So Why Africa?

Safari is a Swahili word that means "a journey", but in English the word conjures up "adventure", "exotic animals", or perhaps images of the wide open African plain. Several people have asked me "So what crazy idea inspired you to go to Africa?!?" A fair question, indeed. For me, Africa holds a sort of romantic wildness, where human beings still live off the land while amazing animals (that we've only ever seen in zoos) roam free and wild. Aside from seeking natural beauty, I'm drawn to this fascinating land and people tempered by unique political, economic, and cultural histories.

Of course, "Africa" is an entire continent, very large and incredibly diverse. While it is comprised of over 50 countries(!), it's usually easier to say "i'm going to Africa".. as most don't know their Zambia from their Zimbabwe. Raise your hand if you fall into this category. It's okay, because i didn't exactly know these differences either before i started preparing for this trip. But that's why i choose to travel.. to meet people of different walks of life, experience new cultures, and learn more about our incredible world.

So just where am i going on this African adventure? First, i am flying direct from DC to Johannesburg, South Africa (17 glorious hours!) and then another two hour flight to Cape Town. After a few days exploring this culturally rich and beautiful city, i'll fly to the east African country of Tanzania. Here i will spend the bulk of my trip as i go on safari in the world renowned Serengeti National Park where i hope to see elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, leopards, zebras, hippos, and maybe an odd wildebeest or hyena. While in Tanzania, i also plan to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, one of the world's most striking mountains and Africa's tallest. This should be quite a challenge, and i welcome a great challenge!

I created this blog with the intention of sharing my experiences with you. Hopefully i'll manage to keep it interesting, get some awesome pictures during my adventures, and maybe we'll even learn a thing or two about this dynamic continent!