"Zanzibar Island" a Zanzibar Island Travel Page by PeteG

We spent five days at a hotel on the East coast of the island called the Pongwe Beach Hotel. Absolutely beautful place. 13 bungalows along a gorgeous beach lined with palm trees.

I'd recommend going half board as quite honestly there is no where else to go! That said, the food is fantastic and brilliant value as are drinks. They accept US$, GB?, EURO and Tanzanian Shillings but like everywhere else on the island, no credit cards.

It is a relaxing place and tends to be designed for couples / honeymooners, but if you want an action holiday, this isn't the place for you.

I know it sounds dull and touristy, but I really would recommend going on a spice tour. The guys who run the spice farms are so friendly, you will learn lots and have a good visit.

Also, do yourself a favour and get up in time to see the sun rise over the Indian Ocean. Stunning

Ruth and I spent a few days in Stone Town after being on safari on mainland Tanzania.

Stone Town is so different to the mainland. Generally, Stone Town is in a state of decay. Outside of a few Hotels and restautants there is very little money, buildings are falling down and live seems pretty tough.

I've been to a few tough places before and am more than used to people hastling tourists either for money, or just trying to get you into shops. Also, I am not a small boy and am not usually hastled too vigorously!! However, in Stone Town I was really agressively hastled to the point were I thought serious trouble was not far away.

Having said all that, I'd recommend the Tembo House Hotel. Really lovely old building, friendly staff, right on the beach and near to the middle of town. No alcohol allowed however, but a lovely place for a day or two.

I'd also recommend going on a boat trip out to the old prison island. It cost us about US$30 to be taken the 30 minutes trip out to a lovely island. This also included use of their snorkel gear and we could stay all day. Also, take a couple of dollars as a large family of giants tortoises are kept there and for not a lot of money you can get in with them and feed them. Some are 140 years old and weigh approximately 300 kgs.

Taxi's are not expensive and are really the only method of transport.

Having said that, internal air travel in Tanzania is pretty cheap but you may travel on tiny planes like Air Excel. 10 seats of great fun for island hoping!