Once the trading centre for the whole of East Africa, Zanzibar and its surrounding islands are part of a great coral reef stretching down Africa's Indian Ocean coast. The islands now belong to Tanzania. 

The coastlines of these "Spice Islands", which have supplied the world with aromatic spices like cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon ever since they were discovered by Arab traders in the 8th century, are some of the most seductive in the world. 

They lie in aquamarine seas under the huge equatorial sun. Sugar white beaches slope gently to waters teeming with life. The sensual beauty of the islands of Zanzibar has always been a well kept secret among the world's travellers, artists and discoverers. This is a perfect part of the world to unwind in the warm breeze, relax and enjoy life.