After a trip to Uganda, we are planning 4 or 5 days by the beach Zanzibar. One guide book said two guys are not allowed to share a room on the island, even a twin room? Has anyone come accross this before? We would rather share the cost of a twin room than pay single supplement on two rooms.
Any suggestions on quiet relaxing places to stay, ....lazing about in a hammock under a tree with a good book sort of thing?

I haven't had any problems booking single men into a room on Zanzibar. However, some of the small private bungalow type hotels may not be as accommodating.

Don't know which guidebook states this or how old the information. Granted ZNZ is a Muslim community, but with exception of a few hotels that don't serve alcohol, they are most welcoming of visitors. It's also not unusual to see men holding hands here, but it isn't necessarily thought of as "a gay thing."

But do strongly suggest that neither straight nor gay visitors show public displays of affection, especially in Stone Town.

If you're using a tour operator to plan your Uganda trip, ask for a referral for an outfitter on Zanzibar, contact them directly and just ask for a room. Provide them with dates, budget, with or without air conditioning; don't make a big deal out of fact that you are two single men, just give them the names and leave it at that.

Sandi, thank you for your reply. it sounds very sensible and good to get a view from someone who is familar with the area.
The guide book I referred to is the Rough Guide to Zanzibar, July 2006, in the good manners sections!! Other books I saw dont make such a big deal of two men sharing, but give advice along similar lines to what you suggested.
Thanks again for your input.

Did not have a problem in Stone Town. We had 2 men that shared a room at Dhow Palace. We encountered no problems and made no attempt to call attention to our group. It is very Muslim so behave accordingly.

Stayed at Pongwe in June. Completely perfect. Spent a lot of time in a hammock.

was in zanzibar in july at the blue bay resort, and we had no problem with guys or girls sharing rooms. i did hear about that problem in nirobi, where the girls had to say they were sisters to stay together.