I’ve never really been one for beach holidays and much rather preferred ritzing around cities, enjoying the sights and museums and of course, the shopping. But as I mature with each passing year, I find myself yearning to spend at least once a year soaking up the sun on a powdered beach with the sound the waves gently lapping onto the pristine shoreline. One such place I recently discovered is the island of Zanzibar.
Located off the coast of East Africa on the Tanzanian Archipelago, Zanzibar lies directly on the spice trade route so it is no wonder that its history is enriched with cultural influences, mainly Arabic after it was declared as the capital of Oman in 1832 but later also adopted both British and German influences. Today, the island still proves a popular holiday destination for Arabs, British, Europeans and more recently, becoming a favourite amongst its neighbouring African countries.
Having taken some time to research the island before actually deciding where to stay, I finally decided on Paje on the east coast of the island which is renowned to have the best conditions for kitesurfing (not that I’m an avid kitesurfer), but also because of its breathtaking natural beauty. The village of Paje stretches along for around 7km and the drive from the airport to our accommodation took around an hour. The drive in itself was entertaining as our driver swerved about to avoid potholes whilst having endless conversations on his phone. The funny thing though is that none of this bothered me at all because I was too busy admiring the lush overgrown forests on either side as we made our way to our lodgings for the next ten days.
THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND PAJE
- THE BEACH
Paje is known for its resplendent shoreline above all others on the island and by far my most enjoyable time was spent walking at least a kilometre out to sea in low tide every day. Thinking back to it, I am still awestruck by the wonders of nature. During low tide, all you could see was white sand all the way out and several starfish on the ocean floor waiting for the tide to come in again…and for someone who has a tiny phobia of deep waters, this was pretty mind-blowing to experience (and then thereafter dashing back to safety in case the tide decided to come in a little earlier than expected).
- SPICE TOUR AND MANGAPWANI CAVES
If you fancy some adventure in between your down time, a half day tour of the Kizimbani Spice Farm, a trip to a dark cave with a freshwater pool and then the Slave Cave is ideal and this is followed by a scrumptious lunch. The perfect way to get the adrenalin pumping and at the same time satisfy the cravings that those incredible spices conjure up.
- KITESURFING ON PAJE BEACH
With the perfect wind conditions, Paje is fast gaining popularity as the best beach in Zanzibar for kitesurfing. The sport in itself has gained plenty of traction over the last five years. Surfers flock here from all over the globe to frolick in its waters. For those wanting to learn, there are plenty of schools dotted along the beach.
- DAY TRIP TO STONE TOWN
No visit to Zanzibar is complete without seeing the wondrous historical city of Stone Town. I’ve covered much of this fascinating city in a previous article and I maintain that the vibrancy and charm of both the city and its people will leave you with an experience like no other. Popular sites include The House of Wonders, Forodhani Gardens, The Old Fort and Prison Island with its Giant Tortoises. And most importantly, get lost and wander the streets.
There are plenty of other activities and day trips to take such as a Dolphin Tour or a Jozani Forest tour. All these can be arranged with your hotel or prior to your arrival in Zanzibar.
PLACES TO STAY
Paje has a range of accommodations to choose from but bear in mind that these are typical of the Zanzibari culture and style – simple and practical and sometimes glimpses of the Arabian influence through colours and opulence. We chose to stay at the four star boutique resort hotel Dhow Inn. The resort is on an ideal spot on the beach with spectacular views of the ocean from the restaurant and breakfast room. The rooms are laid out around the various pools (the biggest one being 25 meters in length) and surrounded by roses and bougainvillea. It is quiet and peaceful during the day and comes alive with the themed nights and a spread fit for royalty.
CLUBS, BARS AND NIGHTLIFE
Paje Beachfront is a hive of activity both during the day and the evenings. There are plenty of bars to relax and take in the scenery whilst enjoying a few drinks and food. From DJ’s spinning international tunes to traditional music, either way you will find yourself having a truly enjoyable time.
RESTAURANTS AND EATING OUT
Zanzibar is called the Spice Island for a good reason. Paje has a myriad of eateries catering for all palates. From burgers and pizzas to freshly caught seafood and also plenty of vegetarian options. Exlpore them all and savour the taste sensation. One very unique experience and a must see is The Rock Restaurant in Michamvi. This unique little place sits in the water on a rock and is sometimes referred to as the Floating Restaurant. The food, albeit it expensive, is good, but the ultimate reason for visiting is to enjoy the incredible view and an experience of a lifetime. Reservations are a must and can be arranged with your hotel or by making an online booking. https://www.therockrestaurantzanzibar.com/about-the-rock-restaurant-zanzibar/
TIPS AND HINTS:
- Be sure to carry enough cash along for your entire stay. Credit card machines hardly work well. US Dollars are widely and graciously accepted.
- Make sure to lock up your valuables in the room safe and better still, take as few valuables with you as possible.
- Pre-book your transfers as opposed to taking a taxi when arriving at the airport and preferably with the property you are staying at.
- Taxis and public transport are not readily available, so book your tours before arrival or arrange them with your hotel or establishment.
- Go with an open mind – Zanzibar is not a luxury island as compared to the Maldives or Seychelles or even Mauritius and certainly not ranked amongst the luxury resorts of the world. It is a rare and natural beauty that is hard to find in our ever evolving world.
- MOST IMPORTANT – A course of malaria prophylaxis is essential. Please check with your doctor on the best course before your trip.
- Savour the moments and experiences for they will be unsurpassable in any other part of the world.