• E N R O U T E / / C O V E R S T O R Y
EWAN STRYDOM , EXPRESSO MORNING SHOW PRESENTER ( SABC3 ) Whenever I travel I always like to connect with the locals and Zanzibar offers just that ; you really get to experience the Swahili culture … It ’ s one of my top holiday destinations – I love every aspect of it , from top resorts to crystal clear waters to horse rides in the ocean , all at really affordable prices for us South Africans . And then there is the absolutely breathtaking scenery . Take me back to Zanzibar !
Ewan Strydom takes the plunge at his favourite island destination .
MICHELLE GARFORTH-VENTER , CONSERVATION JOURNALIST After climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania over a seven-day period we chose to get some well-deserved rest on Pemba , one of the islands in the Zanzibar Archipelago . With aching muscles we boarded the plane for a short hop to the island and all feelings of altitude sickness and pain from the climb vanished . What a magnificent place : the white-sand beaches are endless , the azure water warm thanks to the Indian Ocean currents , and the local dishes fresh and healthy . After eating only what we could carry in our backpacks for seven days , the meals served island-style under palm trees on picnic blankets were delicious . My favourite dish was the cassava root mixed with coconut and the day ’ s catch , neatly washed down with a Kilimanjaro light lager . We went night diving , having to perfectly time the boat ’ s exit with the tides . It was scary falling overboard into inky-black water , but the torchlight enticed all kinds of polyps and creatures from the reef into view . I ’ m happy to say that the reef is alive and well off this coastline and the diving is out of this world .
JASON WHITEHEAD , CHEF TO THE STARS & COOKBOOK AUTHOR The people are so friendly and I loved Stone Town because of all its history and architecture . The beaches and diving are incredible and I would definitely return . The fresh seafood is a must as you can dive for it yourself – that in itself is a unique experience .
Jenna Berndt ’ s top choice for 2017 .
JENNA BERNDT , SURE TRAVEL DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST Zanzibar is definitely having an “ it ” moment . There are great all-inclusive deals at stunning luxury resorts dotted all around the island . Think infinity swimming pools ( for when you can ’ t swim in the sea due to the tides – depending where you are on the island ), beach jetties to watch those famous sunsets , design details reflecting the local architecture , friendly staff and that enticing touch of the exotic . The resorts are amazing !
© CLAIRE GUNN PHOTOGRAPHY
Jason Whitehead finds all the spice he needs in Zanzibar .
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