We start on a new series where Ipshita Sharma takes you to some of her most amazing travel memories
#ipshieyestheworld
Missing travelling right? What if I told you that there are a few countries that you can travel to if you follow a few safety protocols? One of these places is Zanzibar. Have you ever had that feeling of being in a movie when you see the deep turquoise blue of the ocean? No? That’s why you need Zanzibar.
The surprisingly pristine white sands, its relative seclusion and easy accessibility make it an incredible option for every budget.
Getting there
The Zanzibar International Airport is well connected to major airports. It is only a few kilometers away from Stone Town – the main town – and is quiet and efficient. Most nationalities get visa on arrival.
You can also take a ferry from the mainland at Dar Es Salaam, especially if you have been on a safari in Tanzania.
Sightseeing
Stone Town is the main town and is chock-full of culture and history. You can get a guided tour through the narrow alleys full of gorgeous hand-carved doors.
Don’t forget to check out the Palace of Wonders, the erstwhile palace of the rulers of Zanzibar, which is now a museum. Here you can follow the timeline of the rulers from when they arrived as traders till when they were overthrown. The museum overlooks the Forodhani Gardens, the place for some of the best street food!
Also interesting is the Christ Church Anglican Cathedral, walk around and get in-depth knowledge of the bloody history of this little island. To lighten up the mood, don’t forget to check out Freddie Mercury’s birthplace!
Prison Island
Morbid name aside, this was a stop for a lot of traders who dropped off ill travelers in the hospital or those who had done crimes on the high seas for punishment in the tiny prison.
Today this is a perfect spot for a beach day with many water sports options. Walk around to see the old architecture – the hospital, a library, and jailer’s quarters – and then had over to the true treasure here, the giant tortoises in the conservation center for Aldabra giant tortoises.
Jozani Forest
Head out on a walking tour around Jozani forest and the mangroves to check out the adorable Red Colobus Monkeys.
Spice Tours
Don’t give up the chance to walk around local spice farms and see plantations of vanilla, cardamom, star anise, jackfruit, pineapple and others. Ask for a local lunch to end the trip on a high.
Food and drink
The cuisine of Zanzibar is testament to how travellers from around the world made their way to this tiny island. The local food is heavily inspired by Arabs, Indians and Africans who travelled through either as traders or slaves. Take full advantage of amazing range of fresh fruits available here, passionfruit, pineapple, kiwis, mango, watermelon, it is all amazing!
Stony Beer is Coca Cola’s local version of Ginger Ale that is non-alcoholic and only available in Tanzania! For those who want something stronger, Konyagi, made from sugarcane liquor, is incredible with the sunsets here.
Sundowners
This colonial tradition of drinks is incredibly popular and you’ll have to be early and lucky to find a good spot with a view around sunset.
What to Buy
Don’t leave without a bottle of Konyagi, curry spice mixes, masala tea, books about local history and of course some Tanzanite.
Where to Stay
Most people prefer to stay in Stone Town but I would recommend staying in a beach resort. There are many budget friendly options and they have almost private beaches and water sports available.
Good: Zanzibar is just incredible on many levels and is fully vaccinated. Getting in and out is very easy even during COVID times.
Bad: the history of slavery and slave trading still haunts the country
Trendy: it has realised the importance of following covid rules and is doing its best to keep is people and visitors safe