Choosing an Island Holiday: Three Reasons Why Zanzibar Should be Top of the List

They say a picture says a thousand words, but your PC screensaver depicting the sun setting over turquoise waters says only a few: You’re desperate for an island getaway. You’re longing for lazy days on the beach, the sun on your skin, cocktail at hand and the sound of waves crashing in the background. As you begin the planning process, you realise that there are a few appealing options…

The Seychelles is known for its beautiful beaches, its tranquillity and sense of romance, as well as its water sports such as windsurfing, sailing and big game fishing. The Maldives is similarly known for its white beaches, turquoise waters and its majestic coral reefs – a sight that can be enjoyed to the fullest while diving or snorkelling. Mauritius likewise boasts striking beaches, romantic establishments and a variety of recreational activities that make for an exciting holiday.

While all of these destinations offer wonderful experiences, another island off the eastern coast of Africa provides visitors with a picture-perfect island setting, exquisite beaches, and plenty of opportunities for adventure, with the added appeal of a fascinating history, rustic charm and cultural richness. This island is Zanzibar.

We share three reasons why this island should be placed on the top of your travel list.

1. There are plenty of opportunities for relaxation, exploration and adventure

Relaxation and rejuvenation are easily within reach on this palm-fringed island. Of course, the day can be spent on the beach, taking in the sea breeze and calming environment but further unwinding can be done at Chuini Spa. Here, you can treat yourself to massages, body envelopments and scrubs, facials and other treatments. See the spa menu for further information.

Zanzibar’s rich cultural and historical background makes it an explorer’s dream. From wandering the streets of Stone Town, where the Old Fort and the Palace Museum can be visited, to taking a trip to Prison Island or Grave Island, or absorbing the natural beauty of Jozani Forest, there are a plethora of exciting options that beckon travellers, especially those with a love for culture and history.

There is also a wealth of activities that can be enjoyed by those with a love for the outdoors. These include but are not limited to boat cruises, big game fishing, scuba diving and snorkelling.

2. It’s a foodie’s delight

As we shared in our earlier blog, Spice Island: Savour Zanzibar’s Flavours, Zanzibar is well-recognised as a producer of spices such as cloves, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper and cardamom. When a destination is known for a culinary element, you can rest assured that there will be excellent cuisine on offer. This is indeed the case in Zanzibar, where typical dishes such as Ugali, a dish made from maize flour, octopus curry, biryani, Zanzibar pizza and date nut bread, to name a few, can be experienced.

3. The best of both worlds – beach and bush – can be experienced with our special

Sure, an island getaway is so splendid in and of itself that it’s difficult to imagine anything that would be able to top that. But we, at Newmark, are offering a Bucket List Bush & Beach Experience that provides guests with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take in the majesty of the Serengeti and one of nature’s most incredible shows – The Great Wildebeest Migration – and the magnificence of Zanzibar. This provides guests with a complete experience of Africa’s greatest treasures.

These unique characteristics and offerings set Zanzibar apart and work together to make this stunning destination one that won’t disappoint you; one that will make all your island holiday dreams come true.