Zanzibar: The most underrated island in the Indian Ocean
I have been to quite a few islands in the Indian Ocean: Mauritius, many in Maldives, Andaman and Nicobar islands and Zanzibar. So when I read in Conde Nast traveller about Zanzibar being the most underrated, it immediately struck a chord. Yes it definitely is! It doesn't get as as much limelight as its other counterparts. Especially in the African continent too, the spotlight is mostly hogged by Mauritius, Reunion, Seychelles and Madagascar. However that doesn't stop the true explorers from discovering the real gem. All the tourists we encountered there had been to various corners of the world, and we all agreed in unison that Zanzibar is truly special.
So there are a number of factors for its lesser popularity. It was an independent country before it merged with Tanzania in the 1970s. Maybe Tanzania needs more time to promote it as a beach destination because it's too busy in the caretaking of its multiple national parks.
Secondly Zanzibar is a Muslim territory which means there's restriction of alcohol and bikini. When one is on a vacation, one needs to wind down without any obstacles or rules; although we are teetotallers ourselves, we are high without any stimulant! But that doesn't mean these are prohibited, one can chill in bikini in private resorts and there are bars everywhere. I truly believe in respecting local culture.
The sand in the majority of the beaches in Zanzibar are silvery white, something I found only in the Dhiffushi island of Maldives. The particles are very fine, and they literally melt under your feet when you walk barefoot. The water is crystal clear; sometimes turquoise, sometimes green, giving a magnificent backdrop.
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18 comments
I loved all the pics and the beautiful description of your travel.
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of swimming with the dolphins and holding starfish. I loved the huge turtles and the house on the rock in your pix. I agree, it's best to visit now before it gets too touristy, sounds like a celeb destination to me.
ReplyDeleteI've not even visited the popular beach destinations you mentioned in the post so maybe I should begin with Zanzibar because OMG! 😍 what are these drop-dead-gorgeous backdrops in your photos. Also the way you've written about everything so positively makes me want to visit the place asap
ReplyDeleteI love your pics. They are so liberating. I think I've said this before. But I'm going to repeat it. Africa is nowhere on my travel bucket list. And so, your blog is all the more illuminating for me. Thanks again for writing about your travels to this wonderful continent.
ReplyDeletePenning a travel blog is an art and you just nailed it as always you do. You made Zanibar a destination very known to me through your blogs and somehow I get the feel as if I have been there. You pictures add the extra flavour in the blog and I just love it.
ReplyDeleteAmazing pics as always. You tempt one so much that the urge to be in Zanzibar is overwhelming. It surely is on my bucket list.
ReplyDeleteYour pics are refreshing. I never thought of visiting this place but now I am damn tempted. Zanzibar, hope I come !
ReplyDeleteUffff!!! such beautiful pics n u guys are rocking the beach look. I don't think I wouldv even given a thought to visiting Zanzibar if it hadn't been for your posts Mandira cuz apart from the fancy name, nothing lured me. But now it does seem like a jewel in the Indian ocean and a must visit beach destination.
ReplyDeleteSometimes it is better for a place to be underrated or it becomes too crowded. I have been reading your posts on Zanzibar and will surely plan a trip.
ReplyDeleteNowadays it is necessary to have underrated place. Otherwise everything is crowded with people. Love this peaceful Zanzibar.
ReplyDeletewhat a gorgeous place! This was never on my radar, but now seeing your pics and reading about your experience, has me wanting to visit too.
ReplyDeleteIt is picture perfect! Loved the pics. Make me want to plan a trip soon. Better to be underrated in my opinion than to be overloaded with tourists.
ReplyDeleteVisiting Zanzibar is definitely on my travel list, and I’m really hoping to make it there soon. I’m saving this post to refer back to it and keep your tips in mind before my trip.
ReplyDelete-Anjali
I had someone who told me its not so exotic as it sounds. But your pictures narrate a different story. It looks so good and liberating. Surely is very underrated island.
ReplyDeleteWow I loved your Zanzibar series. Vibrant pictures with full of smiles and blue water make my heart skipped and urge to run to this island . Loved the detailed trip tips with pictures, saving it for my Zanzibar trip.
ReplyDeleteFrom your pics it looks like I must replan the vacation we were going to have in Mauritius to Zanzibar. It's certainly a beautiful place with such serene beaches!
ReplyDeleteYou look stunning as always....I haven't travelled to this place but after Your post will give ut a try. I like how you narrate your travel and add beautiful pictures.
ReplyDeleteI hope to visit Zanzibar someday - it looks beautiful!
ReplyDeleteNoor