Zanzibar was an absolute paradise, and experiencing it with my family made it even more special. We all love to travel, so when the opportunity came up for a trip to this stunning island, there was no hesitation. My mum Trish, my Dad Dermot, sister Aoife, aunt Fiona, and cousin Emma were all just as excited as I was. From the moment we landed, we were greeted by the warm, humid air and the sight of palm trees swaying against the bright blue sky. It was the perfect escape from everyday life.
One of the highlights of the trip was exploring Stone Town. Walking through the narrow, winding streets felt like stepping back in time. The architecture was a beautiful mix of Swahili, Arabic, and European influences, and every corner seemed to have a story to tell. We visited the bustling markets, where the air was filled with the scent of spices, and we stopped for fresh coconut water at a tiny local stall. Aoife and I loved browsing through the handcrafted jewellery and fabrics, while Mum and Fiona were fascinated by the history of the old buildings.
Of course, no trip to Zanzibar would be complete without spending time on its breathtaking beaches. We stayed in a resort right by the ocean, where the sand was soft and white, and the water was the clearest shade of turquoise I had ever seen. Every morning, we had breakfast overlooking the sea before heading out to swim, snorkel, or simply relax under the palm trees. Dad and Dermot spent a lot of time in the water, while Emma and I tried paddleboarding, which was harder than it looked but so much fun.
One of the most unforgettable experiences was the boat trip we took to the famous Mnemba Atoll. The snorkelling there was incredible - the coral reefs were teeming with colourful fish, and we even spotted a sea turtle gliding gracefully through the water. It felt like we were in a nature documentary.
Every evening, we sat together as a family, enjoying incredible seafood and watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean. The whole trip was a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, and sharing it with my family made it even better. Zanzibar completely stole our hearts, and I already know we’ll be back one day.
Currency & Costs: The currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), though US dollars are widely accepted, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.
Language: Swahili is the official language of Zanzibar, but English is commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Swahili phrases, like “Jambo” (hello) and “Asante” (thank you), can go a long way in connecting with locals.
Transport: Dala-dalas (shared minibuses) are the cheapest way to get around, but they can be crowded and unpredictable. Taxis are available but should be negotiated before the ride, as they don’t use meters. Many tourists also hire private drivers for day trips, which is a more comfortable and reliable option. If staying in one area, walking or cycling is a great way to explore.
Customs & Etiquette: Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim island, so dressing modestly is important, especially in Stone Town and local villages. Swimwear is fine on the beach, but covering shoulders and knees is respectful when walking through town. Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum, and during Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight hours should be avoided.
Tipping Culture: Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is standard if service isn’t already included. For tour guides and drivers, a small tip is a nice gesture, and hotel staff, such as cleaners and porters, often receive a few dollars in appreciation for their service.
Marrakech in February was an unforgettable experience. My friend Haille and I had been looking forward to this trip for ages, but before we went, we kept hearing rumours that the area wasn’t safe. After experiencing the city for ourselves, we can confidently say that wasn’t our experience at all. From the moment we arrived, we felt completely at ease, welcomed by the warmth of both the weather and the people.
Our days were filled with adventure, exploration, and plenty of amazing food. One of the absolute highlights was our hot air balloon ride. We woke up before sunrise and were taken out to the launch site in the desert. Watching the enormous balloons inflate in the soft morning light was surreal. As we floated up into the sky, the world below us slowly came into view - rolling desert landscapes, scattered villages, and the distant Atlas Mountains. The sunrise painted the sky with the most beautiful shades of orange and pink, and for a moment, everything was completely still and peaceful. It was a magical experience, one that I’ll never forget.
Back in the city, we spent hours wandering through the Medina, getting lost in the maze of colourful souks. Everywhere we turned, there were stalls selling handcrafted jewellery, vibrant textiles, and the scent of fresh spices filling the air. Haille and I couldn’t resist picking up a few souvenirs, and we even tried our hand at haggling, which was all part of the fun.
The food in Marrakech was another highlight. Every meal felt like a feast - fragrant tagines, fluffy couscous, and the sweetest mint tea I’ve ever had. One evening, we dined on a rooftop terrace, watching the sunset over the city while listening to the distant sounds of the call to prayer. It was such a special atmosphere, a perfect mix of energy and calm.
Before the trip, we had been cautious about safety, but we found Marrakech to be welcoming and full of friendly people. Of course, like in any major city, we stayed aware of our surroundings, but we never felt uncomfortable. Everyone we met was kind and helpful, and the city itself was bursting with life and culture.
The whole trip was incredible - from the thrill of the souks to the peacefulness of floating above the desert at sunrise. Haille and I had the best time, and I know we’ll be reminiscing about it for years to come.
Currency & Costs: The currency in Marrakech is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). It’s a cash-heavy society, so it’s best to carry dirhams for markets, taxis, and small restaurants, though some hotels and larger establishments accept cards.
Language: Arabic and Berber are the official languages of Morocco, but French is widely spoken, especially in Marrakech.
Transport: Marrakech is best explored on foot, but taxis are widely available. Always negotiate the fare before getting in, as many drivers don’t use meters. The local buses are cheap but can be crowded and difficult to navigate for tourists. For a more comfortable option, private drivers or ride-hailing apps like "Careem" can be used.
Customs & Etiquette: Marrakech is a Muslim city, so modest dress is recommended, particularly for women. While tourists aren’t expected to fully cover up, it’s respectful to avoid revealing clothing, especially in the Medina. Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum.
Tipping Culture: Tipping is an important part of Moroccan culture. In restaurants, leaving around 10% is standard if service isn’t included. Small tips for taxi drivers, porters, and tour guides are appreciated. Even a few dirhams for street performers or helpful locals is a kind gesture.