But first... when to go?

Zanzibar can be viewed as an all-year-round destination because of the mild, tropical weather. The temperature is steady year round – between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius in the day. However, heavy rains fall from March to May – it’s hot and very wet so perhaps not the best time to go. For divers January and February is very good as the water is at its clearest.

Best for Villas – Xanadu

Xanadu Villas is brand new – it opened its doors on 1st June 2016 and has just 6 beautifully designed villas surrounding a central pool and dining area engulfed by tropical gardens and palm trees, meters from the beach. Each villa has its own private plunge pool, lounge and kitchen. Situated on the South East side of Zanzibar which is a great stretch of glistening white sand, they offer snorkelling, paddle boarding, sunset dhow cruises and a spa. Other activities such as diving or kite surfing can be arranged.

Price from £270 per person per night – all inclusive.

Best for Service - The Palms

Situated on a pristine white beach on the south-east coast of Zanzibar, The Palms is a beautifully appointed resort reflecting the warmth and character of the local architecture in an elegant setting. Unwind on private day beds - covered by shady palm thatched 'bandas' - as you look out over the crystal clear Ocean. Enjoy a relaxing massage at the Sanctuary Spa where you can choose from an extensive range of therapies and treatments. Alternatively, take to the water on a snorkelling trip or keep your feet dry and enjoy excursions to historic Stone Town, the tropical Jozani Forest or spice plantations.

Price from £340 per person per night – full board.

Best for Big Rooms – Matemwe Main

Overlooking a white-sand beach, Matemwe Lodge is located on the north-east coast of Zanzibar. Featuring a veranda equipped with a hammock and a couch, each room at the Matemwe overlooks the ocean. Each of the thatches chalets are individually decorated with local materials and original pieces. Enjoy the ala-carte restaurant, serving a menu based on local specialities. Lunch is buffet and a more-than-you-can-eat affair, offer and a fusion of African and European flavours. Colourful cocktails are served at the poolside bar. If you fancy a bit of pampering after a hard day or relaxing the spa is just the place! The area offers a variety of water sports, like snorkelling and diving in the coral banks. Boat trips to the celebrity-dotted Mnemba Island are just a short boat-ride away across azure waters.

Last minute special rate available from £195 per person per night – full board

Best for Seclusion - Fundu Lagoon, Pemba

Fundu Lagoon is privately owned and run, it is set away and remote, a peaceful place which has perfected that ‘shabby chic’ thing. Wooden walkways and sandy paths lead to 16 spacious thatched tented suites. All set on the hillside at the edge of the beautiful white sand beach, they are beautifully designed and kitted-out with everything a weary traveller would dream to have. Each has a large veranda with views of the Indian Ocean and best of all, a private plunge pool. The cuisine reflects the culture of Zanzibar - a delicate fusion of Indian, Swahili and European influences beside more traditional dishes. And if you are a tad thirsty have no fear, there are 3 bars to choose from, all prefect for a sun-downer or two. And all of this with no crowds - pure bliss.

Price from £450 per person – fully inclusive

Best beach - Ras Nungwi

Home to one of the most unspoilt beaches on the island, Ras Nungwi is ideal for lazy days on the sand. The luxury property stretches out across sun-dappled garden paths on a stretch of coastline fringed by a thriving coral reef teeming with marine life and it also yields a beautiful lagoon. Low tides reveal sparkling white coral sand bars and rock pools. The main beach area allows easy access to the hotel's swimming pool, beach bar and water sports centre. Beach butlers are on hand to provide you with towels, sun-loungers and drinks from the bar. Activities offered by the on-site include snorkeling, kayaking and local dhow cruises. If you are getting peckish but can’t be bothered to go far, the thatch restaurant and bar sits conveniently at deck level with the swimming pool, offering great ocean views.

Rates from £220 per person – bed and breakfast

Best for amenities – Essque Zalu

This modern hotel sits right on the northern tip of the island. From shimmering swimming pools to the crystal clear sea, Essque Zalu is relatively new and already making waves - it has won several awards. Relax with a cocktail or delicious meal, or treat yourself to a decadent spa treatment at this Zanzibar boutique hotel. With simple but stylish décor, guests will find themselves completely comfortable. The warm hospitality and attention to detail is fantastic. And so much to do - swimming in the large infinity pool, enjoying a holistic treatment at the spa, a spot of exercise in the fitness centre or viewing the artwork of local and international artists in the gallery!

Rates from £245 per person in a one bedroom Villa – bed and breakfast.

Best for the WOW factor (and most of the above) - Mnemba Island

Mnemba is the ultimate bucket-list destination, hailed by journalists and travel writers alike as one of the top beaches in the world, certainly in Africa. Mnemba is the ultimate definition of barefoot luxury, one of the very few places on the planet where you can snorkel straight off the beach and onto pristine reef. Owned and run by the And Beyond group, the food and service is top class also – but all of this comes at a budget-obliterating cost. The island is located just of the north east coast of Zanzibar and you get there by air or boat from the private jetty. Arriving on this private island is something surreal indeed. You’ll sleep in one of 10 ‘thatched ‘bandas’, scattered on white beach and coastal forest amongst swaying palms – they are superbly yet sparingly decorated.... but oh-so perfect. If you tend to get star struck be warned – you might just bump into Bill Gates, Naomi Campbell or Roberto Cavalli on Mnemba.

Cost – from £990 per person. Yes you read that right. Everything is included in the price – even diving and champagne!

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