Zanzibar, Tanzania- Indian Ocean -Aug 3, 2001

 

Position: Zanzibar, Tanzania- Indian Ocean -Aug 3, 2001

After completing our 12-day African Animal Safari we joined Seaquell in the port of Stonetown on Zanzibar Island for beaching and snorkeling.

Zanzibar has an exotic history dating back to the loth century when it was a trading port for spices and slaves. For many years it has been a major trading port for the Indian Ocean and for East Africa. The Arabs controlled the port until the Portuguese took over and later a Sultan from Oman controlled the port and moved his court to Zanzibar. His court consisted of 40 wives. To this day you can still have 4 wives. The Sultan's palace ruins remain along with the remains of the slave trading which the British terminated in 1873. At one time the island was the world's largest producer of cloves. Many spices are still produced on Zanzibar and Pemba, also part of Zanzibar. Zanzibar is now a part of Tanzania. In 1964 Tanganyika and Zanzibar united into the present Tanzania.

We had an enjoyable stay in Zanzibar, visiting the old narrow streets of Stonetown with its many shops filled with African animal carvings, a lot of nice art, clothing and locally made souvenirs. We visited Pemba and other near by islands and beaches around Zanzibar, kayaking and swimming. All the children were hauled up the mast in the boatswain's chair while SeaQuell rocked in the sea. A special treat.

After 3 weeks the grandkids were ready for the long trip back home with bags full of gifts for those at home and full of memories. We enjoyed being with them and felt a big lonely spot when they left. We hope they can be with us again soon.

We will depart Zanzibar for a 2,000 miles trip to Capetown on August 6.

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