Zanzibar, Tanzania
I had heard about Zanzibar, but I had no idea where it was. When I realized it was part of Tanzania and located less than two hours away from the mainland by ferry and about 20 minutes by plane, it was a no-brainer to include it on my trip to Tanzania. A visit to this predominantly Muslim island with a long history and glorious beaches was to perfect ending to an action-packed safari vacation. I split my time between Jambiani Beach at the at Joya Villa and Suites and an art gallery Airbnb in historic Stone Town. Both locations were fantastic and offered very different experiences of the Spice Island.
Jambiani Beach is laidback and is known for windsurfing because of the strong winds on that side of the island. It also experiences extreme tides, when, at low tide, you can walk the length f a football field to get to the water. I stayed in Joya's Penthouse Suite with my own plunge pool -rather decadent since the villa is beachfront. I spent a lot of time on the terrace taking in the view - so relaxing. Although he villa had a kitchen, there was a chef on site so I ordered all my meals to be delivered to the terrace. I pretty much stayed put most of the time there with morning beach walks the most strenuous activity I engaged in. I did go snorkeling one afternoon and had lunch at IG-famous The Rock Restaurant. Another day I took a boat ride on a traditional dhow and the water was breathtaking.
In Stone Town I met a colleague who came over form the mainland to meet me for dinner. I did a city tour to learn about the history of the island, the Arabic influence and its role in the East African slave trade. I also met up with a woman in one of my Facebook travel groups who was living on the island. My Airbnb host, the Forster Art Gallery owner invited me for dinner with his family. He shared his plans to expand the art gallery to an underground venue on the property. I really got to connect with locals which is always a goal when traveling.. I am full of gratitude for the people I met and the experiences I had in East Africa. I am forever changed by touching down in this magical place.
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