Forty

Forty
kilometres off the coast of Tanzania, lies the Zanzibar
archipelago, whose name fittingly matches the images of exoticism
and romance that it conjures in the mind. Commonly known as the
‘Spice Island’ for its famous produce of cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg,
vanilla and cardamom, Zanzibar not only looks like paradise, it
smells like it too. Beyond the white beaches and clear waters of
its picture-perfect coastline, the real heart of Zanzibar is
embedded deep within its stony foundations. With a history that
fuses centuries of diverse influences, from the primitive African
hunter-gatherer communities to Egyptians, Romans and Persian
seafarers, it seems that every visitor finds something unique upon
its shores. Whilst recent developments and resorts are increasingly
filling the island’s once untouched beaches, it is still possible
to find the authentic side of this island. In the small fishing
towns, traditional bustling stone villages and hidden coves, local
customs and living remain intact. Despite its centuries of
travellers, what lies beneath Zanzibar is the spiritual belief that
the island is ruled by spirits, a soul which those who seek might
be lucky enough to find.

@nazyxo