Speaking of Zanzibar, explorer David Livingstone once said, "The finest place I have known in all of Africa...an illusive place where nothing is as it seems. I am mesmerised." (1866)
I've ventured to this illusive place, also called Spice Island, a few times in my life and, I must say, Livingstone, I tend to agree with you... it never ceases to beguile. Every corner allures.
On this Indian Ocean destination, off the coast of Tanzania about 40 kilometres from Bagamoyoa, you can find yourself, one morning, ambling through potholed side streets past run-down, yet often palatial double/triple/quadruple-storey homes with intricate wooden doors, old forts and majestic photographically-enticing ruins. Various plants and trees tower over the roads, namely gigantic banana trees typical of tropical lands, with vervet monkeys hopping to and from each. Locals pass in traditional Arabic clothing, like hijabs and burquas - both men and women; men often hold hands.
By afternoon find yourself in the deep warm blue diving with the ocean's creatures or taking a boat out further to scattered islands. By night, you'll be dining on the beach in the capital Stonetown, scoffing some the best seafood you'll ever taste, and dancing freely to rhythmic African beats from the live beach-bar band, among other tourists and residents shaking their sarong-ed bodies as if no other time but the present existed.
Yip, Zanzibar is irresistible.
Trying to capture it all, how every one of your senses perceives and is stimulated by this island, ain't easy. Maybe photos will help... Scroll down.
Useful Phrases
Welcome to Tanzania! - Karibu Tanzania!
Do you speak English? - Unasema Kiingereza?
Hello - Jambo!
No problem - Hakuna matata!
Thank you very much - Asante Sana
Elephant - Tembo
Cheetah - Duma
Lion - Simba
If you're thinking of travelling here, visit our Facts & Info section and contact us for more information on destinations, tours and accommodation. Our consultants have been to Zanzibar countless times so hit us with your enquiries!
