While known primarily as a beach destination, Zanzibar offers everything from an enthralling medieval capital to forests inhabited by rare monkeys. A popular add-on to safaris in Tanzania a short flight or ferry ride away, the archipelago is also renowned for its scuba diving. Whether you choose it for its… Continue reading
Anyone with a passion for history and culture should consider including visits to historic sites of the slave trade in Africa on any itinerary. It’s a history which hangs over much of Africa, and has everything to do with many contemporary issues the continent faces. As a visitor from the… Continue reading
So good the Sultan of Oman swapped his homeland for it, Zanzibar is perhaps the original Indian Ocean escape. Long before the Seychelles or Mauritius had even been visited by outsiders, Zanzibar was shaping the world with its trade in spices. Today this archipelago off the coast of Tanzania has… Continue reading
This short guide aims to highest Africa’s best diving destinations. Think of Africa, and it’s likely that it’s the continent’s plains and rainforests that come to mind. And you should definitely take any opportunity to head out on safari and enjoy the sights and sounds of happy elephant. But don’t… Continue reading
Africa has an incredible array of cultural celebrations. They range from tribal gatherings to modern dance and music events. Experience a different side of the continent with what I think are the coolest festivals in Africa. 1. Lake of Stars, Malawi If there’s a better name for a festival I… Continue reading
Sitting around the African continent like the jewels on a necklace are some truly exquisite islands. Here’s my personal guide to the top small islands in Africa to visit! Almost always unique in one way or another, some are nation states. Other are autonomous regions. Still more just happen to… Continue reading
Africa’s reputation can be intimidating to say the least. However, go behind the headlines and you’ll find a mesmerising continent full to brimming with sights and experiences. Heading out on safari is a no-brainer. But there’s a lot more to Africa besides. Here are what I think are the top… Continue reading
Quicker than you could say ‘the Spice Islands are at war’ it was over. 38 minutes after the naval bombardment began the shortest war in history ended. That’s three times less time than it takes to reach the capital Stone Town by ferry from the African mainland today. The British… Continue reading
Two hundred years ago this week when Scottish missionary, African explorer and Victorian hero David Livingstone was born public transport was still in its infancy. The London Underground system – the world’s first – was still 50 years into the future; the steam engine had been invented only a few… Continue reading
A couple of hours along boring scenery and new road brings the Tanga express minibus to Horohoro, the Tanzanian side of the border. We pass flat expanses of farmland, and the first herds of cattle I remember seeing. Countries rarely noticeably change character on the border with their neighbours. The… Continue reading
