Zanzibar - The Jewel In Africa's Crown

Zanzibar is a small group of islands in the Indian Ocean, 25 miles from the African coast.

The islands are part of Tanzania. I love every inch of the place!

Everybody should visit Zanzibar at least once!

Just 6 degrees south of the equator, this is a truly tropical destination.
The main island - Zanzibar Island (known locally as Unguja) is 60 miles long and 20 miles wide. It is a place of stunning sandy beaches, colourful coral reefs, warm turquoise waters, turtles,whale sharks, tiny fishing villages, traditional African sailing dhows, coconut trees, banana groves, and the irresistible aroma of exotic spices.
Stone Town - the oldest town in East Africa, is a joy.

Visas - All visitors entering Tanzania or Zanzibar require a visa. You can obtain a visa on arrival at Dar-es-Salaam or Zanzibar airports. At the time of writing, a visa costs around $50 US, and must be paid for in cash. You will also need proof that you have enough money for your intended length of stay, and a ticket for your return journey. A Yellow-Fever vaccination certificate is also essential if you are entering from an infected area. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from date of entry.

When To Come - Apart from the monsoon season (April to June) Zanzibar is an all-year destination.

Stone Town is the ancient and wonderfully picturesque capital of Zanzibar Island. A great place for just wandering around. You will lose your bearings here for sure, but getting lost in Stone Town is normal, fun and harmless. All roads eventually lead to the waterfront, so you won't stay lost for long, and the local people, adults and children, are used to helping visitors find their way.

Good Manners - You should remember you are a guest in a foreign country, and that this is a real African town. Respect local custom by keeping your knees and shoulders covered when not on the beach. This applies to men and women. If you want to take photographs of local people - ask their permission first. This is an Islamic country, and it is extremely disrespectful to take photographs -especially of women - without asking permission. Stone Town is a safe place during the day - but best avoided at night.

ShoppingSpices, kangas, antiques and local crafts are the things to buy here. Tinga-tinga paintings, woodcarvings and woven goods make far better souvenirs than the usual rubbish on sale in most tourist resorts.

Money - The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSh) and it can be used for all transactions and local purchases. Us Dollars are also widely accepted. Credit cards are OK at large hotels and restaurants. Cash Points (ATMs) allow cash advances - but at a poor rate and with an additional charge. Travelers Cheques are accepted at large hotels and restaurants and can be exchanged for local currency at Bureaux de Change - you'll need your passport as ID.

Crime - Wherever wealthy tourists and poor locals mix - there is a potential for crime. Zanzibar is a low-crime zone. Nobody will trouble you in a crowded area - thieves are badly beaten or even stoned by the locals if they are caught. But precautions should be taken nonetheless. Do not flaunt your wealth by displaying valuable possessions.

Health - As well as the obligatory Yellow-Fever vaccination, it is a good idea to take precautions against Malaria. Make sure you have sufficient medical insurance - hospitals here are none too good, and if you get sick you may need to be flown to the mainland or even all the way home - this is expensive! Bring plenty of mosquito-repellent and use it - especially at night.

Visit The Top Ten Site to read the full review and see some great photographs!