2025 Travel Spotlight: Zanzibar City, Tanzania, Wins Best International Vacation

Stone Town, old colonial center of Zanzibar City. House of Wonders. Old Fort. Azure sea and stunning yellow beaches. Unguja island, Tanzania. Aerial.
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Zanzibar City has been crowned the Travel Noire Award winner for Best International Vacation. This coastal gem blends historic charm, island beauty, and world-class hospitality, making it a standout on the global travel map.

Stone Town’s UNESCO Heritage

The Old Dispensary, also known as Ithnashiri Dispensary, historical building in Stone Town, Zanzibar in Tanzania
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At the heart of Zanzibar lies Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with coral stone buildings, narrow alleys, and carved wooden doors. It is a living museum that tells the story of centuries of trade and cultural exchange.

Street Food Magic at Forodhani Gardens

Street food Forodhani on the waterfront, Stone town, Zanzibar.
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The Forodhani Gardens Night Market is a feast for the senses. Travelers gather here for grilled seafood, steaming skewers, and the island’s unique Zanzibar pizza, all while soaking in the vibrant street culture.

Beaches That Suit Every Traveler

Sandbank at Pemba Island, Tanzania. A paradise on Earth.
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Zanzibar’s coastline offers something for everyone. Nungwi in the north is perfect for year-round swimming, while Paje on the east coast attracts kite surfers and free spirits. Each stretch of sand is a postcard-worthy escape.

House of Wonders and Living History

old house of wonders Zanzibar
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Historic landmarks such as the House of Wonders, Old Fort, and Livingstone House showcase the island’s rich trading past. Preserved for decades, these sites anchor Zanzibar’s cultural identity and charm.

Spice Island: Flavors That Define a Culture

Stone Town Marketplace
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Known as the Spice Island, Zanzibar offers cuisine infused with cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Local dishes highlight African, Arab, and Indian influences, creating meals that are as layered as the island’s history.

Getting to Zanzibar Is Easier Than Ever

Airplane landing at Zanzibar Tanzania airport mirrored in terminal
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Travelers now benefit from direct flights to Zanzibar from major East African cities and beyond. Improved accessibility has helped fuel the island’s rise as one of the most desirable vacation spots.

Stay Your Way: Resorts or Boutique Charm

rooftop dining over stone town Zanzibar Tanzania
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Visitors can choose from luxury beachfront resorts, family-friendly hotels, or intimate boutique stays in Stone Town. This range of options makes Zanzibar welcoming to both budget travelers and high-end vacationers.

A Fusion of Cultures in Every Corner

African masks on the market in Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania
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Zanzibar reflects a blend of Arab, Swahili, Indian, and European cultures. From architecture to food and music, every corner of the island offers a unique glimpse into its diverse heritage.

Why Zanzibar Deserves the Win

Blue peacock on prison island in Zanzibar
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With its turquoise waters, vibrant history, and unmatched hospitality, Zanzibar City delivers an unforgettable experience. It is no surprise this destination was chosen as 2025’s Best International Vacation.

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