Zanzibar, 5th: The Bradt Travel Guide

Rating:
Summary: OK - I admit it...
Review: I'm the author of this book! But just thought I'd get the ball rolling. I have visited the islands of Zanzibar many times since the mid-1980s. Until recently, the greatest impression the islands made on me was the 'un-spoiltness' of it all. This was mainly due to the local political situation and the efforts required by travellers just to reach Zanzibar. In 1985, for example, before the days of high-speed catamarans, the intending visitor had to contend with long and uncomfortable dhow-rides !! However, since then many new hotels have been built and the transport services from the mainland have definitely improved. More visitors come to Zanzibar now than ever before, but it's still only a trickle compared to some other tourist destinations in Africa. Although Zanzibar may have lost some of its isolation, many parts of the islands still retain their unique atmosphere of peace, charm and remoteness. It's always a pleasure to return to Zanzibar to write a new edition. Things have changed, but I'm pretty sure we've got most things in this new book. It's certainly larger than the last edition! I hope you enjoy the book, and I hope you enjoy Zanzibar.