There’s an idyllic island off the coast of Tanzania called Pemba. (It's part of the Zanzibar Archipelago.) Here at the Manta Resort, guests go snorkeling in the turquoise waters off the private beach, then sip Lemongrass Ginger Slings at the bar, feet buried in the sand, before retiring to oceanfront accommodations. There’s also a pool surrounded by lush tropical gardens, and a restaurant specializing in local cuisine (freshly caught fish, fruit juice, and “mama’s legendary banana bread” for breakfast).
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Recently the resort unveiled the Underwater Room located 13 feet below the surface of the water. This “private floating island,” says the official website, “is yours to enjoy while sunbathing and stargazing on the top deck, lounging and dining on the water deck and sleeping surrounded by a tropical marine environment.” Evening spotlights on the water means you can be lulled to sleep while watching the exotic marine creates of the underwater world.
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The room was devised by the Swedish designers at Genberg Underwater Hotels, whose previous projects include an underwater room on a Swedish lake. The room price at the Manta Resort’s special room ranges from $900-$1,500 per night. For more information, visit www.themantaresort.com.