Known throughout the world as the jewel of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar has a romantic and colourful history of seafarers and explorers. A visit to Zanzibar must include a visit to Stone town and many visitors decide to combine a stay in this ancient city with a beach retreat. For those who want to experience the charm of a classic African setting with a touch of ancient Arabian mystique, the place is Beyt al Chai.

This is a cool 5-room boutique hotel within a traditional Zanzibar house, built on 3 floors on what was once a tea house. The location has an interesting history. A wealthy Arab merchant originally built this fabulous old building. In the years that followed, its square became a favourite haunt of the European residents of the town.

Sitting only a few paces from the sea, the house is cool and breezy. On a typical day, guests relax in our beautifully appointed lounge and rooms overlooking a square filled with hibiscus and ancient tamarind trees a great place to soak up the ambiance of this World Heritage Site only steps a way from the shops, restaurants and attractions of contemporary Zanzibar and The Indian Ocean. The restaurant, simply called the Beyt al Chai Restaurant, is already considered the finest dining establishment within Zanzibar's Stone Town. The Restaurant is unobtrusively located on the ground floor, away from the rooms.

Everything about Beyt al Chai rooms is as authentic old Zanzibari. Each of the 5 en-suite bedrooms and suites are designed with richly coloured organza and silk curtains billowing in the breeze around antique furniture.