Michael Sweeney

I set-up Zanzibar Travel in 1997 after nearly 30 years of health service planning in Australia & the UK. The (late) mid-life crisis/opportunity stemmed from a visit the previous year to Zanzibar where I had spent some of my childhood. A chance comment from a fellow traveler - “Why don’t you start organising holidays to Zanzibar?” – started the ball rolling.

16 years down the line, I am still organising holidays to Zanzibar and East Africa, and enjoying every moment. One of the many bonuses is that I have to visit Zanzibar and go on safari regularly so that I can give advice based on current knowledge.

My commitment to Zanzibar stems from the time I spent there as a child. I have found the childhood memories a reality; the island is as beautiful, mystical and intriguing as I remember; the people are welcoming and optimistic about their future. I genuinely feel visitors will appreciate the beauty and exotic charm of Zanzibar.

Natalie Blake

Natalie, my daughter, joined me in 1999 when enquiries and bookings started to increase. She brought considerable experience to Zanzibar Travel, having worked for 10 years in sports travel, organising supporter travel to major sporting events, including Rugby and Football World Cups.

She brings a degree of rigour, and humour to the office. Having visited Zanzibar with her family, she is well placed to give advice to people planning a visit with a young family.

Grand Travel International (GTI)

GTI has been our agent on Zanzibar since we started operations. In all the years we have never had to question their honesty or integrity – not bad in any business relationship.

Their staff are local so extremely knowledgeable and during transfers provide guests with much information about the island.

We feel secure knowing that our clients will be well looked after during their stay. GTI also both organise and undertake excursions for visitors.

[click GTI image to enlarge]