International hotel group The Lux Collective has signed an agreement with ZK Venture Company in Zanzibar to manage East Africa's first five-star LUX* hotel.
With East Africa's economies growing rapidly, The Lux Collective's strategic entry into the new destination of Zanzibar will allow the group to strengthen its brand presence in this important emerging market. Located on a pristine private beach overlooking the Indian Ocean, the LUX* Marijani Zanzibar is decorated in the LUX* colors and is operational since July 1, 2023.
Zanzibar's geographical location makes it a prime destination for sustainable luxury travel. LUX* Marijani Zanzibar is located in Pwani Mchangani on the northeast coast. Boasting a pristine private beach and set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, this luxury resort draws inspiration from contemporary Arabian architecture and design. The 82 rooms and suites offer spacious, comfortable, and elegant spaces, as well as the warm and personalized services characteristic of LUX*.
The suites feature Arabic and Swahili motifs and are set in tropical gardens next to the beach. Whitewashed walls and arches covered in fuchsia bougainvillea recall the island's Arabic style, while locally crafted terrazzo tiles lend a coastal Swahili feel. All suites feature outdoor terraces or balconies overlooking the beach or tropical gardens. At sunrise, the resort is magically illuminated by the first rays of sunlight, setting the tone for the day ahead.
With meeting rooms, restaurants offering international and local cuisine, a spa offering a bespoke holistic wellness experience, swimming pools and other facilities, the hotel is an ideal destination for business, leisure and wedding trips.
The Beach is the main restaurant offering a varied menu that should satisfy all taste buds. The bar serves all the classics, as well as a creative drinks menu inspired by the Spice Islands. Need a pick-me-up? Head to the LUX* Café in the lobby for a macchiato. Soon, you'll be able to stop for an artisanal gelato on your way to the beach or pool. And soon Samāa, the refined Levantine restaurant on the open-air beach. Zanzibar has always been at the crossroads of many cultures and the cuisine here is a culinary melting pot that truly has a character of its own.
Once you step into LUX* Marijani, you immediately feel the energy it radiates… soothing and invigorating. Perhaps it's the salt air, the bright sunshine, or the lush tropical gardens. Wake up at dawn for a jog on the beach, a swim in the pool, a dip in the warm Indian Ocean, or a yoga practice on a sandbar. Don't forget to explore the native forest, perfect for swimming. The ultimate in luxury is a personalized massage, facial, or manicure and pedicure at LUX * ME spa boutique-sized. Vacations are the perfect time to recharge your batteries.
The hotel is located about an hour's drive from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport. For rich cultural and heritage discoveries, visitors can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town, Zanzibar Fort, the 19th-century Hamamni Persian Baths, and thee century, the Jozani forest and its nature trail and visit the spice farm, the history of the farm dates back to the historical period of the spice trade.
Paul Jones, Chairman and CEO of The Lux Collective, said: “ We are honored and delighted to partner with ZK Venture Company in Zanzibar to operate this five-star boutique beach resort, further enhancing its level of luxury and service. This marks the beginning of a significant partnership in East Africa, a region with enormous tourism potential. We believe this collaboration will elevate our flagship luxury brand, LUX*, while continuing to expand our international footprint. »
Natasha Manji, ZK Venture Company, said: “ We are particularly proud to be The Lux Collective's first strategic partner in East Africa. The group's motto is: 'Every moment counts and we care about what matters,' which resonates with our values. This like-minded partnership is a natural fit and promises to lead to opportunities for growth and success. We are truly inspired by the LUX* philosophy, which celebrates life through the experiences of 'Life Extraordinary.' Its exemplary standards offer radiant and lighthearted hospitality. By partnering with LUX* to rebrand our luxury hotel, I predict that LUX* Marijani Zanzibar will become the jewel of Zanzibar, where the beauty of the surrounding nature, unique culinary experiences, and sustainable wellness accommodation will be treasured attractions in Zanzibar. In addition, we will focus on initiatives that respect the environment and local communities to create a more sustainable future for all. »
The Lux Collective is expanding its global reach and currently manages 17 resorts and hotels in Mauritius, Maldives, Reunion, China and Tanzania, with 12 additional hotels under development in Asia and the Middle East.
To explore Zanzibar and learn more about the hotel, visit the LUX* Marijani Zanzibar website. LUX* Marijani, Zanzibar | LUX* Resorts & Hotels (luxresorts.com)
André Tirlet
