In the heart of the old Stone town of Zanzibar is a beautifully restored palace that once was the home of the richest men in the Swahili Empire. There are 15 rooms in 236 Hurumzi, accessed via a steep stairwell (no lifts here in Zanzibar). Each one differs in size, layout and special features. The top rooms offer the best views, but have ceiling fans only. All the downstairs rooms have air conditioning.

Special touches include fresh flowers, jasmine flowers on your pillow at bedtime and bottled water. All rooms are en-suite, but don't expect the luxuries of television, telephone or mini-bar. Some rooms don't even have wardrobes. The Arabic stone baths are part of the charm of the place.
You'll notice a mixture of Persian, Indian and Arab elements. The very spacious rooms are typical of Arab buildings, while the woodwork and windows show Persian and Indian influences. The lattice windows and stained glass were most probably made in India and shipped over. The enormous teak wood beams were imported from Burma.

The Tower Top Restaurant lies high among the minarets, temple towers, and church spires. It is undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary eating venues in the world. Located on the roof of the building, it makes guests feel as if they're on top of the world as they sip exotic drinks and watch the sun disappear into the Indian Ocean. The Muslim call to prayer accents the eastern setting of Arab-style pillows and small tables and the Hindu Temple chimes remind visitors that they are far away from the stress they left at home.

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