The Dar es Salaam Serena hotel is an old fashioned 5 star hotel in the old part of Dar Es Salaam, giving a bit of a feel of being back in colonial times with all the wood and a slightly musty feel. It has lovely grounds with a pool, a veranda overlooking a lush garden – perfect for drinking tea.
Hotel restaurants tea service: +
In the various restaurants and on the patio tea is served in porcelain tea pots with matching cups and the option to choose from a selection of local black and green teas and herbals. The pots can fill a couple of cups and tea is served with a small cookie to allow for a prolonged experience
Areas for improvement: offering loose leaf tea, thinner cups (the rims are a bit thick)
Hotel room summary: +
Good facilities – water boiler & decent sized good quality mugs – but tea selection consists of one local black tea only
Hotel room Tea making ++
a decent size water boiler that fits under the bathroom sink, so no issues filling your kettle. The basics are covered! A temperature controlled water boiler would make it even more perfect
Hotel room Tea drinking accessories ++
Decent sized mugs with enough room for a teabag to swim – just a little bigger mug would be even better. The porcelain is smooth and not too thick or thin making for a pleasant sip. Saucers and spoons available so taking out a tea bag is not a problem – I hate dashing to the nearest bin or the sink to prevent my tea from getting too strong.
Hotel room Tea selection –
Unfortunately not selection but one type of black tea only. It is a local Tanzanian brand – Chai Bora — which I always appreciate. A bit disappointing as the hotel does offer a variety of teas and herbals in its various restaurants.