The ‘Spice Island’ is a mysterious and exotic melting pot off the coast of Tanzania. As the historic nexus of the world’s spice trade, it generated untold wealth. Sultan’s palaces, merchant’s mansions and exclusive beach hideaways abound. The real hidden gems in Zanzibar are Stone Town, with its artisanal coffee shops and bustling outdoor markets, and Spice Farms, where guests are able to experience the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg and cardamom. Mornings can be spent swimming with dolphins and kite surfing and evenings exploring hookah bars and restaurants serving inspirational dishes that fuse Swahili, Arabic and European cuisine.