60 YEAR OLD CAR TO BOOST TOURISM IN ZANZIBAR


One of the world’s leading tourist destination, Zanzibar will for the first time witness the ancient car rally that is meant to unveil more tourist attractions in the spice Islas, thanks to the collaboration between the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and Park Hyatt Zanzibar hotel.
According to the Isle’s Minister for Information, Tourism, Culture & Sports, Rashid Ali Juma, the fondly referred to as the “royal guest”, a 60-year-old Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire car will lead the first ever car rally in Zanzibar on August 26, this year.
The luxury British manufactured car first set its wheels in Zanzibar during the sultanate era and can be spotted at the entrance of Park Hyatt Zanzibar.
“Zanzibar is known for its rich history and what better addition to the island’s portfolio of old buildings, mosques, and museums than a historical car? Park Hyatt Zanzibar is honored to partner with various stakeholders in the Tourism industry in this car rally majorly meant to promote the island as a destination”, says Garry Friend, General Manager of Park Hyatt Zanzibar.
The car rally will be flagged off in Stone Town (Park Hyatt Zanzibar) and will end at Kiwengwa (Melia Zanzibar) with two pit stops along the way where participants will have a treasure hunt at the House of Wonders and a fruits splurge before proceeding to Melia Zanzibar. Both vintage and non-vintage cars are expected to participate in the rally which will be flagged off at 10.00am. The Guest of Honor will be Hon. Rashid Ali Juma, Minister for Information, Tourism, Culture & Sports.
“The history of the vintage car blends in perfectly with the history of the 200-year-old building marked as a UNESCO heritage site, which hosts Park Hyatt Zanzibar. Other than the car rally, we plan to engage our royal guest in various other activities that can build the country and touch the lives of the local community such as charity events. We currently support organizations such as the Old Age Home, Shangani Football Club and Children’s Education Foundation of Zanzibar amongst others”, he said.
The Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire is a charming a stately motor car of the rarely seen product of Britain’s rich motoring heritage. Manufactured in 1958, this particular unit was for 33 years in a British family ownership, including three owners within the family who were part of the British Parliament.
Furthermore, King Bhumibol of Thailand uses the same car and the last sultan of Zanzibar owned an Armstrong Siddeley 18 HP LWB Landaulette, in which he reportedly had Princess Margaret taken around the island when she visited in 1956.
Park Hyatt Zanzibar hotel is situated on the beachfront in Stone Town, the historical center of the city and a designated UNESCO Heritage site. The hotel is housed in two buildings. The main building of the hotel is Mambo Msiige – a UNESCO heritage building steeped in history, grace, and mystique with roots dating back to the 17th century.
The purpose built Zamani Residence, adjacent to Mambo Msiige, offers an authentic dining concept featuring a Living Room, a Library with Veranda and a Dining Room with an outdoor terrace all offering a unique and elegant culinary experience showcasing the local produce from the open plan style kitchen.
From the 67 spacious, elegant guest rooms and suites, authentic cuisine and spectacular views to the oceanfront infinity pool, The Spa, fully-equipped fitness center and exceptional meeting, event and private function facilities, Park Hyatt Zanzibar offers both discerning business travelers and luxury holiday makers rare, intimate and unforgettable experiences.

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