Zanzibar is a spectacular island full of color from the surrounding water and its unspoiled reefs to the buildings in the main city of Stone Town.  The island, located off the coast of Tanzania, has a mixture of Arabic and Indian influences combined with Swahili culture, making it very unique.  Scattered along the coastline you will find wooden fishing boats, called dhows.  In my opinion, the best views of the island are from these boats.  Most of Zanzibar’s eastern beaches contain seaweed farms located in shallow water planted by the local women during low tide.  The seaweed grows on long wooden structures lined up and attached by ropes, which are later harvested, dried, and exported to Europe and used in the manufacture of medicines, toothpaste, and cosmetics.  It’s not uncommon to see children helping out and occasionally wandering off for photo opportunities…they love the attention.

Aside from its beaches, Zanzibar also contains forests with wildlife.  Jozani forest (the only protected national park on the island) is home to the rare Red Colobus monkeys.  They are wild animals and will attack, so don’t be fooled by their approachability.

Stone Town, the historic center and main city on the island, is decorated with intricate Arabic designs and carved doorways painted in various colors, creating a more inviting atmosphere.

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