Let’s explore the next category in the 2023 Travel Noire Awards: Favorite Unique Stay. After picking the actual destination, where to stay is the most important aspect of planning a trip. Many travelers are looking to stay somewhere different and have a unique experience that they will remember for a lifetime. Whether it’s an Airbnb nestled in the middle of the rainforest or glamping beneath the stars in the desert, we’ve searched far and wide to narrow down our favorite unique stays that guests couldn’t get enough of.
The Manta Resort – Tanzania
“Encapsulated within a turquoise blue bubble,” The Manta Resort is located on Pemba Island within the Zanzibar Archipelago. The remote island hideaway is for travelers seeking to disconnect from the busy world around them and bask in Mother Nature’s wonders.
One of the greatest attractions of this hotel is the underwater floating room. Situated within the island’s conservation area lies a square floating structure that allows guests to observe the Indian Ocean from above and below. After their morning floating at sea, guests can have lunch on the elevated terrace overlooking the Indian Ocean and sip world-renowned Tanzanian coffee. Then hit up the beach bar for a cocktail or lounge at the two-tiered pool. Guests noted the sandy white beach as noteworthy and the hospitality of the staff as exceptional.
Swahili is the native language of Tanzania, so brush up on a few words before your visit.
Finca Bellavista – Costa Rica
Finca Bellavista is for those who desire to reconnect with nature and embrace their adventurous side. This unique hotel is located “off-the-grind” in a rainforest community. Its seven privately owned treehouses, each with unique names like “Casa del Sol” and “Casa del Tigre,” house guests. The treehouses vary greatly in size and offerings, but guests can find different amenities within the houses.
There is no Wi-Fi or television, so guests are encouraged to get out and explore the nature around them. There is an abundance of wildlife in the rainforest. The hotel is often called a “birdwatcher’s paradise.” Be sure to explore the hiking trails, go ziplining and swim in the nearby waterfalls.
Sunrise Palace – Morocco
Sunrise Palace is a boutique hotel in the heart of the Sahara desert in Morocco. The picturesque, pale pink oasis is a desert dream. The hotel’s website cites Youssef Oubza, a local, as the soul and inspiration behind the project. This unique hotel includes a restaurant, bar and enchanting swimming pool that’s very insta-worthy. The natural colors and textures of the hotel give it an authentic Moroccan vibe.
Each guest room has native Moroccan ornaments and linens. They include air conditioning/heating, terraces and either garden or pool views. Guests raved about the services that are rare for a desert retreat, including airport transfers, free Wi-Fi, currency exchange and a pub on premise. There also are several cultural excursions that visitors can take advantage of. They can take a camel ride through the dunes, visit the historic desert nomads or Palm Grove, or came under the stars.
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