Prison Island - Where the Turtles Roam Free

Prison Island - a very misleading name for this island that barely reaches 800M long and 250M wide. No prisoners have ever actually spent time here - as it was quarantined for yellow fever victims almost immediately after a prison was constructed on it.  If I was a convict in 1893 I would of been quite excited at the thought of ending up on this small but breathtaking island covered with turtles.  

Our good luck that started once we flew out of Kenya continued on the island as the flash storm that was approaching took a detour.  Allowing us to enjoy a day on the beach - wading in the turquoise waters - napping on the sand - and constructing turtle themed sand castles.

Mama P and I entertained the gang from our two sips of wine while we enjoyed a sunset sail back to the main island. 

A dolphin adventure that left us disappointed was soon forgotten as we ventured into Jozani forest to ooh and awe over monkeys swinging on vines around us.  Fair warning to anyone who ever decides to visit paradise on this side of the world.  When a local informs you it is fighting season - don't duck or hide in fear of getting caught in a monkey scrapping battle - instead get your camera's out and cover your children's eyes.  And prepare to be consumed by confusion and laughter as you discover that 'fighting' turns out to be mating season. 

Swimming lessons in the Tembo pool with Mama P turned out to be nothing short of a very entertaining hour.  

The 'fighting' season continued on Prison Island as we trekked through the brush following the odd sounds we couldn't place.  Only to come across the 160 old turtle mounting the 53 year old turtle. Shock and awe to follow.

We left Prison Island giddy, sunburnt, and with a new interest/appreciation for all of the islands that appear as small specs on the world map.  

Crepes - Seafood and Pizza oh my!

Zanzibar island turned out to be an overwhelming success - and within our short time there I fell in love with StoneTown - the people, and most of all the turquoise waters.   

This little island seemed to have an uncanny knack to have breathtaking views from every patio, balcony and beach.  We started our days from this view at our balcony and ventured into the winding streets looking for trinkets to buy, locals to meet and ice cream to lick!

We also spent a considerable amount of time crouched in the back of a curio shop with the owner who did not speak a drop of english - but gladly allowed us to hide from the flash rains. 

I've discovered a real obsession I have for doors - windows and any type of passageway that seems to have character and colour.

No matter how well planned our night seemed - we always ended up at the local market bartering over fresh seafood and mangoes.  One thing we did not barter over - and likely would've overpaid for was the irresistible nutella crepes. Complete with giant bananas and musical charades. 

Zanzibar you impressed us with your innovational shoes made from old tires - and your hidden treasures we found in each curio - from gypsy pants to chess boards.  

Above all else Tanzanian people have a great sense of humour - noted in the t-shirt for sale above.  How many Tanzanians does it take to complete six braids? Four. As we found out below.

We were satisfied with our morning entertainment of a senior tanzanian performing his 'yoga' on the beach as we indulged on chocolate croissants and corn flakes for breakfast.  Much to our amazement we were even more entertained by the two tourists who decided to get an up close and personal documentation of the local yoga moves.  

And judging by the angle of his camera - we did not want a copy of his prints.

I was quite proud that I had adapted into Kenyan currency with such ease - I was not prepared however for the changes in currency I was about to experience over the next three weeks.  

Currency conversion headaches start below.