Our Spontaneous Family Getaway to Zanzibar - A Week of Sun, Sand, and Adventure

summarizeEditor's Summary

We took a spontaneous family trip to Zanzibar and had an absolute blast. The island's natural beauty is breathtaking - think lush green forests, towering palm trees, and vibrant coral reefs. We spent our days lounging on the beach, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, and exploring the local culture. But it wasn't all smooth sailing - we encountered some slow service in restaurants and had to deal with a few power outages. Still, the pros far outweighed the cons, and we'd highly recommend Zanzibar to anyone looking for a fun and relaxing getaway.

settingsSpecifications

Kararİyi

HareketliKeyf8/10

KonaklamaKalite9/10

MutfakYeriKalite7/10

We decided to take a spontaneous family trip to Zanzibar over the weekend, and I'm so glad we did. I'd been researching the island for days, reading reviews and looking at photos, but nothing quite prepares you for the real thing. We opted for a small guesthouse right on the beach, so we could just roll out of bed and into the ocean every morning.

When we arrived, we were greeted warmly, but the check-in process took a bit longer than we'd hoped, and the kids were getting a bit restless. Our room was bright and airy, with a balcony overlooking the ocean. The cleaning staff came in every day, and the air conditioning worked a treat. Water was hot, so we were all set for a comfortable stay.

The beach was stunning - soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and hardly any tourists. We got there early, before the high tide, and the kids could swim and play to their hearts' content. But by midday, the tide was out, and they had to stick to the shallow water, which was a bit of a bummer. We had to get creative and play games on the sand, build sandcastles, and search for crabs to keep them occupied.

We booked a boat tour to the nearby reefs, and the kids were super excited. Our guide was friendly and explained the safety rules, showed us the masks and snorkels, and we set off. The fish were swimming right beneath our feet, the coral was beautiful, and the water was so clear. But the boat was late by about an hour, and we had to juggle our plans for the day, which was a bit of a letdown. Plus, the guide was a bit too pushy about booking another tour for the next day, which was a bit annoying.

The food at our guesthouse was a mixed bag. Breakfast was simple but fresh, and the fruit was a highlight. Omelets were sometimes a bit dry, and we could've used more variety. We ordered dinner a couple of times, but the menu was limited, so we ended up eating at a nearby restaurant, which served delicious seafood at a reasonable price. One time, we ordered soup, but it arrived a bit cold, but the waiter apologized and brought a hot replacement soon after.

We spent our days wandering around the village, popping into local shops, buying souvenirs, and trying local fruits and seafood. Most of the locals were super friendly, smiling and waving, but we encountered a few too-pushy traders. If you politely decline, they leave you alone, but it took a bit of practice to get used to it.

One day, we decided to take a stroll along the coast and stumbled upon a secluded beach with hardly anyone around. The kids could play, swim, and run around to their hearts' content.

Another day, we explored the village's internal areas, looking for cafes, local markets, trying fresh bread, fruits, and ice cream. The kids loved the mango and pineapple, and my husband ended up buying a few magnets for the fridge and some small souvenirs for friends. Local life is quite different from the tourist zone, and it creates a unique atmosphere.

live_helpFeatured FAQ

What's the best time to visit Zanzibar?

The best time to visit Zanzibar is during the dry season, from June to October.

What's the local currency?

The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling, but USD is widely accepted.

Can I drink the tap water?

No, it's best to stick to bottled or filtered water.

What's the best way to get around the island?

The best way to get around the island is by taxi or rental car.

Can I use credit cards?

Yes, most places accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

What's the dress code?

The dress code is generally casual, but it's a good idea to cover up when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.

Can I bring my kids?

Yes, Zanzibar is a great destination for families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities and attractions.

What's the best way to stay connected?

The best way to stay connected is by purchasing a local SIM card or using a portable Wi-Fi hotspot.

check_circlePros

•The beaches are stunning, with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
•The local culture is rich and vibrant, with a mix of African, Arab, and European influences.
•The food is amazing, with a focus on fresh seafood and spices.
•The people are friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home.
•The island has a relaxed, laid-back vibe that's perfect for unwinding.
•The snorkeling and diving opportunities are incredible, with an array of marine life to explore.

cancelCons

•Some of the restaurants can be slow, which can be frustrating when you're hungry.
•There are a few power outages, but they're usually just for a few minutes.
•The traffic in Stone Town can be chaotic, but it's all part of the fun.
•Some of the accommodations can be a bit pricey, but it's worth it for the experience.
•The island can get crowded during peak season, but it's still worth visiting.
•Some of the locals can be a bit aggressive in their sales tactics, but it's all part of the charm.