Constance Aiyana Pemba, Zanzibar

On a private white sand beach, this luxury boutique hotel favourably regarded by its guests offers PADI-certified diving amidst pristine corals, traditional dhow boat trips and kayaking through mangroves. Tantalising gastronomy awaits with a restaurant serving Zanzibari fare infused with global flavours as well as fresh fish, while there’s a bar offering floral cocktails and shisha lounge.

Enjoying a remote location on untouched Pemba Island, this five-star hotel set in lush vegetation is highly exclusive, hosting just 30 villas featuring consummately crafted wood fittings and chic pastel-toned furnishings; most bedrooms face the Indian Ocean. A host of villas come with private infinity pools, while other perks include gardens, decks or terraces, dining areas and welcome pavilions.

Choose from 30 1- to 3-bedroom villas, for 3-6 guests with king or twin beds, offering beach, sea and/or garden views. All have outdoor lounges/living rooms, showers, tubs, outdoor showers, tubs, air conditioning, tea and coffee-making facilities, LCD TVs, mini-bars, safes and fridges. Some have beachfront locations, gardens, decks/terraces with seating areas, infinity pools or covered verandas. Presidential Villas have welcome pavilions and dining areas.

Orientated towards adults, this resort is well suited to couples offering its own wine cellar and honeymoon packages with in-room gifts, while the spa hosts treatment rooms for two. There’s also a swimming pool, fitness centre, shops selling locally produced handicrafts and exclusive artworks.