Out of Africe, Part 4: Stonetown and Shopping

Sunday, July 19 - Today we opted for a private tour of Stone Town. Jason made the arrangements for us to meet the operator and guide at 9:00 A.M. Jason has befriended the young man who is starting up this little business and has met with him several times to offer suggestions and help in running it smoothly. Our tour was very informational and included some rich history of the island. We followed our guide through the narrow maze-like streets and went inside the old castle (which by the way was the meeting point for one of the challenges on the Amazing Race a couple of seasons back!), toured the House of Wonders (museum) and the czar's palace. We also saw the old public bath house (sort of like our modern day spas) and the site of the former slave trade.

We loved the beautiful hand-carved doors we saw throughout the island.Roxanne and Annikah met us for lunch (Jason had accompanied us on the tour) at the Archipelago and then we spent the afternoon shopping. We allowed Roxanne to do the bartering for us - she is definitely an expert. Maybe she should think about becoming a personal shopping escort for Mzungu travelers! Shopping was an interesting but challenging experience. The streets are narrow, and an occasional car or motorcycle would drive through. Crazy stuff! It was fun to see the goods and to choose items to bring home for friends and family.The narrow streets where we shopped. Always be on the lookout for a car, bike, or other moving object!Inside a shop were I purchased hand-quilted bags for Jorie and Annie. Roxanne bought an adorable little dress here for Anni's cousin Claire.