With the Eid break just around the corner, WTM picks three top spots to add to your vacation list.
Zanzibar
Oozing with Swahili culture, Zanzibar boasts azure seas, white sandy beaches and adventurous landscapes.
Located just off the coast of Tanzania, the archipelago offers an idyllic getaway for travellers on any and every kind of budget.
Prison Island in the north, with its giant turtles, is a must-see attraction. The water here is considered to be the clearest, and there are some wonderful coral areas to discover whilst snorkelling. You can assist in feeding the huge turtles by the beach and then head to the fascinating slave trade museum.
Be enthralled by the charm of the iconic capital of Zanzibar – Stone Town, which offers a myriad of narrow streets winding their way through galleries, fabric stalls and quaint coffee shops. Explore by foot for a first-hand, authentic cultural experience of the day-to-day life of the people.
Georgia
Yes, this is the same country your friends (and perhaps you) may have posted Facebook pictures of. With a plethora of geographical wonders such as mountains, caves, beaches and sprawling countryside, Georgia attracts travellers from all over the world. The capital, Tbilisi, is an old city dotted with parks, cathedrals, courtyards and imposing historic buildings, where you can get acquainted with the friendly locals and immerse yourself in their rich culture.
Outside Tbilisi is the town of Mtskheta, which boasts the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral dating back to the 11th century.
Down the road is Jvari, a sixth century monastery. Head towards the west and you have Batumi, the Black Sea city with shimmering beaches and promenades. When heading to the mountains, make sure to witness the ‘lezginka’, a mesmerising dance native to all the Caucasus Mountains.
Aruba
Aruba may be best known for its beautiful Caribbean beaches and perfect weather, but the island is brimming with history, cacti groves, rugged landscapes, chiselled cliffs, exotic local dishes and culture.
With a geographic position just north of Venezuela, it boasts nearly perfect weather all year round. Travellers can ride dune buggies or laze on the single most handsome stretch of sand – Eagle Beach. Get your scoop on Dutch history around town or feed and pet donkeys at the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary. Set on a pier on the ocean, Pincho’s is one of the most romantic restaurants in town. Local fish and hearty steaks show off a fusion of flavours. The sprawling Arikok National Park is unquestionably one of the most beautiful parts of the island, with an amalgam of winding hiking trails, turtle nests, old farmhouses, and more.
