The Road to Zanzibar

We arrived in fabulous Zanzibar yesterday.

The ferry from Dar Es Salaam took about two hours and yes, we paid about $10 too much for the tickets because we (I) got taken in by a street-smart tout who got a 'commission' at our expense. Live and learn. (photo taken from the ferry)

Stone Town is the old section of Zanzibar, where our hotel, the Dhow Palace, is located. It's amazing and exotic. We had breakfast in the roof restaraunt this morning, fabulous sweet pineapple and papaya, banana and watermelon. Thanks to Paul, Barb's former boss, who stayed here and recommended it.

Last night we went to Mercury's, a restaraunt named after Freddie Mercury of Queen, who was born here. The restaraunt is right on the ocean. We sat on the deck under the stars and ate fabulous seafood with friends of our friend Paula who are working here. Saturday they are taking us to see the old slave market and cells at the current Anglican Mission where they are working.

What happened to the music festival, you may ask. We did get to the old fort yesterday where it is taking place and saw the opening parade, but didnt manage to hear much music. We'll make up for that this afternoon. This morning, we're off to see monkeys and butterflies at a sanctuary near here.