Coastal Splendours

Zanzibar is an archipelago consisting of two main islands i.e. Unguja and Pemba. The name Zanzibar is derived from a combination of two Arabic words, 'Zenj', meaning black, and 'bar', being the Arabic word for land, resulting in the ancient title 'Land of the Blacks'

Today this jewel in the Indian Ocean attracts visitors intent on discovering the white sandy beaches, spice islands and colourful coral reefs while staying at one of the quality beach resorts that Zanzibar has to offer. The island has more than 30 pristine beaches that leave holidaymakers spoilt for choice during their holiday. These include Nungwi, arguably the best beach in Zanzibar, Mangapwani, Matemwe, Pwani Mchangani, Kiwengwa and many others.

Lamu, Town, Island and Archipelago, is located on Kenya's northern coast. The island has been a port of varying importance for thousands of years and is an Islamic town which has many devout followers.

Lamu Island, is the oldest existing Swahili Settlement. The town itself termed as “the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa” but neighboring islands also have numerous archaeological remnants of history dating as far back as the 14 th Century. You cannot find any cars in Lamu.

Mombasa is a place steeped in history, yet at the same time fascinating commercial and cosmopolitan port town. It is connected to the mainland by bridges and ferries and overlooks a wide harbor, where commercial shipping mingles with traditional sailing dhows.

The true heart of Mombasa is found in the exotic old town, among the narrow winding streets and Arab architecture. The air here is always heavy with the scent of spices. Women wearing the traditional bui bui fill the narrow streets and busy markets. At the dhow docks fresh fish and goods from all along the coast arrive daily. The streets are alive with the bright colours of the traditional coastal khanga and kikoy, the all purpose wrap around cloth worn by both men and women.

The coastline of Kenya is a tropical idyll of soft white sands and gentle sea breeze, where the passing of a day is marked by the slow arc of the sun. The pace of life on the coast is notably slower, languid, more relaxed and at peace with the world.

The turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean bring about what makes Kenya’s history to date case in point being the imposing structure of Fort Jesus that stands watch over the harbor.