Stone Town The Historic Capital of Zanzibar

Celebrated around the world for their beauty, beaches, and history the romantic islands of Zanzibar are under the influence of Arabs especially Stone Town one of the island biggest attractions. Stone Town is the old city and cultural centre of Zanzibar, which rose to prominence in the 17th century.  the haunting history of Stone Town is enough to make you shiver, the old slave castle and market are reminders of what the island was most famous for. David Livingstone used Stone Town as his base for preparing for his final expedition in 1866. Stone Town is characterized by meandering alleys and noisy bazaars and is one of the few intact historical Swahili coastal trading towns of East Africa. The 2,500 buildings of Stone Town are all made from coral stone, lime and clay including 45 mosques, 2 christian churches and 4 hindu halls. Since Stone Town was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, several buildings have been renovated and restored by the duly appointed Stone Town conservation authority.

Every sight, every glance conjures up the romantic past of Stone Town which is packed with historical architecture and a rich ethnic culture. While visiting the islands you should schedule for the fascinating walk through Stone Town that is rewarding. The contrast in Zanzibar between the main town area, Stone Town and the tourist venues on the islands are startling. Stone Town is very real community where people work and live so as you walk along the streets, you should remember this. Stone Town is a popular destination in Zanzibar with its narrow alleyways, intricately carved doors and ornate balconies. Getting lost in Stone Town is normal, fun and hamless but you will lose your bearings here at some stage. Key attractions in stone town include the old dispensary, Livingstone's house, the peace memorial museum, the palace museum, the Arab fort and the house of wonders (which translates from its local name, Beit el Jaib). Beyond Stone Town clad in spice gardens are silver sandy beaches bejeweled by superb resorts.

Stone Town offers the diver one or two good wreck dives. I would suggest maybe two day dives in and around stone town and then move to the beaches and islands for the more exciting diving experiences.

You can book your trip to Stone Town and Zanzibar with Explorer Travel by calling 0208 816 8789 or visit their website - http://www.big5.explorertravel.co.uk/StoneTown.htm

Tags: africa travel, explorer travel, stone town, tanzania, zanzibar, zanzibar holidays, zanzibar travel