The “House of Wonders” was the first building in Zanzibar to have electric lights (even before London!) and running water. Wonders are what we now call commodities.

Freddie Mercury was born in 1946 in Stone Town where he spent his childhood. There is nothing more than a touristic restaurant to remember the Queen’s leader . The birth house has been transformed into a warehouse. Freddie was reneged from his homeland – predominantly Muslim – for his homosexuality and the shame of AIDS.

The buildings of the Stone Town, executed principally in coralline ragstone and mangrove timber, reflect a complex fusion of Swahili, Indian, Arab and European influences.

The elaborate artwork of the beautiful carved doors typically signified the aspirations or social status of their owners.

Explore the town with a 2 hours tour with a local guide: you will not regret it. You will get a lot of info you cannot find in the books.

If walking in the night be aware that in most of the alleys there is no light. Being in the dark can be a bit scaring: use your mobile phone torch and watch out your steps. Stone Town is a safe city.

Get ready to negotiate prices for everything but restaurants. It’s a bit frustrating but it’s part of their culture.