Zanzibar. Just saying it sounds like a warm breeze on a powder-soft beach. And the island is as it sounds: blessed with a warm, sultry climate; beaches with sand so soft in parts it feels like walking on flour; and reefs so rich with coral and tropical fish you feel as if you are swimming in a giant aquarium.

Comprising two large islands fringed by many more, the archipelago vies with the Serengeti as Tanzanias most precious natural asset, able to mesmerize the most jaded traveler into meditative contemplation.

Apart from its beaches, which reach deep into the ocean, turning the shoreline into unreal shades of turquoise blue, Zanzibar offers island-hoppers a uniquely East African flavor. From the tall traditionally garbed Maasai striding across the beach (here, in sunglasses) and Swahili and Indian traders in long salwar kameez and embroidered skull caps, to the women harvesting seaweed, their bodies and heads chastely wrapped in colorful kangas, the blend of cultures is as identifiable as the cuisine. Zanzibar kitchens produce delicious flavors, a combination of Arabic and Indian influences that showcase the islands abundance of coconut milk, freshly ground spices, and even fresher seafood.

A warm, hospitable people, the phrase you will hear most often -- after the typical East African greeting of Jambo, karibu (Hello, welcome) -- is Pole pole! (Slowly, slowly!). Haste and stress is so unusual that when the Zanzibari witness it in travelers, they do so with an incredulous air of concern. It is incomprehensible to them that you are on holiday with your Blackberry and expect to remain in touch, or that you should care so deeply when your breakfast order is misheard. What do these matter when you are in paradise?

Dakina Safaris, with its team of experts invites you to experience this unique destination - we specialize in making travelers safari dreams a reality.