ZANZIBAR
A Zanzibar holiday is an experience that will change you. You will return with a new perspective about the things that really matter in life. Memories of the people and the place remain indelibly imprinted on your mind. It is a place where the warm Swahili culture has absorbed the rich Arabic heritage. There are so many fascinating places to see, things to do and tantalising exotic dishes to try.
The islands offer a truly distinctive travel experience. A mere 3 ½ hours’ flight from Johannesburg, Zanzibar is ideal for individuals who seek affordable island packages. However, Zanzibar is more than just white sandy beaches, palm trees and crystal clear warm waters. As the remnant of an economic centre of the Omani Empire which attained its climax in the middle of the 19th century, a Zanzibar holiday today boasts a culture and history closely linked with its historic events. This is seen in terms of the influence of the Shirazi, Persian and Omani settlers - think Indian and Arabian architecture, spicy dishes, slave caves, and marks left by historical figures such as Speke, Livingstone and Tipu Tipp.
Everywhere on the island mementos of the country’s colourful past can be seen and are recounted in tales of myth and reality passed down from one generation to the next. Today, the name "Spice Islands" refers to this capital of Swahili culture, which is observed along the coast of East Africa. The distinguished mixture of cultures, professions and religions has in the course of time contributed to the metropolitan characteristic typical to this region. The ancient city of Stone Town was once the centre of the world’s slave trade. The old slave market is preserved as a monument: a reminder of the inhumanity of that era.
Zanzibar information:
Population: Approximately 700 000
Currency: Tanzanian Shillings for meals, drinks, curios and taxi rides, etc. For hotel accommodation and services foreign currency is required, preferably US$.
Best time to visit: The relatively cool, dry period from June to October is particularly pleasant, with average temperatures of 25 degrees Celsius, with cooling breezes prevailing. Zanzibar enjoys an equatorial climate with the Monsoon season and heavy rainfall from March to end May and further short rains in November.
Book your African holiday packages now in order to avoid disappointment in season time.
