Comoros

Secluded Comoros

Comoros is not your usual beach destination. There aren’t fancy beach resorts, no bars scattered along the seaside and lacks the luxury of other African islands. But it is a scattering of islands across the warm watered Indian Ocean, a countryside paradise and rich in culture.

https://za.pinterest.com/pin/438397344951637966/ – Image 01 (Comorian women)

The Islands are made up of different ethnic groups deriving from Arab and Persian traders, Portuguese conquerors and African slaves. There are also French influences. Dispersed over three islands the country is Muslim-centric. Women are modestly dressed in shiromeni (long tunics and skirts), bright shawls as a headdress and are often some women can be seen going about their day with a mask of sandalwood/coral paste. Men in Comoros wear mostly white garments due to the heat, a skirt and shirt being traditional clothing. Men also wear a Muslim hat (taqiyah).

http://www.internationalcuisine.com/about-food-and-culture-of-comoros/ – Image 02 (Lobster with vanilla sauce)

Comoros has combined its Middle Eastern, African and European influences to create a fusion of tastes. Coconut milk makes an appearance in most dishes, together with rice, plantain and cassava. Locally sourced seafood is the highlight of many meals, and one dish to try when in Comoros is the Langouste a la vanille (boiled lobster in a rich vanilla sauce). There are also sweet treats derived from French pastries, such as ladu (sweetened and spiced ground rice balls). You can step into one of the cafes in Grand Comoros or simply find a street vendor to bite into some delectable food. Don’t forget to say “Bismillah” (thanks to Allah) before you eat just like the loves.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidstanleytravel/10869590963 – Image 03 (Arab quarter)

Narrow streets, sea sprayed buildings and Swahili design is found in the Arab quarter of the largest city in Comoros, Moroni. It is alley ways of ancient buildings that transport you to another time. And while similarly compared to Stone Town in Zanzibar, it has its own magic. The old quarter brings Arab culture to life and should be a must-visit on your trip. Take note of the carefully carved wooden doors.

http://africaforamateurs.com/eastern-africa/comoros/mount-ntingui – Image 04 (Mount Ntingui)

Take a hike up Mount Ntingui, it’s a steep climb on the island Anjouan that will take you a day to complete. From the peak of Mount Ntingui, you can have panoramic view of the archipelago. This dormant volcano is covered in dense forest and you are bound to find native animals and many species of birdlife on your way to the top. You will need to take a boat from the main island Grand Comoros.

A holiday to Comoros is not your usual island getaway. It is not a luxury holiday, it is something unique. Its raw, rustic and unpredictable.