Zanzibar
After our thrilling safari adventures on the mainland of Tanzania, we decided to venture to the serene and tropical island of Zanzibar to unwind and rejuvenate. Zanzibar's breathtaking beaches are a haven for beach lovers, and we indulged in several days of lounging on the powdery white sand, exploring the coral reefs on a reef walk, and savoring the delicious local cuisine.
Our accommodation was a small, family-friendly hotel that was situated right on the beach, which afforded us almost exclusive access to the amenities as very few people were traveling during the pandemic. The peaceful and quiet environment provided the perfect backdrop for our much-needed relaxation after the excitement of our safari adventure.
While we didn't do any day excursions or engage in any extreme activities, our time in Zanzibar was still incredibly enjoyable. We took a leisurely 1-hour ride to the hotel, taking in the sights and sounds of the island along the way. As we drove, we couldn't help but notice the similarities between Zanzibar and Turkey with their shared love of spices and bustling marketplaces.
We spent our days building sandcastles on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters and observing others as they learned to kite-surf. We made a conscious effort to let the kids play freely and explore their surroundings, even taking the time to cuddle with some of the friendly stray dogs and cats that roamed the beach.
For meals, we opted to try out some of the local cuisine at the little restaurants that were situated right on the beach. We savored the flavors of fresh seafood and local spices, soaking up the relaxed and laid-back atmosphere of the island.
In the end, our decision to forgo the more touristy activities in favor of a more relaxed and low-key approach was one of the best decisions we made. We were able to truly unwind and connect with the beauty and culture of Zanzibar in a way that wouldn't have been possible otherwise.
Overall, our time in Zanzibar was the perfect way to unwind after our extensive safari adventure on the mainland of Tanzania. The island's beautiful beaches, rich culture and delicious food made for an unforgettable trip. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure or a bit of both, Zanzibar is the perfect destination.
