The small island of Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, is a paradise that is worth exploring thanks to its fascinating political system and beautiful beaches. In addition of these, the island recalls a perfect mixture of African, Arab and Indian ways of life. Perched on the Indian Ocean, this is one among the many paradises in the world, where one can taste a very different experience from the spiritual and serene to the frenetic and urban.
The moment you plant your feet onto the sun-kissed coast of Zanzibar, you feel the ocean breeze pick you up and transport you to a world that is both unfathomable yet comfortable. The island has the ancient Stone Town, which is also the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a collection of long, winding alleys, elaborately carved doors and partly decorated buildings tell the story of its spot as a well known price trading center along the ancient spice routes.
Wandering through Stone Town means walking through a live museum. Here, more than at any place else, you feel the smell that characterizes this city – wonderful aroma of spices and here you can hear the echoes of the past in every corner. The House of Wonders, constructed in the early years of nineteenth century and currently standing, represents an outstanding example of the islands architectural expertise, while the Old Fort constructed at the beginning of the 17th century is a witness to the strategic role the Zanzibar had in this region.
Only the liberating streets of Stone Town will take us farther to the magnetism of Zanzibar’s coastline with the pure blue of the Indian Ocean, the green sands of the beach, and the sun. In Nungwi who nestle at the northern tip of the island, you can find a good place for sun seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Now you are free to experience a wide range of water activities such as snorkeling and diving, sailing and kayaking you can also get a suntan which comes with basking in the warmth of this equatorial sun.
Those who prefer quiet privacy can find comfort in the eastern shores of Zanzibar which offer a peaceful sanctuary. Paje, the small friendly village, outstanding for its kitesurfing schools and spots, is the heaven for adrenaline-junkies and nature admirers. Caress the beachfront, browse the swaying palm-trees that their gentle shadows cast or visit Jozani Forest which is a home to the endangered Red Colobus Monkey and a great variety of flora and fauna.
A trip to Zanzibar is incomplete without sampling the wonders of it's cuisine. From the lively spice markets of Stone Town where you can taste-test locally grown spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg, you will experience a kaleidoscope aromas and flavors. Savor the island's signature dishes, which include pilau rice that is mixed with spices, flavorful curries, and some mouthwatering seafood dishes. This is the reason for the island’s fame.
Besides the beaches and food delights, Zanzibar will also give you a basics of the the island’s thread of culture. The lively Tumbatu Island, just a boat trip from Stone Town, is a living museum where Swahili culture is alive and fully represented. See the way locals weave palm fronds into elaborate patterns, or look at the authentic pottery and basket-making, which have been handed down from generation to generation.
People who want to dig deeper and understand Zanzibar's history more will find a visit to the site of the old slave market and Anglican Cathedral extraordinarily depressing Here, people can give tribute to those who had unbearable sufferings and understand how strong human beings can be.
It could be at this dusk time, when the sun paints the sky with a variety of colors, that you realize what is so intriguing about the island. Be it sinking your feet in a snow-white beach sand, going through the labyrinthine backstreets of Stone Town or simply enjoying the local vibrant atmosphere, your travel around Zanzibar will be never ever forgotten and somehow imprinted to your soul.
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