Indian Ocean gem
Sandip Hor takes a trip to Zanzibar and enjoys a lesson in history cum culture
Lying 35 kilometres away from mainland Tanzania in East Africa, the Indian Ocean archipelago of Zanzibar has been attracting visitors to its shores for centuries. Years ago, Omanis, Indians and Europeans stopped by, to trade in spices and slaves. Now travellers are lured by its sunny weather, pristine underwater scenery and palm fringed sandy white beaches. The legacies of the past and their cultural mix are a bonus.
Comprising two main islands – Unguja and Pemba, and several lush green islets that are surrounded by pristine coral reefs – Zanzibar has been a semiautonomous state of Tanzania since 1964 but with a distinct individuality.
Unguja is the largest population centre, and the hub for all political and commercial matters. Most visitors land here either by sea or air and stay in one of several good hotels.
They enjoy the beach, scuba diving or snorkelling in the sea, hop between islands on a dhow or ferry and bask in a heady mix of cultural diversity.
IN A STONE TOWN This World Heritage Site in Unguja hasn’t changed much in over 300 years. Edging the waterfront, its fabled borough of winding alleyways; bustling bazaars; crumbling coral stone palaces; and mansions, mosques and temples testify to Eastern as well as Western influence.
Several buildings of historical connotation dominate the landscape – most significant is the Sultan’s Palace, which is now a museum exhibiting memorabilia of the Omani rulers. In addition to an ancient Omani fort, the House of Wonders and National Museum showcase the nation’s history, as well as culture.
ON SPICE ISLAND Zanzibar is often referred to as the Spice Island. There are several spice plantations where visitors can learn about the farming of cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, ginger, chillies, black pepper, turmeric, cardamom and cinnamon. Trading of these spices helped link Zanzibar with the rest of the world.
A SLAVE CAPITAL Until 1876, Zanzibar was a thriving hub for the slave trade. An Anglican Church built on the site of the slave market reminds one of the ordeals that the slaves faced. A poignant memorial depicting five slaves standing in a pit dominates the grounds. Another interesting site is the dilapidated house of Tippu Tip, the wealthiest slave trader at the time. FREDDIE MERCURY British musical legend of Indian origin Freddie Mercury was born in Zanzibar. The house in Stone Town where he was born is a site of pilgrimage for his fans from around the globe.