5 star? Someone can't count. It's 2 star. Run down, just goes in hand with Zanzibar. Don't believe the Travel Brochures, the hotel and Zanzibar are a nightmare. They promote shopping and restaurants here - well where are they? The food is average at best and expensive. Service is friendly but the staff cannot speak English terribly well. Internet was disgraceful with a multitude of excuses as to why it would not work. Nothing works properly. Toilet dripped for 3 days. Shower never worked properly or at any regular temperature. The only saving grace is the Spice Tour but thats hardly enough reason to come to Zanzibar. if you really wish to come to Zanzibar, do NOT fly here with Zanair.The really show what this region is like. Cancel flights and lie. Their planes are extremely old and filthy. Go somewhere else- stay somewhere else

I found this place through Lonely Planet travel guide, called them 1 day in advance, booked, and scheduled the airport pick-up, which they delivered in a timely manner as promised. Really great place, and a perfect way to start your vacation on Zanzibar. This is a 5-star hotel in a traditional Swahili syle in the very center of the Stone Town, and with great ocean views. My room had traditional Swahili furniture (looked great!), air conditioner, bathroom, table/chair, and a large bed with mosquito net, and was very clean. I was told that the property is owned by Aga Khan, an Indian multi-billionaire. The service was excellent, and the front desk was very helpful in making all practical arrangements for us in Zanzibar, getting us in touch with local tour guide, rental car company, etc. The price was high, but it was worth it.