Live Like a Local: Dee’s Journey with Zanzibar Matemwe Attitude

January 2026

When Dee Persaud, Commercial Manager at Somak Luxury Travel, boarded her flight to Zanzibar, she expected sun, sea and a glimpse of a beautiful new hotel. What she did not expect was to leave feeling connected to the island, its people, and its rhythms.

Invited by Attitude Hotels to experience the opening of their newest boutique resort, Matemwe Attitude, Dee joined a fam (familiarisation) trip with a refreshing theme: “live like a local”. Rather than simply showcasing the resort, the intention was to immerse guests in Zanzibar itself. For Dee, this made all the difference.

Over three nights on Zanzibar’s north east coast, she discovered not only a thoughtfully designed adults-only resort, but also the heart of an island that feels authentic, warm and quietly magical. This was not about ticking off sights. It was about slowing down, listening, tasting, and connecting. And as someone who thrives on culture, adventure and discovery, Dee found herself unexpectedly moved by the experience.

A Warm Welcome to Matemwe

From the moment she arrived at Matemwe Attitude, Dee felt the care behind every detail. The team welcomed the group with genuine warmth, followed by a beachside barbecue lunch that set the tone for the days ahead. The resort itself is built in harmony with the surrounding landscape, using Swahili inspired architecture, coral-toned walls, makuti thatched roofs, and stained-glass windows that filter the light beautifully. Villas are scattered through tropical gardens rather than stacked together, giving the feeling of space, privacy and calm.

Dee described the property as luxury with a rustic soul. Officially a four-star resort, she felt it quietly exceeds expectations, especially in terms of atmosphere, service and sense of place.

That first afternoon ended with yoga on the beach. With the Indian Ocean stretching out ahead and palm trees swaying overhead. A serene moment to recalibrate. The sound of the waves, the warmth of the sand and the stillness of the setting made it the perfect introduction to the slower pace of island life.

Dhow Sailing, Dolphins and Coral Conservation

The next morning began early with a trip towards Mnemba Island, whose turquoise waters are visible from Matemwe’s shoreline. The group travelled by traditional dhow, an experience Dee loved. While she opted not to snorkel (she much prefers to have her feet on solid ground). Instead, she spent the morning soaking up the sunshine, taking photos, and watching the ocean shift through shades of blue. A pod of dolphins appeared alongside the boat, an unexpected highlight.

One of the most meaningful moments came when the group learned about the coral rehabilitation project off Mnemba Island. Looking out over the reef today, it is hard to imagine that much of it was once dying due to climate change, overfishing, and human impact. Local communities have since embraced conservation efforts, planting coral in regeneration areas where struggling coral is nurtured before being replanted on the reef.

These “rainforests of the sea” not only support biodiversity but also sustain local fishing communities and attract snorkellers and divers. For Dee, this was one of the most powerful aspects of the trip, seeing tourism, conservation and community working together in a meaningful way.

Stepping Back in Time in Stone Town

Later that day, Dee joined a guided tour of Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar City. She described the experience as initially a cultural shock, noting the sights of cows, sheep, and chickens wandering the narrow streets. She has reminded the team to prepare clients with what to expect. However, this authenticity only adds to its charm. “Everyone was smiling and friendly, children waved at us,” she said. “It felt deeply transportive.”

Stone Town, with its winding alleys and weathered buildings, reminded Dee of her own childhood. Motorbikes carrying entire families, children playing in the streets, and the pace of daily life felt both nostalgic and grounding. She was struck by the way different cultures and religions coexist, with Islam most prominent but many faiths visible and functioning in harmony.

Part of the tour was a walk through Stone Town’s rich history, which deepened the experience. Dating back over 1000 years, it grew into a major trading hub linking Africa, Arabia, India and Europe, particularly through the spice trade. The town’s narrow streets were designed for shade, cooling sea breezes, and most notably: defence. This is what gives it its distinctive maze-like character today. The tour explained the history and significance of Zanzibar’s famous doors. Carved entrances that once signified wealth and status, adorned with brass studs and symbolic motifs believed to offer protection and prosperity.

Two highlights stood out. One was the Freddie Mercury Museum, a moving tribute to one of Zanzibar’s most famous sons. The other was the spice market, where Dee happily haggled and returned with fragrant souvenirs that carried the scent of the island home with her. We don’t recommend haggling with Dee! She struck up some fierce deals with the local sellers, leaving with more vanilla pods than you might expect.

She recommends Stone Town as a must-do experience on any Zanzibar itinerary, ideally as a day tour rather than a multi-night stay. “In two hours, we had already walked most of it,” she explained. It seems Stone Town has its limits. When you have beaches like Matemwe, it’s a no-brainer to stay on the shore.

Beaches That Stop You in Your Tracks

After such a packed and vibrant day, Dee’s final day was dedicated to slowing down. The group visited Michamvi Beach. The experience took her by surprise. “I can’t describe it. It was like flour,” she said. “I have never seen anything like it.”

As someone who does not usually gravitate towards beach holidays, Dee prefers city breaks and adventure travel, finishing trips with just a short stay by the sea. “I can’t stay a whole week at a beach,” she laughed. “I want to keep moving, exploring new places.” But Michamvi changed something for her. “It was so surreal. It was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. The sand felt like walking on air.”

Zanzibar Matemwe Attitude: A Resort Designed for Connection

What stood out to Dee most about Zanzibar Matemwe Attitude was not just its design or setting, but its atmosphere. As a boutique adults-only resort, it is naturally suited to couples and honeymooners, and she described it as ideal for quality time and connection. There is a calm intimacy to the layout, from candlelit dinners overlooking the ocean to quiet moments on private terraces where time seems to slow.

She also felt the resort would work beautifully for groups of friends, particularly in the Swim Up Villas, where each guest has their own private space while sharing a pool right outside their door. The resort’s spacious layout, thoughtful design and emphasis on privacy create a sense of ease and exclusivity without formality.

The staff, however, were what truly elevated the experience. Dee described them as exceptional, attentive, always smiling, and full of warmth. Matemwe hand-picks each team member based on personality as much as skill, and it shows. “They really went above and beyond,” she said. “A young, lovely group of people who genuinely care about what they do.”

She did note one practical consideration. The resort is built into the landscape, which means there are steps, hills and rocky pathways. Guests with mobility challenges may find some areas difficult. Though there are buggies on request, and the option to stay closer to the restaurant and main facilities.

Why Zanzibar Left a Mark

One of the most compelling parts of Dee’s story is how Zanzibar surprised her. Compared to destinations like the Maldives or Mauritius, Zanzibar remains relatively under the radar, and that is precisely its appeal. “It’s not mass tourism,” she explained. “It feels largely untouched. Rustic, charming and authentic.”

While tourism infrastructure is less developed, Dee sees this not as a drawback but as part of the island’s soul. It creates a slower pace, a gentler rhythm and a stronger sense of place. It offers extraordinary value, with beautiful beaches, warm seas, and rich cultural experiences at a more accessible price point.

She predicts Zanzibar will grow in popularity in the coming years. This makes now an ideal time to experience it. And in true Somak style, she sees it as the perfect end to a safari in Kenya or Tanzania. “Zanzibar is a nice and relaxing end to a perfect safari,” she said.

When asked for her must-do activities in Zanzibar, Dee did not hesitate. “Definitely the Freddie Mercury Museum and a tour of Stone Town. Learning about coral regeneration alongside the snorkelling trip was amazing. And a sunset dhow cruise is absolutely worth doing.”

A Journey That Lingers

Dee’s trip ended with a fire show under the stars, a fitting close to three days filled with colour, warmth and discovery. Watch the video (including the stunning fire show) here:

 

At Somak Luxury Travel, we believe that the best travel advice comes from lived experience, and Dee’s journey to Zanzibar and Matemwe Attitude perfectly reflects the way we explore destinations ourselves before sharing them with our clients. Her story is not just about a beautiful hotel or a stunning island. It is about connection, authenticity, and the power of travel to surprise and move us.

A heartfelt thank you to Matemwe Attitude for hosting such an exceptional fam trip. To Claire and Emma from Attitude Hotels, Vincent (CEO), Raymond (CFO), and Ravin (General Manager). As well as the entire team at Matemwe, who truly went above and beyond to make the experience unforgettable.