Stone Town: The Heartbeat of Zanzibar

• HelloJambo
  [jahm-boh]
• GoodbyeKwaheri
  [kwah-heh-ree]
• YesNdio
  [nn-dee-oh]
• NoHapana
  [hah-pah-nah]
• Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [tah-fah-dah-lee]
• Thank youAsante
  [ah-sahn-teh]
• Excuse me/SorrySamahani
  [sah-mah-hah-nee]
• How are you?Habari gani?
  [hah-bah-ree gah-nee]
• Fine. And you?Safi. Na wewe?
  [sah-fee. nah weh-weh]
• Do you speak English?Unazungumza Kiingereza?
  [oo-nah-zoon-goom-zah kee-een-geh-reh-zah]
• I don't understandSieelewi
  [see-eh-leh-wee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
  [nee-neh-pen-dah coo-oh-nah meh-nyoo, tah-fah-dah-lee]
• I don't eat meatMimi siili nyama
  [mee-mee see-ee-lee nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Afya!
  [ah-fyah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
  [nee-neh-pen-dah koo-lee-pah, tah-fah-dah-lee]

• Help!Usaidizi!
  [oo-sah-ee-dee-zee]
• Go away!Nenda zako!
  [nen-dah zah-koh]
• Call the Police!Piga simu polisi!
  [pee-gah see-moo poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Piga simu daktari!
  [pee-gah see-moo dahk-tah-ree]
• I'm lostNimepotea
  [nee-meh-poh-teh-ah]
• I'm illMimi ni mgonjwa
  [mee-mee nee m-gohn-jwah]

• I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
  [nee-neh-pen-dah koo-noo-noo-ah]
• I'm just lookingNatazama tu
  [nah-tah-zah-mah too]
• How much is it?Ni bei gani?
  [nee bay gah-nee]
• That's too expensiveHuo ni ghali sana
  [hoo-oh nee gah-lee sah-nah]
• Can you lower the price?Unaweza kupunguza bei?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-poon-goo-zah bay]

• What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah-ah ngah-pee]
• It's one o'clockNi saa moja
  [nee sah-ah moh-jah]
• Half past (10)Nusu kumi
  [noo-soo koo-mee]
• MorningAsubuhi
  [ah-soo-boo-hee]
• AfternoonMchana
  [m-chah-nah]
• EveningJioni
  [joh-ee-nee]
• YesterdayJana
  [jah-nah]
• TodayLeo
  [leh-oh]
• TomorrowKesho
  [keh-shoh]
• 1Moja
  [moh-jah]
• 2Mbili
  [mm-bee-lee]
• 3Tatu
  [tah-too]
• 4Nne
  [nn-neh]
• 5Tano
  [tah-noh]
• 6Sita
  [see-tah]
• 7Saba
  [sah-bah]
• 8Nane
  [nah-neh]
• 9Tisa
  [tee-sah]
• 10Kumi
  [koo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Iko wapi...?
  [ee-koh wah-pee]
• What's the address?Anwani ni ipi?
  [ahn-wah-nee nee ee-pee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-nee-oh-nyeh-shah kweh-neh rah-mah-nee]
• When's the next (bus)?Basi la pili litakuja lini?
  [bah-see lah pee-lee lee-tah-koo-jah lee-nee]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (kwenda ....)
  [tee-keh-tee kwen-dah]

Stone Town, also known as Mji Mkongwe, was established in the 19th century on the western coast of Unguja, the main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago. It emerged as a key port city due to its strategic position along the Indian Ocean trade routes, attracting traders from Arabia, Persia, India, and later Europe.

In 1698, the Sultanate of Oman took control of Stone Town, transforming it into a bustling center for the clove trade. The Omani sultans moved their capital to Zanzibar in 1840, further solidifying Stone Town's status as a hub of commerce and culture. The clove plantations, worked by enslaved Africans, became a vital part of the local economy.

Stone Town was a major center for the East African slave trade. Slaves were brought from the interior of Africa to Zanzibar, where they were then sold and shipped to various parts of the world. The Anglican Cathedral, built on the site of a former slave market, stands as a poignant reminder of this dark chapter in the town's history.

In 1890, Zanzibar became a British protectorate following the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty between Britain and Germany. The British influence ushered in several reforms, including the abolition of the slave trade. Stone Town saw the construction of several colonial buildings during this period, adding to its architectural diversity.

On January 12, 1964, the Zanzibar Revolution took place, overthrowing the Sultanate and ending centuries of Arab dominance. The revolution led to the establishment of the People's Republic of Zanzibar and Pemba, which later merged with Tanganyika to form the United Republic of Tanzania. The revolution had a profound impact on the social and political landscape of Stone Town.

In 2000, Stone Town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its unique blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European elements. The town's labyrinthine streets, historic buildings, and vibrant markets continue to attract visitors from around the world, eager to explore its rich cultural heritage.

Stone Town's diverse population reflects its history as a crossroads of various cultures. The Swahili culture, with its distinct language, cuisine, and traditions, is a blend of African, Arab, Persian, and Indian influences. Festivals such as the Zanzibar International Film Festival and Sauti za Busara celebrate this cultural fusion, drawing artists and audiences globally.

Stone Town is located on the western coast of Unguja, the main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago in Tanzania. The nearest airport is Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), approximately 8 kilometers from Stone Town. You can get direct flights from major cities in East Africa and connecting flights from other international destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to Stone Town, which typically takes around 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reach Stone Town by ferry from Dar es Salaam. The ferry ride takes around 2 hours.

Stone Town is best explored on foot due to its narrow, winding streets. For longer distances, taxis are readily available. Make sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey as taxis in Stone Town do not use meters. Public minibuses, known as 'daladalas', are a cost-effective way to travel around the island but can be crowded and less comfortable. Renting a bicycle or a scooter is another popular option for exploring both Stone Town and the rest of Zanzibar.

The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). US Dollars are also widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and tourist shops. Credit cards are accepted in many places, but smaller vendors and markets may require cash. ATMs are available in Stone Town, but it's advisable to carry some cash with you, especially if you plan to travel to more remote areas. Be aware that some ATMs may charge withdrawal fees.

Stone Town is generally safe for tourists, but it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, so keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places. The Forodhani Gardens and Darajani Market are popular spots but can attract pickpockets. Always use reputable taxi services and avoid accepting rides from strangers.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is Mnazi Mmoja Hospital, located in Stone Town, which provides medical services. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies around the town. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. If you lose your passport, contact your country's embassy or consulate in Dar es Salaam.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering a mosque and dress conservatively. Public Transport: Do be mindful of local etiquette. Don’t argue with the driver or other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. Using the right hand is considered polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t eat or drink in public during Ramadan if you visit during this holy month.

To experience Stone Town like a local, visit the Darajani Market for fresh produce and spices. Engage with locals and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations on where to eat or what to see. Take a stroll along the waterfront at Forodhani Gardens in the evening to enjoy local street food. Don’t miss visiting the Old Fort and the House of Wonders for a glimpse into Zanzibar’s rich history. For a unique experience, consider taking a traditional dhow cruise at sunset.