While parts of Europe and the West were still floundering in the dark ages, the light of the Orient had already started shining on Zanzibar. The Swahili Coast in East Africa formed part of a large mercantile civilization, where Zanzibar found its self in the middle as an alluring, tropical stopover. Settlers and traders from the Middle East, Africa, India, South-East Asia and Europe were drawn by the island's balmy weather and promise of riches.
Expecting not much more than an exotic, resort-destination (as Zanzibar is so often portrayed in the media), I was immediately swept off my feet by the vibrance of the local youth culture. I saw pride, style and striking individuality amongst the local young men - scenes that could be likened to other major African hubs like Lagos, Accra, Johannesburg, etc.
