This is my final day here in Zanzibar and I’m appreciative of how it lulled me into a peaceful pace and let me kick back and recharge.

Life seemed simple here as I’ve watched it unfold just by sitting still. Men hauling fish from the water echoing sounds of laughter that at times sounded more like heckles to a politician, women walking the beach wearing colourful silks scarfs over their heads, groups of kids playing at the waters edge as free as the day they were born, and local vendors walking the beach trying to sell overpriced trinkets to tourist. Nothing seemed overly complicated or concerning in this idyllic setting until I recognized the great divide from my perch of privilege overlooking the tranquil turquoise water.

An easy escape for any tourist who doesn’t feel like the obligatory small talk with vendors is to simply keep walking and settle back into the 1st world comforts of the hotel while locals look on and can only imagine; and that’s what happened to me. And to be honest, I felt a tinge of guilt as they waved to me on my perfectly positioned beach front balcony. It made me think of the role we play as travellers, and what would happen if we didn’t come?

But in the end if we are conscience of our choices and how we spend our money it can have a positive impact on the communities and families that aren’t as fortunate.

When we travel, we can all help make a difference if we’re more mindful about the decisions that we make.

So, I guess I better go buy some more trinkets.

May the travel bug bite you!

Insider’s Tips:

If your schedule permits, a couple nights in Stone Town is worth a visit before heading north to the beaches.

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat Villa Kiva, Matemwe is a 28 room boutique hotel located on the northwest coast of Zanzibar. Situated on a beautiful stretch of pristine white sand beach with a PADI dive shop next door. Taxi from Stone Town approximately $40.00USD.

For the most part, east coast beaches are only swimmable during high tide, so if having access to a swimming beach is important then beaches on the west side of the island are better suited.