Zone out in Zanzibar. OK! pays us a visit

For those dreaming of a trip to the Maldives and Mauritius, we’ve found another idyllic Indian Ocean paradise to add to your bucket list. The unspoiled island of Zanzibar offers all the same ingredients – turquoise waters,swaying palm trees and sandy beaches, as well as year-round warm temperatures. Located just 25 miles off Tanzania’s coastline, the coral reef-ringed island offers a rich mix of Arab, Omani and British colonial heritage and a fascinating history as a spice and trading centre. OK!’s Kirsty Hatcher headed off to explore...

Where can i stay?

The family-owned Zanzibar Collection comprises four hotels. Breezes, The Palms and Baraza are all dotted along Bwejuu Paje beach, while the group’s newest property, the all-inclusive Zawadi Hotel, sits atop a cliff overlooking the ocean, with steps down to Mswaki beach. All nine villas at this adults-only bolthole are named after an aquatic creature, and ours – called Jodari, a local fish – featured beach chic interiors, a sun terrace and a lush garden.Just along this beautiful stretch of coastline

is the Baraza Resort & Spa. The hotel decor is Arabic in style – think white arches, ceiling fans, brass lanterns and rich fabrics– inspired by the palaces of the Omani sultans, who once ruled Zanzibar. This all-inclusive luxury resort features 30 one and twobedroom villas and is set

in 70 hectares of beautiful gardens overflowing with bougainvillea, jasmine and frangipani. OK!'s oceanside villa boasted a dreamy hand-carved four-poster bed, plunge pool and a freestanding bathtub

Read the rest of the feature here. OK! Magazine DPS 19th Spetember 2017