Pilgrims begin arriving in Saudi Arabia as Hajj preparations gather pace
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Nestled on the shores of the Indian Ocean lies a serene oasis known as White Sand Villas & Spa, a luxury resort unlike any other. At first glance, it may appear to be just another lavish destination, but look deeper, and you'll discover an experience that redefines the very meaning of luxury… Your journey begins with a distinctive touch: a private driver greets you with a warm smile, a representative handles check-in seamlessly, and cold lemon-scented towels instantly melt away your travel fatigue, preparing you to totally decompress in the days ahead. The drive to the resort takes about an hour through poetic scenery: swaying palm trees brushing the skies, children laughing as they pedal home from school, while the only music you'll hear is the rustling of the leaves… and the island's magic phrase: 'Pole Pole… Slowly Slowly.' The resort features 18 villas scattered across lush tropical gardens, embraced by palm trees that shield it from the outside world. The beachfront villas offer direct sea views, private pools, and enclosed gardens that promise absolute privacy. Garden villas give you the option of a private pool or jacuzzi, tailored to your preference. For families, larger villas with warm, home-like touches and spacious common areas create chic spaces to unwind. It's the smallest details that elevate the stay, like a curated pillow menu, and a personal butler who knows what you need before you ask. Here, hospitality is not a service, but a philosophy. At the heart of the resort lies a place where time truly stops: Senses Spa. Guests from neighbouring resorts have crowned it the best spa in Zanzibar—and it's easy to see why. Your spa journey begins with a massage of your choice: warm oil relaxation, hot stone therapy, or deep tissue massage. Signature rituals like' Luminous Indulgence' include a body scrub, facial treatment, jacuzzi session, a sparkling drink, and fresh fruit—leaving you renewed from the inside out. Perhaps most special is the 'Mwani' natural range, where hand-harvested seaweed is used in treatments that nourish the skin and refresh the body. For those seeking spiritual healing, Reiki and energy-balancing sessions reconnect you with your inner self. Just beside the spa lies a peaceful beauty salon where every treatment is performed to perfection—from custom hair treatments to manicures, pedicures, and waxing—all offered within a serene, ultra-luxe space. Every Tuesday and Friday, at sunrise or just before sunset, open-air yoga classes are held on a sea-facing terrace. As you flow through each movement and listen to the instructor's voice, it feels like layers of stress peel away – consider it a pause for the soul. Near the reception, a cosy and colourful game room awaits—filled with games, movies, and board games to delight both children and grown-ups alike. For all guests, a wide array of complimentary daily activities is available—from Swahili cooking classes to starlit movie nights. There's never a dull moment. You can always enjoy games like table tennis, darts, chess, billiards, and volleyball. The resort also offers a surprising boost of energy for fitness enthusiasts. There's a fully equipped open-air gym, while the tennis court is lit until 10 p.m., and electric beach bikes let you explore the surroundings with ease and freedom. But the real magic unfolds on the water. Set sail on a traditional ngalawa boat—comfortably kitted out with cushions, drinks, and Bluetooth speakers. Or take a more adventurous route with glass kayaks, paddleboards, and catamarans. Dining at White Sand is not only a feast for the senses—it's a celebration of Zanzibar's culinary spirit. Breakfast is served from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., offering organic, fresh ingredients straight from farm to plate. Lunch runs from noon to 3 p.m., but dinner is the main event. From 7 to 10 p.m., beneath a starry sky and atop an open terrace, guests savour dishes that blend local and international flavours: fresh tuna, grilled octopus, the famous Kachumbari salad, and steak with black olive sauce. Don't miss the sunset hours between 6 and 8 p.m., when complimentary cocktails are served as the sky paints itself in shades of gold and orange. Finally, the resort recommends a trip to Stone Town, Zanzibar's old soul of stories, spices, and shadows. Accompanied by a local guide, you'll wander narrow alleys past historic homes, visit the Freddie Mercury Museum, and stop by spice markets for Zanzibari coffee and handmade souvenirs. Whether you're seeking a soul-deep retreat, a lavish celebration, or an unforgettable family escape—White Sand Villas & Spa is Zanzibar's ultimate retreat. Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa.
