An amazing once in a lifetime experience at the Manta Resort on Pemba Island is an overnight stay in the underwater room.

Arrive mid-morning and once shown the facilities you are alone. The room is on 3 levels clad in hardwood, by a scandinavian designer. The landing deck has the lounge area and bathroom. Snorkel and masks are provided. Up a ladder is a roof top relaxation area where by day sunbathe and at night watch the solar system come alive without any light pollution, listening to the soft sounds of the sea.

Downstairs there is a double bed surrounded by glass and almost a 360 degree view of underwater ocean life. Shoals of fish swim by sometimes in three or four layers above the reef floor. At night there are spotlights beneath each window which illuminates the more shyer sealife.

Dinner is brought out at a pre-arranged time with drinks and breakfast follows the same pattern. Obviously there is no Wi-Fi or mobile reception - a real escape from it all. A hotline telephone to the main hotel is available.

It is US$1500 for the underwater room for 1 night - fully inclusive.

At the main resort there are spa facilities, a swimming pool and access to a dive school. It is also possible to combine a stay at the Manta Resort with a Tanzanian safari.

Other rooms are available at the Resort and prices start from US$228 per person per night.