Zanzibar, the spicy island: Plume's address book

Sleep between forest and ocean at The Residence

An hour's drive from Stone Town, in the south-west of the island, is The Residence, the ideal place to set down your luggage away from the world, in an atmosphere of 100% serenity. The positive luxury of this 5* address is felt as soon as you open the gates onto the 32-hectare property. Sublime villas (155m² minimum, each with its own private pool), smiling staff, (beautiful) 1km-long beach, jetty jutting out into the Indian Ocean with "sunset bar" at the end, traditional dhow to sail off into the sunset... A dream stopover between charm(s) and voluptuousness.
Mchamgamle, Kizimkazi
The Residence

Rejuvenate in the heart of the city at The Neela Boutique Hotel

In the sometimes stifling hustle and bustle of Stone Town, the Neela is an oasis. The uncluttered decor, reminiscent of an island Greek village, is complemented by works by contemporary African artists. You'll feel just as at home in the small alcoves of the common areas as in one of the fourteen sober but terribly chic rooms. And perhaps even better on the rooftop, a privileged lounge overlooking the capital's rooftops.
67 Shangani Street, Zanzibar
Le Neela

Airborne coffee at the Zanzibar Coffee House

Without hesitation, head for the rooftop terrace! Open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., it's the ideal spot to take the pulse of Stone Town before setting off to explore the maze of alleyways. Afterwards, you'll have to choose between settling down on the cozy 360° terrace or in a cosy sofa/armchair in the small indoor room, which is pleasantly ventilated thanks to its massive teak doors. As the name implies, the coffee is top quality, as are the delicacies (crêpes, toasts, pastries...) on the menu.
1563/64 Mkunazini Street, Zanzibar
Zanzibar Coffee House

Bruncher design au Cafe Turquoise

In the heart of the old town's stone streets, this pretty café with its relaxed ambience and enhanced Scandinavian design offers everything "useful" for a lively day: breakfasts, brunches and snacks, with homemade food in the spotlight. Unexpected and very cute.
91 Shangani Street, Zanzibar
Cafe Turquoise

Attend a concert in the amphitheatre of Ngome Kongwe, the Old Fort

A true Stone Town landmark, close to the seafront and adjacent to the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, or Ngome Kongwe, is worth more for its historical significance than for the aesthetic appeal of its ruins. They are, however, pleasant to wander around, as locals come to find a little privacy. But the fort's main interest lies elsewhere: its amphitheatre is very active in terms of artistic and cultural events. Taking part in a concert or festival (which are held throughout the year) in such an unusual setting is an exceptional experience.
Mizingani Road, Zanzibar

African shopping with peace of mind at Kumi Gifts & Treats

It's hard to find a store in the old town that doesn't smell like a tourist trap. At Kumi, you won't have the feeling of a farandole of souvenirs made in China. Decoration, jewelry, clothes, handicrafts... All the products are appealing and, above all, come mostly from Africa. And to make matters worse, the staff are extremely friendly.
Kenyatta Street, Shangani, Zanzibar
Kumi Gifts & Treats

Cool off with an ice cream from Mama Mia Gelato

In Zanzibar, the thermometer can sometimes reach new heights. As it's not always possible to dive into a swimming pool or go for a swim in the ocean, Mama Mia's ice creams and sorbets - originally a restaurant, which has opened several outlets on the island - do the job at all times. Tucked away in a corner not far from the fort, the store doesn't look like much, unlike its fresh delicacies. The flavours, a mix of classic and exotic, are not so extravagant; but the result is delicious.
Mizingani Road, Zanzibar
Mama Mia Gelato

Sipping a cocktail overlooking the sunset at The Africa House Hotel

Sunset by the sea is sacred. For a divine spectacle, head for the terrace of this establishment, facing the Indian Ocean. A cocktail, friends eager for the same spectacle, a few grilled shrimps, a horizon ablaze... and that's it. And to reach this spot perched on the upper floors, you'll have the pleasure of admiring the hotel's absolutely magnificent interior.
Shangani Street, Zanzibar
The Africa House Hotel

Eating local, in the middle of the water, at The Rock

Magic address alert! Take a rock. Place it on the translucent water on the eastern side of Zanzibar. Now let yourself go and imagine taking a small motorboat to reach it. You'll be taken to your table, reserved for lunch (noon and 2 p.m. services) or dinner (4 p.m. and 6 p.m.). All that's left to do is savor locally caught seafood or fish, meat from Zanzibar... all accompanied by spices from... the spice island, of course. An unforgettable restaurant.
Michamvi Pingwe, Zanzibar
The Rock