Details: Zanzibar

GETTING THERE

Ethiopian Airlines flies from Dulles to Zanzibar via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for about $1,200 round trip. Airport pickups can be arranged in advance through any of the island's hotels. If you prefer to negotiate a fare on arrival, the one-way trip from the airport to Stone Town costs about $10.

Stone Town is compact and best explored on foot; guided tours can be arranged through any hotel or through local tour companies such as Zan Tours (Malawi Road; 011-255-242-233-116; http://www.zantours.com). At night, it's safest to walk in groups; muggings of solo travelers aren't uncommon. When in doubt, take a taxi: They're clustered outside all of Stone Town's most popular nightspots, with fares around town typically less than $3.

WHERE TO STAY

In Zanzibar city:

Zanzibar Serena Inn, 011-255-242-233-587, http://www.serenahotels.com/zanzibar/inn/home.asp. Stone Town's most luxurious option, with whitewashed walls and wrought-iron balconies fronting the sea. Double rooms from $475.

Beyt al Chai, 011-255-774-444-111, http://www.bluebayzanzibar.com/beyt-al-chai/index.php. Eight stylish rooms in what was once a Zanzibari teahouse. Doubles from $160.

Zanzibar Coffee House, 011-255-242-239-319, http://www.riftvalley-zanzibar.com. A cafe-cum-boutique hotel, with eight comfortable rooms built above a Stone Town coffee shop. Doubles from $80.

On the beach:

Kendwa Rocks, 011-255-774-415-475, http://www.kendwarocks.com. Beachside huts and bungalows on the northern tip of the island. Doubles from $40.

Breezes Beach Club & Spa, 011-255-774-440-883, http://www.breezes-zanzibar.com. A sprawling resort on the east coast. Doubles from $350.

WHERE TO EAT