Oasis Spa, located on the beachfront. With palm trees haphazardly protruding through the thatch roof, the sound of cascading water and an abundance of beautiful exotic plants, it’s a truly heavenly setting. The spa offers a range of treatments with qualified massage and beauty therapists to help you unwind in a personal sanctuary of your own.

Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa is also home to the One Ocean Dive Centre, Zanzibar’s most respected 5-star PADI dive operator.

Visit www.bluebayzanzibar. com to book or find out more.

Images courtesy of: Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa

Images courtesy of: Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa