Arrival in Zanzibar

Well, we've made it to Zanzibar! After a relaxing day in Dar and a night at home watching movies (Aquamarine!) and drinking wine, we boarded the ferry at 10am this morning and by 1pm had reached the fabled "Spice Islands." Conquered first by the Arabs in search of lucrative trading routes with the east, Zanzibar maintains its traditional Swahili, and hence, Muslim culture. The ancient Stonetown provides a glimpse into coastal East Africa's past, its jade-blue waters team with giant tortoises and dolphins, and its well developed tourism infrastructure has tourists flooding its high-end restaurants and boutique hotels. Cathy lived here for 5 years, working at one of Zanzibar's finest resorts, and today her connections granted us access to the island's largest pool and a delicious fresh fish lunch compliments of the general manager. I am really looking forward to spending the next few days exploring the island, its beaches, and especially excited about finally, finally, finally getting to do some shopping! I've spent the past 10 months deliberately not buying much of anything for lack of space and hassle in toting souvenirs around the world, but now that's no longer an excuse. I'm ready to blow the rest of my budget! :)