Near Tucson, Arizona is the Biosphere II, a modern-day $200 million dollar tightly sealed ecosystem. It was originally constructed to determine if people could live for a particular length of time in a sealed environment. Now its used for research, education and public outreach activities. General tours are given daily except on Christmas Day - Reservations are recommended for the "Under the Glass Tour." The general tours take about 2.5 hours … [Read more...]
Archives for July 2002
Zanzibar
While roaming eastern Africa in the waning months of the old century I stumbled into Stonetown, a small romantic city located on the western shores of the island of Zanzibar. Soon I became intoxicated not by drink, but by things such as the fading shadows of the dhows that cast their spired shapes over the blackened waters at sunset and by spending hours sitting near the harbor watching exotic groups of world travelers pass by. Slipping out … [Read more...]
Zanzibar – Attractions
Dhows located in the surf of the beach in front of Nungwi.Stone Town is full of old buildings including many that are in a state of severe decay. This city seems like a tiny maze at times, however its difficult to get too lost - if you walk far enough you will either end up on the seafront or on Creek Road which is the outermost road in Stone Town. While in Stone Town be sure to visit the evening waterfront "fresh fish cookout." This event … [Read more...]
Zanzibar – Shopping
Stone Town is one of eastern Africa's shopping meccas. I found several incredible antique stores specializing in east African tribal antiques from the 1600s through the 1900s. One such store was like walking back in time. Intricately carved horns, parchment scrolls, rawhide prayer books, wooden masks, wooden statues of every shape and size and many other types of antiques were on display. The owner has several partnerships with antique dealers in … [Read more...]
Zanzibar – Lodging
Amaan Bungalows are located in the northern most village on Zanzibar called Nungwi. Besides the bungalow lodging, they also have three restaurants on the premises. Annex of Abdulla Guest House is centrally located in Stone Town within walking distance to the old Anglican Church built in 1824, the Africa House (a special place for watching the sun set), and to the Old Central Market opened in 1904. All their rooms are self contained and they … [Read more...]
Zanzibar – Restaurants
Forodhani Gardens, located down by the seafront is an excellent source of local cuisine - housing street vendors selling mostly seafood. Meals are cooked in front of you. I ate here several nights and never had any problems with the food. The Tourist Board recommends the following restaurants Fisherman Restaurant in Stone town - excellent fresh fish Restaurant on the roof of the Chavder Hotel. The Pagoda Chinese restaurant.- … [Read more...]
Zanzibar – More Information
In addition to the below websites additional information about Zanzibar can be received by either writing or calling the following organizations: Tanzanian Embassy 2139 R Street NW Washington DC, 20008 Phone: 202.939.6125 | www.tanzaniaembassy-us.org General Information www.africatravelresource.com/africa/tanzania/c/zanzibar an excellent Zanzibar info resource www.ecoculture-zanzibar.org culture Tours -tour operator on Zanzibar … [Read more...]