Baridi Villa

A nice, secure and affordable spot on Zanzibar's north or south side, with good air conditioning and a peaceful night's rest. The beach is very close, and nearby you'll find local food I enjoy as well as beachside restaurants serving other food and drinks. Outside the room there was a swing bed, or whatever it's called, that looked like a great place to lounge during the day. I left early, so didn't get to try it. There's also a lovely patio for meals and adapters for charging devices with round plugs, which was handy. The water was warm, though I personally would have preferred a hotter shower. The staff were really friendly.

We spent three nights here on our Zanzibar trip. The beach is close, and there are lots of restaurants nearby, plus food stalls along the main road. Breakfast came right to our private patio. The rooms and everything else were clean, the staff and manager were great, and we had no AC problems and good Wi-Fi. If you're lucky, you'll spot some lovely lizards and geckos. 10/10.

I like to skip big hotels because they feel artificial and too similar, and I want each holiday to feel different. Eating at little local restaurants, shopping in local stores, and staying somewhere rooted in the area helps me get a feel for a place. Baridi Villa had that vibe, which a big hotel just can't offer. It's a real find, with roomy mosquito-proof rooms, a nice pool and jacuzzi, and quick access to Kiwengwa's gorgeous white sand beach and town shops, pharmacy, and ATM. Breakfast was delicious, and the staff were warm and friendly. Salome is the sweetest host. I highly recommend it for an authentic Zanzibar stay.

The location is great, with nightlife and restaurants close by, and it felt safe. Baridi villa was quiet and lovely for a relaxing holiday. Assera, who seems to do just about everything for the hotel, was an angel. She brought breakfast to our door each morning with a big smile, and it was delicious. My room was cleaned daily, and we'd find little flower arrangements on the bed.