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We're thrilled to share with you some of the exciting updates and happenings at our property. As a team, we're constantly striving to provide our guests with the best possible experience , whether you're here for business or pleasure. One of the things we're particularly proud of is our commitment to sustainability. We believe that as a business, we have a responsibility to minimize our impact on the environment and to promote eco-friendly practices wherever possible. From using energy-efficient lighting and appliances to sourcing local and organic ingredients for our restaurant, we're always looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint and support the communities around us. Another aspect of our hotel that sets us apart is our dedication to guest satisfaction. We understand that travel can be stressful, which is why we aim to provide a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Whether you need recommendations for local attractions , assistance with transportation, or simply a friendly face to chat with, our staff is here to help make your stay as enjoyable as possible. In addition to our commitment to sustainability and guest satisfaction, we're also proud to offer a range of amenities and services to make your stay even more enjoyable. From our on-site restaurant and bar to our Spa and pools , there's something for everyone here at our hotel. And if you're here for a special occasion or event, our team can work with you to create a customized experience that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. We hope that you'll consider staying with us on your next trip, and that you'll follow along with our blog to stay up-to-date on all the latest news and updates from our property. Thank you for your interest, and we look forward to welcoming you soon!

Welcome to our enchanting hotel garden , where love knows no bounds! Amidst the lush greenery hangs a metal heart, a symbol of enduring romance and timeless love. Each year, our special guests return to adorn this heart with their unique locks. As we celebrate Valentine's Day, we invite all our guests to partake in this tradition of love. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest, feel free to attach your own lock to our heart and join the tapestry of affection that adorns our garden. May this Valentine's Day be filled with joy, laughter, and boundless love. And may our metal heart continue to beat in harmony with the collective pulse of all those who have shared their love on this ground. Happy Valentine's Day from all of us at the hotel!

Our new travel book is now available for download from our homepage. Additionally, guests will find a copy waiting for them in their rooms upon arrival. Explore the wonders of Zanzibar at your fingertips! Our travel guide provides practical tips and recommendations for excursions and activities , shopping or parties ensuring you make the most of your stay. Immerse yourself in authentic Zanzibar and let its beauty captivate you. You can download the travel book from here: https://www.hotelmatlai.com/de/activities .

Leonardo & Donatella In our hotel, guests have the unique opportunity to meet our charming tortoises , who reside in a specially designed enclosure. The first four tortoises that joined us were named after the famous Ninja Turtles! Get to know Leonardo, Donatella, Raphaelo, Michelangelo, and all the others up close. Here, we, the fascinating tortoises, would like to introduce ourselves. We live in a specially designed enclosure at this hotel. Dive into our amazing world and discover what makes us so special. Unique Physical Traits Our rear legs are very strong and trunk-like, while our front legs are almost paddle-shaped and "pigeon-toed," with a row of small "nails." Despite our seemingly cumbersome build, we can move quickly and maneuver easily over rocky terrain. We are also adept climbers and can stay underwater for up to 10 minutes. Masters of Thermoregulation As cold-blooded reptiles, we need to minimize extreme seasonal and daily temperature fluctuations through appropriate behaviors to maintain an optimal body temperature. An important role in this type of thermoregulation is the exploration of suitable shelters throughout the year and at different times of the day. Raphaelo & Michelangelo love banana Longevity and Maturity We tortoises are known for our impressive longevity. We typically reach sexual maturity at the age of 12 to 15 years. This long lifespan ensures that we have enough time to contribute to the reproduction of our species. Mating and Reproduction During the mating season, the males become more aggressive towards other males, often trying to banish them by ramming their carapaces. Males "court" females by ramming them. When mating, the males make grunting vocalizations, which are the only vocal sounds of our species. To lay our eggs, we dig a bottle-shaped pit with our hind legs and lay 5 to 18 hard-shelled, round to slightly ellipsoidal eggs. The subsequent incubation period varies widely, with natural breeding seasons observed from 178 to 458 days. The hatchlings are about five centimeters in size when they emerge. Tortoise couple Leonardo & Donatella: A Tortoise Love Story Leonardo and Donatella are more than just two of our cherished tortoises—they're a couple with a heartwarming love story. Leonardo, born in 2003, was our first tortoise, originally living with private owners in Stone Town. Donatella, around the same age, on the other hand, lived in a small enclosure in the Jozani Forest. The owners of Donatella hoped to see offspring, so we brought her to our hotel for a planned stay of four weeks. The moment we placed Donatella in the enclosure with Leonardo, something magical happened. Donatella immediately ran to Leonardo and nestled her head against his shell—it was love at first sight. We promptly informed Donatella's owners that the two could not be separated. Since then, Leonardo and Donatella have produced a large number of offspring, who now live happily with them in the enclosure. Their story is a testament to the surprising and beautiful connections that can form between animals. Leonardo, Donatella, and their many children are a highlight of our hotel, embodying the spirit of togetherness and affection. We invite you to visit our hotel and meet our tortoise family in person. From the love story of Leonardo and Donatella to the playful antics of their offspring, we offer an enchanting experience for all our guests . Come and explore the fascinating world of our remarkable reptiles! By understanding and appreciating their unique characteristics and behaviors, you can help protect and cherish them for generations to come.

Justus: 35 years old Justus started his experience in the hospitality industry with studies of hotel management, followed by a three-month field study in Zanzibar. His love for customer service , attention to detail, and excellent multitasking abilities led him to work as a waiter in Kiwengwa before joining Matlai as a butler in 2015. With over a decade of experience, Justus is an asset to our team as the head butler. Born and raised in the Mwanza region of Northern Tanzania, Justus's background in the Luo tribe adds a unique cultural perspective to his service. He takes immense pride in organizing island tours for guests, showcasing the beauty of Zanzibar while creating memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression. Ramadhan: 31 years old Ramadhan's journey to becoming a butler is reflecting his passion for the hospitality industry. After attending college to acquire specialized knowledge, he ventured into the world of hospitality in Romania, starting as a humble waiter. Over time, Ramadhan's dedication and determination led him to expand his skill set, and he eventually became a skilled bartender. This diverse experience has enriched his capabilities as a butler, allowing him to provide exceptional service to our guests. Hailing from the beautiful Mara region in the North of Tanzania, Ramadhan's cultural heritage from the Sukuma and Kimu tribes brings a unique touch to his interactions with guests. As a member of a large polygamous family, Ramadhan Ramadhan knows how important social skills and tolerance are - values that shine through in his role as a butler. Derick: 38 years old The work of Derick as a butler is shaped by his extensive experience in the hotel industry. Having grown up in the village of Nyamuswa, West of Tanzania, Derick's is deeply connected to indigenous farming and livestock rearing. This background instills a sense of responsibility and care, which he brings to his role as a butler at Matlai. Derick values the strong sense of teamwork and cooperation among the butler team at Matlai. Working seamlessly with other departments ensures that guests receive unparalleled service and attention during their stay. His commitment to providing a harmonious and memorable experience for guests reflects the true essence of Matlai's hospitality. Hashim: 22 years old Hashim received education at the renowned Jambiani Training Institute in Zanzibar. His commitment to learning and professional development is evident in his desire to excel in every aspect of his role as a butler. An acrobatic show background adds a unique flair to the New Year's Eve celebrations at Matlai, making them even more special and unforgettable for our guests. Raised in the charming village of Jambiani, Hashim developed a strong sense of community that resonated deeply in his service. Taking the time to understand each guest's preferences allows Hashim to provide personalized and heartfelt experiences, creating cherished memories for our guests. Gideon: 36 years old Gideon's experiences as a butler began with hotel management courses and a diverse range of roles at different resorts such as Bluebay beach in Kiwengwa.. Growing up in the Western Tanzania region of Tabora, Gideon's roots in the Nyamwezi and Ngoni tribes impart a sense of tradition and respect that he carries into his interactions with guests. Among the many aspects of being a butler at Matlai, Gideon particularly cherishes the strong sense of teamwork and organization within the butler team. This collaborative environment fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that guests feel at home during their stay. At Boutique Hotel Matlai, we take pride in our commitment to the local community. As part of our initiative, we are inviting local people from hospitality schools to join us as butler trainees for 3 months. This program will not only offer them experience and training in hospitality but will also provide them with the prospect of a work contract upon successful completion of the training. We believe in nurturing local talent and empowering our community, and this initiative reflects our dedication to creating a positive impact while delivering an exceptional guest experience. Our butlers' diverse backgrounds, experiences, and cultural heritages make them exceptional individuals who contribute to the heart and soul of Boutique Hotel Matlai. Their dedication to providing personalized, thoughtful, and unforgettable experiences for each guest truly sets our hotel apart as a destination of luxury and exceptional hospitality. Whether it's a soothing aloe treatment or a personalized island tour, our butlers are here to ensure that your stay at Matlai is nothing short of unforgettable. Hashim's acrobatic group

Matlai gardener Matlai was closed during the rainy season , but not all the staff were on holiday. Our gardeners, in particular, had a lot to do to restore all areas after the heavy rain and to make the surroundings as beautiful as before. Let me introduce them in this article, along with some of our security guards who always take care of the hotel. Two of the security guards are employees of the hotel, while the others are from a security company. Let's start with the gardener Salum 1. Salum Juma Khamis Salum is the head of the garden department. He is 29 years old, single, and originally from Dimani in Zanzibar. He has been working at Matlai since 2017 and possesses extensive knowledge about plants and their care. He enjoys designing garden areas. Salum lives in Michamvi village and, apart from gardening, he is also skilled in fishing. Simai 2. Simai Vuai Siji Simai joined our team in 2018. He is 30 years old, married, and has one daughter. Originally from Bambi, Zanzibar, he still lives there with his family but sometimes stays in Michamvi as well. In addition to his gardening skills, he also has knowledge of electricity. Mikidadi 3. Mikidadi Khamis Kharu Mikidadi is 26 years old, married, and has two children, aged 2 years and 6 months. He has been working with us since 2018. He grew up in Michamvi and still lives there with his family. During his working hours, his grandmother takes care of the children. Juma 4. Juma Rashidi Hassani Juma is 23 years old and single. Originally from mainland Tanzania, he now lives in Michamvi. He joined our team in 2023. In addition to gardening, he is a skilled constructor and has been instrumental in creating the beautiful fences we have. Our gardeners take exceptional care of the plants, transforming our garden into a tropical paradise . With their expertise and dedication, they ensure that every corner of the garden thrives with vibrant, lush greenery. Her hard work and passion are the secrets behind our beautiful, serene oasis. Let's continue with the security department Makame 1. Makame Silima Yahya Makame is 48 years old and married. He has four children; the eldest is 15 years old and lives in Kwarara, while the other three live in Kibere. Originally from Zanzibar, Makame resides in Kibere with his family. He has been part of our team since the beginning in 2012 and loves the Matlai family. Makame also has expertise in galvanizing steel. Maslai 2. Mohammedi Mussa Selemani In our team, Mohammedi is called Maslai. He is 33 years old, married, and originally from Pangani in Tanzania. He has two children, both girls aged 5 and 3. He has been working with us since 2016. His wife takes care of the children. Maslai has knowledge in farming and started working as a gardener in our hotel. Matlai security guards Our security guards ensure that no one can enter the hotel without permission. Their vigilance and dedication keep our guests safe and maintain the secure environment of our property.

In addition to our well-trained service personnel, whom we have already introduced here, many helpers behind the scenes , such as housekeepers, gardeners, maintenance staff, and security guards, contribute significantly to ensuring that our guests feel completely comfortable during their stay with us. I would like to introduce them here. Let's start with the Housekeeper 1. Tatu Juma Ramadhani Tatu was our very first employee. She started working with us even before the hotel's opening in 2012. She helped complete the furnishing of the rooms, learned how to operate a laundry press, and stood by us through all the initial challenges. Tatu is 37 years old, married and has three children (12, 6 and 3 years old). She has a babysitter who looks after the children. Tatu hails from the Mwanza Region in Tanzania and resides with her family in Mwera, a village located east of Stone Town along the road to the west coast of the island. At home, she is a skilled cook and hairdresser. She can also weave beautiful rugs from fabric strips. 2. Shakira Khatib Rajab Shakira is 33 years old, married, and she has two children, aged 9 and 3 years old. A babysitter takes care of them during her working hours. Originally from Tanga-Lushoto on the mainland, she lives now in Taveta, which is a part of Zanzibar Town. In her free time, she is a talented businesswoman. Shakira has been with Matlai since 2015. 3. Maryam Mfaume Omar Maryam is 30 years old, married, and has one child, a 9 months old girl. Her sister in law looks after the baby while she works. At home Maryam enjoys cooking and tailoring clothes. She grew up in Kilwa-Lindi on mainland Tanzania but now lives in Michamvi. She is the head of the department. Maryam works with us since 2018. 4. Yasinta Ferdinandy Sanga Yasinta is 21 years old and single. She originally comes from Mbeya in the south-west region of Tanzania and lives now in Michamvi. She is a very good singer and dancer. Yasinta came to Matlai in 2022. 5. Jenipha Revocatus Mwalika Jenipha is 27 years old and married. She has two kids, 7 and 3 years old, whom a babysitter looks after while she works. She spent her childhood in Mwanza, located on the shores of Lake Victoria in Tanzania and she lives now in Michamvi. She has been completing the team since 2022. All housekeepers enjoy decorating the rooms with flowers and creatively arranging the beds for the guests. Due to their cheerful demeanor and attention to detail, they are highly appreciated by both our guests and us as employers. Let's continue with the Maintenance Department 1. Is-Haak Mansab Moh'd Isaka is 40 years old, married and has two boys, 2 years and 2 ½ months old. His wife, originally from Pemba, diligently tends to the children. Isaka is born in Zanzibar and lives with his family next to Zanzibar Town. Isaka joined us in 2012, shortly after our establishment opened. Initially serving as a barman, he transitioned to the security department before finding his niche in the maintenance division, where he currently serves as the department head. His profound interest in technical matters has enabled him to excel in plumbing, electricity, and construction, showcasing his extensive expertise in these areas. 2. Yussuph Nassibu Haji Yussuph is 33 years old and married. He grew up in Michamwi, where he still resides in his own house. Yussuph has two daughters, aged 6 and 3, who live with their grandmother in Stone Town. He started working as a gardener with us, later transitioning to the Security Department, but his interests lie more in the technical field. Therefore, he now works in the Maintenance Department. Yussuph has been working with us since 2012. Over the years, both Maintenance team members have evolved into proficient all-rounders. Perhaps you may not encounter them as frequently, but they are among the most crucial members of our team. They remain readily available outside of their regular work hours, always ready to address both minor and major technical issues at any time.

Jambo! Hello! My name is Amaechi and I invite you to join me on my adventures during my internship in Zanzibar. My internship takes place at Boutique Hotel Matlai in Michamvi Pingwe . Michamvi consists of two districts - Pingwe and Kae. Beach in Pingwe Pingwe is known for the incredible shades of blue of the sea, where it is rather tranquil, with few small accommodations and restaurants. Kae, on the other hand, is mainly visited for the beautiful sunsets over Chwaka Bay. Upon my arrival in Zanzibar, I was greeted by a friendly taxi driver named Eddy, who took me from the airport to Boutique Hotel Matlai. Even on the way there, I could hardly believe the number of coconut and mango trees we passed – a promising preview of what I hoped to find. Eddy asked me what I was most looking forward to. Without hesitation, I replied, " The food , especially the fruits." So for breakfast in HoteI Matlai, I can recommend Herson's French toast and tropical fruit salad. Dafu - fresh coconut One day, I was fortunate enough to see a gardener harvesting fresh coconuts from the palms in the hotel garden. It was an unforgettable experience to taste this fruit directly from the source. One of Zanzibar's most famous fruits is undoubtedly the delicious Dafu - fresh coconut. This can be enjoyed directly at our hotel. With its sweet coconut water and flesh, it is a great addition to a sunny day. The second time I tried dafu was in Paje. Paje Beach Paje is famous for its wide sandy beaches with turquoise waters, ideal for water sports . If you don't want to be active yourself, you can relax in one of the beach bars and cafes; take in the vibrant hustle and bustle along the shore, where there's always something happening and the atmosphere is lively and engaging. ‘ Hello Capitano Cafe ’ serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. They offer a rental service for SUP’s, Kayaks, Surfboards, Kite and Windsurfing gear as well as lessons to learn those water activities. You can find this cafe right on the beach, therefore you have a stunning view over the Indian Ocean. Seaweed Soup It's always nice to support local businesses that promote traditional craftsmanship and local products. And ‘ Mwani ’ is one of them. With the knowledge of generation after generation they make creams, oils and soaps from algae from the beaches in Zanzibar. Sometimes you see them collecting algae. The soaps in the bathroom of our hotel are also from Mwani. If you like them, why not stop by their shop in Paje? HÀ NỘI HOUSE CÀ PHÊ by KIM In Paje, you can find nice cafes, shops and friendly people left and right. I walked past jewelry and delicious food. Now, I also own a bracelet in the colors of the Tanzanian flag. And now I know Kim and her ‘ Hanoi House ,’ a tiny café on the main road in Paje. Kim is Vietnamese and serves traditional drinks and dishes. From Coconut Coffee and Bao Buns to Chia Pudding, you can find everything your sweet-loving heart desires. Even though Paje is a bustling village, in this café you will find peace and comfort. Kim also runs a Vietnamese restaurant called Duyên Home Cooking at Hotel Matlai as part of the hotel's own Zatiny Restaurant . Corina Pastry Only a couple of metres away from Hanoi House is another cafe you must visit. ‘ Corina Pastry ’ is also a great place to enjoy your coffee, desserts and breakfast. There you can taste European Pastries as well as her extraordinary creations like Mojito Cheesecake, Passion Fruit Cheesecake and Dates Cake. Nearby you will l find an Italian bakery, where Pizza, Bruschetta and Focaccia are waiting for you. Michamvi and Paje are two very different places on the southeast coast of Zanzibar. Those seeking tranquility should opt for accommodation in Michamvi, while those who prefer livelier atmospheres and enjoy partying will likely prefer Paje. Since Paje is only about a 25-30 minute taxi ride from Michamvi, one can also enjoy a mix of both experiences. See you in paradise! -Amaechi

The seasons Contrary to what guidebooks may suggest, Zanzibar can be visited throughout the year, as it enjoys perpetual summertime . The air temperature remains above 20°C, even at night, and the Indian Ocean's water temperature fluctuates between 25°C and 28°C, owing to the island's equatorial location and tropical climate influenced by monsoon winds. The northern monsoon (Kaskazi) lasts from December to March, lasting for three to four months and elevating temperatures to over 30° - 35°C. At this time, the coast is the most comfortable place to be, as there is often a gentle breeze. The south-west monsoon (Kusi) prevails from April to November and brings with it the rainy season (Masika), which usually starts in March or April and continues until the end of May. The rainfall is not comparable to that in your home country. It occasionally rains heavily for a few hours, but the sun quickly comes out again. During the rainy season, there are fewer tourists in Zanzibar, resulting in a more serene atmosphere and numerous special offers. The dry season from June to October offers comfortable traveling conditions with temperatures ranging between 25° - 28°C. Although there may be brief rainfall known as Vuli during this period, the majority of the time is characterized by sunny weather. In November, a short rainy season occurs, but with less precipitation than in April or May. Dry season - rainy season During the rainy season, there are fewer tourists in Zanzibar, resulting in a more serene atmosphere and numerous special offers. The dry season from June to October offers comfortable traveling conditions with temperatures ranging between 25° - 28°C. Although there may be brief rainfall known as Vuli during this period, the majority of the time is characterized by sunny weather. In November, a short rainy season occurs, but with less precipitation than in April or May. Necessary clothing? Due to its proximity to the equator, the intensity of sunshine in the area can be quite high, making it crucial to take precautions against sunburn , such as using a strong sunscreen. If you plan on going for a walk on the beach, wearing a hat or head covering is a good idea. Although temperatures in the evening are usually pleasant, it can get a bit windy at times, so it's advisable to bring a light sweater along. Your experience? Based on your experience, when would you recommend visiting Zanzibar?

Zanzibar, with its rich Swahili culture and deep Islamic traditions, embraces the holy month of Ramadan with devotion and a strong sense of community. As the crescent moon signals the start of the month, the island slows down, shifting its rhythm to prayer, fasting, and reflection. From the peaceful streets of Stone Town to the quiet coastal villages, Ramadan in Zanzibar is a truly special time. The Spirit of Ramadan in Zanzibar Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, the month in which the first verses of the Quran are believed to have been revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is a sacred time when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs. Fasting during Ramadan is meant to provide an opportunity for reflection, help foster spiritual growth, and strengthen one's relationship with God. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and, as such, is a fundamental aspect of how Muslims are meant to live their lives. Since it is not easy to fast all day, some Muslims are exempt from fasting. This includes children, menstruating women, pregnant or breastfeeding women, the sick, and travelers. However, even within these groups, some individuals choose to fast. Some Zanzibaris even extend their fasting period by 1-2 weeks as a special act of devotion to Allah. In Zanzibar, where Islam is the predominant religion, daily life changes significantly. Work and business hours are often adjusted to accommodate fasting, and a tranquil atmosphere settles over the island. For hotel and restaurant employees, it is often a special challenge to coordinate breaking the fast with their work hours. As sunset approaches, the call to prayer (adhan) echoes from the mosques, signaling the time for iftar—the meal that breaks the fast. Families and friends gather to enjoy dates, fresh juices, and traditional Zanzibari dishes such as urojo (a tangy soup), mishkaki (grilled meat skewers), and coconut-infused rice. The sense of togetherness is strong, and it’s common to see locals sharing meals with neighbors and those in need. Just before sunrise, most of those fasting have another meal. This is known as sahur or sehri. Start and end of Ramadan Each year, the start of Ramadan shifts by eleven days. This is because the traditional Islamic calendar is calculated differently from the Christian Gregorian calendar. It is only 354 days long and is based on the moon. Ramadan begins with the new moon. To mark the arrival of the new moon, or the first visible moon after the new moon, the "moon sighting" is used as a criterion for the start of Ramadan. In Zanzibar, this moon sighting can sometimes shift by 1-2 days if the moon is not visible due to weather conditions. This year, the fasting month will take place from February 28 to March 30. In 2026, it will be from February 17 to March 18, and in 2027, it will be from February 7 to March 8. At the start of Ramadan and during the fasting period, Muslims greet each other with phrases such as "Ramadan Kareem," "Ramadan Mubarak," or "Eid Mubarak." These greetings are meant to wish each other a blessed fasting period. "Ramadan Kareem" translates to "Have a generous Ramadan." "Ramadan Mubarak" translates to "Blessed Ramadan." "Eid Mubarak" translates to "Happy Festival." Evening Prayers and Night Markets After iftar, many Zanzibaris head to the mosque for Taraweeh prayers, special nightly prayers performed during Ramadan. The most famous mosques, like Masjid Malindi and Masjid Muzammil, fill with worshippers seeking spiritual connection. For visitors, this is also a wonderful time to explore Zanzibar’s night markets, where the streets come alive with stalls selling delicious Ramadan treats. At Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town, one can savor Zanzibar pizza, spiced kebabs, and freshly grilled seafood—a true feast for the senses. The Joyous Celebration of Eid al-Fitr The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, a festive holiday celebrating the completion of the month of fasting. The day begins with a special Eid prayer at the mosques, where thousands gather in colorful attire, offering thanks and seeking blessings. Days before, the fabric shops in the city are filled with women selecting colorful fabrics, some adorned with golden or glittering decorations, for new dresses. After prayers, families visit loved ones, exchange gifts, and enjoy extravagant feasts. Traditional dishes such as pilau(spiced rice), biryani, and sweet treats like kaimati (fried dough balls in syrup) fill the tables. Children receive Eidiyah (small gifts or money), and the island comes alive with laughter, music, and celebrations. In Zanzibar, Eid is not just one day—the celebrations often continue for several days, with cultural performances , beach gatherings, and even boat excursions. It’s a time of joy, generosity, and renewal of faith. Is it recommended to visit Zanzibar during Ramadan? For travelers, visiting Zanzibar during Ramadan and Eid offers a unique glimpse into the island’s rich traditions. While some restaurants and businesses may operate on reduced hours, the experience of witnessing the deep spirituality and communal warmth is truly rewarding. Respecting local customs —such as dressing modestly and avoiding eating in public during fasting hours—enhances the experience and fosters deeper cultural understanding. While the island observes the holy month with fasting and prayer, tourists are still welcome, and hotels and resorts continue to operate. Some restaurants may have adjusted hours, and it is not allowed to eat, drink or smoke in public, even while sitting in a car, during daylight hours. However, many hotels cater to international visitors as usual. Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, is a wonderful time to visit, as the island comes alive with celebrations, special feasts, and cultural events. If you respect local customs and embrace the spirit of the season, traveling to Zanzibar during Ramadan can be a unique and enriching experience. Ramadan in Matlai We try to accommodate the circumstances of fasting as much as possible. Our gardeners begin their workday earlier in the morning, as soon as it gets light, and take a longer break during midday when it is hottest. The work of the kitchen staff is admirable: they cook for the guests and are surrounded by delicious smells all day, but they are not allowed to eat themselves. When tasting food, they don’t swallow it but spit it out. The butlers serve drinks but are not allowed to drink themselves. It is not an easy time for any of the staff. Whether joining in an iftar meal, exploring the festive markets, or celebrating Eid with locals, Ramadan in Zanzibar is a heartwarming and unforgettable experience—one that beautifully showcases the island’s vibrant culture and warm hospitality.

Dear guests, As the year comes to a close, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for choosing Boutique Hotel Matlai as your home away from home. May the New Year bring you joy, adventure, and unforgettable moments. Thank you for being a part of our extended family. Wishing you a year filled with peace, luxury, and wonderful experiences. Happy New Year! Warmest regards, The Matlai Team We had a wonderful New Year's Eve party on the beach with our guests after an excellent barbecue in our Restaurant Zatiny by Matlai . Thanks to our talented butler Hashim for the impressive acrobatic performance. Thanks to our amazing staff for once again creating a perfect New Year's Eve evening. The dance around the fire is always a great joy. Visit us and celebrate the next New Year's Eve with us!

As 2024 ended and 2025 began, we at Boutique Hotel Matlai had the pleasure of celebrating New Year’s Eve with our guests in true Zanzibar style—combining comfort, tradition, and the unique charm of island life. The evening began with a warm tropical breeze and the enchanting sound of the singer and guitar player Faraji welcoming our guests to an exclusive celebration. At our Zatiny by Matlai restaurant , we served a delicious multi-course barbecue featuring fresh, locally sourced seafood and other specialties. Every dish was prepared with care by our chefs and served by our butlers . After finishing the meal our guests gathered at the beach for the highlight of the night. A traditional bonfire was lit, surrounded by the mesmerizing performance of local acrobats. Adding a personal touch to the festivities, our Head Butler, Hashim, dazzled everyone with his incredible acrobatic skills, making the evening even more extraordinary. The celebration continued with dancing around the bonfire, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of the drums, creating an ambiance that symbolized the spirit of Matlai. With glasses of sparkling wine in hand, we counted down to midnight, welcoming 2025 with a fiery reception under the serenity of Zanzibar’s star-lit skies. For us at Matlai, the New Year is a time to embrace the moment, connect with others, and enjoy the beauty of life. We are grateful to everyone who joined us and made the evening special. When the guests had gone to bed, our staff began their traditional "After New Year's Eve Work Party." At the same time, Chef Ibrahim's birthday was celebrated - as every year. With lively dancing, they also took the opportunity to celebrate the evening's success. Here’s to a wonderful 2025 filled with happiness, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. Happy New Year from all of us at Matlai!