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Emerson and Green Hotel

EMERSON & GREEN HOTEL:
In the heart of Stone Town, Emerson & Green Hotel rises above standard accommodation by providing elegant, traditionally furnished, airy rooms and a Tower Top Restaurant with a view of the world.

An integral part of the skyline of Zanzibar, along with mosque minarets, Hindu temple towers, and church spires, is the Tower Top restaurant of Emerson & Green Hotel. The second tallest building in Stone Town Zanzibar, the hotel has been restored to its former glory when it was the residence of one of the richest men in the Swahili Empire. Atmosphere is of principal import as the furnishings are all original Zanzibari antiques of varied origins and styles that, together, create the impressions of Arabian Nights and sultan princesses escaping in the dead of the night for romance.

ACCOMMODATION:
All rooms include a small buffet breakfast served in the Tower Top Restaurant from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Check in times are flexible and check out time is 11:00 a.m. All rooms receive fresh flowers, bottled water, and fresh jasmine flowers on the pillows at bedtime.

Peace of Love Wing:
The new western wing addition to Emerson & Green is named the “ Peace of Love” wing in honor of the small lively square that it overlooks. This wing features the most original and luxurious suites of our hotel . Most rooms boast balconies, teahouses, or verandahs all with spectacular views of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean and on clear days the coast of continental Africa.

Peace of Love Wing:
The new western wing addition to Emerson & Green is named the “ Peace of Love” wing in honor of the small lively square that it overlooks. This wing features the most original and luxurious suites of our hotel . Most rooms boast balconies, teahouses, or verandahs all with spectacular views of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean and on clear days the coast of continental Africa.

Suite:
Located on the Northwest corner of the Peace of Love wing, this suite has a commanding view both from it’s balcony windows and from it’s own private tower top tea house.

The antique furnishings including a romantic brass bed under voluminous netting offer the realfeel of Zanzibar in the grand style of the Victorian era when Zanzibar was a hub of trade for all East Africa.

Air conditioning and a ceiling fan provide the comfort needed for the hot Zanzibar days and a cool breeze while taking in the panorama from your own tower top will be the highlight of your stay in Zanzibar.

A large stone bath and bath facilities are tucked away in one corner near and under the substantial teakwood stairs to your tower top retreat. From high upon the rooftops guests can take in breathtaking sunsets over the historical Stone Town.

Suite Pavilion:
This suite’s decor is inspired by the boat houses of India with intricate painted wood detailing.

Facing West over the Peace of Love Square this semi-open suite is decorated with painted filigree wood arches opening onto an intimate verandah bordered by a crenolated parapet. Cool colors of blue and white predominate around the harem-like bed placed on a large platform adorned by a multitude of hand embroiderd and batik pillows.

The bathroom is semi-open to the sky yet enclosed from view by hardwood lattice work partitioning which allow guests to look out while they are bathing, but not to be seen. A spiral staircase leads to a small deck observatory where guests can take in a wide panoramic view over the rooftops of Stone Town and the Indian Ocean beyond.

Suite Blue:
In the western Peace of Love wing, Suite Blue is situated off the second floor verandah where there is an abundnce of potted plants and an antique garden swing framed by a wooden bridge and staircase. The room boasts marble floors and twenty foot ceilings above a strip of original stucco decor. The walls are a cool blue throughout the large room which is divided by a teakwood screen partition of carved Indian filigree. One enters into a comfortable lounge with a writing desk, sofa and chairs to relax in pleasant conversation. Beyond the wooden screen and a delicate voile curtain stands the unique wooden bed, one of the oldest in Zanzibar, with mystic symbols carved in the headboards all under dramatic batik trimmed netting.

The bathroom lies just off the bedroom where a stone tub in warm tones of brown and deep blue provide a luxurious bath. Details in painted glass and colored glass windows adorn this space. The room is equipped with air conditioning and a ceiling fan above the bed for cool Suite Blue comfort.

Keep Suite:
This suite at the pinnacle of the western Peace of Love wing commands a spectacular view from it’s private “ castle keep” retreat. The Keep Suite is actually four distinct sections: the bedroom, the verandah parlor, the verandah garden, and the castle keep itself. Guests first enter the verandah parlor. Rich details encompass this room with it’s beautiful city-scape view, a traditional swing, antique writing desk and paintings by one of Zanzibar’s most renowned artists.

To the left side of the parlor is a stone bath with antique tile inlays and with the facilities neatly tucked behind a decorative hand painted glass screen and batik trimmed curtain. The bedroom features a gigantic bed in a coccoon of netting and original batik trim fabric all with a fan directly above the bed. Carved lattice windows open to a rooftop city view while air conditioning makes for a comfortable cool haven from the Zanzibar heat.

From the verandah garden up a teakwood staircase lies the “castle keep” itself, boasting an antique swing seat and a large couch for sunset cocktails or breakfast. The view from the stairs and skywalk leading to the “castle keep” are much like standing on the prow of a proud ocean liner above the city. We must emphasize that while most guests adore this room, if you suffer a fear of heights, this room is NOT for you

Suite Rose:
The beautiful carved door of this spacious two room suite lies just beneath a majestic arch off the second floor verandah in the western Peace of Love wing. The master bedroom boasts an elegant lounge area with a crystal chandelier and grandfather clock while the windows offer a western view of our bustling swahili community of Peace of Love Square. At the far end of the room is a magnificent antique brass bed with detailing in mother of pearl and with dramatic netting trimmed in dinstinctive batic fabric. A second room lies off to the left of the master bed.

A picturesque broad sofa doubles as a second bed beneath its own batik trimmed netting. A writng desk provides a comfortable space to relax to write letters home and to friends. An arched entry leads to the bathroom with a substantial stone tub excellent for relaxing bubble baths. Air conditioning and cieling fans provide for cool comfort in this lovely rose hued haven from the bustle of Stone Town. The Suite Rose is named in honor of the Rose Revolution of Georgia in 2003, the year of this suite’s conception

Suite Sultan Seyyed:
Situated on the top floor of the western Peace of Love wing, Suite Sultan Seyyed is accessible either from the picturesque wooden bridge above the second floor verandah or the internal stairs near the Rose Suite under the ample archway. Guests enter a richly appointed sitting room with a magnificent teakwood credenza and bordeaux red drapes which flow from one end to the other of this large suite lending a feeling of richness, extravagance and power worthy of the Sultan who brought the bordeaux red colored flag to Zanzibar as it’s national flag.

Ornately carved wooden windows provide for an intimate retreat from the bustling neighborhood below. Through an ample archway lies the bedroom area with a beatiful brass bed with luxurious batik trimmed netting. The bath is semi open with a large stone bath beyond the bedroom area. This room is large light and airy with rows of windows along the east and west walls. Guests may open the windows for a beautiful sea breeze or take advantage of air conditioning and ceiling fans for cool comfort high above the streets of Zanzibar.

North Room:
Beautiful latticework in African hardwood enclose the room from its open veranda offering a splendid view of the Indian Ocean and Zanzibar Stone Town. The large stone tub with shower is incorporated into the veranda and enclosed by lattice screens and tropical plants framing starlit nights and the view for a very romantic bath.

South Room:
The South room is like an island above Stone Town, accessible only by way of a wooden bridge from the top floor veranda. South offers an air-conditioned bedroom, a lattice enclosed veranda and a semi-open bathroom. The open-air stone bath and shower where you bathe under the stars personifies tropical freedom.

East Room:
As its name suggests, this room faces east and receives the lion's share of the morning sun.

Excellent for early risers who want to get up and seize the day by exploring Josani Forest and its resident monkeys, or taking a beach trip to Prison Island. Beautiful African hardwood latticework separates the veranda that wraps around the room on two sides. From your spacious sitting area you can enjoy the beautiful view and the cooling breezes.

West Room:
Located on the top floor, this room has an intimate atmosphere.

Hardwood latticework encloses the room on two sides and the veranda presents a spectacular view of the Indian Ocean and sunsets over the Sultan's ceremonial palace and the African mainland beyond. The kidney shaped en suite stone bath offers romantic bathing pleasure.

Ballroom:
Quite possibly the grandest hotel room in Zanzibar. The Ballroom was, as its name suggests, a room for grand occasions.

Having two beds and room to spare, this room is excellent for families with small children or for those who just want to indulge in grandeur and an en suite sultan-like bath. Air conditioning offers cool comfort for the hot African afternoons.

Gallery room:
Located on the second floor and decorated in grand style, the Gallery is named for the many handpainted windowpanes in the bathroom. The panes diffuse the strong equatorial sun with images of peacocks, clove trees, and other local flora and fauna. Air conditioning offers cool comfort from the heat of the African sun.

Lavender Room:
The Lavender room is decorated in various shades of lavender and violet. It features an elegant antique brass bed and its own large stone bathe en suite.

Lavender is located off the second floor court veranda.

Air conditioning and a unique intimate atmosphere make for a pleasant retreat from the tropical heat after an invigorating walk around Stone Town.

Crystal Room:
Elegance and comfort are reflected in the mirrors and chandeliers of this large lovely room. Two antique beds allow for more than just couples to enjoy adequate accommodation. The large en suite stone bath offers sultan-like bathing pleasure. A newly restored balcony allows for discreet viewing of Zanzibar street scenes below. Air conditioning gives cool comfort after a day exploring the exotic island fare.

Zenane Room:
Two beautifully appointed rooms suitable for a family or for those guests seeking a private lounging area. High windows facing east and a newly restored balcony over the street contribute to the charm of this enchanting suite. A self contained bathroom with a large stone tub and air conditioning provide added comfort for your stay.

Kimbembe Room:
Kipembe in Swahili means "corner". Nestled among the rooftops and upper floors of our nearby building, this cozy room on the inner second floor court veranda balcony creates a feeling of being surrounded by the unique environs of exotic Zanzibar. Kipembe offers a bedroom, ante room, and bathroom with a refreshing shower, all in air conditioned comfort.

DINING:

Tower Top Restaurant:
The Tower Top Restaurant lies high among the minarets, temple towers, and church spires. It is undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary eating venues in the world. Located on the roof of the building, it makes guests feel as if they're on top of the world as they sip exotic drinks and watch the sun disappear into the Indian Ocean. The Muslim call to prayer accents the eastern setting of Arab-style pillows and small tables and the Hindu Temple chimes remind visitors that they are far away from the stress they left at home.

A typical menu for the Prix Fixe meal consists of appetizers of local vegetables, seafood and small canapés, a soup or salad, a main course of fish or chicken with vegetables and spice scented rice and, finally, dessert with tea or coffee and after dinner drinks. Vegetarians can easily be accommodated, with prior notice to the chef. As you leave the restaurant, be sure to look up at the stars, we think they're brighter here.

Kidude Cafe Restaurant:
For a Light Meal, Sandwiches, Desserts, Drinks, or just morning coffee or afternoon tea with delicious baked goods in a relaxing Zanzibar Atmosphere.

For Dinner enjoy our menu inspired by the cuisines of the old Slave Trading Countries from the Indian Ocean, Arabia, Africa, to the Caribbean and Cajun cuisine of the Americas.

KIDUDE is on the ground floor at Emerson & Green Hotel. Our door is to the left of the main entrance just next door to reception.

Comfortably air-conditioned, KIDUDE offers a full bar in a beautiful setting showcasing art, handcrafts, and antiques of Zanzibar.

Relax and enjoy with us the African rhythm of life. Open from 10:00 am to around 10:00 pm

HISTORY OF THE HURUMZI HOUSE:

Folklore and local memory tell that the Hurumzi House was built and lived in by a man named Tharia Thopan, often called the Bismarck of the Swahili Empire. Due to his close ties to the Sultan of the time, Thopan was permitted to build his house as the second highest in Stone Town; second only to the Sultan's own ceremonial palace, The House of Wonders.

Further stories say that in the 1880's this building was where British authorities paid Arab slave owners to free their slaves. It is said that the name Hurumzi comes from "Huru - MUUZE", meaning "let them free". Still not verified by the complex maze of Zanzibar archive records, these stories add to the mystery of this impressive building on Hurumzi Street.

The building has survived yearly monsoons, numerous inhabitants and various governments. After the revolution in 1964, Zanzibar engaged in an experiment with socialism along with Tanganyika, what is now known as mainland Tanzania. Regretfully, this caused the grave neglect of Stone Town and its treasury of heritage buildings including the Hurumzi house.

In the 1980's Zanzibar was re-opened to international investors. In 1991 proprietors Emerson D. Skeens and Thomas Green were able to convince the local authorities to lease them the site in order to restore it to its former glory in the manner of a hotel. The main restoration began in 1994 and continues today in the way of minor revisions and maintenance. Ten splendid rooms are available for guests to enjoy along with the delicious dinners served in the well-known Tower Top Restaurant.

The Kidude cafe/restaurant, located on the ground floor, offers excellent lunch and dinner menus in arabian style and air-conditioned comfort.

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STONE TOWN - ZANZIBAR - TANZANIA:
It may not have a particularly romantic name, but Stone Town is the old city and cultural heart of Zanzibar, little changed in the last 200 years. It is a place of winding alleys, bustling bazaars, mosques and grand Arab houses whose original owners vied with each other over the extravagance of their dwellings. This one-upmanship is particularly reflected in the brass-studded, carved, wooden doors - there are more than 500 different examples of this handiwork. You can spend many idle hours and days just wandering through the fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways.

Most of the houses that can be seen today were built in the 19th century when Zanzibar was one of the most important trading centres in the Indian Ocean region. The coraline rock of Zanzibar was a good building material, but it is also easily eroded. This is evident by the large number of houses that are in a bad state of repair. Several buildings have already been renovated and the Stone Town Conservation Authority has been established to co-ordinate the restoration of the town to its original magnificence. As a result of sensible policy, nearly all of the major hotels built in Stone Town are housed in renovated buildings.

As you walk through the town, please remember that Stone Town is very much a real community, where real people live and work. It is not a museum piece or theme park created for tourists, and sensitivity should be shown to the local people.

If you want to learn more about Stone Town, there are various ways to do it. You can either wander through the narrow streets by yourself armed with a map, or you can embark on a tour with one of the local tour operators.

A guided tour through Stone Town will include a stop at the House of Wonders which greets visitors arriving by sea, a grand building used by the Sultan for his administrative duties and now a national museum. The House of Wonders is a very large square-shaped building, with several stories, surrounded by tiers of pillars and balconies, and topped by a large clock tower. It was built in 1883 as a ceremonial palace for Sultan Barghash and was the first in Zanzibar to have electric light and an electric lift. Not surprisingly, when it was built, the local people called it Beit el Ajaib, meaning the House of Wonders. Today, it is still one of the largest buildings in Zanzibar.

His town palace stands adjacent to it, the walkways that connected the two buildings still in dilapidated existence. The Palace Museum is a large white building with castellated battlements, and was built in the late 1890's for members of the Sultan's family. Originally called the Sultan's Palace, in 1911 it became the official residence of the Sultan of Zanzibar, but following the revolution in 1964, it was renamed the Peoples' Palace. In 1994, the palace was turned into a museum dedicated to the history of Zanzibar's Sultans which necessitated a third change of name to the Palace Museum. For the first time, visitors can see much of the Sultans' furniture and other possessions that survived the revolution.

The Arab Fort is situated next to the House of Wonders and was built between 1698 and 1701 by the Busaidi group of Omani Arabs. It is a large building with high, dark brown walls, topped by castellated battlements. The fort is open to visitors and now contains various shops and an open air theatre. The Anglican Cathedral, built over the site of the old slave market, has a crucifix made from the tree under which the explorer David Livingston's heart was buried. Nearby are the underground chambers in which slaves were kept, forced to crouch on stone shelves less than two feet high.

The Old Dispensary (now known as the Stone Town Cultural Centre) is a grand four story building with a set of decorative balconies. It served as a dispensary during colonial times but fell into disrepair in the 1970's and 1980's. It is one of the Stone Town buildings that has been successfully restored, in this case with funding from the Aga Khan Trust for Culture. It can be found on Zanzibar's seafront on Mizingani road.

The market is a great place to visit even if you don't want to buy anything. It is a vibrant place where everything under the sun is bought and sold. People bring their produce here from all over the island, and other people come to buy things they can't get in their own villages. Of special interest is the huge selection of brightly coloured khangas (worn by the local women) and the auctions that are held regularly. For the ardent shoppers, take a stroll down the main shopping streets and see the vendors plying their wares above the noise of the traffic, music carts and bustling public - a colourful experience not to be missed.

Livingstone's House was built around 1860 for Sultan Majid, and was used by many of the missionaries and explorers as a starting point. Most notably, Dr David Livingstone lived here before commencing his last journey to the mainland interior.

The Peace Memorial Museum is an interesting look at Zanzibar's history. It has sections on archaeology, early trade, slavery, palaces, mosques, sultans, explorers (includes Dr Livingstone's medical chest), missionaries, colonial administrators, traditional crafts and household items, stamps, coins, fishing, and clove cultivation.

For the night owls, the capital Stone Town is a bustling harbour town with much to offer - fine restaurants serving local fare including Asian, Arabic, European and Western cuisine. For the enthusiast dancer visit the local nightclubs and immerse yourself in the vibrant music of Zanzibar. A not-to-be-missed evening event is listening to Taarab music in one of the music clubs. Taarab is endemic to the island and is traditionally accompanied by an orchestra of at least twenty-five musicians, Taarab singers recite from memory their poems on love and romance in poignant and subtle verses.

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