From the minute we were collected for the short helicopter ride from the mainland I was in paradise. We were welcomed warmly and treated to a wonderful flyover of the island before landing at the oasis that is Azura.
Everything has been thought of and as a regular luxury traveller it is wonderful to experience all the usual 5 star amenities, but presented in a beautifully elegant Mozambiquan way. The food was amazing and nothing was too much trouble to prepare - all our special requests were met with smiling faces. It is lovely to see many of the staff are from the local area - they have complete pride in the resort and the role they play in making guests feel totally relaxed and at ease.
We enjoyed spa treatments at sunset by fabulous therapists and scuba diving with Matt. It was my first scuba diving experience and he made me feel safe and very confident, it was a huge success. A drive to the other side of the island for swimming and a walk along a deserted beach is a must. The qualified botanist on staff was incredibly knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna and the local guide was able to tell us all about life in the local villages which was fascinating. There is plenty to do at the resort if you are active but likewise on the days we wanted to do nothing we were able to sleep in, have tea and croissants on our private sundeck and just listen to the sea lapping.
Sunset cocktails set the tone each evening for simple, elegant dining which varies each night. Sometimes dinner is served by candlelight on tables expertly placed on the beach, other nights it is under cover. Local, fresh seafood is always on the menu but there is plenty of excellent red meat for those that need it!
Our dedicated, local host was a delight. He seemed to anticipate our needs and was genuinely thoughtful about making everything memorable.
One of the many highlights was a late afternoon helicopter ride across to Paradise Island for sunset drinks on a deserted beach. It doesn't get better than that!
I didn't want to leave and I cannot wait to return. Azura will become a regular destination for us - a tranquil, elegant and friendly escape from our usual hectic world.
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