Ultimate Guide To Africa June 2015 | Page 55

REGULARS FOR LUXURY TRAVEL SERVICES GUIDE ACCOMMODATION DIRECTORY windsurfing courses, water-skiing, wakeboarding, and deep sea fishing. Another great way to unwind is at the resort’s beautiful spa, where the peaceful and picturesque setting welcomes those wanting to revitalise body and mind in an authentic African environment. An exciting development for the already-renowned spa is the introduction of Africaninspired Healing Earth treatments and products formulated to offer deep relaxation and address individual physical and psychological needs through the use of pure, high performance active natural ingredients and the healing hands of dedicated and highly-trained therapists. For those lucky enough to find themselves at the resort on business, the strikingly designed Baobab Congress Centre caters to all conference, meeting and banqueting requirements. Organising and catering services are available, along with the necessary audiovisual equipment. The meeting rooms accommodate up to 160 people seated and 300 cocktail-style. The grand ballroom divides into three separate rooms fitted with soundproof walls, and offers a boardroom equipped with the latest in conferencing facilities. Although there is much to do on the property itself, the Diamonds team is also available to assist in arranging tours and excursions outside of the resort. While historical Stone Town and exploratory spice tours are definite “must-dos”, a less well-known but equally rewarding experience is a visit to the turtle sanctuary just minutes from the resort. Whether your idea of an idyllic island getaway includes cocktails and massages or windsurfing and turtles, you are sure to be delighted by the comprehensive relaxation experience on offer at one of the most beautiful and polished gems of Zanzibar. For more information visit www.planhotel.com. IN THE KNOW Also situated on the property is Diamonds Star of the East, a magnificent private sanctuary of 11 exclusive villas, each with its own plunge pool, terrace, Makuti patio, and large tropical garden. It is entirely fitting that the villas are named after eleven of the most precious gems in the world. Personal butler service, a private beach, and a host of other exclusive services make Diamonds Star of the East the ultimate in comfort, privacy and luxury for the most discerning of travellers. The range of restaurants and bars available at the resort is as diverse as the accommodation on offer. The Pavilion Restaurant provides a lavish buffet of light and tasty Mediterranean cuisine as well as some favourite local d ishes. Special themed nights are organised on a weekly basis, and are the culinary highlight of many a guest’s stay. Located on the magnificent pier, Sea Breeze á la Carte Restaurant serves fresh seafood in an unrivalled natural setting overlooking the ocean. Also located on the pier is The Café Moresco and Sunset Lounge Bar, which serves oriental coffee and tea, shisha, snacks and pastries as well as a wide selection of local and international cocktails and other drinks. Down at the beach is The Coral Cove Pizzeria, as well as The Beach Grill, which serves seafood directly under the starry sky. Located near The Coral Cove is The Beach Bar, which serves drinks and snacks throughout the day. For those wanting to escape the festivities and enjoy refreshments in a more peaceful environment, The Lobby Lounge is also open during the day and early evening. Diamonds La Gemma dell’Est’s all-inclusive system means that most of the food and drink offerings, as well as the use of many of the resort’s onsite facilities, are included in the nightly rate. For the rare moments during which guests are not eating, drinking or relaxing on the beach or at the pool, a host of water sports activities is available, from catamaran, laser boat, speedboat, and canoe expeditions to sailing and ACCOMMODATION GUIDE READ FEATURES ULTIMATE GUIDE TO AFRICA -