Yehia El- Mansoury stated– Zanzibar the new promised place for GCC travellers and investors

This is what Mr. Yehia El- Mansoury, Group Director of Business Development, Double Tree by Hilton, Tanzania has announced in a special interview and in the details:

Questions

1. Over the years, tourism has become a significant economic drive in Zanzibar; share with us some of the major industry shift you’ve noticed since setting up DoubleTree by Hilton.

ANS: The industry and the international Brands existence such as DoubleTree by Hilton has stimulated the growth of international and regional transport services by air – with an increase of the emerging markets from GCC- China-Russia- East Europe
The most recent quality investments had been an effective and refreshing change in direction to a higher-value product, and improvements are going on in many properties, with the addition of spas, improved furnishings, training, etc.

2. How does Zanzibar Commission for Tourism engage with industry’s stakeholders to boost tourism locally and internationally? What programs can we expect to see on the island to encourage new tourists to visit Zanzibar?

ANS: The committee works collaboratively with tourism stakeholders across the sector to coordinate destination marketing at an international level by:

• Participating at travel trade shows
• Arranging road shows
• Promoting tourism activities locally and internationally

3. We are now witnessing some market penetration in the Gulf to encourage tourists from the GCC – what are the plans in place to target this new market and the property?

ANS: We expect to activate several marketing promotions to maintain visibility in the market. We will be present at Arabian Travel Market to promote our portfolio as well as engage in regional trade shows and road shows. We are collaborating with travel agencies in the region to recommend and promote the destination and the property plus organise FAM trips.  Our partnership with airlines operating to the islands allows us to design value added deals for wider target. From the GCC we continue to host journalists and influencers to boost digital and media engagement and we hope to enhance our efforts to further push our efforts.

4. Tourists from across the GCC are still very unfamiliar with Zanzibar, there’s a great deal of misperception and misrepresentation about the destination; what advice would you give those considering Zanzibar for a holiday?

ANS: Zanzibar is a mystical destination with so much heritage and historical ties with Arabia. So there’s a great deal of similarity in mannerism. Zanzibaris are friendly and welcoming people; they are easy to engage with and will happy narrate stories of their heritage. They will assist you to manoeuvre through the cobbled streets of Stone Town, advice you where to go, what to eat and where to shop. One thing for sure once you experience Zanzibar you are set to come back.   

5. Has the hotel established any cooperation with GCC travel agencies to allow wider reach, accessibility and best value? Do you have special rates for visitors from GCC?

ANS: Definitely, this is an integral part of our strategy. GCC’s outbound travel and fast air connection to the Zanzibar is growing; our aim is to ensure we cement partnerships across the board to continue travel to the destination. The GCC enjoys large number of expats and a returning diaspora making it an interesting region to penetrate. We do offer special rates to our travel partners in the GCC markets but we highly encourage guests to book directly to take advantage of becoming members of Hilton Honors loyalty program and benefit from added values plus free stays.

6. What makes DoubleTree by Hilton stand out amongst competitors in this emerging market?

ANS: We are located at the heart of Stone Town, a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, strong USP for our property. The hotel is beautifully refurbished to compliment the surrounding historical site and represent the best of Zanzibar’s heritage and past, thus bringing the outside indoors. Every element inside the hotel showcases traditional crafts curated to epitomise the ambience and setting while maintaining standards and comfort familiar with the Hilton brand.

7. What are the unique and distinctive facilities available at the hotel? In your opinion, what should a hotel do in order to be considered a quality place for guests to stay?

ANS: A hotel should be committed to consider all things on behalf of its guests especially if they are unfamiliar with the destination. DoubleTree provides great holiday property for single, couple or families especially being at the centre of Stone Town.  We have leisure, business, social events, conferences and weddings facilities encompassing different venues to facilitate such gatherings. Each of the 58 well-appointed rooms is equipped with all modern comforts including air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a safe, hairdryer, flat screen TV, multi-region power plugs and feature the famous Sweet Dreams® by DoubleTree Sleep Experience bedding.  All furniture has been hand-carved by 21 woodcarvers to retain Zanzibar’s authenticity, true essence and spirit.  

Our team has extensive local knowledge and can recommend and organise activities and tours within Stone Town or beyond. We also provide picnic boxes for our guests looking to head to enjoy the immaculate beaches near the hotel.  

8.What is the philosophy of the hotel when it comes to standards, value for money and quality?

ANS: Our philosophy is simply “make it right”; a mission we are dedicated to deliver time and time again to all our guests. Comfort throughout is important; each guest is welcomed not just with a smile but a promise of our commitment to ensure their stay is enjoyable at DoubleTree and in Zanzibar.  Devoted to make lasting impression no stone is left unturned when it comes to delivering beyond expectations. Quality service is guaranteed to delivery quality holiday;

9.What cuisines can guests relish at the hotel?

ANS: Our signature rooftop restaurant "Taarab" offers the best experience both in terms of gastronomic offer and ambience. The venue overlooks the historical town and the Indian Ocean perfect for a sunset dinner. While guests mesmerise over the beautiful scene and tranquillity, they are invited to enjoy a varied global cuisine fused with Zanzibari flavours giving exceptional taste unique to the island.

10.The property located at the hub of Stone Town, a strategic location for tourists; what are the main attractions and must visit places you would recommend around the area?

ANS:  The city has a unique charm and beauty with plenty to experience specifically around Stone Town area. This colourful, warm-hearted Island has an essence that draws you into its embrace. Stone Town area is filled with history and culture and a stroll through the buzzing alleys will take you though the House of Wonders (largest, tallest building in Stone Town set on the old town's seafront), the Old Fort built around 17th century, the Palace Museum and Museum of History & Culture. Walking tour is the best way to explore Stone Town because you can visit the Anglican Church, the Mukunazini Old Slave Market, the Old Dispensary, Old Customs House all of which are not to be missed. Stop by at Freddy Mercury’s home for some contemporary history. The Forodhani Night Market serve freshly grilled seafood kebabs, Zanzibari pizza, sugar cane juices with ginger & gyros and offers a culinary experience for food lovers not afraid to taste new cuisines.  On the edge of Stone Town you will find dhows on turquoise waters reflecting the gleaming sun with heavenly sand banks of the beach.

11.Do you have special tours designed exclusively to compliment the property’s aesthetics that guests can book ahead of their travel?

ANS:  Culture, history, food, diving, archaeology, photography, weddings and more, the island has so much to offer. Its local history and architecture is very rich and its almost like travelling back in time, we always encourage guests to enjoy complete experience without feeling intimidated. At DoubleTree we organise Zanzibar Spice Farm tour and Sand bank tours, which can be booked ahead of time.

12.When is the best time to visit Zanzibar?  Are there any major events for travellers to consider when planning their trip to the island?

ANS: Zanzibar enjoys great weather nothing extreme making it a great destination all year round with great sun, sand and sea options to compliment other touristic attractions. Stone Town is vibrant hub with events and festivals including Zanzibar Film Festival, Sauti za Busara and Jazz festival gaining traction around the globe. The island enjoys collection of arts, culture activities and traditional music and folklore like Taarab and Kidumbak.