Source: http://www.top-things-to-do.com/africa/zanzibar.jpg

As I prepare myself physically and mentally for my Kilimanjaro hike, part of me is really excited to get that out-of-the-way so I can then enjoy 4 days in Zanzibar, also known as the Spice Island due to the abundant spice plantations on the island. Besides the fact that Zanzibar is a beautiful island with unspoiled beaches near the coast of Tanzania, I didn’t know much about it until I started reading about it more and more.

Conveniently located on the East coast of Africa, Zanzibar was once the main port for sailors coming from Asia and the Middle East trying to get to Europe. In its early years, Zanzibar was known to export spices, slaves and ivory, something not to mention when visiting the island as it may end your conversation with locals abruptly. On a more optimistic note, Zanzibar then began to export silk, gold, diamonds in addition to spices.

Zanzibar inhabitants speak Swahili, a language born from the intermarriage between the Persians and Africans. You’ll quickly notice the influence of Arab, Indian and British settlers when walking in Stone Town, Zanzibar’s old town. One recommendation for travelers is to dress somewhat conservatively (i.e avoid swimwear or provocative clothes) when walking around in Stone Town due to the high presence of Muslims on the Island.

Known as one of the best places in the world for diving, some tourists spend more time below water than over it! The most pristine, white sandy beaches are on the northern tip of the island.  Finding accommodation is relatively easy and not too expensive. I noticed that most places cater to solo travelers which I appreciate!

This is what I know about Zanzibar for now! I’ll definitely provide more information once I come back from the island. I’m really looking forward to it!

City of Nara

One country I have always had on the top of my travel list is Japan. Every since I was small I have always wanted to backpack Japan, however it is so expensive to travel in Japan that I have put it off for so long. Another reason is because my name, Nara is actually a city in Japan. It is no ordinary city either. It is the oldest city in Japan and has been one of the touristy cities to see in Japan. It is only 40 minutes away from another must see city. A city that has lately been taking on the major tourist role is Kyoto. Kyoto is a city that is 100 percent filled with traditions, history, and amazing culture. A few places to see in Kyoto include the Tofukuji Temple. Forget the busy life and reality and merge your inner self with life’s goodness. Another words this is perfect place to find a spot of meditative contemplation of the epic Buddha paintings and it’s famous maple trees. The next place you will want to visit is the Art Center in Kyoto. It is said that young Asian artists are the new taste of art in Kyoto. So a taste of the 21-century with the combination of the true traditional art is now the new edgy, creative design.
Japan is also famous for it gardens, so you need to check out Ryoanji. It is the home of the Japanese rock garden. There is a saying that there are 13 stones arranged is such a way that one can never see all of them at once. Plus this is also a great meditative place, so Ryoanji you will not want to miss.
On the west side of the city at the end of Nijo Avenue there is an ancient castle called Nijojo. You should take a peek inside and see how the emperors use to live. As far as castles go, there is also a palace that is a replica of Beijing’s Forbidden city. It is called Himeji. It is a few hours away from the city but keep in mind it is a world heritage site. This graceful castle is one the most popular sites to see by all Japanese tourists. Many Japanese tourists will pause to donate a few coins and say a prayer that ends with a swift of 3 claps. So if you want to see a little more than history, I would take a little trip over to this castle.
As far a entertainment and nightlife goes, take a walk over to Kyoto’s Pontocho Alley. It is located on the other side of the Kamo River and this alley becomes alive in the evenings. Many restaurants and bars are in line of this narrow lane and after dark it becomes Kyoto’s central destination for eating, socializing, and over all ending your day with a little bit of music. So for all those backpackers who will beat me to see this wonderful city, I say Pontocho alley is a great way to end the day. So who wouldn’t want to see this city?!! Plus if you go, you also must hit up the city of Nara!!

This being said, it was my Jamaican friend’s dad’s 60th Birthday last Saturday and of course, her closest friends were invited. The evening began with some Jamaican patties as appetizers.  Obviously, when the invitation said cocktail at 6:30pm, it translates to 7:30pm for Jamaicans! So we arrived on-time according to Jamaican time- 7:45pm! 15 minutes before the dad’s entrance. Then, the meal started. One word to describe the food… YUM! The menu included curry goat, fried chicken, jerk chicken, fish and beans. It was the first time I ate some real tasty Jamaican food and enjoyed every bite of it! And then…. and then came dessert. Anything from cheese cake, to spicy cake to rum cake was on the sweet table. It was delicious! So after eating such tasty food, it was time to get the P-A-R-T-Y started on the dance floor. Spent a few hours dancing to reggae which was a change.

All this to say that all of us non-Jamaicans enjoyed our time at the party. And 6 years ago, going to a Jamaican party would have probably not interested me but I’m glad that all changed! We had a much more interesting night than if we would have danced in a club or hanging out at a lounge. Change is good.

Colombia

Now everyone says, Colombia is one of the most dangerous countries to travel solo to, however this is where all the independent backpackers ventured off to in 2009. Within the last few years, Colombia has become under control and many backpackers seek into the deep culture and visit Bogotá and Medellin. Not only are the larger cities filled with hidden gems but also the smaller towns. Many backpackers travel to the heart of the coffee-growing region in the Andean Highlands and visit small fishing villages to join/meet friendly locals. Now not only is this country filled with lots of history and culture but it also extremely cheap.

Damascus, Syria

Want to take a step back in time; well many backpackers are doing just that. Syria’s capital city, Damascus is made up of many markets, Mosques, historic sites, and old cities streets. Now when I say old, I mean just that. This city is the oldest city in Syria and most of the city sights are hundreds of years old. When you walk around this city, everywhere you look it will feel like you are traveling back in time. Also not only is this city old, but traveling on a budget is perfect for us backpackers! Since it is incredibly affordable.

Senegal

I know many backpackers travel to Africa, but only to destinations such as Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa. Why not take a step deeper into Africa?! Well in 2009 many backpackers started that trend. Many travelers went over to Senegal to explore the capital city, Dakar. Now I know you might be thinking, that this city is dangerous well actually you are wrong. It is a safe city and is known for an amazing nightlife, and having a great music scene. Not only is the city amazing to sight see, but also the beaches. The beaches are where the backpackers tend to resort to. It is know that the scuba diving and fishing are the main things to do there.

Bangladesh

Many tourists resort to typical vacation destinations, so this stop to Bangladesh is not common. Dhaka, the capital city is know for it’s poverty and not the ideal backpacking location, yet 2009 many backpackers checked this country off their travel list. Dhaka is a city filled with chaotic crowds, but notoriously known to be friendly to the westerners. This city is cheap and filled with plenty of sights to explore.

So for 2010 will you be taking an adventure over to one of these countries?

Source: bootsnall.com