Joanna James
Consisting of several smaller islands and located around 50 kilometres off the shores of Tanzania, Zanzibar is known as a "Spice Island" because it produces cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves.
Stone Town or Mji Mkongwe, is one of Zanzibar's oldest parts that is also a UNESCO recognised World Heritage Site and is very popular among tourists who visit the island. The town is made up of mosques and European, Indian and Persian influenced stone buildings that were once the epicentre for slave and spice trade. The city has since become a popular tourist destination that attracts thousands of tourists each year. The remnants of its spice trading days can be tasted in the food that is offered in restaurants and by street food vendors across the city.
Located on Zanzibar's western shores the Mtoni Palace ruins was the home of Princess Salme. It is one of the island's main tourist attractions. It provides its visitors with the chance to witness how the Arabian influence of the past contributed greatly towards the development of Zanzibar. Visitors can tour the grounds of the palace using a traditional donkey cart, see what remains of the grand reception hall or explore the palace's exquisite botanical gardens. The palace is located only 4 kilometres away from the Zanzibar town and hosts regional dinners and nightly shows consisting of traditional music and dances after the sun sets.
Nungwi got nicknamed as Little Italy because it became so popular among Italians as a myriad of tourist shops, restaurants and hotels in the region have started catering towards Italians by taking up their language and offering Italian cuisine. The beach is perfect for diving both in the morning and in the night. Taking a cruise to the Mnarani Aquarium and Sea Turtle Conservation, Kendwa is something you should try out if you're visiting this beach. There are lots of bars and restaurants on the beach from where you can watch the sunset while enjoying a meal or drink.
Created in 2004 and spanning an area of almost 50 square kilometres, the Jozani Chwaka Bay is a national park that is home to several rare species of animals that are exclusive to Zanzibar. Skye's monkeys and the Zanzibar red colobus are two members of the monkey family are some of the most popular types of animals that you'll find here. Visitors often say that seeing and interacting with these playful creatures are the highlight of their trip to this national park. If you're a bird lover then you're in for a treat as there are more than 40 different species of birds that can be spotted here. If you're really lucky you might even spot a Zanzibar leopard; a type of wild cat that can only be found in Zanzibar. If you're staying at one of the many Zanzibar beach resorts similar to that of The Residence Zanzibar then can arrange an expedition with a tour guide from your hotel itself to explore this lush national park.
Situated off the Zanzibar coast and often referred to as the Green island because of its greenery and unspoilt beaches, Pemba island is the perfect place to visit if you're looking for a secluded beach holiday. Visitors who arrive on this island immediately fall in love with the clear blue water and white sandy beaches. As you head inland, you'll find small farms where bananas, coconuts, cloves and cassava are produced; these are some of the key ingredients that are used when preparing local cuisine.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
