Zanzibar holidays

Once the trading centre for the whole of East Africa, Zanzibar and its surrounding islands is part of a great coral reef stretching down Africa's Indian Ocean coast. The sensual beauty of the islands of Zanzibar has always been a well kept secret among the world's travellers, artists and discoverers. For years, the names of its serene beach retreats and fascinating town houses were passed around between those in the know as the places to come for relaxation, inspiration and revival of the spirit.

Zanzibar and the islands of Pemba, Mafia, Chumbe and Mnemba are all delirious riots of colour, texture and light. When walking through the streets of Stone Town, your eye will constantly be caught by fine and intricate detail, carvings on a brass studded door, the shadow cast into a cool Riad courtyard or the movement of sheer curtains against a multicoloured stained glass window set against a whitewashed wall.

Aptly named the Spice Island, the evocative smells of cloves and spices in the markets of Zanzibar permeate the air, and immediately lure you into the relaxed and peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful island. Only a 20 minute flight from Tanzania, Zanzibar is a perfect combination of Eastern and African culture and beach. Everywhere you go, you are reminded of this island's fascinating Arab history, particularly in Stone Town with its labyrinth of alleyways, mosques and hidden courtyards. The palm fringed sandy beaches on the north east coast provide a range of excellent accommodation where you can relax and enjoy the friendliness and charm of this exotic location.