Now, I had the opportunity to have my two-week holiday turn into ending up living in Zanzibar for the summer season … yes, I know crazy! Long story short, I went on a vacation with a girl friend of mine, and I really loved it. The island living and lifestyle is something that truly warms my soul and one day on the vacation I ended up being offered to manage a new restaurant that had just opened on the beach front. I remember contacting my mum and one of my closest friends in Dubai and telling them about the opportunity. One thought I was crazy and the other knew my decision already … take your pick on who said what haha …  I just knew I would regret it if I didn’t give it a go and try … so I did! I ended up staying in Paje for the summer season and it was the most incredible, eye-opening, rewarding months of my life thus far. These were the moments that made me truly fall in love with Africa, it’s culture, people and ambience 

I will always have a love and attachment for the island, and I truly hope you reading this can visit Paje too!  

When it comes to food on this side of the island …  

Now for me personally, my lifestyle is mostly plant based with some local fish when I feel like, so I was not disappointed at all with the food scene over here. I can’t give you my opinion on nyama choma haha, but I can on the fresh produce and seafood scene! 

1. The top all-rounder that you must visit is ‘Hello Capitano’, again I may be biased, but this paradise is where I managed, and it supplies the freshest, cleanest meals. I can say this as I know the standards right well from being a part of the team and managing the kitchen for the time I was there. The seafood is not only the freshest you can possibly get, the preparation, flavours and meals created are ones you will only find yourself returning for more and more!  
2. I am pretty sure this place became my second home and I ate at least one meal here every single day for the summer … that is Sativa café on the main street … now I am a big mother nature plant based foodie, so this place really was my sort of my heaven. I will only say to eat anything and everything … there was not one stand out for me; everything was a standout that I ate. However, if you are just stopping by, then I highly recommend you order ‘Six senses’ and share a bit of everything with a friend or get take away as it is quite a spread! The ladies here are my dadas and will take care of you! 
3. Another gorgeous evening can be spent at Oxygen, it is a beautiful spot to enjoy the sunset and a lovely dinner with glorious seafood dishes, it is a lovely place for a date night and some nights have a local band playing which really adds to the lovely ambience  
4. Mr Kahawa is another stunning beachline side café which is perfect for a breakfast or lunch. It reminds me a lot of Australia, in particular Noosa and their cafes. They have wonderful smoothies, salads, wraps … the menu is enormous, and the hospitality is great as well 

When it comes to accommodation, I will hand on heart say there is only one place that I will stay and will continue to for when I am in Paje and that is Ananda Beach House. If I had to describe it in one word, it would be ‘paradise’ … it is in the best position on the beach front, the owners are beyond amazing, and the staff are incredible. They truly care and will cater to your desired needs 

Now, I stayed in Paje solo for the summer and while I consider it to be safe and comfortable, I wouldn’t suggest walking on the beach after sunset and just be cautious of keeping belongings on you in case of picket pocketers. 

Please don’t be alarmed by beach boys hustling for your attention on the beach, they are friendly, and I feel a part of the experience. They have wonderful stories and enjoy kicking a football around 

Zanzibar’s population is mostly Muslim and although it is completely ok to dress as you, please on the beach front, wearing bikinis and shorts. I would be mindful when you are on the main street and in the village and dress more modest 

Overall, my experience was very positive, I miss the beautiful country, its people, local cuisine and energy … I am positive you will love it too 

Please do not hesitate to make contact and ask me any further questions too xxx