|
Our Opinion
|
|
If you are looking for an affordable, un-commercialised paradise retreat set within a secluded bay then Pongwe Beach Hotel is likely to be just what you are looking for. Owned and run by Englishman Val Preston, Pongwe is a magical little getaway spot with 12 cottages on the beach and set in beautiful tropical surroundings. The rooms are neat, clean and comfortable but dont have air-conditioning and some guests may find the heat and humidity od Dec-Mar difficult to cope with. Aside from this Pongwe Beach Hotel is a wonderful place with excellent service from Val's friendly team of staff. If you want a taste of the real Zanzibar at a great price...look no further.
|
|
Summary
|
|
YOUR HOST
|
|
Val Preston has a background in hotels in the UK and as soon as you arrive it is clear that he has his heart and soul in Pongwe Beach Hotel. His local business partner Ali Mboti is an expert in fishing and ready to oblige. Both are ably assisted by a friendly and attentive team of staff including Phil from the UK who will brief you on what Pongwe has to offer and the various DOs and DONTs on your arrival.
|
|
THE HOTEL
|
|
The hotel is located at the southern end of the North-East coast of Zanzibar in an area that has no larger resorts giving it a nice secluded feel. As with most resorts on the NE, you arrive on a road which is rough and full of potholes for the last few kilometres.
The hotel is slightly elevated from the beach and set on the rocks surroundings a small bay with a superb beach. The main building with its fantastic makuti roof gives the place a real African look and feel and houses the reception, the kitchen, the bar and restaurant with plenty of space.
|
|
THE FOOD
|
|
Pongwe generally has a fixed menu for the day featuring fresh fish and locally spices and vegetables. Most guests stay on a Half Board basis as there is nowhere to visit in the evenings for dinner. Lunches are very reasonably priced if you happen to stay in the hotel for the day. The Bar has an extensive selection of wines, beers and spirits.
The policy at Pongwe is to serve smaller rather than larger portions of food. This is done to try and limit wastage...if you are still hungry just ask the chef for more and he will be delighted to oblige.
|
|
ACTIVITIES
|
|
Pongwe is likely to appeal to you if you are looking for rest and relaxation. A selection of activities however can be arranged on request. These include excursions to other parts of the island, snorkelling and fishing trips aboard the hotel's own boat the Marie Rose, sunset dhow cruises, etc.
|
|
OTHER INFORMATION
|
|
The hotel is not connected the mains electricity and therefore runs off generators which are turned off in the early hours of the morning. There is always electricity to the rooms while the generators are on.
A laundry service is available and washing is done by hand in fresh water. The weather plays a role in the process of drying which can take a day and a half depending on heat and humidity.
Please noter that payment can only be accepted in the form of US$, Tanzanian Shillings, Euros or Travellers Cheques. Credit cards are not taken.
|
|
|
|
|
| 1 |
Typical Beach Cottages |
| 2 |
Sunshade & Chairs Zanzibar Style |
| 3 |
Arrivals Area |
| 4 |
Beach |
| 5 |
Lush Well-Established Gardens |
| 6 |
Reception |
| 7 |
Pathway Along Cottages |
| 8 |
The Bar |
| 9 |
View Of Restaurant & Bar |
| 10 |
Area Infront Of Cottages |
| 11 |
Friendly Staff |
| 12 |
Pongwe's Boat |
|
|
