|
Just the
name, Zanzibar, evokes dreams of romance and mystery and
the reality will not disappoint the traveller bored with
mass tourism and seeking an enlightening and enjoyable
holiday experience. Zanzibar- the name includes the main
island, Unguja,and its sister island, Pemba- has for
centuries attracted seafarers and adventurers from
around the world. Now it welcome a new generation of
explorers-those who have come to marvel at the rich
heritage, reflected in the architecture and the culture
of the people. For this is where Arabia meets the
Africa. Visit Zanzibar’s historic Stone Town, where the
Sultans once ruled. Relax on one of 25 dazzling white,
palm- Fringed beaches, where the azure water of
the Indian Ocean beckon swimmers, divers, fishermen and
water sports enthusiasts alike. Breathe in the fragrant
scents of cloves, Vanilla, Cardamom and Nutmeg, and
discover why Zanzibar is called the Spice Island.
Explore the forests, with the their rare flora and
fauna. Or visit some of the ancient, archaeological
sites. Spend a few days here after a Safari on the
African mainland or, better still allocate a week or two
and immerse yourself in the Magic that is Zanzibar.
A MELTING POT OF CULTURES
Zanzibar’s colourful history is a Saga of travellers and
traders, raiders and colonisers. Sumerians, Assyrians,
Egypt ions, Malays, Phoenicians, Indians, Chinese,
Persians,
Portuguese, Dutch and the British, each leaving behind a
legacy of their stay. From the
island
the great European explorers- Burton, Speke, Living
stone, Stanley- set off for their voyages of discovery
into the great African hinterland
THE BEACHES
Brilliant
white beaches lapped by the warm Waters of the Indian
Ocean provide the perfect place to relax,Soak up the Sun
and take a break from some busy sightseeing. Modern
resorts nestle in the shade of Coconut palms, providing
Comfortable retreats. The beaches area a paradise. Here
are picturesque fishing
villages
where the people live a simple way of life,unchanged
though the years. Just south of Zanzibar Town are Fuji
Beach and Chuini Beach, which both offer facilities for
a ranger of water sports, while to the North there is
Mangapwani where the noise is likely to be the Sound of
the Ocean. On the northern tip of the
island is
Nungwi, where visitors can watch fisherman’s boats being
built here or swim in the coral lagoons. On Zanzibar’s
north-east cost are the beaches of Matemwe, Mapenzi,
Kiwenga and Uroa, with their wide stretches of uncrowned
Sand and opportunities to explore the underwater World.
Other well- developed- Pingwe, Bwejuu and Jambian are to
be found no the
South
eastern Cost. As well as water sports there are also
opportunities for fishing or for observing the
activities of the local fisherman.
|
