Zanzibar Islands: An Exotic African Holiday Destination!

Life

oi-Anwesha Barari

By Anwesha Barari

Tuesday, July 26, 2011, 13:27

Zanzibar islands as an African holiday destination is an unusual but excellent choice. Your search for an exotic Africa ends here. If you have been holidaying in the African mainland for its famous wildlife then give Tanzanian tourism a boost by rounding off to your trip at Zanzibar islands. Away from the hustle bustle of mainland Tanzania, this archipelago is a small cluster of islands will change your take on African tourism. Ideal place to cool your heels in solitude and enjoy the quaint culture.

So lets take a look at what will bring you to Zanzibar islands.

Beaches:
You will be surprised to discover the pristine white sand beaches on an 'African' holiday. The stretches of shimmering white beaches are reminiscent of Mauritius or Maldives; its only more quite here that gives you the privilege of privacy on your African holiday. Pick any of the beaches in this exotic African island and you will not be disappointed as every beach here a 'Dolphin chase'. The speed boats chase around hapless dolphins for the amused tourists!

Culture:

• Zanzibar islands pride themselves with an intriguing history. This African holiday destination happened to be an important port en route from India and the Middle East, which makes the mix of culture very interesting.
• Although you don't see too many archeological wonders here but the Old Fort is a modest piece of Architecture by the ruling dynasty of the Omani Arabs. It houses a museum of varied tools, traditional clothing and some weapons.
• The Beit-El -Ajaib translated as 'House of Wonders' was the pleasure palace of the Sultan and is now the most impressive building in Zanzibar island with beautifully carved doors.
• If you want to enjoy exotic African sea-food to must go head to Forodhani Gardens which is hub eateries for natives and tourists alike. The air is thick with the smell of mouth-watering delicacies.
• If you are an Indian, then the Prison Island will immediately strike an chord with you reminding you of the notorious prison at Port Blair. Interestingly, this island houses a huge population of giant turtles that make quite a sight due their abject laziness!
• Last but not the least, Stone Town, your last stop for a dose of fascinating culture. As the name suggests everything here is built out of stone giving it a Gothic medieval illusion which is immediately dispelled due to the shouting vendors and the friendly banter here. It reminds you more of a Chandni Chowk in Delhi.

Spice Tours:
You cannot come on a African holiday and miss out the spice tours that take you to the spices that have been growing here since the Indian traders left them. You will be visiting spice farms that grow turmeric, clove and even exotic African spices like nutmeg.

People:
At Zanzibar Islands you will find a majority of Asian and Middle-Eastern people on a African holiday with a smattering of Europeans.

How to get here:
Flying into the Zanzibar islands is the most convenient option but if you are keen on enjoying the view then you could also sail in from the African mainland.