The Maldives has gained itself a brand new rival within the battle for the perfect island vacation this autumn.
The Maldives has gained itself a brand new rival within the battle for the perfect island vacation this autumn (Picture: Getty)
For years, the Maldives has reigned supreme as the final word tropical escape, particularly presently of 12 months when temperatures plummet within the UK and Brits are in determined want of some Vitamin D. Nonetheless, a brand new contender is quietly stealing the highlight – a sun-drenched African archipelago the place turquoise waters, spice-scented breezes and untouched seashores are drawing travellers from world wide.
Zanzibar is an East African archipelago positioned within the Indian Ocean, comprising two giant islands and quite a few small islets off the coast of Tanzania. Its predominant island is Unguja (informally often known as Zanzibar), dwelling to the capital, Zanzibar Metropolis, and Pemba Island. Showcasing simply how extremely regarded this tropical paradise has turn out to be, it was just lately named one of many Prime Islands within the World within the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Alternative Awards 2025, rating fourth in Africa and the Indian Ocean. It’s a outstanding feat for an island that, till just lately, remained one of many Indian Ocean’s best-kept secrets and techniques.
READ MORE: I went to a stupendous Spanish island that wasn’t crowded with vacationers
READ MORE: I’ve visited 9 Italian cities however there’s one I hold returning to
Stone City is a UNESCO World Heritage Website (Picture: Getty)
In contrast to many high-end island locations, Zanzibar retains a uncommon sense of authenticity. Palm-fringed seashores run alongside white sand, conventional fishing boats nonetheless cross over coral reefs and the ocean boasts an unimaginable shade of shiny turquoise. It gives “barefoot luxurious” with out extra: wake in a boutique seashore lodge, sip recent coconut by the shore and spend far lower than a single evening in a comparable Maldivian resort.
What’s extra, in November, the common excessive temperature is about 30C, with lows solely round 23C. Even in December, when the UK faces bitterly chilly climate, temperatures in Zanzibar often stay between 30 and 25C.
From Nungwi and Kendwa within the north to Paje and Jambiani within the southeast, Zanzibar’s seashores cater to each type of traveller. The north is thought for its calm, swimmable waters and full of life sundown bars, whereas the east gives huge, windswept seashores good for kitesurfing and lengthy, quiet walks. The range means you may select between tranquillity and buzz with out leaving the island, one thing even the Maldives can not all the time provide.
Past the seashores, Zanzibar’s attraction lies in its wealthy mixture of cultures and historical past. As soon as a significant buying and selling hub for spices, ivory and gold, the island blends African, Arab, Indian and European influences in all the pieces from its delicacies to its structure. Stone City, the island’s historic capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Website, is a maze of slender alleys, carved picket doorways and hidden courtyards stuffed with the scent of clove and cardamom.
Zanzibar’s seashores cater to each type of traveller (Picture: Getty)
For journey seekers, you may snorkel or dive within the coral gardens of Mnemba Atoll, spot dolphins off Kizimkazi, or take a spice farm tour to see the place nutmeg, cinnamon and vanilla develop. Inland, Jozani Forest is dwelling to the uncommon crimson colobus monkey, discovered nowhere else on Earth.
Journey consultants at Sundowner Holidays have mentioned the island is having fun with a well-deserved second of recognition, and for good motive: “It’s not about overwater villas or polished perfection, it’s about authenticity, color and calm,” they mentioned.
Price range is another excuse travellers are flocking right here. A beachfront boutique keep in Zanzibar can begin from round £80–£120 per evening, with meals and excursions usually priced considerably decrease than these within the Maldives. Even high-end resorts, full with infinity swimming pools and personal villas, are usually extra reasonably priced, making it a practical paradise escape for {couples} and households alike.
Whereas there are not any direct flights from the UK to Zanzibar (ZNZ), you may simply get there with a one-stop connection. Emirates gives flights by way of Dubai, whereas Turkish Airways goes by way of Istanbul. In line with Skyscanner, you may fly return from Gatwick (LGW) with Emirates and flydubai with a cease in Dubai (DXB) to Zanzibar for £717 in mid-November. The journey often takes round 14 hours.
Leave a Reply