What is Emerson on Hurumzi?

Emerson on Hurumzi is a Selected hotel located in Zanzibar, Tanzania. It has been recognized by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional hospitality and unique experience.

How many Michelin Keys does Emerson on Hurumzi have?

Emerson on Hurumzi has been awarded Selected by the Michelin Guide, indicating a very special stay.

Where is Emerson on Hurumzi located?

Emerson on Hurumzi is located in Zanzibar, Tanzania, in the Africa region.

What makes a Selected hotel special?

Selected hotels provide very special stays with excellent service and a unique sense of place.

How do I book Emerson on Hurumzi?

You can view more details and booking information for Emerson on Hurumzi through the Michelin Guide website. Each Michelin Keys hotel offers a unique booking experience tailored to their guests.

Emerson on Hurumzi | Selected in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Name: Emerson on Hurumzi
Address: Zanzibar, Africa, Tanzania
Rating: 4.5

Expert Review: Emerson on Hurumzi

Emerson on Hurumzi, a Michelin Key Selected property in Zanzibar, Tanzania, consistently garners high praise for its enchanting blend of history, unique design, and exceptional service, offering an authentic and memorable Stone Town experience.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

Emerson on Hurumzi is overwhelmingly rated as excellent, with a general consensus of being a "magical" and "unique" hotel that transports guests back in time. It holds a "very good" rating of 8.4 based on 244 reviews and a staff rating of 9.3 on Booking.com. Guests frequently describe it as a beautiful, charming, and atmospheric boutique hotel that stands out from generic accommodations.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud the hotel's distinctive character, particularly its beautiful old architecture and intricate decor. The rooftop Tea House Restaurant is a major highlight, celebrated for its stunning sunset views over Stone Town and the Indian Ocean, delicious cuisine, and live traditional Taarab music. The staff's attentiveness and friendliness also receive widespread commendation. Its central location within Stone Town is another key draw, providing easy access to local attractions. The hotel itself is a beautifully restored home of one of the richest men in the Swahili Empire, Mr. Tharia Topan, adding to its historical allure.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Emerson on Hurumzi are individually furnished and designed to evoke antique splendor, packed with eclectic traditional furnishings. Each room is described as stylish and magical, combining antique elegance with colorful African fabrics and colonial furnishings. Comforts include air conditioning, private bathrooms, work desks, seating areas, and free WiFi. Many rooms feature unique elements such as balconies or verandas, and some even boast open-air bathtubs or showers. Thoughtful touches like locally produced soaps, natural insect repellent, and glass bottles of fresh drinking water are provided. While offering immense character, some guests note that due to its historic design, city sounds (like calls to prayer) can be heard, which can be part of the authentic experience.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience, particularly at the rooftop Tea House Restaurant, is a significant draw. It offers a set 3-course menu that celebrates Zanzibari cuisine fused with oriental Persian and Omani influences. Dinner is typically served promptly at 7 PM, but guests are encouraged to arrive by 6 PM for sunset cocktails and breathtaking views. Traditional Taarab performances by musicians from the Dhow Countries Music Academy often accompany dinner, adding to the atmospheric setting. Breakfast is a continental spread, often including a large plate of fruit and eggs. The hotel also offers Roshani, a private dining room on the third floor for up to 15 guests, with seating on cushions at low tables. Emerson on Hurumzi's Tea House is noted for being better suited for those who prefer vegetarian or non-seafood options, unlike its sister hotel, Emerson Spice.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Emerson on Hurumzi consistently receives stellar reviews. Staff are described as "wonderful," "attentive," "considerate," "friendly," and "helpful". Guests highlight their professionalism and efficiency, noting that the team is ready to assist with anything from booking day trips to laundry. They are praised for going "the extra mile" to make guests feel valued and cared for.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel boasts a "fabulous" and "prime" location in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar City. It's ideally placed for exploring, just a short walk from attractions like Forodhani Gardens, Stone Town Beach, the House of Wonders, and Hamamni Persian Baths. The hotel is approximately 7 kilometers from Zanzibar International Airport, and airport shuttle service is available for a fee of USD 25 per vehicle one-way. However, due to the historic nature of the building, there are no elevators, and guests should be prepared for steep wooden stairs to access rooms and the rooftop restaurant.

7. Value & Pricing

Emerson on Hurumzi is considered to offer great value for money, with an average price of around $174 per room, compared to the average of $198 for a hotel room in Zanzibar. The fixed-price 3-course dinner at the Tea House Restaurant is approximately $40 per person, excluding drinks.

8. Common Complaints

The most frequently mentioned "complaint" or point of consideration is the lack of an elevator and the presence of steep stairs throughout the historic building. This might be challenging for guests with mobility issues. Additionally, while adding to the authenticity, the sounds of Stone Town, including calls to prayer, can be heard in the rooms, which some light sleepers might find disruptive, though earplugs are sometimes offered.