On my way to the east coast of Zanzibar, I was brought to a local spice plantation for a tour and sampling of spices and fruits that are locally grown.  The growing and processing of vanilla pods, pepper corn vines, lemongrass plants, ginger root and cinnamon trees were explained in detail. I was able to sample these fresh spices right off the plants. If you are a person who appreciates cooking and preparing food, this is a great experience. You truly have not lived until you have tasted cinnamon bark sliced directly from the tree.  I was also shown the various tropical fruits that grow on Zanzibar including lemons, passion fruit, durian, jackfruit and pineapple. After viewing the various plants and trees, I was brought to an area and a large banana leaf was placed in front of me. Three local men then came over with a buffet of fresh fruit for me to sample. I think I ate their entire season’s harvest of passion fruit.  To top this wonderful experience off, a local boy climbed a 10 metre coconut tree, fetched some coconuts and then cut them open so I could enjoy some juice and coconut meat.