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Weddings in Zanzibar – Destination Wedding Guide
Discover how to plan a wedding in Zanzibar — best seasons, church and beach ceremonies, documents, tides, and wedding planner tips.
Boutique Hotel Matlai
6 days ago3 min read


Valentine’s Day at Matlai – Romance at Zatiny & Bustani Spa
If you are still looking for a meaningful Valentine’s Day gift, sometimes the most beautiful moments are shared experiences. Invite your loved one to a romantic dinner at Zatiny by Matlai, overlooking the Indian Ocean. For Valentine’s Day, we offer a special menu for couples, carefully created by our kitchen team and served in a candlelit, intimate setting with the sound of the ocean in the background. To complete the experience, our Bustani Spa offers the “Romantic for 2” tr
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Feb 61 min read


Sauti za Busara Zanzibar – Africa’s Iconic Music Festival
For travelers who seek more than sun and sand, Zanzibar offers moments of culture that are as refined as they are memorable. One of the most distinctive of these is Sauti za Busara, East Africa’s most celebrated music festival, held each February in Stone Town. In 2026 , the festival will take place from 5–8 February , bringing together performers from across the continent and beyond for four days of rhythm, culture and connection. Sauti za Busara is Zanzibar’s leading cultur
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Jan 294 min read


Ramadan in Zanzibar 2026: A Peaceful & Authentic Stay at Boutique Hotel Matlai
Ramadan in Zanzibar 2026 brings a slower, more mindful rhythm to the island. For guests staying at Boutique Hotel Matlai in Michamvi Pingwe , this sacred month offers a rare blend of tranquility, authenticity, and understated luxury. Traveling during Ramadan is not about restrictions, but about experiencing Zanzibar in its most genuine and peaceful form. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin around 18–19 February and to end around 19–20 March, depending on the official moon s
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Jan 233 min read


🌿 Why Fewer Rooms Mean More Luxury
Rethinking What Luxury Really Means in Zanzibar For many travelers, luxury still sounds like more : more rooms, more restaurants, more pools, more stars.But in reality, true luxury often begins where “more” ends. In destinations like Zanzibar, the most memorable experiences are rarely found in large resorts — but in small, carefully curated places where attention, time, and space are not divided among hundreds of guests. More Rooms Don’t Automatically Mean More Comfort Large
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Jan 112 min read


Luxury Honeymoon in Zanzibar at Boutique Hotel Matlai
Planning the perfect honeymoon in Zanzibar? At Boutique Hotel Matlai, newlyweds find an intimate hideaway designed for romance, relaxation, and unforgettable moments. Located on the tranquil shores of Michamvi, our exclusive boutique hotel offers the ideal setting for couples seeking a luxury honeymoon directly by the Indian Ocean. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the peaceful atmosphere that makes the Boutique Hotel Matlai one of Zanzibar’s most romantic destinations
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Dec 5, 20252 min read


Why March & April Are Zanzibar’s Best-Kept Secret
Most travelers rush to Zanzibar in July, August, or December. But ask anyone who truly knows the island – divers, photographers, long-stay travelers, or East Africa insiders – and they’ll tell you a secret: March and early April are actually one of the best times to visit Zanzibar. Warm weather. Calm turquoise water. Empty beaches. No crowds. And the island returns to the peaceful, untouched paradise everyone dreams of. Welcome to Boutique Hotel Matlai, the perfect hideaway f
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Nov 15, 20253 min read


A Day at Matlai: From Indian Ocean Sunrise to Dinner on the Beach
Welcome to Boutique Hotel Matlai in Michamvi Pingwe, Zanzibar—a place where time slows down and the Indian Ocean dictates the rhythm of the day. A stay here is more than just a holiday; it's an immersion into pure, luxurious relaxation. Join us on a journey through a typical, dreamy day at Matlai, from the first light of dawn to the starry, intimate nights. Morning: The Awakening of Paradise 🌅 6:00 AM – The Magical Sunrise The day begins early, but it's a wake-up call you w
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Nov 4, 20254 min read


Zanzibar Goes to the Polls: Understanding the October 29th Election
At the end of October, Zanzibar, the beautiful semi-autonomous archipelago within the United Republic of Tanzania, will hold its general elections. While part of the national Tanzanian voting process, the elections for the Zanzibar Presidency and the local House of Representatives are distinct and deeply significant for the islands. If you are visiting Zanzibar during this time, you will notice increased political activity, rallies, and public interest as the islands prepare
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Oct 17, 20253 min read


Escape the Autumn Fade: Discover the Everlasting Green of Zanzibar
If your soul craves the endless green and the gentle murmur of a tropical canopy, look no further than Zanzibar. While the some parts of the world begin its seasonal descent into brown and muted tones, our spice island stays firmly planted in summer. This is your invitation to trade the chill for the tropics! Zanzibar is a truly evergreen paradise, and its iconic trees are stories waiting to be told. Join us as we take a closer look at the fascinating trees that define our is
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Oct 10, 20258 min read


Discover Zanzibar Like a Local: Culture, Daily Life & Authentic Experiences
When most travelers think of Zanzibar, images of luxury hotels, romantic beach escapes, and turquoise Indian Ocean waters come to mind. And yes—this paradise island off the coast of Tanzania is one of the most beautiful destinations in Africa. But after living in Zanzibar for three months, I discovered another side—one of resilience, hospitality, and deep-rooted traditions. This is not just the Zanzibar of holiday postcards, but the real Zanzibar, the one locals call home. Da
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Sep 22, 20256 min read


Your Monthly Guide: When to Go & What to Expect
Zanzibar is a year-round destination, but each month brings its own magic. Whether you're chasing the sun, looking to avoid the crowds, or hoping to spot dolphins or blooming tropical flowers, this month-by-month guide will help you plan the perfect stay . On the island, the sun usually rises around 6:15 AM and sets around 6:30 PM, offering nearly equal hours of daylight all year long. January Climate & Temperature: Hot and sunny, with average temps around 30–32°C. Occasional
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Aug 20, 20253 min read


Your Zanzibar Checklist: So Nothing Goes Wrong! Part 2
In our previous blog post, we covered essential travel preparations , from finding flights to managing your money. Now, let's dive into even more practical advice to ensure your trip to Zanzibar is as smooth and enjoyable as possible! Phone & Internet SIM Card for Zanzibar: Your Essential Connectivity Guide Staying connected while traveling in Zanzibar can greatly enhance your experience, from navigating Stone Town to sharing your beach photos. While Wi-Fi is available in man
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Aug 2, 20258 min read


Your Zanzibar Compass: Everything for Perfect Travel Preparation - Part 1
Zanzibar awaits! Before you pack your bags, discover all the crucial tips and tricks to ensure your exotic escape is perfectly planned....
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Jul 20, 20259 min read


Zanzibar’s Boutique Hotel Boom: A New Era of Travel
We are living in a generation that craves authentic travel experiences, boutique hotel stays, and deeper connections with the...
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Jul 4, 20254 min read


Best Snorkelling and Diving in Zanzibar: Discover Marine Life
Zanzibar is a marine paradise that appeals to all ocean lovers. Whether you’re an experienced diver, a snorkelling enthusiast, or simply...
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Jun 25, 20253 min read


Ronaldinho Live in Zanzibar on July 27th – Legendary Football Match
Zanzibar is not just famous for its beautiful beaches and tropical paradise but also for its deep passion for sports, especially...
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Jun 2, 20252 min read


Ramadan and Eid in Zanzibar: A Time of Faith, Community, and Celebration
Zanzibar, with its rich Swahili culture and deep Islamic traditions, embraces the holy month of Ramadan with devotion and a strong sense...
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Mar 26, 20255 min read


TripAdvisor’s List of the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches is out—But Where Is Michamvi Pingwe in Zanzibar?
Pingwe Beach The new Tripadvisor 2025 list of the 20 most beautiful beaches in the world doesn't include any beaches from Zanzibar this...
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Feb 23, 20253 min read


Have You Already Started Dreaming About Your 2025 Vacation?
Tides, Moon Phases, and Unique Coastal Experiences in Zanzibar Moon Rise Villa Kidosho Is There a Reason to Plan Your Vacation According...
Boutique Hotel Matlai
Jan 24, 20253 min read
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