Paradise on a stick - that's pretty much as apt a description of Zanzibar as you'll get. Situated about 40km of the east coast of the African continent, this tiny archipelago is washed by the warm Indian Ocean, ringed by pure sands and coral reefs, abundant in fruits and spices, and inhabited by some of the most cheerful people on earth.
Zanzabaris have good reason to be in high spirits - they live on one of the most unique and bountiful corners of Africa. Tourist numbers are steadily growing as modern travellers catch on, but there's nothing new about foreigners stopping here for some rest and relaxation. Situated slap bang in the middle of the shipping trade routes between East and West, Zanzibar has been hosting visitors for well over a thousand years.
Today, Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous state within the United Republic of Tanzania. Reached by ferry or plane from Dar-es-Salaam and Tenga on the mainland, the archipelago comprises the main island of Zanzibar (known locally as Unguja), smaller Pemba, and a number of islets.
The former is a magical blend of history and nature, with spice plantations, mangroves and about two dozen incredible beaches vying for your attention alongside Arab ruins and the atmospheric alleyways of Stone Town. At nights, the Stone Town waterfront sprouts cluttered rows of food stalls, serving mix-and-match portions of sizzling seafood at small- change prices. Nearby, the balcony of the Africa House bar is a nightly travellers' institution for the dazzling free show put on by the setting sun.
Pemba is quieter, preserving its lush forests, green hills and curvaceous beaches for the relative few who do the 50km island-hop from Unguja. Alternatively, pop in on the giant tortoises at Changuu, stay in an eco-bungalow on Chumbe, enjoy luxury incarnate on the privately-owned isle of Mnemba - or simply take to the waters just about anywhere and enjoy some of the best diving and snorkelling you can do the world over.
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