Exploring Paradise: My Unforgettable Trip to Zanzibar
During my recent trip to Zanzibar, I had the pleasure of staying at the White Sands Boutique Villas in Paje, where I indulged in luxury, adventure, and amazing cuisine. I would love to tell you about our trip as a family over Eid in June.
Upon arriving at White Sands Boutique Villas in the late afternoon after a super easy flight with Flydubai we were greeted by many warm smiles, refreshing towels and a welcome drink. I was stunned by its astonishing surroundings and chilled ambience. The rooms were simply stunning, exuding a perfect blend of elegance and comfort. The thoughtful touches, such as fresh fruit on arrival and complimentary beach hats and flip-flops, made us feel truly welcomed. It was especially delightful for my children, who eagerly embraced these little gestures and cherished their keepsakes from the trip.
Exploring Zanzibar's Natural Wonders: Zanzibar is a treasure trove of natural wonders. We booked a morning trip to the Kazu cave and the Jozani Forest. The Kazu cave was about 20 minutes from the White Sands Boutique Villas which was a good time to travel with my boys. We walked down the jungle path with our guide who explained a little more about the cave. We then got the opportunity to climb down and swim in the gorgeous crystal clear turquoise fresh water. We got there early which was a blessing as it was quiet, and we could find a safe spot to put our items and climb out easily. We then headed to the Jozani Forest, which allowed us to immerse ourselves in the island's rich biodiversity. We again had a guide explain to us information on all the plants and animals in the forest and in the mangroves. We encountered the rare Columbus monkeys, Zanzibar Sykes’ monkey and plenty of other bugs and creatures.
Adventures on the Turquoise Waters: No trip to Zanzibar is complete without venturing into its azure waters. We embarked on a thrilling excursion on a local dhow, a traditional sailing boat, which took us on a picturesque journey along the coast. We snorkelled just off the boat, my boys loved seeing all the colourful fish just at their fingertips. Even just sailing on this small dhow was an experience and my oldest got to try his hand at steering the boat. Swimming with Dolphins and Mnemba Island Exploration:
One of the most memorable experiences of our trip was the chance to swim with dolphins. We set off on a wet and rainy adventure to Mnemba Island. It took us over an hour and a half to reach the other side of the island from Paje. I found it interesting seeing village life and seeing how the local people shop and work. We had our own private boat, so it was great to spread out and it was a lot more comfortable than the local dhow. We headed to the reef at Mnemba island where we not only enjoyed snorkeling once again but also had the incredible opportunity to swim alongside dolphins. We jumped off the boat and snorkelled and waited until the dolphin pod came up from underneath us. We were within touching distance of a mother and her baby calf which was surreal. It was an awe-inspiring experience that left us with memories to treasure for a lifetime.
Culinary Delights at White Sands: The food at the White Sands Boutique Villas was amazing. Mornings began with a breakfast spread featuring fresh fruit and warm croissants. The a la carte menu offered an array of options, from eggs benedict and fluffy pancakes to mouthwatering local Zanzibar dishes. The evening dining experience was equally impressive, with a la carte options and delightful barbecues accompanied by entertainment. Every meal was a celebration of Zanzibar's vibrant flavours and culinary expertise.
The Perfect Beach in Paje: Paje boasts one of the most stunning beaches I have ever seen. Its powdery white sands and inviting turquoise waters created a picturesque setting for relaxation and family fun. The beach's shallow and gentle waves were perfect for my children. My boys loved playing football on the sand, making sandcastles and finding the most perfect shells.
Zanzibar, with its natural wonders, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant culture, is the perfect destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable getaway. Zanzibar truly caters to everyone, making it a destination that satisfies diverse interests and desires. Whether you seek relaxation, cultural immersion, or thrilling adventures, this island will exceed your expectations. It certainly did with our family we left Zanzibar with loads of lovely memories of exciting trips, wildlife, and relaxing family time.