A new study by travel advisory firm Bounce has crowned Zanzibar the second-best island destination for 2024, surpassing popular hotspots like Mallorca, Ibiza, and Sardinia. Only Phuket, Thailand, edged out Zanzibar for the top spot in this ranking, which considered factors ranging from beer prices to the number of beaches.
"Often thought of as just one big tropical island, Zanzibar is a large cluster of over 40 islands. You can explore every island, many of which are virtually untouched by tourists, each full of culture, history, and shining white-sand beaches," the study highlights Zanzibar's diversity.
In addition to its moderate climate, the Tanzanian archipelago offers affordable accommodation with an average hotel price of $160 per night, in contrast to islands such as Bali, where the price soars to $1,870 per night.
Even with recent fluctuations in the liquor industry, a local beer in Zanzibar remains a steal at $1.93, significantly cheaper than in destinations like Sardinia, where beer averages $4.28, earning it the title of most expensive.
Another African island destination on the list was Mauritius. The East African island-country was ranked the 7th best island destination for 2024.
Top Island Destinations according to Bounce:
1. Phuket, Thailand
2. Zanzibar, Tanzania
3. Crete, Greece
4. Puerto Rico, Caribbean
5. Mallorca, Spain
6. Cozumel, Mexico
7. Mauritius, Africa
8. Aruba, South America
9. Bali, Indonesia
10. Ibiza, Spain
11. Sardinia, Italy