Magnolia Villa Zanzibar

04/09/2026

Why do they need to vote … Africa is enormous—it can fit the United States, China, India, and much of Europe within its land area. Interestingly, Africa’s actual scale is striking: it is the world’s second-largest continent and has vast mineral, agricultural, and energy resources.
“Afrika Iendelee, Afrika Istawi!”
“Let Africa progress, let Africa prosper!

03/09/2026

Mafia Island is a beautiful, quieter island destination off the coast of Tanzania. It is not actually part of Zanzibar, although it can be combined with a Zanzibar holiday. It is especially famous for its spectacular marine life and relaxed atmosphere. One of Mafia Island’s biggest attractions is the opportunity to snorkel with whale sharks, the world’s largest fish. The main season is generally around October to March, although wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed. I’ll explore some good companies to use if you want to do this activity .

06/07/2026

If you are thinking of a beach holiday and haven’t re- considered the island here’s what people are saying it is changing but for the best which is not often the case when places develop for tourism .

25/06/2026

Reviews on platforms are so subjective.

We just had a 4 star overall and 3 star review for value which was given for the one bedroom private air conditioned house on one of the best beaches in Zanzibar that costs USD 85 a night.

On Airbnb 3 is is a very low rating .

A rough guide is:

* 5 stars = Great stay, met or exceeded expectations.
* 4 stars = Good stay, but there was something the guest didn’t particularly like.
* 3 stars = Okay, but there were several issues or the property did not match what the guest expected.
* 2 stars = Significant problems.
* 1 star = Very poor experience.

The tricky part is that many guests think 3 stars means “average” or “not bad,” but Airbnb’s system is heavily weighted toward 5-star reviews. Hosts generally aim for an average above 4.7–4.8 stars.

I am in touch with the guest to ask why they felt value was rated low but seriously our guest clearly thinks we should be giving our home for less than the cheapest backpacking hotel room situated two back rows from the beach . Let’s see what they come back with or if they respond .

19/06/2026

Due to an increase in pricing by Airbnb we have had to change our rates for rental .

We will be looking at other platforms that are not so expensive.

At the moment 18% Airbnb fees and 15% government taxes are a high burden on small ventures .

Our Airbnb employs 6 full time staff . 2 cleaners , 2 gardeners , 1 security staff and 1 swimming pool maintenance staff. So that’s 1.2 person per bedroom .We will look to employ a cook soon too.

These are the official metrics on the island for Typical staffing benchmarks in the hotel industry measured as employees per room:
Hotel Type
Budget / Limited Service - 0.3–0.6
Mid-scale / Full Service- 0.8–1.2
Resort Hotel- 1.2–2.0
Luxury Resort - 1.5–2.5+

So whilst a hotel provides jobs don’t forget the benefits of Airbnb and personal space and local connections .

If you book directly we will remove the Airbnb fees so please share the page with friends who would be interested in travelling to Zanzibar.

Also just posting a Hockney iconic painting in remembrance of his death this week .

18/06/2026

The people in East Africa are the best
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/18W6SRtnLd/?mibextid=wwXIfr

14/06/2026

Africa has a profound way of moving people, often leaving a lasting emotional and spiritual impact. Many visitors describe feeling a deep sense of grounding, vibrant energy, and a welcoming warmth that feels like coming home. I hope to return to Africa soon and make this second home more permanent. Plans to do this have already began .
Africa will be home to the world’s largest working-age population by 2040, smart deployment of its labor force in highly productive jobs will spur economic growth. I have some ideas and this all started with our home Magnolia Villa Zanzibar which now employs 6 locals and is a very small project that I’m proud of . If I can employ 25 locals in my new ventures that is my dream and goal .

25/05/2026

A safari combined with a stay in Zanzibar is a must so some useful info on when to go and yes Tanzania is so much better than any other place for safaris . Why you say well :
* Vs Kenya: Tanzania generally feels larger and less crowded.
* Vs South Africa: more wilderness and “classic Africa” landscapes.
* Vs Botswana: cheaper and more varied for first-time safari travelers.
* Vs Namibia: far richer wildlife density.
And you can combine a trip to Zanzibar too .

06/01/2026

nungwi.mnarani.aquarium
Swim and feed rescued turtles at this sanctuary in Nungwi a 20 min drive from Magnolia Villa . Truly amazing experience

21/07/2025