Just 100 yards from the tropical beach, Palm House is a wonderful property designed around an open courtyard. The living and dining areas look onto the courtyard and another small side garden. It is spacious, yet compact - two doubles and one twin bedroom on the first floor, all ensuite with private balconies. The second floor has an open terrace, which leads off to a small covered baraza area in front of the fourth bedroom. This master bedroom has a Lamu four-poster bed and balconies on two sides. There is a panoramic view from the covered rooftop, with a bar, sun beds and baraza lounging area. Palm House has a chef who can do all your shopping and cooking and will keep a running account of expenditure. He will bake bread, suggest menus and cook excellent Swahili fish dishes. The chef is included in the price so it is strongly recommended as the local cuisine is one of the highlights of Lamu.