Stone Town was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its rich cultural heritage of African, Arab, Persian, Indian and European influences. This African island is rich in history and culture. You can look forward to winding alleys and a lingering smell of spices in the air, children playing in the streets, woman dressed in colorful clothing and an overall energetic vibe.
This post will highlight where we stayed ate and how we spent our time in Zanzibar.
Where to Stay?
Kholle house is a unique boutique hotel located in Stone Town. Its just steps away from all the hustle and bustle of Stone Town, yet its a super quaint hotel.Built in 1860, as a magnificent showcase for Princess Kholle's most treasured collectables displaying her fine china, furnishings, and artifacts from around the world and as a place to entertain friends and visiting dignitaries.
After three years of restoration you can experience the history and care that went into every detail. Kholle House has been lovingly turned into a boutique hotel in the heart of Stone Town. Each of the 9 rooms is uniquely designed with combinations of Swahili and French-Creole influence.
Kholle House is rich with history and color – with turmeric walls, stained window details, polished nutmeg colored floors with in-laid marble accents floor tiles from the original Kholle House all reflecting the shades of vibrant Zanzibarian spices.
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| No electronic cards here. You will receive a large wooden keychain with a simple key attached. |
Located on the second floor, we had views of the city as well as the garden and pool.
The bathroom has a tub, balcony as well as a stand up shower.
The rooms are large with so much charm.
The bathroom has a tub, balcony as well as a stand up shower.
The rooms are large with so much charm.
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A nice added touch.
Breakfast is served in the patio overlooking the pool. We sat in a cabana, relaxing and a great way to start our morning.
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| Breakfast Menu |
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| Hotel does not have an elevator. So keep that in mind when packing. You will have to carry it up these beautiful stairs. |
Stone Town
After we got settled into our hotel, the sun was shining and we were ready to explore. Stone Town instantly had me Hooked. It almost felt like I'd been there before. The city its self is a place you can spend hours just walking around the old alley and looking at the goods in each market.
Paintings, baskets, food, spices and clothing are all sold in the local markets.
We spent a lot of time walking the ancient historic streets of Stone town. You can easily get lost in all the hustle and bustle but after each turn you will see a friendly face greeting you into their store. I'm in love with the many elaborately carved doors that you will see in Stone Town. I was mesmerized by the evening and morning call to prayer coming from a local mosque. I felt transported into time.
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| Purchasing mask and baskets from a local vender. |
Can you drink Alcohol in Zanzibar?
Yes!
Just make sure to respect the local muslin culture. I only uncovered my arms when we were at a hotel. We only had drinks in hotels that catered to tourist. Luckily for us most bars have beautiful terrace where you can stop to have a cocktail. Our favorite Serengeti beer. A local light beer. It's really good.
We were even luckily enough to find a nice restaurant and sat on the patio and enjoyed a glass of wine. The sunsets in Africa seem to set a little more Magical than other parts of the world. Absolutely stunning!
What is Zanzibar famous for?
Spices and So Much More!
Spice farming are a major part of Zanzibar economy. The is land is referred to as the Spice Island. Clove, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, and black pepper are grown on the Island. Visit the Darajani Market- You will find locals and tourist bartering for local goods.
Traditional Swahili Dinner
Our last night in Stone Town before we head off to our Safari we attended a Traditional Swahili Dinner at Emerson on Hurumzi
Dinner starts at sunset I suggest going little early to hear the call to prayer echoing from above the city. We enjoyed a cocktail before dinner. Located on the rooftop of the hotel. We were greeted with warm rose water to wash our hands. We felt like we were in another world. The ambiance was the perfect beginning to our traditional dinner experience.
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Dinner Menu Spinach Fish Cakes |
Baba Ganouj
Arabian Flat Bread
Change Parcel Preserved Lime
Pumpkin Tagine
Massaman Goat Curry
Persian Pilau Rice
Green Papaya Salad and a variety of side dishes
*Ended the night with*
Zanzibar Delights &
Ginger Tea
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Our Traditional Swahili dinner was spectacular. We really enjoyed our night. We enjoyed local music, culture and a delightful meal. |
Night Market at Forodhani Gardens
At dust you can begin to smell the aromas of meat, fresh fish, and shrimp all being grilled on BBQ pits in the garden. We loved the shawarmas. We actually ended up eating here most evening. They were THAT good.
If you arrive just before sunset you can find local teenagers dive off the stone walls in Forodhani Gardens. It's so much fun to watch them just leap into the air and land in the ocean. Grab a little something to eat and enjoy the experience.
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| The sunsets were just breathtaking. If you ever get a chance to visit Zanzibar, GO. You will not be disappointed. The people are friendly and the culture is beautiful. *This is part 1 of our trip to Tanzania. There is SO MUCH to see that I had to brake this trip up into 2 post. |
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