Zanzibar is a stunning island located in East Africa, where tourists can find beautiful flora and fauna, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich culture and history. In 2021, the glorious Zanzibar archipelago is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. The region offers serenity, natural beauty, and a range of exciting, adventurous, and fun filled experiences that can allow travellers to enjoy an unforgettable trip! Here is a comprehensive guide to Zanzibar that can help you plan your trip, and explore the island.
Zanzibar is generally safe for visiting, because many areas are secluded and remote, and busy areas follow strict precautions. Wearing masks is compulsory in public places. Tourists must also sanitize and wash hands frequently, and it is a good idea to wear gloves. Most locations have regulations regarding social distancing. Although getting tested is not required to visit, tourists can get tested in centres at Pemba, Migombani, and Lumumba, for USD $80. The centre can deny the test if visitors do not have a valid appointment, so they can book appointments online at https://zanzibarcovidtesting.co.tz/app/home.
Although many locals know English, especially in Stone Town and popular tourist spots, it is advisable to learn a few basic words and phrases of Swahili. As Swahili is an easy language, tourists can learn greetings and important questions. As most locals are Muslim, they can also learn to say Selam!
Many residents of Zanzibar use Swahili time, which tourists might not be used to. This means that they count time from sunrise, instead of midnight. To avoid confusion, guests should specify whether it is morning, afternoon, or evening, when setting up meetings and timings with the locals.
Because Zanzibar is a conservative region, with most of its population being Muslim, it is important to dress modestly. Tourists should not wear revealing clothes, and should try to be as covered as possible. Respecting local customs is essential in having an enjoyable and enriching trip. At mosques, women should cover their heads, and bathing suits are only allowed at beach destinations. By following the dress code, travellers can avoid offending the locals.
One of the best things about visiting Zanzibar is interacting with locals. The residents of the island are down to earth, friendly, and helpful, so interacting with them to share knowledge, and to learn about their culture is a great idea. Tourists should be respectful towards them, and should not photograph them without permission. They should not approach children, or give food or items to them without asking their parents for permission first.
The local cuisine is a beautiful mix of African, Arabic, Turkish, European, and Indian influences, so it caters to all sorts of tastes and preferences. Tourists can enjoy delicious food items such as biryani, Zanzibar pizza, octopus curry, plantain soup (Mtori), date nut bread, chapati, coconut bean soup, kebabs, porridge (Uji), fried cassava, donuts (Mandazi), and Kuku Paka (spicy curry)!
Zanzibar is home to unique and breathtaking tourist destinations where visitors can enjoy a range of exciting and unforgettable experiences.
KENYA, Mombasa: A photograph taken by the Ministry of East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism (MEAACT), shows a general view of the Mombasa skyline opposite EnglishPoint Marina in Mombasa, 02 June 2015. The 4-acre ocean view EnglishPoint Marina represents an iconic landmark that overlooks the Mombasa skyline in a natural marina basin with a modern design and contemporary feel. The multi-million dollar marina resort features a 26-room hotel, conferencing facility, a roof-top restaurant, a casino, swimming pool, 96 serviced apartments including 8 penthouses seafront restaurant, gym and spa, as well as a boardwalk with retail outlets, water-sports centre and fully-serviced, 88-berth marina. MANDATORY CREDIT: MEAACT PHOTO / STUART PRICE.