Zanzibar - City of Tourists

The city of Zanzibar is the capital of the island of the same name in Tanzania. The landscapes of the African coast, as taken from the best advertising postcards, made this place a famous seaside resort. Tourists are greeted here with a high level of service, security, and historical sights. But the main reason people come here to relax is because of the wide snow-white sand beaches, the blue waters of the warm Indian ocean, and the tranquility that reigns there. There are many wonderful beaches in this city, for example, the island of Zanzibar, the island of Mnemba, and the Mafia islands. Stone Town is a world-famous monument of Zanzibar. Unique monuments of antiquity have been preserved on its territory, and it is here that the famous musician Freddy waters on Zanzibar Island alone. There are also great beaches to savor at Matemwe, Kizimkazi on the eastern side, and Bwejuu and Dongwe in the southeastern part of the island. Mercury was born. His house has now become the Mercury House Hotel, and the famous musician’s apartment is rented like the other rooms.

Let’s talk about some specialties in Zanzibar.

 

1. Exciting Cuisine in the Spice Islands

The food in the Spice Islands is everything you expect: a fragrant mix of East African, Arab, Chinese, and Indian influences. Here you will also find dishes from Seychelles, as well as modern fusion cuisine that uses fresh seafood, spices, and other ingredients to bring you the best of the land and sea.

 

2. Shopping places in Zanzibar

Stone Town offers you a unique and varied shopping spree. The boutiques along Gizenga Street and Kenyatta Road have clothing from local designers and businesses, as well as jewelry, spices, and even music from local artists. Soko Muhogo Square is an alternative to Gizenga Street for finding gold and silver jewelry, as well as local handicrafts, such as pearl jewelry.

 

3. Foods in Zanzibar

This is the original fusion food, a delicious mix of Indian, Arabic, Chinese, Portuguese, and African culinary traditions, all driven by the constant presence of spices (they are known as the Spice Islands, after all, where the cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, and nutmeg comes straight from the source.  )  Look for island specialties like curried octopus and Corojo, a coconut turmeric soup with crunchy fritters and spiced potatoes that seems to have all of the island’s history in its broth.   If you want to try these recipes at home, head Darajani Market, the main bazaar where locals shop for groceries but get there early before the heat starts. Local markets and restaurants also host a  fresh seafood festival, a treat worth a visit. There are many ways to enjoy these culinary delights, from fresh fish cooked over an open fire on the beach to lobster thermidor at one of the Zanzibar hotels or seasoned and served with traditional flavors and touches.  Your taste buds will constantly be awakened and stimulated by variety.

 

4. Zanzibar beaches

Zanzibar is home to idyllic beaches, mild climate, and warm tropical waters. This archipelago is known for its warm, crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and rich marine diversity, making it a perfect underwater destination for snorkeling and diving.  If you have lazy days on white-sand beaches, Zanzibar is hard to beat. But Zanzibar not only offers the perfect beach destination, but it also offers many opportunities for nature lovers, culture lovers, and adventurers.

 

5. Zanzibar culture and history

Zanzibar is quite underdeveloped and enjoys partial autonomy from the mainland of Tanzania. The history and rich heritage can be seen in the strong Arab, Indian, African, and European influences. Its unique history gives the island a living dimension. As you explore the cobbled streets of the historic Old Town of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will find a fascinating mix of architectural styles in the mosques and houses.

Zanzibar is predominantly Islamic and this is reflected in the lifestyle of the locals and the design of furniture and fabrics for jewelry and handicrafts. Look for Zanzibar’s famous carved teak doors.  Dhow Countries Music Academy is a great place to get acquainted with the local style of music known as Taarab, which is a mix of classical Swahili poetry, percussion, and rhythm that is influenced by a variety from the Middle East, Africa, India, and the West.

 

6. Tanzania peoples

The human beings of Zanzibar are recognized for his or her friendliness – the locals are usually beneficial and alluring closer to visitors. There is an island vibe outdoor of Stone Town`s bustle, a laid-returned gradual tempo to life, and the journey is incredibly safe. Remember to be respectful of the Muslim norms, via way of means of dressing accurately and now no longer ingesting alcohol in public places.

 

7. Stone Town, Tanzania

Stone Town is the cultural heart of the island and the former urban area of ​​the city of Zanzibar, which is located on the west bank. The city takes its name from the many large multi-story stone buildings that make up the landscape of the old town. These buildings are not made of stone but mortar and coral. Although corals were a good and readily available building material, they are also easily damaged. Some of the houses are in disrepair and the Stone Town Conservation Authority is coordinating the restoration of these houses to keep the city in its original splendor.

 

Best time to visit Zanzibar, Tanzania

Every year there are long rains and short rains. After the scorching and sweaty East African summer, Zanzibar’s long rainy season lasts roughly from March to May. It is not a good idea to book an excursion during this time if you are planning a beach vacation. The islands are haunted by some pretty epic monsoons that will waste your time on the beach. Brief rains usually occur between November and December, but they are not as intense they tend to appear in short, torrential bursts and then quickly fade into blue skies.