Often overlooked and one of the best kept secrets of Tanzania, the Tides makes a great alternative to the Zanzibar Archipelago. Just 20 minutes by light aircraft, from Dar es Salaam, and then a further 10-minute drive, this mainland beach option delivers a fantastic beach experience in a seldom visited and stunning part of the country. Rustic luxury is very apt for the Tides, you could happily call the lodge 3-4 star, depending on where you put weight in the difference, but what the lodge does incredible well is deliver a fantastic culinary, cultural and beach break.

Standard of accommodation is good, there are only 10 rooms in total and each is simple but very comfortable with everything that you need but not too much more. Activities are really good hear, visits to the nearby village are encouraged which will be genuine interaction with the local people, as well as a plethora of beach and sea activities. If you are looking for somewhere that you can kick your shoes off when you arrive and not put them on again until you leave, barefoot luxury with some of the most-lovely staff you will anywhere, then this may well hit the nail on the head for you.