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The name Zanzibar is derived from a
combination of two Arabic words, 'Zinj', meaning black,
and 'barr', being the Arabic word for land, resulting
in the ancient title 'Land of the Blacks'. As Zanzibar
absorbed peoples from as far as The Orient and Iberia, Assyria
and India, so the tapestry of Zanzibar cultures became more
diverse in its range, more unique in its expression.
Zanzibar is the birthplace of
Swahili, a lingua franca forged from global dialects, upon which
legends were carried, trade routes opened and a Sultan’s empire
prospered.
The strident laments and exultant
overtures of Swahili taarab were born, their rhythms and
melodies carried and honed between Zanzibar and the Arabian Gulf
until they became the sounds of the islands’ own musical
narrative.
The architectural styles of Stone
Town were borne of the social convergence, while the tangled
mass of stories, woven from centuries of lives lived, bestow a
folklore and legacy that permeate life on the archipelago.
Location:
Zanzibar is a small archipelago consisting of Unguja (commonly
referred to as Zanzibar Island), Pemba and several small
surrounding islands. It is located in the Indian ocean, just off
the coast of East Africa, lying at 39 degrees East of the prime
meridian and 6 degrees south of the equator. The islands have a
total of 2,332 square kilometres.
Pemba:
Pemba is the second largest island of the Archipelago, named Al-khudra
"The Green Island” by the Arabic mariners. It is famous
for its clove production and its channels offer some of best
diving experiences in East Africa.
Population:
The population of Zanzibar is estimated at about One million
people.
Time:
Zanzibar is 3 hours ahead of GMT
Electricity:
230/240 volts AC
Value Added Tax
(VAT): 20%
Religion:
98% Muslim, other religions include
Christian, Hindu and traditional beliefs.
During Ramadhan, the holy month,
Muslims fast from morning to evening. You may find it difficult
to find food during the daylight hours. However some specified
restaurants are allowed to serve the tourists. Obtain further
information from the Commission for Tourism (link to enquiry
form)
There are churches and temples
that hold regular services available.
Language:
The official languages in Zanzibar are Swahili and English
Staple food and
special foods: Seafood is a
favourite in Zanzibar.
Major income
activities: Small-scale farming,
clove growing and fishing are the main activities carried out on
the island.
Currency:
Tanzanian shillings are the local currency. Notes are in
denomination of 500, 1000, 5000, and 10,000 shillings. Coins are
in the order of 10,20, 50, 100 and 200 shillings.
Currency can be changed at banks
and the widely available bureaux de change as well as other
accredited points such as hotels. It is illegal to change money
on the streets. Exchange rates vary; check the current exchange
rates (link to opening page) for guidance
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Nungwi beach - Zanzibar |
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