Zanzibar, an island just off the coast of eastern Africa, offers numerous wonders for any age and for any budget. Although not as cheap as simply popping over to Greece or France, once arriving the great prices and extensive opportunity for things to do will help you forget the longer plane journey. Despite constantly growing in popularity as a tourist destination, Zanzibar remains unspoilt and well preserved. Just a half an hour trip on a ferry from Dar es Salam, makes Zanzibar accessible to travellers of any kind and perfect for a once in a life time summer trip for students.
Travelling to Zanzibar is recommended between June and October, however, as this is the most popular time it is encouraged to book accommodation in advance. If travelling in low-seasons, pre-booking is not necessary. In fact the challenge that comes with asking around for the best places to stay can often lead to the chance of finding spectacular deals in wonderful hotels. On arriving in Zanzibar you will find yourself in the port, with a wonderful view of the Indian Ocean. If you can face it, take this time (after a pretty rough boat trip) to visit Freddie Mercury’s Bar. Zanzibar was home to the talented star from the band Queen, and with a beautiful view over the bay, this bar boasts wonderful cocktails and a chance to broaden ones knowledge of Freddie. A perfect spot to re-visit on a Saturday for its famous music nights.
Stone Town lies at the heart of the island. This historic town appears not to have changed over the last 200 years and with its winding alleys, one is constantly stumbling across something new. Manch Lodge is an excellent hostel to stay at, with air conditioned rooms and breakfasts included, it is a perfect back packer destination. During the day you don’t need a map, simply allow yourself to get lost amongst the markets, and eventually you will find yourself in a square that you recognise. However, Â we recommend steering clear of the meat market! The vast array of art, spices and memorabilia, will leave you with no shortage of gifts to bring home for your family. The night market is well worth a visit. Overlooking the port this unique event takes place every night, providing the fishermen with an opportunity to show off their catches of the day and local dishes, prepared freshly in front of your eyes. It is important (especially in Stone Town) to respect the Muslim culture, covering up when out and about and if you are visiting during Ramadan to expect many restaurants to be closed and not to eat and drink in front of the locals. However, this is all part of its charm!
If you get a chance whilst staying in Stone Town, ask at the front desk at Manch Lodge (or any hostel that you stay in), and they will hook you up with a local fisherman who will give you a great deal and take you over to the island of Changuu. About 20 minutes on a open topped boat, this island was originally established to hold prisoners but later used to detain those with yellow fever and gives visitors the opportunity to explore it form corner to corner. There is also the chance to touch and feed the Aldabra Giant Tortoises that were given as a gift from the Seychelles, a site that one does not often come across!
Moving north of Stone Town, the northern beaches hold many opportunities for the younger generation. Nungwi is extremely popular and boasts numerous beach parties and the chance to buy beautiful pieces of Maasai art. Kendwa lies slightly to the south of Nungwi and although quieter, Kendwa Rocks is an ideal place for backpackers to stay. It is situated right on the coast, with chances to snorkel and indulge the stunning scenery. Alongside this, its Full Moon parties are becoming increasingly more popular, and a great chance to meet travellers from all over the world. Be careful when sunbathing to stay within the hotel boundaries, as the locals selling their products can turn into a real nuisance! Take the time to arrange a trip to Kizimkazi, a village on the northern coast, where more likely than not you can see and even swim with wild dolphins! It is advised to get a group together, as it makes it a lot cheaper.
The northeast and southeast coast could perhaps be described as the most picturesque, but if you are looking a crazy nightlife, it is best you stay near Nungwi. However, on the south-eastern coasts, you will undoubtedly stumble across exactly what you expect from the beaches in Zanzibar and is perhaps the perfect way to end your trip: a chance to sit back and absorb the extraordinary beauty of this island.
Zanzibar attracts such a variety of travellers and there is never a lack of things to do and explore. The culture is unlike any that you will experience from a quick trip to Europe. The generosity and kindness of the locals is astonishing, the cuisine is delicious and overall it is undoubtedly a holiday destination that should not be missed this summer.
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Photo credits: southern-africa.co.uk; cloudfront.net; lonelyplanet.com