A Very “Hakuna Matata” Experience
In the heart of a bustling city, where honking horns and endless deadlines are the soundtrack to our daily grind, the team at Stylisphere was yearning for a taste of the exotic. As scrolling through the daily content, the briliant idea of visiting Zanzibar came up and the team spontanously booked the tickets. The thought of trading in office chairs for hammocks and morning espressos for fresh coconut water was irresistible. And so, armed with passports and a sense of adventure, we Stylispherians left the office and for 5 days experienced the island life in Zanzibar.
Today, inspired by it, we are sharing our trip with you.
What you should first know about Zanzibar
Zanzibar is an archipelago located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa, consisting of two main islands, Unguja (often referred to as Zanzibar Island) and Pemba, along with numerous smaller islands. The name “Zanzibar” is believed to have Persian origins, derived from the Persian words “zanj” (meaning black) and “bar” (meaning coast), referring to the Swahili coast’s African inhabitants. Known as the “Spice Islands,” Zanzibar has a rich history of spice cultivation, including cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and pepper. These spices have been a significant part of the island’s economy and culture for centuries. The capital city of Zanzibar is Zanzibar City, but the one famous is the Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its winding streets, historic architecture, and vibrant blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. Zanzibar has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The rainy season typically occurs from March to May and from November to December. In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Zanzibar offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as diving, snorkeling, spice tours, and visits to wildlife reserves.
Our experience
The flight was long, but don’t be scared, because you will realize everything is worth it. We left from Rinas to our transit flight through Dubai and arrived at Zanzibar airport. Our accomodation was at Gold Zanzibar Beach House and Spa, a tropical paradise on the tideless white sand of Kendwa beach, an all inclusive hotel (except for the wine menu). With 9.0 rating in booking, we chose it for the beautiful location, the wide pool filled with sea water and the tons of activities that kept you engaged. The rooms were spacious with a functional design that had kept the traditional elements. The beach restaurant, with a breathtaking view of Zanzibar golden sunsets, featured an excellent à la carte menu. They would also organize the Maasai night, showcasing the traditions, music, dance, and cuisine of the Maasai people, who are an ethnic group primarily located in Kenya and Tanzania. This event included performances of traditional Maasai dances, such as the Adumu (also known as the “jumping dance”), accompanied by rhythmic chanting and singing. The birthday guys were the spoiled ones, as a group of people would go and dance with them. What we most loved about the hotel was the location in the nature and you always had the feeling of being part of it. The other favourite thing about the hotel was the service. You know how a hotel should make you feel welcomed and relaxed, like your only problem should be where to beach, because they will solve everything else? Well, Gold Zanzibar was exactly this. An exceptional service with a friendly staff always smiling at you and saluting with enthusiasm. They also tought us some words like “jumbooo”, “hakuna matata”, or “pole pole”. The highlight activity of the trip was the Safari Blue Trip where we did snorkeling in the most beautiful underwater parts, saw the baobab trees, visited the giant crabs and tasted some hedgehog eggs pasta. With rainy season been finished in December, it was the perfect weather for the beach. We loved Zanzibar for the green nature, blue waters and friendly people.
Based on our experience, these are what you should not miss:
- Always start your mornings with some gym at the beach. No better way than losing some extra calories because of the fresh air.
- If you stay at the Gold Zanzibar Beach House and Spa try the beautiful beach in front of the resort for the beautiful blue of the sea.
- During the day, nothing better than the coconut water, fresh from the tree.
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At night don’t forget to try the South African Fine Wine, while enjoying the show of the Maasai local dancers and acrobats with fire.
- Try the traditional dish of Rice and Fish. The yummy dish typically consists of cooked rice served alongside a variety of fish preparations.
- Spend a day on “Safari Blue Zanzibar”, and ask for the full day tour. A trip along Menai bay, which is one of the best coral reefs in Zanzibar. Main activities in the tour includes visit to naturally occurring sandbanks, Swimming & Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, visiting Kwale island with its natural green lagoon and Climbing the old Baobab tree for spectacular view of the Island. If you are an ocean enthusiast, this tour for you. You will witness countless colourful fishes and other sea creatures that survive among the coral reefs and underwater plants which together form the barrier reef ecosystem in the bay.
- Learn a little bit from Swahili. A fun, ritch language, very rhythmic and melodic.
- Learn a little bit from Swahili. A fun, ritch language, very rhythmic and melodic.
From snorkeling with colorful fish to bargaining at vibrant markets, we soaked in every moment, realizing that sometimes, the best inspiration comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and into the unknown. And as we lounged on the beach, sipping cocktails, they knew we had found paradise – and a newfound love for spontaneous adventures.
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