Zanzibar Island Warnings Or Dangers

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by DAO
 
  • FACE HIDDEN TO PROTECT THE INNOCENT !
      FACE HIDDEN TO PROTECT THE INNOCENT !
    by DAO
 

Reviews from VirtualTourist Members

Zanzibar. Tourist Crime

by SouthWestLondon

It is not my intention to put anyone off holiday plans but felt it would be irresponsible of me to not recount my experience on tourism sites. I am a seasoned traveller in my mid thirties and have travelled to many countries across the globe including the continent of Africa for both work and pleasure. Before I recount what happened I would like to say that the British Embassy were incredibly supportive and that it was a very unusual incident for Zanzibar. Crime is a much more frequent occurrence on main land Tanzania than on the Island. The islanders are helpful, friendly, welcoming, good-natured people that were as shocked as we were by what happened. My partner and I visited Zanzibar in late November 2011 for a holiday. We were looking for a romantic retreat where we could partake in some reef diving in a paradise environment. We had already been on the South East of the Island for a...

Precision Air Warning!!

by spinton

Precision air WARNING!This happend November 2011We hade a lovely vaccation at Zanzibar, we went there from Mombasa, and where going back also to Mombasa with Precision Air.Howewer, On the way to Zanzibar the scedule where changed, delayed several hours and not a direct flight, but a stop over at Dar. Well this is not a bigger deal, smal changes happend al the time. The bigger problem happend on the way back. Since this is a smaler company they require to confirm the tickets one weak ahead, we did so, and when we got to the airport, the problem started. It was like they did not know that we where going on that plane. We talked a lot and argued, to no succes. Finaly they find four of our five tickets. We where a group, so we did not want to split. Ok, finaly we handed over a kreditcard to buy the last ticket, wich was payed month ahed together with the other tickets.-No,no! she said, -we...

Cops 'n Robbers

by cafank

Crime is apparently on the rise in Zanzibar. Both drug-related assaults and thieving are now a reality in Stone Town. so, don't advertise valuables, don't walk alone at night, and don't resist a group of people demanding your belongings. Our tour guide strongly suggested we did not go out without a male escort at night (we are 50+ yo ladies!)Always be aware of the people around you. No one will try to rip you off in a crowded market or square unless you make it easy for them by putting your camera or bag down unattended. The local response to thieving is amazing, if a thief is caught local citizens may stone them (to death?) before the police arrive. If you are robbed, report it to the nearest police station. Therer are three Police Stations and we saw many police on the streets.

Malaria in Zanzibar

by gmg61

Malaria is widespread in Zanzibar even if authorities try not to talk much about it because that would threaten the tourism business.We could personally experience that the illness is very common on the island, so the best advice is to get tablets against it.

THE BEACH BOYS

by DAO

Street Touts are often called ‘Beach Boys’ even when they are 40-50 years old. The local name for them is ‘Papasi’ the Swahili word for ticks. So what do they want? Most are friendly, definitely persistent and can be downright helpful sometimes. They will approach you just about anywhere. If you truly do not want any service of any kind, then be prepared. Here is what services they provide:• Tour of Stone Town• Other tours (Jozani Forrest, Spice Tour, Prison Island, etc.) • Souvenir shops/crafts• Taxi• Hotel • Help with bags• Directions to a specific place (they walk you there)Be polite. If you tell them ‘I already have’ and list several of the items above, they start to realise that you know how things work. I ‘hired’ one, or he hired me and I paid $7 for a 2 hour tour of Stone Town. I was shown everything and had a fascinating explanation of local life. They work on a commission. So if...

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Questions and Answers

jpolzin60622 profile photo

Q:  Initially I slotted 9 days for a safari in Tanzania. After my research I feel like I don't need 9 days. Now I'm thinking about... 

IndianPacific profile photo

A: Definitely recommend a tour to the lovely island of Zanzibar! 

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