OVERVIEW
Sunshine, tropical tides and a history and culture infused with spice. For centuries, Zanzibar was a destination for explorers and merchants seeking clove, nutmeg, vanilla, black pepper, and coriander. Today, the exotic locale offers outstanding beaches, Swahili culture, a culinary fusion of Indian, Arab, Chinese, Portuguese and African cooking traditions and the historic capital of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
HIGHLIGHTS
We begin our trip with several days in Arab-influenced Stone Town where we will stay in one of the oldest buildings in Zanzibar constructed in 1885 transformed into a stylish hotel. As we move closer to our project site, we will experience coastal life and live our ‘castaway’ fantasies on beautiful whitesand Matemwe beach. Other highlights include:
- Learn about the Spice Islands and its colourful history through custom experiences that support our design work.
- Enjoy rooftop meals in Stone Town’s best restaurants.
- Work collaboratively with the Barefoot community to identify needs, project parameters and set achievable outcomes for our stay.
- Feel the warm Indian Ocean breeze aboard a traditional wooden Dhow.
- Visit a spice farm and experience firsthand what gives the spice island its name.
- Days at Matemwe will be spent both working and relaxing.
PROJECT
We will collaborate with the skills training branch of Barefoot College Zanzibar to resolve a to-be-determined problem or opportunity. For over 40 years, Barefoot College has been the world’s only college for the rural poor. Operating in over 50 countries, their “one village at a time, one woman at a time” approach to development emphasizes self-sufficiency and sustainability. Barefoot College Zanzibar teaches practical skills, including solar energy, beekeeping and sewing.
Collectively, we will assess needs through direct observation and capture insights to inform design solutions. Two CoDA trip leaders will guide the process and along with our local partners, we will have some fun, while creating meaningful outcomes.
Read more about Barefoot College at the following link www.barefootcollege.org
WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR
This trip is for design professionals, but also those who may want a little more comfort. On this design adventure we will be staying in hotels with all amenities. Due to the nature of the location, and its tourist infrastructure we will also enjoy some nice meals and beach time.
We are looking for 8 designers to join us on this design adventure.
DETAILS
Dates: June 7th to June 20th, 2020 beginning and ending in Zanzibar. You must plan your travel to be in Zanzibar by the evening of June 7th.
Trip Cost: $4,250.00CAD ($3,290USD) based on single occupancy*
Accommodation: Hotels with all amenities. Please note our accommodation is chosen for its uniqueness*, so not all rooms are equal. We try to balance the needs of our participants. If you have a smaller room at our first stay, you are likely to have a bigger room at our next stay. Consider traveling with your partner or a friend –some of the most remarkable accommodation (suites) suit two people.
Itinerary: 5 nights in Stonetown and 8 nights on Matemwe Beach. A detailed itinerary, including hotel information and daily activities will be provided to participants once team is finalized.
What’s Included: All accommodation, breakfasts, most dinners, and transportation for 13 days/nights. Fully-curated cultural and historical tours. (Some lunches may be provided depending on our working location).
Additional Expenses: We’ve taken care of most of the details. Additional expenses include your flight ($1000-1500), airport transfers ($10), some lunches ($5/day), 2 dinners ($5-15), travel insurance, visa (US $50) and beverages.
It is recommended you visit a travel clinic before departure.
PARTNERS
BAREFOOT COLLEGE
Special thanks to Barefoot College, our partner in India and Zanzibar. Barefoot provides the campus that we work on, translation services and a local facilitator. Barefoot College also provides employment and support services to the community members throughout the year, thereby creating the opportunity not only to work with a dedicated group of villagers but also the opportunity for the ideas that are generated from our short time together to be implemented after we leave.
This is an intimate travel experience where you will engage meaningfully with the community we will be working with. It’s also an opportunity to unplug, roll up your sleeves in a supportive and relaxing environment, to work and network with new people and learn or refresh design skills, all while making profound connections by sharing culture and ideas.
CoDA trips are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities made equally by those who participate. It is team travel for like-minded creatives who aspire to see and engage with the world in a meaningful way. The participants, (you!), shape the outcome. With only eight team members and two guides we are nimble and flexible.
