Joanna James
Has Zanzibar always been on your travel bucket list? Before you travel there, learn ten things about Zanzibar that you might not already know. It's always handy to know more about a future travel destination.
It's a common misconception that Stone Town is the capital of Zanzibar, however, the capital of the country is actually the city of Zanzibar. And Stone Town is located within it.
Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It used to be a Swahili trading town and the architectural landscape still reflects a mix of cultures that have influenced this town over the course of a thousand years. Visit places such as the Old Fort and the Sultan's Palace while you're there.
At first, may consider Zanzibar to be one island. However, in reality, it is made up of many islands. An archipelago of a number of different islands together defines Zanzibar. These islands include Pemba Island, Mafia Island, and Unguja Island.
Zanzibar has been famous for its spices for centuries. From cinnamon and nutmeg to cloves, many spices have been grown on the islands and traded all over the world for hundreds of years. If you're holidaying in the country and happen to be staying at a Zanzibar beach resort or hotel, check and see if they can arrange a spice tour for you. For example, The Residence Zanzibar offers its guests half and full-day guided spice tours at the spice plantations.
Fans of the rock anthems 'We Will Rock You', 'We are the Champions' and songs such as 'Bohemian Rhapsody' will remember the lead singer of the English rock band, Queen. He was called Freddie Mercury and he was born in Zanzibar.
Swahili is the official language, but not the main one that is spoken by the locals these days. Most people speak Arabic and English in present times. There are also many people that speak languages such as French and Italian
Zanzibar's beaches are beautiful and attract a lot of tourists who also have a chance to enjoy a range of watersports and other water-based activities that the country has to offer. These include activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and big game fishing.
The majority of the population of Zanzibar are followers of the religion of Islam, however, there are a small number of Christians as well.
When you're visiting Prison Island, which houses a prison built in the 19th century, you'll have the chance to observe the magnificent peacocks and sea turtles.
At the Jozani Forest Reserve, you'll have the opportunity to observe the Red Colobus Monkey, which can only be found in Zanzibar.
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