The Breezes Beach Club

A comfortable beach resort on Zanzibar’s tranquil southeast coast, with 30 houses spread around palm-lined gardens

East Africa is the land of safaris: tented camps, dusty Land Rovers, the call of the wild, and all that. But after the safari (or, dare I say, instead of it) you may just want to hole up for a week in a good old brick-and-mortar house, with comfy beds and air-con; and on your doorstep a swimming pool, tennis court, grassy gardens and an endless beach. If that's your style, you'll enjoy Breezes. The sea is warm and tropical, the sand is fine and white, and there's a water-sports / diving centre on site. Afterwards you can choose between a couple of bars and a trio of restaurants, or watch live African dancing. Or, if the safari has been particularly harrowing, indulge in some spa or beauty treatments.

This is a place to holiday rather than to travel. If you’re recovering from an exhausting wedding, or you've got a family in tow, or just fancy some European-style comfort on an African beach, then this is your best bet on Zanzibar.

Highs

• Right on the endless, sandy beach
• Lots of activities: diving, tennis, spa
• Swimming pool keeps children happy
• Huge buffet spread at mealtimes
• Well-appointed rooms, some with balconies
• The houses are spread around the palm-lined gardens and not too intrusive

Lows

• Can be crowded in high season
• Bedroom decor is not very African
• Some activities cost extra
• It’s larger and more resorty than we'd normally recommend, but very comfortable and well-organised