Now under new ownership and renovated in 2019 whilst being renamed Zanzibar Pearl (for many years it was known as "Matemwe Beach Village"), this lodge occupies a lovely position on the island's famous north-east coast with views across the turquoise lagoon to Mnemba Island. There's something here for just about everyone - for people watching their pennies there are the 8 Oyster Suites (the only rooms without aircon) set back in the garden; but we would rather go for one of the 10 Pearl Suites overlooking the beach and with air-con; then there's the 6 Deluxe Pearl Suites overlooking the swimming pool; pay a bit more still and you can stay in the very imaginatively designed Oyster Villas (5 in total); and finally, for a really romantic treat, the lodge boasts the fantastic Pearl Villa or Villa Lulu, which are real favourites for honeymoon couples with private plunge pools and more private locations just off the beach. Add in a great dive centre, excellent pool and a couple of lively bars and the consistently excellent guest reviews aren't hard to understand!

With relatively easy access to the famed reefs of Mnemba, at night you can swop stories of your day around the sociable bar over an ice-cold Kili or take your drink and flop down into one of the cosy alcoves that are invitingly spread under the makuti thatch. The lodge’s signature Dawa cocktail comes highly recommended – a deceptively innocent tasting but potentially lethal concoction of vodka, freshly squeezed lime juice and honey – stir well and enjoy!

Meals are taken down at very welcoming main lodge complex. The main lounge area lining the beach is inviting, whether you just want to relax with a good book, play one of the board games that stud the area, or have a chat with some of your fellow guests. Once ensconced in the piles of comfortable blue cushions you’ll find it increasingly difficult to persuade your body to do anything more than stretch for another sip of ice-cold Kilimanjaro.

With a great new pool area complete with very cool bar, there’s also a ready escape from the heat of day during the low tides which affect the east coast. Add in delicious food and unfailingly friendly service and what more could you ask for?