I knew it was Emerson as soon as I walked in the door. I have never meet him before but knew it was him. He has created a beautiful place in a beautiful Island. His staff is so helpfull-and the restaurant upstairs is a delight for the palate. We stayed in the LaMore room which was outstanding! and the location in stone town is ideal to navigate the maze of safe streets you can get lost in but its great- it seems all roads lead to Emerson Spice. Even if you get lost just say Emerson and everyone knows exactely where it is and they will point you in the right direction.

This hotel has a great personality and is decorated with a colorful charm. The rooms are spacious and well lit. Head-up to the rooftop terrace for a pot of tea. It is tempting to just visit the beach when in Zanzibar; however, Emerson Spice makes a few days in Stone Town a good choice.

I had stayed at Emerson Green ten years ago and while transiting through Zanzibar en route to Mafia Island stopped in for a night to see Emerson's latest place.

The reviews are spot on: this is a great place. Unusual, with character, central and with staff trying hard to please. My e-mails were promptly responded to. I had booked a transfer from the airport and I was glad I called to confirm as the receptionist sounded a bit unsure, but Solomon was there to collect me. He was also ten minutes early to collect me to bring me to the airport the next day and brought the dive bag I was unable to take to Mafia with me due to weight restrictions from the hotel to the airport as I transited before flying out of Tanzania. A very reliable man!

I was in Desdemona just below the rooftop restaurant. Great room and had the choice to breakfast on my terrace or on the roof. Very good breakfast (fresh juice, fresh plate of fruits, eggs, toast).

The only issue was checking out. I had made it clear the night before that I needed to leave for the airport at 8:30 AM, but there was no one to check me out. I had prepaid my room so the only issue was paying my transfers which I could have paid the driver directly, but somehow I had to wait ten minutes while they tried to find someone to come and collect my money. (Other guests I met at Mafia also told me that they had expected to find a receptionist in the early morning to give them directions to walk around town and were surprised there was no one.)

This hotel is not yet listed in the latest version on Lonely Planet and had heard about it through a friend of mine.

It was an amazing experience on every level. It is owned by an American guy and English woman and they are both great. It is this recently renovated space with care and love put into every detail. There is a great rooftop that has a restaurant and is perfect for relaxing and watching the sunset. And the dinners have to be one of the best in Stone Town.

The staff is welcoming and attentive to all of your requests. They were able to arrange a tour for us on less than one day's notice and our guide, Simai, was fantastic. The rooms are magnificent and truly make you feel like a king. Our room had two floors, an outdoor dining area and another living room type area. One of the best places that I have stayed in quite some time.

One thing that might be worth mentioning is that the hotel and the rooms do not have air conditioning. The rooms are cool at night and there is a fan so it really was not bad at all.

Other than that the hotel is fantastic and would highly recommend to anyone looking for luxury in the heart of Stone Town.