Fabulous hotel. Right off one of the busiest areas of Stone Town but tucked away from the crowd. It was very safe and secure. I don’t know what the other reviews were taking about that it’s “in an alley.” Stone Town IS a Medina — which means everything is accessed by way of an alley. Neela is in a top-notch part of town, quick access to everything by foot and just a block from The Park Hyatt. We did scuba diving with One Ocean, which was just a block away. Our room (Superior #5 on the 2nd floor) was totally fabulous. We loved the layout with the bathtub in the room, it was spacious, and everything was thoughtful and well designed. Really felt like a new luxury retreat in a historic building. Neela had some of the best food in Stone Town as well. I loved the art collection and decor. Overall Pros: Safe! Security was posed at the entrances and at the street entrances. Great location and walkable to everything Blasting AC Super clean with pleasant local toiletries Comfortable bed and nice cotton linens Wonderful service. Earnestly helpful! Great coffee in the room and in the hotel Excellent food (get the Benedict!) You will love this gem. It deserves a ranking in a top 50 boutique hotels list somewhere. :) I’d definitely stay again. Its special.

These didn’t matter to us but they may matter to others: 15 mins of hot water per use (We never ran out) Our refrigerator was noisy if not broken (Management taking care of it)! Most rooms are up stairs but they handled all luggage.

We loved the theme and design of the hotel—it’s charming and stylish. The location is excellent, within walking distance to the old town paths, market, and beach. The staff were very friendly and welcoming, especially Othman who was always helpful and kind. We enjoyed our stay and appreciated the hospitality, but a few adjustments would make the experience even better.

There are a couple of things that could be improved: The room bathrooms have no doors—only a half wall that is open at the top—which does not provide any privacy and made us uncomfortable. There is no elevator, and our rooms were on the second floor. This could be difficult for elderly guests or those with knee or back problems. On the other hand, ground floor rooms are affected by noise from the nearby walking path.

I had the perfect stay at NEELA and my only regret was not staying in stone town longer! I was checked on before arrival and picked up by the hotel for a fee. Upon arrival I received a refreshing towel and the most refreshing hibiscus drink. The porters are very kind and helpful with everything you need and it just felt like home! It was my birthday trip she they had surprises for me each time I left the room and returned! My bed was decorated, I received a lovely dessert and a lovely skin care birthday gift. The room was very clean, spacious and homey! I truly appreciate the art at the hotel, I just felt like I was in a dream! I had to leave to do a safari and they kept all my MANY belongings! I am truly grateful for everyone who helped me at the hotel and I especially thank Tatu and Othman for being so helpful about everything! A plus: if you’re touristy- the market is so close by where to do the welcome to Zanzibar treat!

There actually wasn’t anything! It was truly a good stay. The restaurant closed by I think 10:30pm and because of the time different I didn’t get hungry till later and had to go to a nearby hotel eat but that was okay because it was pretty late!

Beautiful hotel, well located in Stone Town. Room was excellent, beds were really comfortable, large bathroom, wonderfully powerful hot shower. Breakfast was tasty with a variety of choices. The hotel staff were fantastic, our luggage did not arrive on the flight with us and the Staff arranged for someone to take us shopping. Things like slippers, toothbrush, shower hat were available on request. The hotel provides a turn down service and sprays the room each evening for mosquitoes Everything was great

There was nothing not to like

The hot showers and bottled water… great excuse to stay hydrated… the bedding is to die for and the silence was exactly what I needed

The lady that was on breakfast duty.. she needs to allow guest to enjoy breakfast without asking them every second if they are finished” i found she was impatient.. and if the restaurant wants to attract customers they will have to work on their hosting skills” the restaurant gave me Tashas but unfortunately without the hosting skills.. The afternoon team was great literally could ask for clarification on the menu and they were always ready to explain.. i literally looked forward to dinner

The Neela is tucked in a quiet location in Stone Town. The area was safe, accessible and within walking distance to all key places in Stone Town. The Staff were friendly and professional. The rooms are impeccable, large enough for comfort, super comfortable bed and modern appliances. The remote-controlled lights were great! The Neela has one of the best breakfast a la carte options! The Lobster Benedict was top notch! The Roof Top Bar/Lounge was perfect for sundowners and dinner! Loved It! I would definitely stay here again and again.

The fact that there is no elevator. The stairs may be a bit hectic for someone with knee issues.

The staff were an absolute delight. Such kind, helpful, and wonderful people! Our room was stunningly beautiful - we stayed in the superior king. The stone, finishes, decor, lighting were impeccable. The most beautiful hotel room I’ve ever stayed in. Location is great - in the heart of stone town and off the super busy street so was quieter and felt safe. Some have mentioned the noise from morning prayer, but we did not find this an issue. We could hear the call to prayers around 5am but wasn’t too loud from our room and only lasted a few minutes.

No pool - would be nice to have an agreement with one of the other hotels with pools. Very minor but given the price of the hotel, would be a great perk to have!

The hotel had a lovely design, friendly staff, and beautiful rooms, making the stay very enjoyable. The whole place was impressive, and the breakfasts were delicious.

The location could be more convenient. The hotel lacks a parking area, and taxis can’t drop you off directly at the entrance—you need to get out on a nearby parallel street. Additionally, it can be somewhat noisy due to the busy streets surrounding the hotel.

amazing people, amazing interior, best stay during our trip in Zanzibar. next time must have is to take an option with included breakfast, we were sad that we did not choose this option. room nr. 1 was amazing, our best recommendations to our friends and everyone. super location, you can walk for few hours, than come back and go for a walk again, because everything is very close and you do not need to leave the hotel for all day.

it was a little bit complicated to found the hotel for the first time

Staff were incredibly warm and helpful and went above and beyond to make our honeymoon special. We were surprised they had decorated the room and even left some beautiful (full size) skin care products as a gift. The room decor is also very thoughtful and functional. The hotel design is lovely too. You feel like you’re in the centre of the action too so its a great place to explore Stonetown.

You can hear people on the street as you sleep (we were on the first floor).