travel africa
Africa Business Association Publications March-April 2021
In This Issue…
28 33 35
37 37 38 41 42 44 44 61 68 3
70
From the Publisher…
Industry News 4 6 7 7 8 9
72
Visit in 2021 The Future of Africa’s Wild Places—and Why Safaris Ma er Inside Safari Valley: The “African Disneyland” and Ghana’s Largest Resort This Insane New Bou que Hotel was Built in a Restored Train Sta on Atop a South African Bridge E-MBT - NAMIBIA Camp Under the Stars, Spot Elephant + Giraffe on our Mountain Bike Safari Tour Namibia The Best Na onal Parks in Kenya Kenya Ranks as Africa’s Leading Tourist Des na on This Virtual Tour of Pharaoh Ramses VI’s Tomb will Make You Feel Like Indiana Jones Can Roots Tourism Build Social Jus ce? A Case Study of Travellers to Ghana Provides Insights Beau ful African Islands You’ve Probably Never Heard Of The Black Expat Family: We Felt at Home in Tanzania, so we Decided to Stay’ Here’s What Trekking With Mountain Gorillas in the Wilds of Rwanda is Really Like World Wide Nate: African Adventures
United Adding New Nonstop Routes Egypt Discovers 27 Sarcophagi more than 2,500 Years Old The World’s Last Known White Giraffe Gets GPS Tracking Device Delta & American Drop Interna onal Change Fees EgyptAir to Help Launch New Ghanaian Flag Carrier How Vaccine Passports Will Actually Work
Feature Stories 12 12 16 18 20 22 24
My Travel Wander List for 2021 The Cultural Gems of Africa Here’s a List of Amazing African Sites to Visit this Spring Which Des na ons Need Tourism Most to Survive a er COVID-19? The South African Hotel Brand “Curiocity” Durban’s Big Rush: The World’s Craziest Rope Swing! Five Li le-Known African Na onal Parks to 2 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
see page 16
Travel Resources 47 48 50 52
53 57 58
Use These 6 Tips to Save Space in Your Suitcase When Packing Serena Williams Launches Second Luggage Collec on With Away 12 Black-owned Travel, Fashion and Accessories Brands to Know and Support Meet Ashya: A Black Women-owned Brand That Makes Some of the Most Unique Travel Accessories on the Market 7 TSA Rules Everyone Should Know to Get Through Security Quickly What is an Immunity Passport—and Do I Need One to Travel? Africa Business Travel Do’s and Don’ts AMID COVID-19
Travel Africa 74 76 82 84 89 91
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Ricky Muloweni
WORLD HERITAGE SITE Travel Africa Ski Africa Golf Africa African Cuisine! Travel Services Directory
Advisory Board Earl ‘Skip’ Cooper, II, CEO, Black Business Association H.E. Sheila Siwela, Ambassador H.E. Kone L. Tanou, Ambassador ABA Publications DAWN dawn@africabusinessassociation.com Travel Africa travel-africa@africabusinessassociation Cover image: didikodesigns.com, awaytoafrica.com Copyright © 2021 by Africa Business Association Publications All Rights Reserved.
The posting of stories, commentaries, reports, documents and links (embedded or otherwise) on this site does not in any way, shape or form, implied or otherwise, necessarily express or suggest endorsement or support of any of such posted material or parts therein.
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From the Publisher…
Welcome Back to Africa
T
Ricky Muloweni
Publisher
he publication staff has conducted research to bring together a listing of “Virtual Africa” opportunities for us all to experience the beauty and excitement of the continent until its time to be tourists again (pages 44 and 74). But, Virtual is not enough. We are all preparing for the opportunity to keep the “Real Africa” alive and well in-person. Lives and economies on both sides of the Atlantic are in distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. We know this and the ABA is effected economically by the pandemic also. Even so, we are putting forth the thought for your consideration - donate a small amount this year to one or more of the funds and programs highlighted in this issue (page 30). And if we have not addressed the part of Africa that is most dear to your heart, please do the research and find the fund or programs that fit your service heart. Travel Africa is going to continue to promote tourism to the African continent in our publication. We invite readers to peruse some of our back issues at www. issuu.com/blackbusinessnews to research “where you want to visit next (2021).” This too shall pass. See you in the airport. www.africabusinessassociation.org
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You’re invited to our Exclusive Movie Screening on Saturday, March 27th. “I Love Black People” is sharing the movie Judas and the Black Messiah, with our Pan-African brothers and sisters on the continent, as a part of our “Say No to XeNophobia” campaign. PLEASE INVITE FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO WATCH THE MOVIE SCREENING WHEN: Saturday, March 27th SCREENING TIMES: 8 am - Washington, DC USA 12 pm - Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Sierra leon, The Gambia 1 pm - Nigeria, Cameroon 2 pm - Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe 3 pm - Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda 8 pm - China RSVP at: https://nation.iloveblackpeople.com/218144/rsvp_march27_event_moviescreening?utm_ campaign=_judas_and_the_black_messiah1&utm_medium=email&utm_source=iloveblackpeople 5 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
Industry News
United Adding New Nonstop Routes to India, West Africa, Hawaii By Michelle Baran
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nited Airlines recently offered a pleasant interruption to lackluster airlines news with the announcement that that it will be adding new nonstop flights to West Africa, India, and Hawaii. The new routes to African destinations are: • Newark, New Jersey—Johannesburg: beginning Spring 2021 • Washington, D.C.—Accra, Ghana: beginning late Spring 2021 • Washington, D.C.—Lagos, Nigeria: beginning late Spring 2021 Tickets will be available for purchase on united. com and the United app in the coming weeks, the airline said. The new flight announcements came just as United reported in a financial filing that it expects air travel demand to remain suppressed until a credible treatment and/or vaccine for COVID-19 is made widely available. The company’s scheduled capacity for the third quarter of 2020 is anticipated to be down 70% year-over-year compared to 2019, and passenger revenue for the third quarter is anticipated to be approximately 85% below what it was in the third quarter of 2019. Nevertheless, United sees opportunity in the newly announced international and domestic routes. “Now is the right time to take a bold step in evolving our global network to help our customers reconnect with friends, family and colleagues around the world,” Patrick Quayle, United’s vice president of international network and alliances, said in a statement. United noted that when its new nonstop Accra service launches, the airline will be the only one offering the nonstop flight from Washington, D.C., which has the second-largest population of Ghanaians in the United States, the airline
says. The move also makes Washington Dulles a hub for connecting to western Africa from other U.S. cities. Accra’s Kotoka International Airport reopened to international passenger travel on September 1, 2020, according to the U.S. Embassy in Ghana. The embassy provides the latest COVID-19 information for Ghana, as well as details regarding entry requirements (a negative COVID test result procured within 72 hours of departure is needed). United’s forthcoming service to Johannesburg from Newark will join its existing nonstop service between Newark and Cape Town, which kicked off in December. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, South Africa closed its borders to foreign travelers. Tourism minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane said on September 4 that the country’s borders may soon be reopened for international travel beginning with regional borders between South Africa and nearby countries, news site the South African reported. On September 9, the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) issued a statement urging the government to reopen its borders to help reignite South Africa’s tourism economy.
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“Tourism can be South Africa’s economic lifeline, but only if international borders are opened up soon,” Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, CEO of TBCSA, stated. “We are appealing to the government to safely open our borders. Our industry is ready, our source markets are waiting to travel, so let’s save jobs and the economy.” Travel to India from the United States requires a visa, and during the coronavirus pandemic, Indian consulates in the U.S. are only issuing visas for emergency purposes—you should contact your nearest consulate for the latest information. Nevertheless, United sees potential in this market—and has for a while. It’s been offering nonstop service to India for 15 years, but the new nonstop flights between Chicago and New Delhi and between San Francisco and Bangalore are
firsts for the airline. Chicago has the second highest population of Indian Americans in the United States, United says, and the Bangalore service connects two international tech hubs. United’s new route strategy isn’t solely based on international family and business travel. The carrier is also convinced that as leisure travel starts to pick back up, Americans will be looking for domestic escapes. For that reason, it is expanding its Hawaii service to the Midwest and East Coast as well. Travel to Hawaii currently requires a mandatory 14-day quarantine. But starting on October 1, visitors to Hawaii will be able to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result to avoid the quarantine (though that October 1 target marks the second time the state has delayed the testing tactic, and there can of course be further delays). As of September 1, travelers to Hawaii must also fill out a mandatory online health application. The digital form is required both for out-of-state arrivals and for interisland travel. www.afar.com/magazine/united-adding-newnonstop-routes-to-hawaii-india-and-africa Image credits: travellineuk.co.uk, GoNOMAD, asaptickets.com/Flights-to/Accra
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Industry News
Egypt Discovers 27 Sarcophagi more than 2,500 Years Old
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rchaeologists in Egypt have discovered 27 coffins at the ancient necropolis of Saqqara, a burial ground that is also home to one of the world’s oldest pyramids, the ministry of tourism and antiquities said. The wooden sarcophagi are ornately painted and covered in hieroglyphs, and were found stacked in two burial shafts, the ministry said in a statement. They have not yet been opened, the ministry said. Saqqara is a UNESCO world heritage site. In March, Egypt reopened at the Saqqara site the Djoser’s Step Pyramid, the first pyramid ever built, after a 14-year restoration costing nearly
$6.6 million. In July, Egypt restarted international flights and reopened major tourist attractions including the Great Pyramids of Giza after months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic. Yet despite reopenings and continued safety reassurances to international tourists, many concede that the key winter season starting in October is going to be tough, further straining the economy. www.reuters.com/article/egypt-archaeologysarcophagi-int-idUSKCN26C1W5
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Image credit: canoe.com
The World’s Last Known White Giraffe Gets GPS Tracking Device By Associated Press
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he only known white giraffe in the world has been fitted with a GPS tracking device to help protect it from poachers as it grazes in Kenya. But despite its singular status, the lonely male doesn’t have a name. The white giraffe now stands alone after a female and her calf were killed by poachers in March, the Ishaqbini Hirola
Delta & American Drop International Change Fees By Michelle Baran
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ffective December 9, Delta has permanently eliminated the change fees for all international flights out of North America (including flights operated by joint venture and codeshare partners), excluding Basic Economy fares. It has also extended its pandemic-induced fee waiver program, which effectively covers any changes and cancellations for any flights, including Basic Economy tickets, purchased by March 30, 2021. The fee waiver program had been set to expire at the end of 2020. Americans’ new flight change policy On November 19, American updated its flight change policy, which applies to all but Basic Economy tickets. Now, there is no longer a $200 change fee for any international flight booked out of airports in North or South America. American has also eliminated its service charge for booking a ticket through its call-in reservation center (the charge had been waived during the pandemic but has now been dropped entirely). AAdvantage award tickets also no longer face a change fee. Read the full story at the link below. www.afar.com/magazine/american-airlines-dropschange-fees-on-international-flights Image credit: www.delta.com
The only known white giraffe in the world Photo by Ishaqbini Community Conservancy via AP
Community
Conservancy (www.facebook.com/ IshaqbiniHirola) said in a statement Tuesday. A rare genetic trait called leucism causes the white color, and it makes the one surviving giraffe stand out dangerously for poachers in the arid savanna near the Somalia border.
Now the GPS tracking device, attached to one of the giraffe’s horns, will ping every hour to alert wildlife rangers to its location. The conservancy has thanked the Kenya Wildlife Service (http://kws.go.ke) along with the Northern Rangelands Trust (www.nrt-kenya.org) and Save Giraffes Now (https://savegiraffesnow.org) for the help. www.afar.com/magazine/the-worlds-last-knownwhite-giraffe-gets-gps-tracking-device
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Industry News
EgyptAir to Help Launch New Ghanaian Flag Carrier by Linnea Ahlgren
EgyptAir is partnering with the Ghanaian government to help relaunch Ghana Airways. Photo: Tom Boon / Simple Flying
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ecently the Ghanaian government concluded negotiations with EgyptAir for a joint venture that will establish a new national airline in Ghana. A previous attempt at creating a partnership with Ethiopian Airlines fell through over issues such as routes and funding. The only thing remaining for the new deal is for it to be approved by Ghana’s Parliament. On Tuesday, December 15th, the online news outlet GhanaWeb reported that Ghana’s Minister for Aviation, Joseph Kofi Adda, had announced that an agreement had been reached with EgyptAir to help launch a new Ghanaian flag-carrier.
Parliament remains the last step The negotiations between the two parties to establish a joint venture were concluded last week. This means that almost everything is ready for the creation of a new national airline in West Africa. “We have indeed completed negotiations that we need to conclude with our partner, Egypt Air,” Mr. Adda said, according to GhanaWeb. “We have compiled all we need to compile, which includes the shareholders’ agreement, the business plan, to ensure that we get the approval
of the key agencies from Ghana. Parliament is the only step left for us to have a national airline.” So, the deal just needs to gain Parliamentary approval. This may be easier said than done, considering Ghana is just coming off general elections, held on December 7th. The results of the election saw the incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo and his New Patriotic Party hold on to power. However, it lost its previously strong majority in Parliament.
Re-launch Ghana flag-carrier
Ghana Airways ceased operations in 2005. Photo: Bob Adams via Wikimedia Commons T h i s m e a n s that the government may try to push the agreement w i t h Ghana Airways ceased operations EgyptAir
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Industry News
How Vaccine Passports Will Actually Work by Michelle Baran
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t’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for. This month, healthcare workers in the United States began receiving their first dose of a Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19 after it was granted an emergency use authorization by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Moderna vaccine has been granted emergency in the legislative proceedings before Parliament reconvenes in its new configuration in January.
EgyptAir to take majority stake While details of the deal remain unclear, EgyptAir is expected to take a majority equity stake in the emerging new airline. This makes sense from an operational and financial viewpoint as
s in 2005. Photo: Bob Adams via Wikimedia Commons
use authorization by the FDA as well, and a tidal wave of inoculations are set to be administered in the coming weeks and months, first for healthcare and essential workers, followed by Americans over the age of 74, and eventually the rest of the population. So, what’s next? Travel industry insiders believe that for the first half of 2021, as the vaccine rollouts continue in the United States and abroad, COVID-19 testing will remain the dominant pathway for allowing travel to continue to open up more—for now. d ’t think [vaccines] will be a topic for the “I don’t first six months of 2021,” said Dangui Oduber, minister for health, tourism, and sport of Aruba, during a December 17 media briefing when Aruba announced it was becoming the first government partner of the CommonTrust Network; this is a to page 12
the two previous Ghanaian state-owned carriers went bankrupt; Ghana Airways in 2004 and its successor Ghana International Airlines in 2010. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the two prospective partners in October. Previously, Ghana was looking to Ethiopian Airlines, one of the most successful carriers in African aviation, for such a partnership. In the end, the deal with Ethiopian fell through due to disagreements over issues such as routes, funding, and tenure of the management contract. Nonetheless, the concluded negotiations with EgyptAir could be the end of a process that began in 2016 with the quest to launch a new Ghana Airways. The Ghanaian government hopes, will subsequently lead to the establishment of Accra and Kotoka International Airport as a West African aviation hub. https://simpleflying.com/egyptair-ghanaian-flagcarrier/amp/
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Industry News Vaccine Passport - from page 11
growing collection of public and private entities that have agreed to recognize and work with the CommonPass health app. At the moment, “Aruba is focusing more on stimulating travel using the tests,” said Oduber. Oduber added that starting in the second half of 2021 is when we are likely to see many countries pivot from requiring testing to requiring proof of vaccination from travelers entering their borders. Thus, governments, organizations, and private enterprises that have been working to facilitate travel through testing protocols will likely continue on that path for the next several months. Those efforts include a growing collection of digital health apps and platforms meant to help facilitate the fulfillment of COVID-19 testing requirements, such as the CommonPass mentioned above. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is working on its version of a digital health pass called IATA Travel Pass, and IBM has a version it is calling IBM Digital Health Pass. Additionally, airlines and airports have been ramping up access to testing, and airlines have been experimenting with concepts such as “COVID-free flights” on which all passengers onboard need to test negative for COVID-19 prior to boarding. Further opening up of travel will depend on governments deciding what they will allow and when, whether that’s testing in the near-term or vaccine requirements later. All of which, too, relies heavily on the course of the virus itself, which continues on its rocky up and down path of surging, receding, and mutating. “At the end of the day, the governments are going to make the decision on where and when it’s allowed to travel and under which conditions,” says Eric Piscini, global vice president of blockchain for IBM Watson Health, which is developing the IBM Digital Health Pass. Already, some countries have indicated that they will be asking for proof of a COVID-19 vaccine in order for travelers to enter without a quarantine. Cyprus and Israel are among the countries that have said they will require it when the time comes, and Australia’s Qantas Airlines has said it, too, will ask international travelers to show proof of vaccination.
What are vaccine passports and how will they work? In its simplest form a vaccine passport is really just an immunization record, proof that a person has been inoculated against a certain virus or disease. And in this case the disease in question is COVID-19. Currently, as U.S. citizens begin to get their COVID-19 vaccines, they are being handed a white slip of paper issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) called a “COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card.” It has the patient’s name on it, date of birth, and their medical record number, followed by a line to manually write in when the first dose was administered, the manufacturer of the dose, and the healthcare professional or clinic that administered it. A second line is available for the second dose as the existing vaccines both require two doses. Who knows if we will eventually need additional doses as the virus and our understanding of how to fight it evolves? While the paper-based proof of inoculation is simple and somewhat effective, it is also problematic. The paper certification format poses not only “an issue of fraud and people losing their piece of paper, but it’s also an issue of convenience. Because if you want to check into a flight or submit your status before you check in or as you check
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in, a piece of paper is not going to be useful,” says IBM’s Piscini. “The need is here to have digitized credentials.” According to Piscini, the 21st-century version of a vaccine passport can, should, and will be more sophisticated than its yellow card predecessor. IBM is working to facilitate the digitization of the process by creating a platform that will allow users to upload their health data in a secure way so that it can be used by any government, company, or organization that will eventually want to verify that someone has been vaccinated before granting them access. That means making sure those who administer and/or register vaccines—from large retail pharmacies to smaller pop-up clinics to reporting agencies such as the CDC—are connected to the platform, something IBM hopes to help them do. Governments, airlines, hotels, car rental companies, employers, event venues, and any other institution that will want to verify vaccine status will need to get connected to the platform as well. Piscini is convinced that IBM has the global tech muscle to help pull off this feat at scale. He envisions a world where part of the checkin process for a flight will include submitting your vaccination status, or where entering a concert venue or conference hall will require scanning your QR code verifying you have been vaccinated. This is where it all starts to feel a little more sci-fi and a little less like those low-key, carte jaune– toting travel days of yore. For travelers, many of whom are ready to hit the road the minute that second dose is administered, what all of this means is that there is a lot of effort taking place behind the scenes to get these systems up and running. And that while there may not be a fully functioning, comprehensive, global digital health passport system and corresponding border requirements ready to go the minute you are inoculated, numerous efforts are in the works based on the notion that there ultimately should be such a system in order for us to move forward. Some of the emerging solutions will require us to be more active participants, perhaps in terms of downloading an app and uploading our health data to it or having a provider upload it for us. Others will be integrated into existing or new processes, such as flight or hotel check-in procedures, in a more seamless format that will simply look and
feel like another step of the booking process— one that just happens to include your vaccination status. Starting in summer 2021, “I think we’re going to be at a point where it’s going to be expected from an individual to be able to demonstrate their [vaccination] status. And I think we’re going to be in that world for quite some time,” says Piscini. The ethical quandary of a vaccine passport While many feel it is inevitable that COVID-19 vaccines will be a requirement for entry once vaccines are more widely distributed, there are concerns about how to ensure that that eventuality doesn’t further divide the world between the haves and have-nots, between those with access to the vaccines and to technology and those who don’t have access. When it comes to digital health passes, “How do we make sure that we head in that direction in the most transparent way, and in a way that also provides the greatest amount of access that doesn’t shut people out?” says Michele Goodwin, director for the Center for Biotechnology and Global Health Policy at the University of California in Irvine, School of Law. She adds, “Not everybody has access to sophisticated smartphones. These are very expensive phones. Or if they have a phone, they may not have the data plan. What you don’t want to do is to deny individuals things that are looking to become a societal privilege or right simply based on their socioeconomic status.” Her advice to policymakers and private enterprises spearheading the efforts on COVID-19 immunizations and the resulting vaccine passports that will likely serve as our tickets back to some sense of normalcy is “to be as comprehensive as possible” and make sure the process brings together people who can reach and represent everyone in all communities. Many in the travel industry have advocated for using the Great Pause in travel as an opportunity to bring travel back better—more sustainably, more inclusively, more thoughtfully, more responsibly. The hope is that we can do the same in the realm of vaccines and vaccine passports as well. www.afar.com/magazine/how-vaccine-passports-willactually-work Image credit: pdffiller.com
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Opening the Doors
My Travel Wander List for 2021 The Cultural Gems of Africa By Sherwin Banda
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he start of 2021 has promised many things, the most exciting of which is our expected return to travel. As I look at the year ahead, I am excited to return to my beloved Africa. We have enhanced our experiences to bring you the best of Africa while offering greater flexibility in travel and five-star service. Africa offers a diversity of bucket list safaris for every travel style and interest. Here are my Top Destinations you should consider this year.
My Africa Wander List Like all of you, I have missed connecting with people and wildlife, so the theme for my bucket list this year is to reconnect with people and culture. Whether it’s meeting local artists, enjoying a bold new bush experience or seeing culture in a different way, I can’t wait to explore Africa this year. Safe Travels!
https://africantravelinc.com
My Travel Wander List for 2021
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hile 2020 may have taken away the possibility to travel last year, it has fueled our wanderlust more than ever. Our travels in 2021 will have a greater sense of purpose by physically bringing families, friends and even strangers
together. I can’t wait to explore new surroundings and connect with other cultures. Africa holds a special place in my heart because the possibilities for connections with nature and people are endless, which is my theme this year for my #TTCTop3 bucket list.
1. Experience South Africa Everyone comes to Africa for the wildlife, but I consider South Africa’s art and culture scene the real secret. When we look at the genealogy of humanity, Southern Africa has the world’s oldest tribes, and each destination and its people show the soul of Africa. South Africa has always been one of my favorite destinations because of its diversity and it is a perfect place to start a safari. You can spend a month and still not explore the full wonders the country has to offer. Cape Town has so much to do – from the lively music and culinary creations at the GOLD Restaurant to exploring the natural beauty of the majestic Twelve Apostles. Cape Town thrives as South Africa’s cultural hub and has so many unique stories to share through its museums, art walks, musicians and people. For culture lovers I would recommend staying at Ellerman House to explore their art collection, visiting Zeitz Museum (MOCAA) and tailoring a private tour to visit the Cape Winelands,
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Ardmore Ceramic Art, Jabu Nene
Zeitz Museum (MOCAA), South Africa
to experience the region’s award-winning wine varietals. Experiencing Africa through music is a must -South Africa hosts the world’s fourth largest jazz festival, which coincides with the end of the summer season. It is a celebration of Afro-jazz and you can hear the influence of African rhythms through this genre of music. One of my favorite, less traveled regions of South Africa is Kwazulu-Natal, and staying at the world-renowned beach-front property, The Oyster Box. Voted South Africa’s best resort by Travel + Leisure, this Red Carnation Hotel is a relaxing respite to delve deeper into South Africa’s history and its journey from Apartheid to freedom. This year we have partnered with a local community of artists called Ardmore as one of our many ways to support sustainability and local culture and are inviting guests to spend time at their center. The award-winning colorful home decor, lively paintings, beautiful jewelry and delicate ceramics is stunning and I love the unique takes on nature and Zulu traditions. A perfect way to contrast the continent’s diverse culture is to end a trip with a visit to Victoria Falls. The falls are known by the locals as Mosioa-Tunya or “the smoke that thunders” and is the world’s largest curtain of falling water. Beyond visiting the iconic Victoria Falls, there is an array
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to page 16
Opening the Doors Travel Wander List - from page 15
of water activities to do such as a helicopter flight over the falls, community visits, a sundowner or dinner cruise on the mighty Zambezi River. Experience this on African Travel, Inc.’s Experience South Africa and add on Victoria Falls added adventure.
2. Re-wild at Xigera Safari Lodge
sundowners to glass-bottomed mokoros (African gondola). Sustainability is also a huge part of the experience. The lodge is completely solar powered but it is the investment in local culture that is even more impressive. The lodge is a celebration of returning to our roots in Africa and showcases the stories and designs by all the local Africa artists and wildlife experts. You’ll also have a chance to meet locals, with a staff ratio of 105 to 24 guests. Experience Xigera on African Travel’, Inc.’s Ultimate Botswana
Botswana is a great place to reconnect with nature and wildlife. Here you can do both land and water safari experiences and you will certainly be outnumbered by wildlife and not people. Botswana 3. The Wonders of Egypt limits the number of guests at each camp so it presents an amazing opportunity for exclusive game viewing and wellbeing experiences. I can’t wait to visit Red Carnation’s new Xigera Safari Lodge. The lodge was built as a love letter to the magic of the African bush. The Tollman family has handcrafted every aspect to give AXigera Safari Lodge, Botswana guests a true sense of the Okavango Delta’s local culture and raw wilderness -- from the evocative interiors to one-of-a-kind encounters such as the Baobab Treehouse, where guests can sleep underneath the stars. Xigera feels like you are a part of nature as opposed to one just looking at it. The lodge is aesthetically designed to camouflage with the surroundings of the Okavango Delta. You’ll re-wild yourself in one of the 12 suites as you appreciate the beauty around you. The guided experiences in the Moremi Game Reserve are extraordinary and very immersive - from feet-in-the-water AXigera Safari Lodge Baobab Treehouse, Botswana 16 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL |March 2021
Egypt is one of those places I am yearning to revisit. We talked about ancient culture before and Egypt is the cradle of the world’s ancient wonders. I can’t wait to experience Uniworld’s Splendors of Egypt cruise across the Nile on its newest luxury super ship, the S.S. Sphinx or the incredibly refurbished River Tosca. The ability to go back in time and experience a n c i e n t civilizations is something incredible. The journey is hosted by an Egyptologist who lives and breathes the history of Egypt. It’s a very mysterious world with the legacy of pharaohs and ancient gods, and to hear an Egyptologist tell their stories will certainly take me back in time to relive their legacy. Words cannot fully describe walking among the legendary Temple of Karnak, the Temple of Luxor, the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx or the Temple of Esna. I look forward to visiting the brand-new Egyptian Museum in Cairo and to see Egyptian treasures that have been perfectly preserved for thousands of years. Having an Egyptologist guide you and show you what these artifacts meant to the ancient Egyptians makes this all the more special. Cairo has been depicted in so many movies and has always been a place that has captured
Luxor, Egypt the imagination of the world. Just to walk down the ancient streets and experience what has been so transfixed by people’s minds has always been a desire to do with my family. Doing this on a luxury floating hotel cruising down one of the world’s ancient rivers is something that must be on everyone’s bucket list. Adding a safari to this visit is the ultimate end to a world-class journey. Experience Egypt and Uniworld’s Nile River cruise on African Travel’s Egypt, Exclusively Yours. https://africantravelinc.com/content/top-travelexperiences-africa
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Opening the Doors
Here’s a List of Amazing African Sites to Visit this Spring By Parker Diakite
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isiting countries in Africa during the spring often gets a bad reputation because it’s often referred to as the “wettest” time of the year. While that’s true for some countries, it’s also one of the best times to enjoy a vacation for others. Why? Because there are a lot fewer tourists and you’re more likely to save money on your accommodation. Here are some of the best destinations to visit during the spring season and why: Cape Town, South Africa nicolamargaret | Getty Images
treatments, seafood feasts, and long walks on the beach.
Cape Town, South Africa April is an exciting time in Cape Town as
Gate of a guest house in Vilanculos in Mozambique which points to the beach and the Indian Ocean
Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique By April, the five islands that make up the Bazaruto Archipelago are drying up after the summer rains before peak season arrive. During April, you can partake in snorkeling and scuba diving in Bazaruto National Park, as well as spa
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe Unsplash | Julia Caesa
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ar
it begins the autumn season. The heat from the summer is starting to wind down. Take a ride on the Franschhoek Wine Tram, go up the Aerial Cableway at Table Mountain, and enjoy a walk on the sea point promenade.
nature reserves, and rare animals such as giant Aldabra tortoises, the largest in the world. Mahe is the largest of Seychelles 115 islands and where the airport is located, so plan to spend most of your time there. You don’t have to do much to enjoy the Seychelles. In fact, relaxing and taking it all in is the best thing you can do. If you want to explore, try hiking the Copolia Trail or a swim at Beau Vallon Beach.
Etosha, Namibia
Victoria, Seychelles Photo courtesy of Pixabay
April marks the end of the rainy season and the start of a shoulder season, which offers fresh air, a ton of greenery, and the air is largely free from dust. April is not a month that travel experts would call “prime time” for game viewing; however, the mix of wildlife, birds, and stunning landscapes makes it a really great time to travel. We recommend a trip to Etosha National Park.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe April and May are considered the “champagne” months in Zimbabwe. The skies are clear, the temperatures are perfect, and there is little humidity. It’s the perfect time to take a canoe trips along the game-rich shores of the Zambezi River. You might also catch a great accommodation deal as many camps and hotels offer low season rates during this time of the year.
Victoria, Seychelles
Etosha, Namibia Getty
In April, Seychelles offers warm and calm weather, making the islandnation one of the best times to visit. Located just northeast of Madagascar, Seychelles is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches,
https://travelnoire.com/amazing-african-cities-tovisit-next-spring
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Opening the Doors
Which Destinations Need Tourism Most to Survive after COVID-19? By Laura Sanders
Authentic Africa
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arvel at the flora and fauna in Mauritius, hike mountains in Morocco or discover the Ivory Coast in Cote d’Ivoire. Tourism makes up between 6-10% of GDP in these countries.
Mauritius: Marine life and Historic Buildings Mauritius is surrounded by the world’s third largest coral reef and is rich in biodiversity. There are plenty of diving and snorkelling spots to try here as well as an array of other water activities to choose from. A visit to the island wouldn’t be complete, however, without exploring the history of it’s capital, St Louis. You’ll be spoilt for choice with what to eat - there’s a variety of restaurants and street vendors.
Mountains and Souks in Morocco Morocco is a North African country with coastline along the Mediterranean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean. The life and culture here is built on a fusion of Berber, Arabian and European influences. You can discover Fez’s ancient history or even learn to cook Moroccan food at Fez’s only cooking school. Or you could enjoy some retail therapy in one of the traditional souks of Marrakech. But away from the two most typical attractions you think of in Morocco, there are also plenty of mountain hikes which offer stunning viewpoints. Toubkal Massif is probably one of the most popular hiking spots for tourists. And for
good reason - a hike up here will reward you with jaw-dropping views of the High Atlas mountains. But if you don’t feel like following the crowd, there are some fantastic hikes to be had across the Jebel Saghro in the east. Here you can wild camp among the mountains and marvel at the rock formations which resemble the rugged, red desert landscape of the Grand Canyon.
Cultural Heritage on the Ivory Coast Civil wars and political unrest have put tourists off visiting the Ivory Coast in previous years. But now the country is stable, it has many unspoiled beauty spots just waiting to be explored. The capital city of Abidjan has been likened to New York City with its glittering skyscrapers. But it still maintains a tropical vibe. Bordering with Guinea and Liberia is Mount Nimba Nature Reserve, which became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982. You won’t be short of flora and fauna to enjoy in this beautiful oasis. And if you’re looking for a beach getaway with
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MauritiusGetty via C
MoroccoSergey Pesterev / Unsplash
Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve - Cote d’Ivoire blogspot.com
Canva
some culture thrown in, Grand Bassam, the country’s second city is a favourite among tourists and locals alike. Grand Bassam became a UNESCO world heritage site in 2012. Once the trading post in Colonial Cote d’Ivoire, this area is characterised by its faded 19th Century buildings. If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, Korhogo is the place to go. Korhogo is the capital of the Senufo people and dates
back to the 13th Century. In the villages, there are opportunities to witness weavers, painters, metalworkers and wood carvers at work using traditional techniques - you’ll likely pick yourself up a nice souvenir. You might also be lucky enough to watch the ‘Boloy’ meaning ‘Panther dance’ being performed by some of the young men. www.euronews.com/2021/01/13/these-are-thedestinations-most-affected-by-covid-19-travelrestrictions
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The South African Hotel Brand “Curiocity” By DeAnna Taylor
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orn, bred, and buttered in Johannesburg, South Africa – Bheki Dube grew up around some of the city’s most intellectual, artistic, and creative minds. Being around such profound people really shaped his love not only for South Africa but for the continent as a whole. At the age of 16, he started a walking tour company called Main Street Walks. “The concept was to really expose people to the city of Johannesburg,” Bheki told Travel Noire. “At that time Johannesburg wasn’t a very favorable place to visit and I was interested in really sharing the fascinating history and stories that make this city what it is.” He found that people not only wanted to visit, he realized they also wanted to stay longer and really immerse themselves in the community as well. He decided to merge his walking tours with an accommodation to bring his two loves together. This was the start of Curiocity as we know. “I opened the first property in 2013, at the age of 21 in Johannesburg. After opening that first site, I realized this was an untapped industry that was also very white-dominated. I wanted to come in and create something that was design lead and experience focused, which is the core of the Black youth of South Africa. That’s how Curiocity has grown to what it is now.” To date, there are 3 Curiocity hotel and hostel
properties spanning across Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.
What makes this brand unique is that its main purpose is to share each city and neighborhood’s story. It’s not just a place to come and lay your head. There are tailor-made activities and experiences hosted in-house as well as hospitality pioneered by the Black youth. This brings an authentic perspective, something not found in most hotels around the country. Each hotel and hostel’s decor is inspired by the culture of each individual city, from artwork to the furnishings found in each room and common areas. The properties have remained opened during COVID-19 as a way to service essential workers and those that may have been stuck in South Africa. They have also begun to re-welcome travelers again. “We’ve been very innovative on how to generate income during this time while protecting those
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Courtesy of Curiocity
Bheki Dube
staying with us as well as our staff,” Bheki said. “We also launched virtual experiences as a way to continue to serve our purpose of storytelling and highlighting the communities we are located in.”
To learn more about Curiocity, you can visit the website: www.curiocity.africa. You can also follow on social media: @curiocity.africa.
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https://travelnoire.com
Durban’s Big Rush: The World’s Craziest Rope Swing! By Matthew Karsten
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hree, two, one, jump. I stepped off the catwalk and into the void, falling 288 feet with my stomach in my throat. The world’s tallest rope swing is a big rush. I seem to have an addiction to extreme heights lately. Hiking Spain’s Caminito del Rey, floating through the sky in a hot air balloon, and now leaping off the top of a soccer stadium. That’s the problem with adrenaline junkies, we’re always searching for a more powerful high. Ziplines just don’t cut it anymore. I look forward to tasting fear and the challenge of overcoming it. Durban’s Big Rush rope swing provided just what I was searching for. Moses Mabhida Stadium Moses Mabhida Stadium was built for the FIFA World Cup soccer games in 2010, and it’s really a work of art. Beautiful white arches rise 100 meters into the air over the city of Durban. It can seat 54,000 people for soccer and cricket matches or concerts. You can ride the Sky Car to the top for amazing 360-degree views of Durban. Or you can hike up 550 stairs and get the same. Only with one hell-ofa-ride back down — on the end of a rope. I chose the 2nd option. After signing my life away and getting into a harness, we walk to the base of the stairs for a long climb attached to a safety line. Talk about anticipation! You have plenty of time to contemplate what you’re about to do on the long hike to the top of the stadium. Big Rush Durban The jump crew secures me into another safety line at the top for the climb down a 10 foot ladder onto a catwalk. It’s very windy up here, which isn’t helping my nerves. I’m then attached to a 3rd safety line and slowly walk across to the jump point. This is when reality hits you. I’m about to jump from the top of this
stadium — 350 feet in the air! Something that would normally kill a person. Your brain says “Relax! Everything will be fine.” However your body is not so easily convinced. Many people get to this point, then change their minds. Just Do It I step to the edge and marvel at the stadium workers below who look like ants crawling through
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the grass. The crew finally hooks me into the main line, made of heavy duty webbing. They count down for me. 3. 2. 1… Go. I hop off the edge and plummet through the sky with gravity pulling me down faster and faster until I reach 75mph, screaming the whole time. The rope catches at about 288 feet, and I swing in a long and satisfying arc across the whole
stadium with adrenaline coursing through my veins. Yelling in triumph to thousands of empty seats. It’s quick, but intense. Durban’s Big Rush swing is a wild experience that shouldn’t be missed. https://expertvagabond.com/big-rush-durban
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Video: https://youtu.be/FrY6OJk-z0I
Five Little-Known African Na By Jared
Editor’s Note: *Due to the current Covid-19 outbreak, international travel is highly discouraged at the moment - this article is meant to serve as inspiration for a future trip once the pandemic has come to an end.*
of the most fascinating aspects of this mountain range is the wealth of endemic species that thrive in high-altitude conditions. Visitors to Simien National Park can spot walia ibex, Ethiopian wolves, and the gelada, a baboon-like primate
F
rom the Cape of Good Hope to the shores of Alexandria, the continent of Africa is home to an incredibly wide array of biomes, landscapes, and native species, all residing on a landmass that encompasses roughly 20% of the earth’s land area. While reserves like Kruger National Park and Serengeti National Park make for spectacular safari destinations, the entire continent is rife with hidden gems that are often overlooked by those planning a trip to one of Africa’s 54 nations. For some insight into the most spectacular mountain ranges, archaeological sites, and biodiversity hotspots found across the landmass,
Geladas are also referred to as “bleeding-heart monkeys” due to the red patch that adorns their ... [+] GETTY
take a glimpse at these five underrated national parks. Simien National Park, Ethiopia Home to some of the most impressive natural features on the continent, Simien National Park encompasses a major portion of the Ethiopian Highlands, including the highest peak in the nation, 14,930-foot-tall Ras Dashen. While the park provides spectacular views of craggy plateaus, steep valleys, and lush vegetation, one
Don’t let their docile appearance fool you - hippos are incredibly aggressive and come equipped with ... [+] GETTY
that’s the last surviving species within its genus. Liwonde National Park, Malawi While sprawling Lake Malawi serves as a popular destination within the country, Liwonde National Park can be found just south of the nation’s namesake body of water, consisting of 220 square miles surrounding the Shire River. The park is well on its way to becoming a major success story within the realm of African conservation - in 2015, tens of thousands of wire traps were removed from the park’s grounds, allowing the many hippos in the waterways to thrive unimpeded. Visitors to this preserve should also keep watch for newly reintroduced lions, black rhinos, and especially cheetahs - the latter species had been extirpated from the country for twenty years before being reintroduced in 2017. Tassili N’Ajjer National Park, Algeria Deep in the southern reaches of Algeria, this massive park is best known for containing thousands of prehistoric rock carvings, a quality that allowed the park to be categorized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Many of the creatures depicted in the rock art - elephants and giraffes, for example - once called the
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ational Parks to Visit in 2021 Ranahan
highlight is the lemur - though many species have been lost to the ages, including a gorilla-sized variety that died out roughly two thousand years ago, visitors to the park today can spot multiple living types of lemurs, including one of the largest surviving species, the indri. Aside from primates, the park is also home to over one hundred different bird species, many of which are endemic, along with native reptiles and amphibians. The Sahara is the earth’s largest hot desert, spanning roughly 3.6 million square miles. GETTY
surrounding region home, though desertification over thousands of years has rendered the area largely inhospitable today. Aside from rock art, the park is also home to large groups of sandstone spires that form a “rock forest” along with scattered
The Great White Pelican is a common sight at Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary - this species can be ... [+] GETTY
The indri is particularly vulnerable to deforestation, and is currently listed as a critically ... [+] GETTY
populations of native Barbary sheep. Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Madagascar Isolated from mainland Africa for millions of years, roughly 90% of the species inhabiting Madagascar are endemic to the country, making it a prime location for spotting some of the earth’s most elusive creatures. One particular biological
Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, Senegal Located on the northern edge of the Senegalese border, this roughly 40,000-acre collection of wetlands has gained worldwide recognition for its high degree of biodiversity, with many migrating birds using the site as a pit stop after crossing the harsh Sahara Desert. In addition to these voyaging European species, visitors can also encounter native African flamingos, pelicans, wading birds, and even crocodiles and manatees. Though the sanctuary was designated as endangered in 2000 due to the presence of hardy invasive species, it was cleared of any immediate danger in 2006, and lives on today as a safe haven for roughly 350 different bird species. www.forbes.com/sites/jaredranahan/2020/08/28/fiveafrican-national-parks-to-visit-in-2021/#58f614342709
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Travelers Say South Africa Is the Perfect Pos By Kelsey Marie
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s borders begin to open up, you may be planning on where you’ll venture to next. Tourlane (www.tourlane.com), a travel company perfect for personalizing trips, conducted a survey to see which locations around the world are most desired for a post-Corona vacation. The company asked its community of travelers about their preferences and found that South Africa is the most desired post-Corona destination. The survey was conducted in April and May of 2020 and Tourlane says, “With borders beginning
to slowly open back up and the possibility of travel starting to return, we were interested to find out if travelers’ preferences have changed and how they are thinking about their next trip. Where do they want to go? Who do they want to go with? And when is the earliest they feel comfortable traveling?” According to the survey’s responses, 54% of travelers are anticipating going on vacation this year. The top 5 destinations that were most mentioned for a post-Corona vacation are South Africa, New Zealand, Canada, Costa Rica, and
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st-Corona Escape
Namibia. Travelers chose South Africa because after months of being stuck in the house, exploring the outdoors and going on a safari is much needed. Unfortunately, South Africa may not be welcoming visitors for a while. In an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the country has enforced strict travel restrictions and bans on visitors from the U.S. and other countries. It is unclear when the South African borders will open to tourism again but travel experts are
hoping for a September reopening. https://travelnoire.com/south-africa-perfect-postcorona-escape Image credit: tourlane.de, v-i-r.de, tourlane.nl
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The Future of Africa’s Wild Places—and Why Safaris Matter By Jennifer Flowers
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t was dusk on the first day of my first safari in 2016, and I was watching a herd of several dozen elephants at a watering hole in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park. I sat with my guide from Somalisa Camp (https:// africanbushcamps.com/camps/somalisa-camp) as the creatures socialized and drank, babies following their mothers. Sundown was our cue to return to camp, but we didn’t want to leave. As the last of the light faded, the pachyderms, with their large tusks and six-foot-long ears, became impossible to distinguish as individuals, their backs and heads forming a silhouette of hills. But I could still sense them as they began to retreat from the watering hole: the chorus of their guttural grunts, the earthy-sweet aroma of mud displaced by their spongy feet, and an occasional breeze caressing my face from the wake of a fiveton creature passing near our car. Few experiences have made me feel so viscerally connected to the planet as when I’m exploring the plains, rivers, shrublands, and forests of Africa. I should be packing for my annual pilgrimage there—this time to Botswana—but when the COVID-19 outbreak evolved into a pandemic, I became one of millions who had to postpone their dream trips. Since the world went into lockdown, the travel industry has all but ceased, and it’s had a devastating ripple effect around the globe. But the lack of travel to Africa, which relies heavily on tourism and related donor funding to support conservation, could put the very existence of the world’s largest, wildest, and most biodiverse natural landscapes—and our chance, as travelers, to experience them—at risk. Why Tourism Matters Travel and tourism make up more than 7% of the total economy in Africa, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. International (https://wttc.org) visitors alone brought in $61.3
Courtesy of Singita
billion in 2019, the main draw being Africa’s unparalleled wildlife experiences. The travel industry was also responsible for one in four new jobs over the past five years. Yet even with these financial incentives, cash-strapped governments—overwhelmed by humanitarian issues on a continent that’s considered the last frontier of extreme poverty—often have trouble managing and funding their own parks. South Africa’s national park system is one of the most well-funded in Africa, but only a quarter of its budget comes from the government; the other 75% comes from park and private concession fees. And that’s where tourism dollars and donor funding step in. Tourism creates work for people in rural areas where there are few income prospects, such as Photo by African P hospitality, park jobs, or produce and other supplies for camps. It often pays for park security. In Namibia, for example, tourism fees pay for the country’s 600 game wardens; in Zambia, those fees support 90% of the more than 1,000 scouts, all hired directly from the community. “Tourism has also proven to government
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officials that there’s value in preserving land and wildlife rather than developing or exploiting it.” Tourism has also proven to government officials that there’s value in preserving land and wildlife rather than developing or exploiting it. African Parks (www. africanparks.org), a conservation NGO that uses tourism revenue to supplement donor funds, enters into long-
Parks/Scott Ramsay
term partnerships with governments to finance, rehabilitate, and manage threatened parks that have lacked the resources needed for adequate management and protection. It has introduced tourism into most of its parks, including Rwanda’s Akagera National Park (www.africanparks.org/
the-parks/akagera), which is 90% self-sustained through tourism. “We require that all governments allow any tourism receipts in the parks that we manage to stay in the park in order to become the sustainable base for conservation funding costs,” says Peter Fernhead, the cofounder and CEO of African Parks. That conservation-as-business model is key to the future of conservation, according to Elizabeth Ojo, the director of operations for the School of Wildlife Conservation at African Leadership University in Kigali, Rwanda (www.alueducation. com). The school offers undergraduate and MBA degrees in conservation, which includes training in regulations and management styles and research on developing wildlife economies. “At the moment, ecotourism is one of the major revenue models for conservation projects, so any conversation about the business of conservation would be hard pressed to omit it,” says Ojo. Beyond jobs, responsible operators also bring enormous amounts of support to communities. In 2018, I got a firsthand look these benefits in Tanzania’s Grumeti Reserve, a 350,000-acre private reserve where Singita (https://singita. com) has created a visionary tourism model that goes hand in hand with the conservation efforts of the reserve’s Grumeti Fund, a nonprofit group that works on wildlife conservation and community development in and around the reserve. I toured Singita’s onsite cooking school (https://singita.com/tag/ singita-school-of-cooking), which subsidizes the culinary education of promising young cooks from the community. I attended one of the Grumeti Fund’s women’s empowerment events, where Vanessa Mdee—Tanzania’s Beyoncé—talked to young girls who live around the reserve about topics such as menstruation and female genital mutilation. I
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to page 32
Safaris Matter - from page 31
also saw an inspired Singita guest return from a game drive at lunch one day intending to make a large donation to the Fund. The big question, though, is what happens when tourism stops—and what must happen for conservation to continue when those visitors are no longer coming. Conservation in the Time of COVID-19 In the short term, travel companies are holding the line on staff positions and essential services. But as time passes under lockdown, many are starting to resort to pay cuts. And when tourism is no longer a viable source of income, conservationists fear that nature may become valuable for other reasons: namely, extractive economies such as bushmeat, wildlife trafficking, and agriculture. “My main concerns are human-wildlife conflict and poverty—and that if the latter increases, it will place the continent’s wildlife at heightened risk,” says Luke Bailes, the founder and CEO of Singita, which has camps in Tanzania, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Rwanda. “Africa doesn’t have the same financial firepower as first-world countries, so the COVID-19 pandemic could be far more damaging here for people and wildlife.” As communities lose their livelihoods, they could resort to desperate measures to survive. A rise in poaching during the pandemic—either for bushmeat or for illegal wildlife trafficking syndicates—has already made international headlines. Conservationists predict the problem will worsen as funding for park security begins to dry up and there are fewer security boots on the ground and fewer tourism vehicles to deter such behavior. “With loss of tourism revenue, anti-poaching efforts across many areas will be challenged by lack of funding.” “We fully expect commercial poaching syndicates to capitalize on this moment by expanding their efforts to obtain ivory, rhino horn, bushmeat, and other wildlife products,” says Neil Midlane, group sustainability manager of Wilderness Safaris (https://wilderness-safaris.com), a longestablished safari company with 41 camps in six countries and a number of nonprofit initiatives, including the Wilderness Wildlife Trust (www.
wildernesstrust.com). “With loss of tourism revenue, anti-poaching efforts across many areas will be challenged by lack of funding.” In response to dwindling budgets across Africa for park security, Great Plains Conservation (https:// greatplainsconservation.com) launched a fundraising campaign through its foundation called Project Ranger (https://greatplainsfoundation. com/ranger), which intends to support the livelihoods of Africa’s park security rangers so they can continue to do their crucial work. Great Plains, which operates camps in Botswana, Kenya, and Zimbabwe, even recruited its safari guides to step in. “I called on the guides to volunteer for anti-poaching duties or monitoring and all put up their hands, so we actually went from a decent contingent to one three times the size,” says Dereck Joubert, a conservationist and filmmaker, who founded Great Plains Conservation in 2006. In the absence of tourism dollars, others, like Gerard Beaton, the regional operations director of Asilia Africa (www.asiliaafrica.com), are concerned that landowners might turn to fenced agriculture, which could disrupt key wildlife corridors in East Africa. Asilia partners with Naboisho Conservancy (https://naboisho.com), composed of more than 600 parcels of land in Kenya’s Maasai Mara owned by 550 Maasai families, and it’s one of six tourism outfits that pay the lease fees to those families. With no revenue coming in for the next few months, Asilia’s staff have taken 50% pay cuts, and camps are looking for alternative ways to cover those lease payments, according to Beaton. One such effort is a new crowdfunding campaign that would support the Naboisho Conservancy during the pandemic (www.crowdfunder.co.uk/coming-together-formara-naboisho). “If landowners don’t get at least 50% of their land lease payments, they will have no option but to consider other revenue generators and the most logical is livestock, which will likely include fencing parts of their land,” he says. “It will come down to whether donors will assist or if tourism partners
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cofounder of Natural Selection (https://naturalselection.travel), a collection of owner-operated safari camps, which commits 1.5% of every guest’s stay to conservation projects in areas where they operate. “We need to find money somehow to run the management of our parks and the conservation initiatives. If there’s no money on a sustainable basis, we have no chance of making these parks viable in the long term.” One of the big lessons that many ecotourism companies are learning as they deal with the pandemic is the importance of reserve funds. Great Plains’ Joubert is currently exploring a possible endowment-style model that would attract large funding Courtesy of African Bush Camps that could float conservation efforts when disaster hits and can obtain soft loans.” tourism dollars stop flowing in. African Bush Camps (https://africanbushcamps. Joubert is one of many conservationists com), which is based in Zimbabwe, Zambia, who are also underscoring the importance of and Botswana, has a foundation that has put collaboration between competing camps and emergency funds aside for basic services in lodges when dealing with complex issues that the communities, but larger projects have been are too enormous to tackle individually. Some put on hold to adjust for a lack of income. Beks early efforts have already happened to that Ndlovu, the founder and CEO, was a guide before effect. In recent years, Rhinos Without Borders he opened up his own safari company. He has (www.rhinoswithoutborders.com), a partnership a personal stake in maintaining good relations between Great Plains and andBeyond (www. with the people who live near his camps in andbeyond.com), has relocated 87 rhinos to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana. He belongs date from South Africa to Botswana, which is to Zimbabwe’s indigenous Ndebele people and widely considered a safer haven. The Lionscape grew up near Hwange National Park, where he Coalition (www.lionrecoveryfund.org/lionscapeopened Somalisa, his first camp. coalition) is a group of leading African tourism And the long-term success of conservation companies that pool funds for lions—whose depends on staying put, remaining committed to population has decreased by half in the past 25 those communities, and finding solutions when years—and allocate them to what they collectively there aren’t any visitors. deem the most urgent projects in countries where “For us to maintain our relationships with the the companies have lodges. communities, and continue securing their trust, But those examples are still few and far between, our consistent presence there is what helps us says Les Carlisle, the group conservation make an impact,” says Ndlovu. manager of andBeyond, which has 29 lodges in seven African countries. “We need to come Power in Numbers “If there’s no cash for conservation, it’s merely together in a post-COVID-19 world,” he says. “We a conversation,” says Colin Bell, a longtime can compete for guests that travel with us—that to page 34 conservationist based in Cape Town and 33 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
Safaris Matter - from page 33
has a place—but on a conservation management level, we have to work together on all aspects. That’s a big opportunity moving forward.” How to Help If you had a trip to Africa planned, it’s best to postpone and reschedule your trip, rather than canceling, to keep those crucial funds in place while camps and lodges remain shuttered. Or consider donating to one of the organizations and foundations that are doing vital work. • When the travel industry is in full swing, African Bush Camps Foundation (www. africanbushcampsfoundation.org) usually puts $10 of every bed night from African Bush Camps into community empowerment projects, and now those funds are supporting the transport of such basic items as water and food, which have become less accessible since the lockdown. • African Parks, which commits 100% of its donations to conservation (www.africanparks. org/donate) in the 17 national parks where it works, has lost 10% of its budget due to lack of tourism. It is now aiding communities with essential supplies and hand washing stations, in addition to continuing essential park maintenance duties. • andBeyond’s Africa Foundation (www. andbeyond.com/impact/our-impact-platforms/ africa-foundation) is getting crucial medical supplies to local communities and enabling access to fresh water through borehole creation and the distribution of portable, 24-gallon barrels for transporting and storing large amounts of water.
launched a crowdfunding campaign (www. crowdfunder.co.uk/coming-together-for-maranaboisho) to drum up financial support for the loss of tourism due to COVID-19. • Natural Selection Safaris has created the COVID-19 Village Support Program (https:// naturalselection.travel/blog/news/the-covid19-village-support-program), which funds the transportation of food parcels to remote villages in Botswana and Namibia, along with an Elephant Express bus that helps people in remote areas reach clinics via dangerous elephant corridors. • Singita partners with nonprofit organizations in each of the countries where it operates. They include the Grumeti Fund (www.grumetifund. org) in Tanzania, the Malilangwe Trust (www. malilangwe.org/the-reserve) in Zimbabwe, and the Singita Lowveld Trust (https:// empowersafrica.org/partners/singita) in South Africa. • Wilderness Safaris supports many different wildlife, community, and research projects in the areas where the company operates through the Wilderness Wildlife Trust (www. wildernesstrust.com), while the ecotourism company’s Children in the Wilderness (www. childreninthewilderness.com) program focuses on conservation education and leadership development for youths. www.afar.com/magazine/how-the-coronavirus-isimpacting-conservation-efforts-in-africa
• Great Plains Foundation recently launched its Project Ranger (https:// greatplainsfoundation.com/ranger) initiative to support the rangers in Africa who are on the front lines of the continent’s anti-poaching efforts and are at risk of losing their jobs. • The Naboisho Conservancy (www. asiliaafrica.com/camps-lodges/ naboisho-camp), a community-based partnership in Kenya’s iconic Maasai Mara where Asilia operates, has 34 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
Image credit: rescuediva.com
Inside Safari Valley: The “African Disneyland” and Ghana’s Largest Resort By Parker Diakite
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he Aqua Safari Group of Ghana has been very active with its investment in the tourism sector of Ghana. After introducing the Aqua Safari Resort in Ada (www.facebook.com/ aquasafariresort), which is now one of the best beach resorts in the county, the group is set to open a new resort known as the Safari Valley Resort Aburi (https://safarivalleyresort.com).. “A friend of mine invited me to visit his farm and encouraged me to get into the same enterprise,” group CEO, Samuel Afari Dartey, said. We have quite a few acres and started to visit a few plantations. But every time I visited it, I thought the place was unique and I knew I had to come up with some idea for this beautiful natural resource” Safari Valley Eco Resort will be located a few minutes from the Aburi botanical gardens. Once it opens, it will focus more on the forest and wildlife resources, with an emphasis on art and culture. Because it’s an eco-lodge, the planning and development team will not destroy the environment. “Where a tree has been taken out, we make sure that four trees replace it,” said Dartey. The slogan “bringing you close to nature” will allow visitors to interact with animals in their natural habitat. Impalas, giraffes, and zebras. There will a safari drive for a chance to get up close with hyaenas, lions, giraffes, and zebra. In addition to wildlife, there will be a sports arena that features a golf course, soccer fields, tennis, basketball courts, and a place to learn to horseback ride. More than 90% of the food on the resort will come from the farm where guests will have the chance to pick their own food, including their own
fish from the lake. Once construction is complete, the resort will have 102 resort-style and vacation rooms to rent out. According to Dartey, this will be the biggest resort in West Africa. He’s termed it the ‘African Disneyland.’ Take a look at the video for an update on the project - https://youtu.be/Q3l-MCcxh_c: https://travelnoire.com/safari-valley-ghana-largest-resor Image credit: kayak.comt
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This Insane New Boutique Hotel was Built in a Res By Martin Lerma
The South African
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ockdown may still be in effect for most of us, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start planning for future journeys. For the more adventurous among us, a novel boutique hotel built from a restored train station might be the wanderlust answer. Situated in South Africa floating on a bridge above the Sabie River, the Kruger Shalati Train Lodge (www.krugershalati.com) is a luxury hotel with 31 rooms, each of which has been constructed within a former train car. Filled with local art and custom furnishings crafted in the region, the interior design is meant to celebrate local culture. “A very important part of the project will also be the way in which it will improve the lives of people in the local surrounding communities, who will be empowered through world-class training, skills development initiatives and ultimately job opportunities with the project,” general manager Judiet Barnes said in a statement. Located within the border of Kruger National Park (www.krugerpark.co.za)––one of Africa’s largest game reserves at 7,523 square miles––
the site of the hotel commemorates the park’s first visitors in the 1920s. It sits on the exact spot where the original train parked at night for guests to retire in the evening before heading to the next destination the following day. Though parts of the land were protected in 1898, it officially became South Africa’s first national park in 1926. It is one portion of an area UNESCO considers an International Man and Biosphere Reserve. Filled with prides of lions, herds of elephants, crocodiles and giraffes, the Kruger is an ideal park for safari. Aside from the spacious rooms––which have glass walls for unobstructed views of the river and grasslands beyond––the Shalati Lodge also boasts a custom deck. Here, guests can lounge and order a drink from the bar or go for a swim in the modern pool with Africa’s natural wildlife teaming just meters below. “This is our opportunity to revitalize and recapture an important part of Kruger’s history,
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stored Train Station Atop a South African Bridge
autoevolution.com
while at the same time increasing both the range and quality of product on offer in the park. The product design is largely the differentiator in this businesstech.co.za project—not only have we not seen anything alike in our country, but neither is there anything similar in the world,” Barnes said in a release. Originally announced to open in December of 2019, the hotel is expected to begin welcoming
guests in September of this year. https://robbreport.com/travel/hotels/kruger-shalati-trainlodge-train-turned-hotel-south-africa-2917903
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E-MBT - NAMIBIA
Camp Under the Stars, Spot Elephant + Giraffe on o
O
ur mountain bike safari Namibia gives you the unique opportunity to really connect with the diverse wildlife and local communities of Namibia. No matter how many zebra or giraffe you see during your adventure, you’ll never forget your first sighting of these magnificent animals in their natural habitat, mountain biking across Namibia in Africa. IS THIS MOUNTAIN BIKE SAFARI IN NAMIBIA FOR YOU? We want you to have the best experience in Namibia, so it’s important to be sure that this is the perfect mountain bike tour, with the right level of challenge, for you. You own a mountain bike and have been riding it off-road, regularly, for a year or more. You are comfortable spending 3 – 4 hours in the saddle at a time, on undulating forest roads, gravel trails and uneven terrain, and you know how to pedal, brake and change gear efficiently. Read more on our novice+ skill level. TRIP HIGHLIGHTS In addition to mountain biking across the vast, red plains of Namibia with the sun on your back,
here are some other special moments to look forward to on your mountain bike safari tour Namibia: • Tucking into delicious apple pie in Solitaire • Spotting giraffe, zebra + oryx from the saddle of your bike • Cycling in elephant tracks along the Ugab River • Camping under cloudless, star-filled skies • Spending a day at Etosha National Park with an expert guide • Meeting indigenous communities, such as the Himba tribe MOUNTAIN BIKE SAFARI TOUR NAMIBIA ITINERARY The flow of your mountain bike safari tour Namibia has been carefully crafted to allow you to experience as much of this beautiful country as possible. We’ve tried to maximise time on the bike, whilst avoiding the hottest part of the day, and minimise transfer time in the vehicles. Namibia is, however, a vast country and you can expect up to four hours van transfer time on some days.
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our Mountain Bike Safari Tour Namibia
• ARRIVAL IN NAMIBIA - REFRESH + PREPARE FOR YOUR ADVENTURE • DAY 1 - GROUP MEET-UP IN WINDHOEK • DAY 2 - DAWN CHORUS + SOSSUSVLIE SUNSET • DAY 3 - SOSSUSVLIE SAND DUNES + SOLITAIRE APPLE PIE • DAY 4 - ROSTOCK CANYON RIDE • DAY 5 - RE-STOCK RE-FUEL AND REHYDRATE IN SWAKOPMUND • DAY 6 - SKELETON COAST TO DAMARALAND • DAY 7 - HUAB RIVER RIDE + WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE • DAY 8 - OUT OF DAMARALAND • DAY 9 - THE HIMBA TRIBE + ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK • DAY 10 - ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK • DAY 11 - FINAL SUNDOWNER RIDE IN NAMIBIA • DAY 12 - DEPARTURE Please note: a mountain bike safari tour Namibia is a living thing, being influenced by multiple
factors such as changing weather conditions, group riding abilities, trail damage, to name a few. Your local guides are experts in guiding mountain bikers in Namibia and will be continually assessing these factors and making tweaks to the itinerary where necessary to ensure that every member of the group has the best possible experience. www.mountainbikeworldwide.com/mtb-tours/namibia Image credits: flowmountainbike.com
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The Best National Parks in Kenya Collected by Harriet Constable, AFAR Local Expert
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ith 24 national parks, 15 national reserves, 6 marine parks, and private conservancies on top of that, the choice can be overwhelming when it comes to visiting Kenya’s national parks. To help you decide between north, south, east, and west, between hot and dry or luscious and green, and between mountainous or flat, here’s a quick hit list of some of the best national parks in Kenya.
Nairobi National Park
there have been a number of incidents involving wildlife straying into nearby farmland, due to the encroachment of humans on the animals’ habitats in recent years
Amboselli National Park
Sitting at the edge of Kenya’s capital city is Nairobi National Park. Kenya’s first national park is home to a huge range of wildlife, including buffalo, rhino, zebra, and lions. You can drive on your own around the park, or book a game drive with the Kenya Wildlife Service in advance. The best times to view the animals are at dawn or dusk; while away some of the time in between by heading to Ololo Lodge for lunch and a swim, or stay the night at Nairobi Tented Camp. Helping fund the park with tourism is more important now than ever: It is under pressure from developers, and
Positioned in the south of Kenya on the boarder with Tanzania, Amboselli National Park has spectacular views of the snow-capped, craggy peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s tallest mountain. Renowned as being the best place in Africa to get close to the large population of elephants living in the park, here golden grasslands sit next to swampy, hippo filled springs, and in the skies above the wildlife it’s nothing but lilac, dusky horizons for as far as the eye can see. The elephants aren’t all you’ll see here though – Amboselli is also home to leopard, cheetah, giraffe, lions and more.
The Great Migration, Masai Mara National Reserve In what is considered one of the earth’s greatest spectacles, over a million wildebeest make their way from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya in search of lusher grasslands. The great migration is a very
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responsible approach to protecting the delicate Mara ecosystem.
Samburu National Reserve Situated in northern Kenya on the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro river, Samburu National Reserve is a beautiful and arid ecosystem that’s lesser visited than its cousins in the south of the country due to its more remote location. The big draws in Samburu are the different types of wildlife on offer in comparison to other parks. The Grevy’s zebra, for instance, is an elegant creature not found in the south – its stripes are thinner than that of the common zebra, and its frame more tall and horse-like. good reason to visit the diamond in Kenya’s crown of national parks, the Masai Mara. The most dramatic scenes take place at the river crossings, where the wildebeest slip and crash down the steep embankments of the Mara River into crocodile- and hippo-infested waters and, if they get through that, still have to gallop past the Mara’s high density of lions awaiting them on the other side. The best time to see the migration here is between the months of July and September. Porini Lion Camp is an excellent accommodation choice, with knowledgeable guides and a Samburu is a popular option for those looking to escape the large crowds drawn to famous parks like the Masai Mara.
Aberdare National Park For something a little different, try the Aberdare National Park situated next to the Great Rift Valley. Here, luscious, vibrant forests give way to open expansive moorland, towering mountains and steep gorges. The Aberdares are famed for their population of black rhino, as well as the giant forest hog, elephants and a range of antelope and gazelle. It’s here that the Treetops Hotel is situated – which made headlines as the location where Princess to page 42
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Parks in Kenya - from page 41
between Nairobi and the coast, this is a beautiful, wild and hot place (the heat rises as you lose altitude coming from Nairobi) that retains a lot of its original splendour. One of the most special reasons to visit Tsavo East is for sights of the soil-covered, rusty-red elephants playing in the shady Galana River waters. Some of these were once orphans at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and have now been released back into the wild.
Tsavo West National Park
Elizabeth of the UK acceded the throne when her father died in 1952.
Tsavo East National Park Tsavo East National Park was created in 1948, making it one of the oldest National Parks in Kenya. Situated in the east of Kenya, halfway
Tsavo gained a reputation as home of the “man eating lions” when, in the late 1800s, several construction workers were killed by hungry lions as they built the railway from Mombasa to Uganda. Today, it’s known for less frightening reasons, like the spectacle that is Mzima Springs: icy clear water flowing rapidly from under a lava rock, as well as the Shetani Lava Flows. Like Tsavo East, this is a fiercely beautiful region wild and untamed in places, open grassland in others, and the wildlife viewing here rivals any of Kenya’s best parks. Expect to see the ‘Big 5’ as well as a huge range of bird and plant species. Aside of enjoying the views and wildlife on offer, the park is also well-renowned for its adventurous rock climbing opportunities. www.afar.com/travel-tips/the-best-national-parksin-kenya
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Photos by: Harriet Constable
Kenya Ranks as Africa’s Leading Tourist Destination By Parker Diakite
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enya has received the top award for African travel. The East African country has been named Africa’s leading tourist destination in 2020 by the World Travel Awards (www.worldtravelawards.com/winners/2020/africa). The WTA award recognizes and rewards excellence in travel and tourism. Kenya emerged this year’s winner as the votes came reeling
in from industry professionals and the public. Kenya has seen a steady increase in its travel and tourism sector over the last decade. Tourism and travel sector contributed at least 3.7% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2016 and around 6% in 2017. Among other categories, Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi ranked the top spot as Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre. Nairobi was named Africa’s Leading Business Travel Destination in 2020 beating its strong competitor Cape Town, South Africa, which came out on top as Africa’s Leading Festival and Event Destination award, as well as Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction in 2020 award. In aviation, Ethiopian Airlines won the award for Africa’s Leading Airline award. Cape Town International Airport won the award for Africa’s Leading Airport. In Kenya, Maasai Mara Game (www. Reserve maasaimarakenyapark. com), Samburu
Kenyatta International Convention Centre
National
Reserve
(www.samburu. net), Shimba Hills National Reserve (www. amboseliparkkenya.com/shimba-hills-national-reservekenya), Sweet Waters Game Reserve (ketsafaris. com/sweet-waters-game-reserve), and Tsavo National Park (www.tsavonationalparkkenya.com) were named
among the country’s top safari destinations. https://travelnoire.com/kenya-ranks-as-africasleading-tourist-destination Image credit: kayak.com, theevent.co.za 43 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
This Virtual Tour of Pharaoh Ramses VI’s Tomb will Make You Feel Like Indiana Jones By Stacey Leasca
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ant to live like “Indiana Jones” even for a minute? The Egyptian government may have something for you. As part of its experience Egypt From Home. Stay Home. Stay Safe, campaign, the Egyptian government launched a series of virtual tours including a new in-depth experience in the tomb of Pharaoh Ramses VI (https://my.matterport. com/show/?m=NeiMEZa9d93&mls=1). According to an official statement provided to the Egypt Independent (https://egyptindependent. com/egypt-invites-world-to-virtual-tour-of-thetomb-of-ramses-vi), the tomb, which was first discovered in 1898, dates back to the Twentieth Dynasty, sometime between 1189 to 1077 BC. At the time, the tomb was established by King
Ramses V, however, it’s unclear if he’s actually buried there. As the statement explained, “the huts of the workers who constructed the tomb were built on the tomb of the staircase leading to none other than the tomb of King Tutankhamun.” The statement added, “In other words, it’s thanks to the tomb of Ramses VI that Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered in 1922, with all of its worldfamous treasures inside.” On the virtual tour guests can catch a glimpse of its impeccably well-preserved decorations, paintings, and writings, including funeral texts to aid in the king’s journey to the afterlife, the Egypt Independent reported. On the tour, guests can also tilt their mouse
upward to see the stunning ceiling decorations, which include scenes of the night sky as well as a painting in honor of the sky goddess Nut who, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum (https:// egyptianmuseum.org/deities-nut) explained, swallowed the sun deity Ra each night and then gave birth to him every morning. “Ra was then
replaced by Thoth at night,” it explained. Nut, it added, “was often associated with coffins and sarcophagi because she protected the dead until they were reborn in the Afterlife.” While this tour of the tomb of Pharaoh Ramses VI* is exceptionally cool, it’s not the only virtual experience Egypt is offering. For more online experiences check out the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities Instagram page (www.instagram.com/ ministry_tourism_antiquities) for tours, behind-thescenes photos, updated travel information, and more (www.instagram.com/p/B_InF9wHMoK). *https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=NeiMEZa9d93&mls=1 www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/this-virtual-tour-of-pharaohramses-vi-s-tomb-will-make-you-feel-like-indiana-jones/arBB16TWLx?ocid=msnews Image credit: www.amazon.com/bedding-bath
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Can Roots Tourism Build Social Justice? A Case Study of Travellers to Ghana Provides Insights By Alana Dillette
Elmina Slave Castle www.tripadvisor.com
Ghana holds memorial service for George Floyd
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rotests against racism have erupted around the globe in recent weeks, sparked by the murder of a black man, George Floyd, at the hands of a white police officer in Minnesota, in the United States. This act of racial violence serves as a timely reminder of the racial inequalities that persist for black people around the world, African diasporas being no exception. In fact, Ghana, which has been a leader in connecting this diaspora to its African roots through tourism, commemorated the life of Floyd with a memorial service in Accra (www.graphic.
com.gh/news/general-news/ghana-holdsmemorial-service-for-george-floyd.html). The service was arranged by Ghana’s Year of Return committee, in partnership with the African Union of Diasporan Forum (www.diasporaafricanforum. org). The Year of Return – 2019 – (www.un.org/ africarenewal/magazine/december-2018-march2019/2019-year-return-african-diaspora) was a tourism campaign to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first slave ship landing in America. It was an instance of “roots tourism”
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Fabric market Essence
(www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/0966958 2.2020.1727913), which appeals to travellers to visit a destination on the basis of their ancestry. Beyond the education and personal transformation that many travellers gain from this type of tourism, could it also be an opportunity for racial reconciliation? My study (www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.108 0/09669582.2020.1727913) of one recent group of African American roots travellers to Ghana suggests this may be a possibility. The study explored how the trip affected these travellers’ sense of identity and their commitment towards social justice initiatives. Exploring roots in Ghana In August 2018, I joined a group of 10 African American travellers on a 10-day trip to Ghana where we visited historical sights, as well as cities, villages and nature preserves. I interviewed the travellers before and after the trip, in addition to conducting observations and a focus group during the trip. I asked them about their expectations of the journey and how the experience had affected their identity. I also asked if it made them more likely to participate in social justice activities such as protesting, getting involved with social justice organisations in their communities and speaking up about social injustices in their professions. Travellers revealed to me that the trip helped them to conceptualise slavery differently, and
this led them to a deeper understanding of race relations in the United States. For example, one traveller said that prior to visiting Ghana, they felt a “certain anger towards white people”. But visiting Ghana and specifically the Cape Coast dungeon exposed them to learning more about all of the actors in slavery – (white) Europeans and (black) Africans. Travellers also shared how the trip helped them to understand more deeply their identity as both African and American. For example, one participant said: I have these identifiable characteristics about me that link me to this place. I hope to go home and be able to exude that like a light off me, without being afraid or ashamed; we shouldn’t be fearful of who we really are. This quote exemplifies how identity formation through roots travel can lead to a form of reconciliation within travellers themselves. Another traveller said they realised after the trip that roots tourism, if curated well, could be an avenue for cross-racial communication and understanding. They said they had noticed a clear difference between white and black tour groups at the Cape Coast dungeon. One was more romanticised, and one highlighted more of the horrific details of slavery. This traveller said the romanticised experience
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to page 48
Social Justice - from page 47
was common at many former slave plantation heritage tourism sites in the US. These types of narratives only perpetuate experiences reminiscent of the Jim Crow era. But if transformed, these experiences both in Ghana and the US could act as a platform for racial reconciliation. One traveller described their own internal racial reconciliation by saying: We are all human. I wish that we lived in a world that could really and truly embrace that, but we don’t. So, for now, I continue trying to spread the love and be unashamed about who I am, which is a mixture of so many things, some of which do originate in Africa, and I am proud of that now. Making peace These types of experiences through roots tourism represent an opportunity for the creation of peace and reconciliation. Travellers can learn together about the collective emotional trauma resultant from slavery, the misinformation that is often passed down about slavery and how these issues can be discussed openly. Travel and tourism are not often linked to social justice. But the research shows that tourism does in fact provide a platform for this. Travellers in my
study said their trip to Ghana empowered them to make changes towards social equity in their professional and personal lives. They described actionable change along with expanded mindsets. For example, one traveller mentioned getting involved with empowering black musicians in their community. Another started contributing financially to empower female business owners in Ghana. Roots travel experiences also shine a light on the continued everyday racism that people face as a trickle-down effect of slavery. Participants described how societal racism in the US had made an impact on their lives, and how travelling to Ghana had emboldened them to search for clarity of identity and self, as well as social equality. The research already shows that tourism can promote peace, transformation and cross-cultural understanding. But it’s a good time to ask how the travel and tourism industry has contributed to racism and how that can change. https://theconversation.com/can-roots-tourismbuild-social-justice-a-case-study-of-travellers-toghana-provides-insights-140862 Image credit: lowerzambezi.com
The view from the dungeon of the Cape Coast Castle. Alana Dillette 48 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
Use These 6 Tips to Save Space in Your Suitcase When Packing By Kelsey Marie
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any of us haven’t gone through the stress of packing a suitcase since the beginning of this year because of the pandemic. However, now that people are becoming more open to the idea of travel again, the need for efficient packing is back in full swing. With a few tips and tricks, packing will become a breeze and saving space in your suitcase will also become second nature. Here are 6 tips on how to save space in your suitcase when packing. Pack Heaviest Items On The Bottom Packing your heaviest items at the bottom of your suitcase will help with weight distribution. It will also prevent your suitcase from falling over. Items like shoes and heavy coats are ideal for the bottom. Wear Your Bulkiest Items While Traveling Nothing saves you room more than wearing your bulkiest items on clothes when boarding your flight. If you’re planning on packing jackets and outerwear, your best bet is to just layer it on while en route to your destination. Put Smaller Items In Large Items Make the most of your space by fitting small items such as toiletries, medicine, nail polish, etc. in larger items such as the inside of your shoes or the inside of your pockets. Use A Soft Suitcase Sure, hardshell suitcases are chic, but soft suitcases make it much easier to fill. Soft suitcases will give you the flexibility to squeeze in extra items that a hard suitcase just won’t!
Cases Aren’t Always Necessary Super organized packers enjoy using pouches and cases for everything to ensure their suitcases are super compartmentalized. However, uses pouches for toiletries and cases for your sunglasses takes up space. Ditch the cases and pouches for extra room when packing. Don’t Fold Your Clothes To save the most room when packing, roll, or lay your clothes flat in your suitcase. This way, you’re able to bring more clothes without going through a struggle. https://travelnoire.com/6-tips-to-save-spacepacking
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Serena Williams Launches Second Luggage Collection With Away By Lyndsey Matthews
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ennis great Serena Williams is teaming up again with Away to launch the second collection (www.awaytravel.com/ca/ en/serena-williams) she’s codesigned with the cult favorite luggage brand. The inaugural Away x Serena Williams collection that debuted in February 2020 (www.prnewswire.
The Carry-On
com/news-releases/away-partners-withtennis-legend-entrepreneur-and-fashionicon-serena-williams-in-a-multi-year-multifaceted-collaboration-300997632.html)
featured bold red hard- and softsided luggage with multi-colored camo print interiors. For her latest collaboration, which launches January 28, Williams chose shades of periwinkle, coral, and green, as well as a custom gray swirled pattern. In addition to the brand’s signature polycarbonate suitcases, the line also includes a kid-size carry-on, packing cubes, a toiletry case, and a pet carrier. Away is also launching several brand-new items with this collection, including a convertible backpack tote and a jewelry sleeve. Like other avid travelers, Williams and her busy travel schedule of tennis tournaments around the world have been greatly curtailed by the COVID-19 pandemic. However,
The Carry-On
The Convertible Backpack Tote
The Kids Carry-On
The Mini Convertible Backpack
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she hopes that this new bag collection can be used in day-to-day life now and also give people something to look forward to once they are ready to travel again. “I’m thrilled to share a collection that speaks to the new realities of travel and highlights my personal take on design and functionality, all with the hope that it can get people excited for the future,” Williams said in a press release. As for the Away x Serena Williams limited-edition collection? That goes on sale online and in Away stores in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom starting January 28, 2021. Here’s a look at every item in the line. www.afar.com/magazine/awaylaunches-second-collectionwith-serena-williams The Front Pocket Sling Bag
The Jewelry Sleeve
The Pet Carrier
The Expandable Toiletry Case 51 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
The Expandable Packing Cubes
12 Black-owned Travel, Fashion and Accessories Brands to Know and Support By TRAVEL + LEISURE STAFF
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lackout Day (www.complex.com/life/ blackout-day-2020-boycott-explainer), a campaign that encourages people to only buy from Black-owned businesses for an entire day in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, will take place on July 7. With that in mind, we’re sharing 12 amazing Black-owned brands, specializing in everything from fashion to luggage to accessories, and all of which you can support today and every day. If you’re in the market for new luggage, for example, head over to Made Leather Co. or Mifland for stunning leather bags that are both stylish and durable enough to take you all over the world. And if your wardrobe needs an update, grab some chic heels or flats from Rebecca Allen or a minimalist swimsuit from Jade Swim. Keep reading for 12 Black-owned brands that sell incredible products you’ll want to add to your travel wardrobe ASAP. Mifland Mifland is known for its modern, utilitarian bags and leather accessories, including structured rucksacks, duffels, and belt bags. Founder Tobi Egberongbe used his experience and passion for design, photography, architecture, and contemporary furniture to create this brand, which sources materials from both Atlanta and New York. To shop: www.mifland.com Made Leather Co. Lenise Williams founded Made Leather Co. after discovering the leather artisans and tanneries in Marrakech, Morocco. She launched the brand back in Atlanta,
though she ethically sources all her leather from Morocco. You can shop Made Leather Co. for beautiful handbags, briefcases, duffels, and more. To shop: https://madeleathercompany.com/ Tote & Carry Tote & Carry’s leather Travel Sets are available in a rainbow of rich colors, so whether you’re looking for a bold backpack and duffel duo or a neutral arsenal of bags that will go with anything, there’s an option for you. The brand, co-founded by Anthony Dennis, a stylist and tailor, and Tony Rey, an artist and entrepreneur, also makes crossbody and messenger bags that are essential accessories for travel or everyday use. To shop: www.totencarry.com Ashya All made in New York City, Ashya’s stunning leather belt bags, crossbody bags, and passport holders will upgrade your travel looks. Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece founded the brand in 2017, with the goal of diversifying cultural perspectives through their designs. To shop:www. www.ashya.co Mind the Cork Mind the Cork is a London-based brand, available on Etsy and specializing in environmentally friendly home and
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travel accessories made from cork. Whether you’re looking for a sleek cardholder or a zippered pouch, you can’t go wrong with these items that are both stylish and ecologically sound. Jenny Espirito Santo, the brand’s founder and designer, says cork is one of the world’s most underrated materials. To shop: www.etsy.com/shop/mindthecork Vavvoune It doesn’t get more chic than Vavvoune, especially when it comes to the brand’s gorgeous and practical handbags, belt bags, and wallets. Founder Valerie Blaise designs these stunning pieces at home in Brooklyn, New York, and donates leather scraps to art programs across the country. To shop: vavvoune.com Kingsley Leather Kingsley Thompson, founder of Kingsley Leather, is known for his handcrafted leather wallets, belts, and accessories. We love the polished look of his products, many of which also happen to be perfect for travel, including the leather keychain and sunglasses case. To shop: www.etsy.com/shop/KingsleyLeather Salone Monet Salone Monet makes chic nude heels in an inclusive range of six shades, since the brand believes “every woman should know the effortless style of a thoughtfully designed nude shoe that highlights her complexion.” And while some styles are currently sold out, we’re bookmarking the brand for when items are restocked. To shop: www.salonemonet.com Rebecca Allen Founder Rebecca Allen created her namesake brand after not being able to find the perfect nude shoe for her own skin tone. Now, shoppers can
browse everything from pumps to flats to strappy sandals in five nude shades. To shop: https://rebeccaallen.com/ Nubian Skin Ade Hassan founded Nubian Skin to provide lingerie, hosiery, and swimwear that’s accessible for people of all skin tones. The soft organic cotton bralettes and briefs will become essentials for both travel and everyday use, and you’ll want to shop the stunning nude swimwear for your next vacation. To shop: https://us.nubianskin.com/ Jade Swim Founded by fashion editor and stylist Brittany Kozerski, Jade Swim is a gorgeous swimwear brand that offers minimalist suits made from luxe fabrics. In addition to being classically stylish, these suits retain their shape, provide UV protection, and resist damage from chlorine and sunscreen. To shop: https://jadeswim.com/ Harlem Candle Co. Candles are a key tool in making any house (or hotel room) feel like home. Founder Teri Johnson combined her love of fragrance, jazz, and Harlem to create this line of beautifully scented and aesthetically pleasing candles. The brand even offers travel-sized candles that you can easily take with you on the go. To shop: harlemcandlecompany.com www.travelandleisure.com/style/shopping/blackowned-travel-brands
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Meet Ashya: A Black Women-owned Brand That Makes Some of the Most Unique Travel Accessories on the Market By Madeline Diamond
H
ere at Travel + Leisure, we’re always on the hunt for the latest in stylish and functional travel accessories. Ashya is one brand whose unique accessories are making us oh-so-excited to travel again, whenever that may be. We spoke with cofounders Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece about the inspiration behind the brand, and what it is about travel accessories that excites them as designers. A Black women-owned brand, Ashya (www.ashya.co) encourages minimalism through its purposeful designs that exist at the intersection of luxury and utilitarianism. And while they launched the label in 2017, their initial inspiration came a couple of years earlier while traveling the southern coast of India with belt bags. Over the past three years, they have built their brand around minimalist, gender-neutral leather accessories that provide plenty of function, especially for travelers, without ever compromising style. Keep reading for two of our favorite Ashya travel bags. The Palmetto exemplifies what Ashya does best — it’s an adjustable belt bag made from Italian leather with 14K gold plated hardware. The belt is removable, so you can wear the bag around your waist, as a crossbody, or simply carry it as a pouch. It’s the perfect size for carrying travel essentials, which is something that Cimone and Annece value as designers. “We hope the leather accessories that we design encourage minimalism — a lifestyle that we live by — making sure essential everyday items such as passports, keys, phones, lipstick, and credit cards can be easily and safely held.” The Passport Bolo is one of Ashya’s staple pieces, and it is so chic that it begs the question: Why would
you store your travel documents in anything else when you can use this stylish leather accessory? It’s made from vegetabletanned Italian leather and 14K gold plated hardware. Whether you opt for the brown leather with coral stitching, black with cobalt, or green-on-green color, there’s no doubt you’ll be traveling in style.
And what makes this bag particularly convenient for travel is just how many ways you can wear it — across your body, around your neck, or around your waist, depending on your preference.
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www.msn.com/en-us/ lifestyle/lifestyle-buzz/ meet-ashya-a-blackwomen-owned-brand-thatmakes-some-of-the-mostunique-travel-accessorieson-the-market/ ar-BB17uV2R?ocid=msedgntp Image credit: ©Travel + Leisure Courtesy of ASHYA
7 TSA Rules Everyone Should Know to Get Through Security Quickly By Kelsey Marie
O
ne things for sure — when heading to the airport, you should allot time for going through TSA. You never know if there will be a long line or not, so knowing the TSA rules and regulations will make the process more efficient. Most people know the basic TSA regulations such as taking off your shoes, putting your liquids under 3.4 ounces in Ziploc bags, and placing your electronics in separate bins, but there are other regulations that aren’t commonly known, yet they’ll make your experience much more quick. Here are 7 TSA rules you should know: Solid Foods Are Allowed On Flights You might think that solid foods aren’t allowed in your carry-on, but that is a myth. So if you’re traveling with home-cooked food, you’re more than welcome to bring it on your flight as long as it is solid. Liquid foods such as soups and gravy must be under 3.4 ounces. Medicine And Prescriptions Are Allowed In Your Carry-On You can pack as many of the medications that you will need while traveling. Liquid medication will go through screening by a TSA officer as long as you have your prescription with you. Every state has different rules pertaining to prescription labels, so it’s important to check with your state prior to arriving at the airport. Yes, Your Plants Can Come Too If you’re a plant parent, here’s some good news: your plants can travel with you! Plants are allowed on the plane as long as it can fit in the overhead compartment or under your seat. Always be sure to check with your state on whether or not the specific plant you are traveling with is permitted. Drones Are Allowed Drones are awesome for capturing amazing content while traveling and they’re allowed on
Getty Images
planes! Just be sure to check with your airline on whether or not they allow drones on board. Undeveloped Film Has To Be Inspected If you captured stunning photos on your film camera that has yet to be developed, it’s going to have to go through an inspection by a TSA officer. To ensure your film doesn’t get ruined, you can request that the film goes through a physical inspection — just be sure to ask a TSA officer as soon as you get to the security checkpoint. Forks, Spoons and Knives Are Allowed In an effort to promote sustainability, the TSA allows eating utensils on flights. You can even bring your own knives, as long as it is roundbladed! Keep Your Expensive Jewelry On When going through security, you don’t have to take off your expensive jewelry. The TSA doesn’t want you to lose or have your expensive items stolen while going through security. https://travelnoire.com/tsa-rules-get-through-securityquickly
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Travel - Be Safe
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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TSA Website: www.tsa.gov/coronavirus TSA Safety Video: www.tsa.gov/videos/stayhealthy-stay-secure CDC Dashboard: www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/ whats-new-all.html COVID-19 Testing: www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/ symptoms-testing/ testing.html COVID-19 Travel Recommendations by Destination: www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/ travelers/map-and-travelnotices.html
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Wha
I
n mid-April, Delta CEO Ed Bastian said on a call with investors that the airline was considering requiring travelers to show a certificate of good health, suggesting “immunity passports” would soon become ubiquitous. He may not be wrong. At present, airlines like Emirates are performing temperature checks prior to letting passengers on airplanes, and visitors to most countries are expected to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. But airlines and destinations know these aren’t long-term solutions: Some COVID-19 carriers are asymptomatic, and no one goes to Vienna just to see it from their hotel window, after all. Already, a number of governments—the U.S. and U.K. included—are in talks to develop immunity passports. But what exactly is one, and how does it work? Better yet, how do you get one? Let’s dive in. What is an immunity passport? There is no one-size-fits-all immunity passport. At a basic level, “immunity passport” refers to a digital or paper certificate or card that allows people to show that they’ve had (and healed from) the virus. Countries and officials have also been calling them “immunity certificates,”
“licenses,” and “COVID passes”; the phrase “release certificates” is also starting to gain popularity, after the World Health Organization warned countries about using the word “immunity.” (More on that later.) How does an immunity passport work? Immunity passports use antibody testing to establish antibodies specific to SARS-CoV-2, which indicate the subject has fended off the coronavirus, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). On a practical level, just how a “passport” works depends on the company and country. One company, London-based Onfido, submitted a proposal to the U.K. government in early May, and says they are now in the “brainstorming” state. Under Onfido’s proposal, reports Politico, you would use an app to take a photo of your face and a government-approved I.D. This would then be matched with information about an antibody and antigen test. At checkpoints, the app would generate a QR code based on your data, showing the gate-keeper (a receptionist or border patrol agent, say) whether or not you are clear to proceed. Which countries or places require them?
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at is an Immunity Passport—and Do I Need One to Travel? By Katherine LaGrave
In Chile, the government is slated to start issuing certificates to those who have finished a mandatory quarantine after testing positive for coronavirus. Despite earlier phrasing, health officials note they will no longer “make any pronouncement with respect to immunity,” reports Reuters. Since midway through the coronavirus crisis, China has been having the majority of its citizens use a color-based system with QR codes to show health status: a green QR code means people can travel within their immediate province, yellow suggests the person may have come in contact with someone infected, and red is for those diagnosed with the virus, or who are suspected to have it. The system—called the “Alipay Health Code”—also appears to share that information with police, leading to concerns about privacy and surveillance, according to the New York Times. Other countries—including Italy, France, Germany, and Switzerland—are also considering immunity passports. Immunity passports rely on antibody testing, which is not yet widely available. If you’re planning on traveling sometime soon, consult this list of country-specific rules and see if the destination country has implemented any such systems. What are the benefits of immunity passports? Economies are slowly restarting, and immunity passports would allow some people to return to work—or, even, to take “riskier” jobs, like those in the transportation and service industries. They could also allow some people to travel, with restrictions. What are the concerns about immunity passports? Immunity passports have raised red flags from those in the medical community. The idea of an immunity “certificate” or “passport” has come under fire from the World Health Organization, which issued a brief in April saying that there is currently
not enough evidence to suggest that people who have had (and healed from) COVID-19 are immune. The prevalence of such passports could also mean more people out and about: “People who assume that they are immune to a second infection because they have received a positive test result may ignore public health advice,” warns WHO. “The use of such certificates may therefore increase the risks of continued transmission.” Even if people who recovered from COVID-19 were immune, there’s no answer as to how long that immunity would last. Antibodies against the SARS coronavirus only lasted two years, point out writers in a joint editorial for Scientific American, and they sometimes even made the disease worse. By implementing such a system, some social scientists also fear that countries would be creating an odd sort of reward—that people would willingly catch the virus and recover, so that they could once again “rejoin” society. As with regular passports, that system could also see an influx of fake, stolen, and hacked passports, Robert West, a professor of health psychology at University College London, told Wired. For others, the biggest red flag may be around the ethics of it all: In systems that espouse equality, what would our world look like if people were so clearly split into immune and not-immune groups? In Germany, government officials have asked the German Ethics Council to research just that, with health minister Jens Spahn noting, “The question of what it means for society when some people are hit by restrictions and others are not, that touches on the foundations of how society functions together. www.afar.com/magazine/what-is-an-immunity-passportand-do-i-need-one-to-travel Image credit: citizenshipbyinvestment.ch
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Africa Business Travel Do’s and Don’ts AMID COVID-19 By Merilee Kern, MBA
A
s COVID-19 wreaks havoc across the globe, business and lifestyle tourism-dependent regions are suffering exponentially. Africa is one glaring example, with South Africa propelled into the global top 10 for coronavirus infections. It reportedly has surpassed the United Kingdom in cases. For its part, the tourism and industrial sectors in North Africa will likely be hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the African Development Bank’s 2020 edition North Africa Economic Outlook (www.afdb.org/en/ documents/north-africa-economic-outlook-2020coping-covid-19-pandemic) report. Even as the continent contends with pandemic concerns, there are still throngs of business travelers who need or desire to visit the region in the near future. Many are doing diligence to discern if, when, and how to go about scheduling a business trip to this tourism hotspot. To help spotlight some top-line issues, I turned to entrepreneur and philanthropist Jay Cameron, executive director of Maximum Impact Travel (www.maximumimpacttravel.com). Cameron is one of the leading global experts on Africa travel and commerce, so his insights are invaluable as travelers deal with this tumultuous situation and plan smartly in the post-pandemic era.
What are the key do’s and don’ts when traveling to Africa amid COVID-19? Surprisingly, some African countries have escaped the devastating impacts COVID-19 has caused globally. While other countries around the world have experienced often overwhelming consequences as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, much of Africa appears to have been spared. Even so, the statistics do not suggest the citizens of the countries of Africa have not felt its impact. The fact is, many countries in Africa are seeing regular increases in the numbers
of those infected by the novel coronavirus, while much of the world is experiencing a decline in infections. Around the world, experts warn outbreaks of COVID-19 in Africa may continue, resulting in a higher rate of deaths due to the limited local health services available. With coronavirus worries come fears of potential famine due to the virus threat, in combination with existing drought conditions and ongoing conflicts. With this in mind, should you intend to travel to the continent now, or post-COVID-19, you should be prepared. Some good preparedness ideas include researching virus statistics in the country you wish to visit that, for one, you can review at AfricaNews.com (www.africanews. com/2020/07/29/coronavirus-in-africabreakdown-of-infected-virus-free-countries). It is also advisable to learn if said country has any travel restrictions, which is information that is accessible online at CDC.gov. Of course, maintaining a healthy lifestyle to boost immunity before and during your visit is also key.
Should travelers be ready to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result either before departing or upon arrival? African countries are now opening for foreign travelers, but this does not indicate the belief that they have won the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Most African countries are still battling with COVID-19 outbreaks, as the number of infected cases continues to rise daily in nearly every African country. To this end, stringent efforts are in place to ensure individuals arriving on the continent and entering various countries are free of the virus. With this in mind, you should be prepared to
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hotel bars in Rwanda are closed but the hotels themselves remain open. Researching and understanding these laws before traveling enables you to stay safe during your visit and steer clear of legal issues with the local authorities. A helpful resource for staying upto-date on laws that might affect travel to Africa can be found at Travel.State.gov.
What about the airlines, specifically?
present proof of negative COVID-19 status before entering the country to which you are traveling. This measure is being implemented around the globe and the countries of Africa are no exception. In the same vein, departing any African country will require the same proof of negative COVID-19 status. Both mandates are in place to protect your fellow travelers on the flight as well as the residents of the country to which you are traveling. As things ebb and flow, you can check the status of this mandate online at AfricaTravelInc.com (https:// africantravelinc.com/content/travel-alert-0).
What would you suggest about localized regulations? Travelers must research the localized regulations and requirements with respect to hotel and resorts, airports, ground transportation, public spaces, and such for both their own country and their destination. It is necessary that you understand departure rules from your country of origin, and even more important that you understand your destination country’s prevailing laws for foreign travelers regarding COVID-19. Some African countries like Tanzania and Zambia, for example, have mandated the use of face masks in public places with punishment for the contravention of such laws. Some hotels and resorts also have taken stringent measures and issued their own strict requirements for travelers arriving from foreign countries. For example, at this time,
Investigate the requirements for your airline as each carrier has varied responses to COVID-19. As a result of the pandemic, most airlines have adopted measures to keep their passengers and their staff safe. While some airlines like Delta require proof of a negative COVID-19 test before boarding your flight, others provide testing before your flight and attach the result to your ticket. Therefore, to ensure you are able to fly when scheduled, it is your responsibility to know the requirements of your airline before the flight to avoid any issues. A good resource for this is Go2Africa.com (www.go2africa.com/africantravel-blog/updated-african-travel-restrictionsdue-to-coronavirus-covid-19).
Should tourists be prepared for temperature screenings and COVID-19 tests upon arrival and departure? As pointed out earlier, many African countries are still battling the pandemic, so to keep the residents of their countries safe post-COVID-19, airports have been mandated to request test results or test passengers on-site. Therefore, when traveling, you should be prepared for a coronavirus test upon arrival or departure from any African country. If you refuse to allow this, you will not be able to fly.
What about a potential 14-day quarantine upon arrival—is that only for travelers who show signs of COVID-19? Apart from testing, be prepared for a 14-day quarantine if you show signs of the virus or test positive during a test given at the airport. African countries are determined to ensure the pandemic is eliminated completely from their countries. If you show symptoms of the virus upon your arrival in any country in Africa, you will likely be quarantined
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Social Justice - from page 61
for 14 days. This can even entail having to stay in the country instead of returning to the U.S. Would you say that travel insurance is imperative? Make sure your travel insurance company offers COVID-19 coverage and arrange for COVID-19 travel insurance requirements from airlines. You will want to be insured by your travel insurance company for COVID-19 coverage before traveling to any African country. Check with your travel insurance company to ensure COVID-19 is covered under their insurance policy, in the event you need to change your travel plans due to the pandemic. Such coverage policy can protect you by covering expenses related to unexpected changes and/or medical care in the event of illness.
With any trip, but especially now, there can be unforeseen circumstances. Any insights on that front?
to extend your trip in the event of a quarantine. With the points mentioned above, there is a great likelihood you will be required to spend more time and money in the country to which you are traveling if your COVID-19 test is positive. As a result, it is advisable to travel only if you are prepared with time and financial contingency plans. However, African countries are not barring U.S. travelers at the same rate as other countries, meaning you can potentially realize your dream safari vacation or other adventure across the continent’s beaches, jungles, and deserts. As the world contends with COVID-19 issues, African countries will endeavor to stay open for tourism, business, and much more. Preparing for, and abiding by, the region’s travel requirements will make your journey and overall stay in the country more enjoyable and safer for all. www.blackenterprise.com/africa-businesstravel-dos-and-donts-amid-covid-19/?utm_ source=Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_ campaign=Newsletter%209/9_09/09/2020 Image credits:iStock
DO NOT travel without extra funds and the ability
Your Social Mask www.yoursocialmask.com
W
hile there is no way to predict where the world will take us next, what ups and downs we will face, or when our world will return to “normal,” our hope is that Your Social Mask brings you a sense of comfort, confidence and community.
The World is Calling. #STAYSOCIAL. Sip any drink with a straw inserted under the fold– or open the fold to drink, then close immediately for socializing. As we reconnect with our communities, our masks help you get back to the things you love. Your Social Mask (U.S Patent Pending) is expanding our inventory to feature additional socially responsible and incredibly inventive mask styles. We are so proud to partner with our friends at Rafi Nova to bring you even more highest quality masks for adults and children. FEATURED COLLECTION (2-PACKS)
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Beautiful African Islands You’ve Probably Never Heard Of By Telegraph Travel
E
ight lost worlds off the coast of Africa, plus advice on how to visit them.
São Tomé and Príncipe
One of Telegraph Travel’s 20 destinations to visit in 2019, São Tomé and Príncipe is one of the last unspoilt wildernesses on Earth. But that might change in the near future – so you’d best get there soon. “Few people have heard of São Tomé and Príncipe, let alone visited it – and that’s why you should go before mainstream operators and budget airlines alter its unique character,” explains Andrew Purvis. “Comprising two islands in the Gulf of Guinea, about 150 miles off Gabon in West Africa, STP (as aficionados call it) feels like a lost world of pristine rainforests, bizarre geological formations, breathtaking (and deserted) beaches and tepid, glassy-green ocean
ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving. “It’s a place where nature sneaks up on you, rather than you seeking it out. On Principe, where I spent most of my time, I twice took a speedboat to explore local beaches only to stumble across a humpback whale and her calf, born days before in those planktonrich waters. On a drive to a restaurant one night, the dirt track was suddenly swarming with land crabs the size of my fist, caught in the headlamp beam. At one resort, Bom Bom, I lay on a sun lounger and watched yellow weaver birds at work in the palm fronds above my head, spotted an endemic Principe kingfisher and was dive-bombed by a grey parrot. “But the people are what made my trip. Because tourism is so young, there seems to be an absence of malice and a warm-hearted innocence totally in keeping
Expect perfect beaches and pristine rainforest CREDIT: GETTY 63 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
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Island Life - from page 63
with the untarnished African landscape. Service can be rough at the edges and the infrastructure (water, electricity) creaks at times – but that’s what pioneers have to endure.” São Tomé Choice (01768 721050) offers a ninenight Secrets of São Tomé and Príncipe holiday from £3,398 per person, based on two people sharing on a half-board basis. The price includes international flights with TAP Air Portugal and internal flights from
Walking in El Hierro CREDIT: GETTY
São Tomé Príncipe.
traverse,” says Joe Cawley. “It’s also by far the least developed. Instead of beaches and theme park rides, you get mist-shrouded moonscapes and rehabilitation centres for the island’s famous giant lizards. “El Hierro has an almost magical spirit that you can feel along the ancient trails of El Golfo, amidst the swells of mist that stroke the twisted juniper trees of El Sabinar, and on the petrified rivers of lava that lie on the rippled volcanic plains of the interior like giant tubes of melted liquorice. “Divers, too, will find their natural version of an amusement park in the clear waters of La Restinga Marine Reserve, where an underwater eruption in 2011 has refurbished the area’s 10 dive sites with spectacular new colonies of Technicolor flora and fauna. “Quiet and broody, but with a propensity for the odd explosive outburst, El Hierro is perfect if you prefer your attractions natural rather than manmade.” Cachet Travel (cachettravel.co.uk) offers a
to
El Hierro You may think the Canary Islands are just a fly-and-flop destination. But where else can you hop from prehistoric jungle to desert, spot whales, and then savour a Michelinstarred meal – in January? “El Hierro is the smallest of the major seven Canary Islands, making it the easiest to
Constance Aiyana, one of a handful of hotels on Pemba 64 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
Ibo offers faded beauty CREDIT: GETTY week at the Parador de El Hierro in May from £1,356 per person, based on two people sharing a standard room on B&B basis. Includes flights, transfers and car hire.
Pemba This island off the coast of Tanzania is like Zanzibar 40 years ago, according to Telegraph Travel’s Sally Peck. She adds: “Intrepid adventurers have always come here in small numbers: Pemba’s white sand beaches are ringed on all sides by coral reefs which offer some of east Africa’s best snorkelling and diving. During the annual whale migration, in July and August, humpback whales have been sighted off the east coast. And yet, while the island’s charms are many, visitors are relatively few. “There’s the inconvenience of the half-hour flight from Zanzibar (it’s wise to break up your journey with a night or two in Zanzibar, for a dose of culture and a historic tour). And there’s also the dearth of mid-range hotels on Pemba. But these combine to create an exclusive paradise that can serve as hideaway, springboard for adventure, or classic beach holiday without the hordes. Here, you’ll find no merchants selling tourist clobber on the beach; you’ll see not a speck of the rubbish that lines mainland roads and beaches as you cycle or motor through quiet villages. For that matter,
you’ll see no advertisements - just calm, rural life.” Four nights all-inclusive in a beach villa at Constance Aiyana plus a night on arrival at the Park Hyatt Zanzibar with breakfast and a guided Stone Town walking tour costs from £1,949 per person (based on two people travelling) including flights and transfers. See turquoiseholidays.co.uk.
Ibo Mozambique has grown in popularity as a beach destination and its 1,430 miles of coastline are dotted with modern luxury resorts. But it is in its islands, and in its past, that this damaged but often dramatically beautiful slice of southern Africa shows its soul, says Chris Leadbeater. He adds: “Ibo is one of these outcrops – a fragment of the Quirimbas archipelago which, like the larger, more famous Ilha de Mocambique further south, was one of the hubs of Portugal’s colonial administration in these warm Indian Ocean waters. Lisbon’s sudden abandonment of its overseas possessions in 1974 left the town which sits on the little isle’s west flank as a ghost of a dead era, its merchants’ houses, churches and whitewashed forts starting to crumble in the salt air. They would continue to fall apart for the next three decades, but are now being reclaimed as artists’
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studios, small shops and boutique hotels – of which Ibo Island Lodge is perhaps the most special.”
nudibranchs, laptop-sized crabs and giant clams. Out beyond the reefs, humpback whales, whale sharks and giant Zambezi sharks can be spotted – the last, rather irritatingly, can whip off a rod-bending tuna before you get the Bazaruto from chance to space CREDIT: reel it in.” GETTY For all-out luxury, try the Anantara Bazaruto I s l a n d . Rooms from £330pp per night.
La Gomera Another of the lesserv i s i t e d C a n a r y Islands, La Gomera is a haven of leafiness that suits those who Expert Africa (020 3405 6666; expertafrica.com) sells a six-day “Quirimbas Beach Holiday” that splits its time between the luxury Guludo Beach Lodge, on the mainland, and Ibo Island Lodge. From £2,002 per person – with flights.
Bazaruto Mozambique has other options, including the Bazaruto Archipelago, part of the Bazaruto National Park. Twenty miles off the country’s southern coast, it is so rich in underwater life that it has been dubbed “the aquarium”. “Frankly, if you don’t like boats, snorkelling, fishing or hanging about in white sand, this is not the national park for you,” says Lisa Grainger. “Divers from all over the world fly in to plunge the clear depths in search of turtles, coloured
La Gomera offers dramatic scenery CREDI 66 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
Djerba has plenty to offer non-Star Wars fans CREDIT: GETTY find holiday heaven in the simpler things in life, like tasty local food, show-stopping sunsets and glorious mountain scenery. Joe Cawley says: “Monumental landscapes are the main reasons for choosing La Gomera. The island is shaped like a splayed orange, with immense valleys separating each segment. Its craggy interior is topped by Garajonay National Park, a mysterious, misty cloak of ancient laurels and carpets of fern, with moss-shrouded monoliths poking out into the blue sky like the tops of witches’ hats. “As with El Hierro, there are no international flights to La Gomera; island-hopping via ferry or plane is the only way to get there, which makes the journey part of the adventure.” Prestige Holidays (01425 480400, prestigeholidays.co.uk) offers a week in May at Parador Conde de la Gomera from around £800 per person, including flights.
IT: GETTY
Djerba Mos Eisley, where Luke and Obi-Wan meet Han Solo and
Chewbacca, is really Ajim, on the Tunisian island of Djerba. The exterior of Obi-Wan’s home is actually a mosque, while the domed exterior of the rough Cantina bar, where Figrin D’an and the Modal Nodes are the house band, can still be spotted. Djerba has plenty to offer non-Star Wars fans too. “Djerba was home to the Lotus Eaters of Homer’s Odyssey, and with its sandy beaches, old market towns and Berber communities, it has long been peaceful – a refuge for persecuted peoples throughout history,” says Gail Simmons. “Named after the Gerbatani tribe, Djerba is home to one of the world’s oldest Jewish communities and has been a centre of ceramic production since Neolithic times. A Roman causeway still connects the island to the mainland, and in its ‘capital’, Houmt Souk, fishermen still hold a daily market as they have for centuries.” While the FCO’s lifting of restrictions on travel to Tunisia last autumn has freed Britons to visit the country, holiday options remain limited. Thomas Cook offers trips to around a dozen resorts in the country, but most are in Hammamet, a five-hour drive to the north of Djerba. Package holidays to Djerba can be booked through Expedia, however. A week at the Iberostar Mehari Djerba, for example, costs from £2,562 per person, including flights. Based on a May 17 departure. www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/africa/ articles/african-islands-never-heard-of/
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A New Vision for Safaris: One That Puts A Stories
By CHRISTIN
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ith its modular, 3D-printed mini-lodges and sound baths in the bush — not to mention funding from cofounders of Uber and Tinder — Habitas Namibia (doubles from $979) is an eco-minded retreat working to turn 123,500 acres of the Kalahari Desert into a world-class wildlife reserve. It’s a far cry from Out of Africa — which is exactly the point. In an increasingly woke world, “colonial is like a swear word,” says Caline Williams-Wynn, the South African designer behind some of the buzziest safari-lodge openings in recent years. But as the industry sheds those old-world trappings, there’s still an elephant in the room: “Today, most people who operate safari lodges are not African — or, if they are, they are not Black African,” says Fred Swaniker, the Ghanaian founder and CEO of African Leadership University (ALU www. alueducation.com). “We need Black African conservation entrepreneurs who will build the next generation of ecotourism businesses that can create opportunities for our communities.” ALU graduates will follow pioneers like African Bush Camps (https://africanbushcamps.com) founder Beks Ndlovu, who was born near Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park (www. hwange-national-park.net). His latest project, Khwai Leadwood (from $609 per person, allinclusive https://africanbushcamps.com/camps/ khwai-leadwood), near Botswana’s Moremi Game Reserve (www.moremi.com), will be the company’s 15th property. “Guests aren’t necessarily going there to tick off the Big Five,” Ndlovu says. “They’re coming to engage with local people and better understand our wilderness areas.” Meanwhile, South Africa’s oldest Black-owned travel firm, Thebe Tourism Group (www. thebetourism.co.za), is turning a historic train in Kruger National Park (www.krugerpark.co.za) into Kruger Shalati (see page 26 www.krugershalati. com), reimagining the safari in the very place where it originated. Solar-powered suites will
occupy refurbished carriages done up by South African firm Hesse Kleinloog Studio ( w w w. h k s t u d i o . co.za), parked on a bridge overlooking the Sabie River. While the train will Beks Ndlovu weareafricat remain stationary, guests can ride electric quad bikes along the old rail line and get hands-on with a local businessi n c u b a t i o n program. The shifts are promising — but more are needed, Khwai Leadwood African Bush Ca says Cameroonborn Lee Litumbe, who founded the Africa-focused travel site Spirited Pursuit (www.spiritedpursuit. com). “It’s very rare to see the safari experience told from a Black person’s perspective,” Litumbe says. “I think people need to be at the center of their own narrative. It’s empowering.” Lodge design is also evolving. For many safarigoers today, an aesthetic defined by vintage maps, hunting photos, and pith helmets doesn’t necessarily evoke the romance of a long-ago era. “Camps are not what people want anymore,” says Abercrombie & Kent founder Geoffrey Kent, who, incidentally, outfitted the Redford-Streep film that helped spark a generation’s worth of safaris. A&K recently overhauled its original retreat on Kenya’s Mara River, Sanctuary Olonana (from $535 per person, all-inclusive www.mahlatini.com/Kenya), replacing old-fashioned tents with 14 glass-walled suites. They’re decorated with commissions from Shelley-Anne Graham, a contemporary South
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African s First
NE AJUDUA
travel.com Sanctuary Olonana www.mahlatini.com/Kenya
amps
Bisate Lodge luxurytaveladvisor.com African artist. Across the border in northern Tanzania, Asilia Africa (www.asiliaafrica.com) tapped WilliamsWynn to rethink the brand’s 15-year-old flagship, Sayari (from $711 per person, all-inclusive www. asiliaafrica.com/camps-lodges/sayari-camp). “We’ve literally taken all the canvas off,” she says. The new suites feature handwoven basketwork panels and leather light fixtures that echo the surrounding rock formations. (Asilia also added a first-of-its-kind solar-powered brewery that doubles as a water purification plant, reducing the need for single-use plastic bottles.) At Wilderness Safaris’ Bisate Lodge
offexploring.com (from $1,575 per person, all-inclusive https:// wilderness-safaris.com/our-camps/camps/bisatelodge) and the forthcoming Little Bisate, both near Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park (www. volcanoesnationalparkrwanda.com), WilliamsWynn designed thatched villas whose pear shape was inspired by traditional Rwandan architecture. Furnishings are decorated with imigongo, a local craft that combines geometric patterns made from cow dung and paints derived from natural pigments. https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/safaris/howsafari-innovators-are-rethinking-the-classic-trip
69 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
The Black Expat Family: We Felt at Home in Tanzania, so we Decided to Stay’ By DeAnna Taylor
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hat started as a family trip to Tanzania for Rukiya McNair and her children, eventually led to her completely relocating to the East African country. The Pittsburg native enjoyed her time so much, that she now resides in Dar es Salaam, and she couldn’t be happier. “Once me and the children arrived here, we all felt so at home that I decided it’d be best for us to stay,” Rukiya told Travel Noire. The laid-back atmosphere, ocean views, delicious African cuisine, and endless options of things to do — were heavy influences on her decision. She also enjoys nature and nature-based activities, and Tanzania definitely offers both. “Also, because I am a single parent living abroad, safety is important to me. I feel extremely safe here in Dar es Salaam.” While the decision to move literally sprang from a visit, there wasn’t very much planning that was involved. It was a very spontaneous
move, but lots of patience and hard work made it happen. Rukiya is an entrepreneur and works remotely. This made the move even easier, because she didn’t need to secure a job before going. “I think an entrepreneurial mindset is an
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Dar es Salaam important attribute to have for anyone who wants to move to the continent,” she said. “I will be opening businesses here in the future.” The cost of living in Dar es Salaam can vary, based on the type of lifestyle you want to live. The average price for a nice, furnished twobedroom apartment is about $600 per month. You can find unfurnished 3-bedroom houses for around $500 per month. But, there are also luxury accommodations that can be as much as $3000 per month. As for her children who are 9 and 11, she describes them as being happy with the transition to their new home. They were able to make friends instantly, and really enjoy their school and living the coastal life. Some may wonder how Rukiya and her children are received in the African nation. “Most people assume we are Tanzanian, so I don’t think I have been treated differently. Due to
what people see on the news about the United States, some people have asked questions about it. Most people though, have been extremely welcoming and kind.” The only thing that Rukiya wishes she would have done prior to her move was learning the native language. She is currently learning Kiswahili, but says it would have been much easier had she learned sooner. If you have questions for Rukiya about her move, or you simply want to follow her new journey, you can find her on Instagram at: @ themigratingmom. https://travelnoire.com/black-expat-family-at-home-intanzania Image credits: JG Photography, Raw Photography TZ, Getty Images
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Here’s What Trekking With Mountain Gorillas in the Wilds of Rwanda is Really Like By Chloe Berge
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he sun-dappled bamboo grove I’m standing in whistles and whispers as the leggy stalks bend in the wind. With every rustle I can’t help but glance over my shoulder—I’m in mountain gorilla territory. My fears are quickly abated, though, as our Volcanoes National Park guide, Cally, explains that our group of eight will have to cover quite a distance to find the gorillas. We’ll be trekking up into the high, tangled depths of Rwanda’s Mount Karisimbi (www.fodors. com/world/africa-and-middle-east/rwanda), the country’s highest inactive volcano. “If you get too close to a gorilla, they’re going to let you know,” explains Cally, who proceeds to make a throaty, clucking sound, gorilla speak for “get out of my way.” We’re also taught how to communicate in return. Turning to one another, we practice the huffing, sing-song sigh that will let the gorillas know we come in peace. The noise mimics the sound the animals make when they’re content. Armed with nothing but a few grunts, I suddenly feel ill-equipped to encounter these powerful animals, which can weigh up to 500 pounds and eat 15% of their body weight every day. But as we leave the sunny bamboo grove behind and slosh along a muddy trail leading into the darker jungle, I feel more excited than anything. I remember how lucky I am that the gorillas are still here. Just a few decades ago, there were only 242 of the animals left in the Virunga Massif, a chain of volcanoes that spans Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Despite Dian Fossey’s storied work to protect the gorillas and her establishment of a research center here in the late ‘60s, the population continued to plummet at the hands of poachers and land encroachment. While the 1994 genocide devastated the nation, it also left the gorillas
unprotected, f u r t h e r reducing numbers. Over the last decade, however, government initiatives have helped to rehabilitate the gorillas and their habitat, and— although still critically endangered—there are now 604 of the animals in the Virunga Massif. That’s partly thanks to trekking permits sold to tourists. Ten percent of those profits are fed back into conservation efforts and also used to support the local community, where the funds provide clean water and repair infrastructure. Dedicated park rangers— some of them former poachers—also keep vigil over the gorilla families and bring medics in to care for them when necessary. “You have a 100% chance of seeing gorillas in Rwanda because unlike other countries, our rangers stay with the gorillas all day,” notes Cally. Even throughout the pandemic—when endangered
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wildlife in other countries has been left unprotected due to the tourism downturn—, the stalwart rangers remain by the gorillas’ side. “Strict rules have been put in place to minimize any risk of disease transfer to the gorillas, including having rangers and anti-poaching patrols work in rotations, isolated from the larger community so that the risk of their exposure to COVID is minimal,” says Tara Stoinski, president and chief scientific officer for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. This is no easy feat, considering the recent loss in funding for park programs. Ahead of our group, the ranger’s radio crackles and spits with static. He’s communicating with other rangers deeper in the park who are tracking the Susa family, the troop of 26 gorillas that we’re hoping to lay eyes on. The ranger says something in Kinyarwanda, the national language, into the radio as I catch my breath, trying not to slide down the swampy embankment we’ve stopped on. A few more clipped sentences buzz from the radio and we veer off to the left and up a steep incline before reaching a lush, emerald green clearing. Towering African redwood crowd the glade’s edge, draped in twisted vines. In the distance,
the treetops disappear, cloaked in fog. The balmy air and dense jungle seem to dampen sound. Only the melodic ringing of a red-faced warbler cuts through the silence. I haven’t even laid eyes on a gorilla yet and I already feel as though I’m living out my Gorillas in the Mist fantasy in this mythic jungle. “We’re close,” announces Cally in a hushed voice at the head of our group. We once again enter the trees, plucking our way across the gnarled, overgrown forest floor. Stinging nettle grabs at my legs and arms, and even through long pants and sleeves, the thorn’s hot kiss blossoms into an excruciating itch. We’re instructed to drop our bags and carry only our cameras as we head quietly up an incline towards the Susa family. We reach a smaller clearing and there sits Kurira, the family’s Herculean silverback, arms crossed and amber eyes on us, unmoving. I cover my mouth with my hand to stifle a gasp and stare back. We’ve been given strict instructions to remain quiet in the gorillas’ presence and to also refrain from using camera flashes or pointing gestures. Kurira’s face stretches into a wide, toothy yawn. Then he sighs, visibly bored with us. Around him, other family members begin to emerge out of the shadowy thicket. For the next hour, we watch them, enraptured. Young gorillas chew lazily on twigs and leaves, a mother saunters over the leafy ground, carrying her baby, and others loll about together on the forest floor. “It’s very rare to see a group this large,” says Cally. Without warning, Cally will sporadically alert us to a gorilla walking towards us out of our sightline, and we have to move swiftly out of the way. In their gestures, murmurs, and bright brown eyes, it’s impossible to not feel a deep, familial connection to these primates. If they sense the same twinge of recognition, they don’t show it, only sending the occasional impassive glance my way. I can’t help but feel voyeuristic. An uninvited guest at a family dinner. I’m grateful to pioneers like Fossey and those working today to defend these majestic animals, but also feel a pang of sadness that constant human presence is necessary to protect them. How different are they from the nonhabituated animals of their kind? Our time with the gorillas is up. I’m at the front of
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Gorilla - from page 73
the group with Cally, the other seven hikers some distance behind. That’s when things go sideways. Cally points his index finger to a mother ambling slowly down the hill towards us, a baby on her back. I turn to snap a few photos, and through the lens see her quickly pick up speed, running toward me. I barely have time to register her glaring yellow eyes, bared teeth, and alarming scream before Cally grabs my arm and whips me behind his back. He rises on his tiptoes, aiming a loud, throaty call at the gorilla, who immediately backs down and slips into the forest’s depths. My heart hammers in my chest as I try to process what just happened. All I see are those eyes. It’s thrilling and totally wild. Rwanda reopened to international
travelers on August 1 and continues to take extra precautions to protect visitors and wildlife alike from coronavirus. “There is a significant financial and logistical investment in ensuring the gorillas remain protected every single day, which demonstrates that their conservation is a priority,” says Stoinski. Discover (https://gorillafund.org/ get-involved/other-ways-to-help/world-gorilladay/) how you can support conservation efforts and the Volcanoes National Park community during the pandemic from afar, or start planning (www.fodors.com/go-list/2020/africa-middle-east) your future gorilla safari. https://imblacknitravel.com/africa-the-brazilianconnection Image credits: Matt Horspool, Matt Horspool, Chloe Berge
World Wide Nate: African Adventures Watch the Series at: https://umc.tv/worldwidenate/
White Water Rafting in Zambia
N
athan Fluellen is a thrill-seeking, world traveler who immerses himself into a culture. Challenged by his mentor to visit as many countries as possible, Nathan has traveled to 6 continents and nearly 60 countries. His web series “World Wide Nate,” has received several critically acclaimed awards and has been featured on TheGrio.com, Mensfitness.com, Ebony.com and essence.com. The “World Wide Nate: African Adventures” audience will vicariously experience Africa through Nathan as he uncovers every treasure the motherland has to offer. They will get to see, taste, and feel all that 21st century Africa has to offer. Watch World Wide Nate on UMC (www. facebook.com/watchumc), the first and largest streaming service for Black TV and film. Dedicated to highlighting Black voices across the diaspora, UMC displays fresh original series like nighttime soap opera “A House Divided”; feature films such as Everything But A Man; network TV programs such as WEtv’s “Untold Stories of Hip
Hop with Angie Martinez;” documentaries like the UMC original docuseries “Behind Her Faith”; stage plays; and other popular Black entertainment with new and exclusive content added every week. UMC is available everywhere streaming services are found – iOS, Android, Apple TV and Apple TV Channels, Amazon Prime Video Channels, YouTube TV, Roku and Roku Channels, Amazon Fire TV, Sling TV, DISH, and more. Find UMC on Facebook at www.facebook. com/watchumc and on Twitter and Instagram @ WatchUMC.
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75 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
WORLD HERITAGE SITE
K
Kilwa Kisiwani (Isle of the Fish), Tanzania
ilwa Kisiwani, an authentic historical town in Real South, Located about 300km south of Dar es Salaam, Kilwa Kisiwani is the leading historical site in southern Tanzania. A quick visit to Kilwa Kisiwani gives a thrilling memory when discussing the rich history of the Swahili coast that extends along the Eastern coast of the Indian Ocean in Tanzania. With its twin island of Songo Mnara, Kilwa Kisiwani is the United Nations Scientific and Educational Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage site, known by its rich history and Swahili cultural heritage blended with African and Arabic cultures. Kiliwa Kisiwani is a tourist site, standing among the leading, earliest trading towns on the East African coast. Historical buildings in the island were constructed with coral stone mixed with limestone materials which had made the architecture beautiful and stable to survive weather conditions characterized by humid and hot temperatures for hundreds of years. The Island had its prosperity achieved from the control of the Indian 76 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
Map of Kilwa © Georg Braun and Franz Hogenberg (1527)
Ocean trade with Arabia, India and China between the 13th and 16th centuries, when gold and ivory from the mainland Tanzania and Congo were traded Great Mosque © Claude McNab/WikiCommons for silver, carnelians, perfumes, Persian faience and Chinese porcelain. Most attractive, are mosques built in 13th century and a Portuguese Fort, which are presently give the island its historical fame. These mosques are dating between 13th and 18th centuries. Between each mosque, there are cemeteries and worship places decorated with early Chinese porcelain and Persian artifacts including ceramics materials from the Middle East. Kilwa Kisiwani was occupied from the 9th to the 19th centuries by Oman Sultans and Persian merchants. Between 13th and 14th centuries, the island thrived as a leading business center on the Indian Ocean coast. According to great Muslim traveler Ibn-Battuta who visited and stayed in Kilwa Kisiwani between 1331 and 1332, the island was ranked among the most beautiful cities of the world during that time. The Great Mosque of Kilwa was the largest mosque of its kind in East Africa. The mosque accommodates two mosques, all constructed in 11th century. Ibn-Battuta had explained this mosque to have been built by the ruler of Kilwa Kisiwani, Sultan al-Hasan ibn Sulaiman. Makutani palace is the other building of the past where the sultan of Kilwa Kisiwani resided. The building was constructed in 1516 and fitted with minarets to encounter invaders. There are spacious rooms for women and bathrooms; all decorated with earthen-wares and ceramics. Orchids and green trees were planted to provide shade and beautifying the palace. Another attraction at Kilwa Kisiwani is the Portuguese Fort. This beautiful building was later used as a garrison by the Arabs and Germans to punish Africans who opposed their occupation over the east coast. Kilwa Kisiwani remains the old trading town of the Indian Ocean and that had attracted trade with Arabia, India and China, particularly between the 13th and 16th centuries, when gold and ivory trade from the mainland Tanzania thrived. Silver, carnelians, perfumes, Persian faience and Chinese porcelain were the leading trading goods between Kilwa Kisiwani, Oman, China and Persia (Iran). Most interesting, Kilwa Kisiwani minted its own currency in the 11th to 14th centuries. https://tanzaniatourism.go.tz/en/destination/kilwa-kisiwani Image credit: https://theculturetrip.com/africa/tanzania/articles/kilwa-kisiwani-the-ruins-of-east-africa-s-greatest-empire, ancientpages. com
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Travel Africa Where To Go, What To Do Algeria
Tamanrasset Camel Trekking Sahara Dune Skiing The Turquoise Coast CAPITAL: Algiers www.algerie-tourisme.dz
Angola
www.burunditourisme.com
Cameroon
Mandera Mountains (hiking, climbing) Bouba Ndjidah National Park Festival National des Arts et de la Culture (FENAC) in December CAPITAL: Yaoundé www.cameroun-infotourisme.com
Cape Verde
Baia das Gatas Festival Scuba Diving and Snorkelling at Boa Vista
Fort Sao Miguel Slave Depot Calandula Waterfalls Palmeirinhas Beach CAPITAL: Luanda www.angola.org
Benin
Lake Village of Ganvie Nakoue Lagoon Pendjari National Park CAPITAL: Porto-Novo www.benintourisme. com
https://discount99.us/Drummers Of Burundi
Botswana
Okavango Delta Central Kalahari Game Reserve Transfrontier Park (Kgalafadi National Park) CAPITAL: Gaborone www.botswanatourism.co.bw
Burkina Faso
International Arts and Crafts Fair, Oct-Nov Ranch de Nazinga game reserve Mare aux Hippopotames CAPITAL: Ouagadougou www.ontb.bf
Burundi
Chutes de la Kagera Waterfall Lake Tanganyika Craftwares Village at Giheta CAPITAL: Bujumbura
UNESCO world heritage old fort site at Cidade Velha CAPITAL: Praia Ministry of Tourism, Praia, Santiago: +238 615 697
Central African Republic
Boali Waterfalls Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park Lobaye Region CAPITAL: Bangui ministere_tourisme@yahoo.fr
Chad
Camel racing in the Tibesti Mountains Galawa Beach on Grande Comore Lake Chad CAPITAL: N’Djamena Office du Tourisme, Tel: 01 45 53 36 75
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Coromos ewa-air.com
The Comoros
Climb Mount Karthala (active volcano) Nzwani Island Hot Sulphur Springs at Lac Salé CAPITAL: Moroni Comoros National Tourist Board Office, Tel: 269 73 3044
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Frère Gillet Botanic Gardens world-famous rare orchids Ruwenzori Range Virunga National Park CAPITAL: Kinshasa Ministère des Affaires Foncières, Environment et Tourisme, Tel: (+243) 8802093.
Côte D’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Yamoussoukro Mount Tonkoui (mountain climb) Comoë National Park CAPITAL: Yamoussoukro www.tourisme.gouv.ci
Djibouti
Gulf of Tadjoura (snorkling/diving) Lake Abbé Lake Assal (windsurf on wheels) CAPITAL: Djibouti www.office-tourisme.dj
Egypt (Kemet)
Nile River Cruise, Aswan Temple of Ranses II, Abu Simbel Alexandria CAPITAL: Cairo www.tourism.misrnet.gov.eg
Equatorial Guinea
Arena Blanca Pico Malabo Volcano (mountain climbing) Cascades of Moca CAPITAL: Malabo www.embarege-londres.org
Eritrea
Dahlak Archipelago Tour of Eritrea (bicycle race) Akordat CAPITAL: Asmara eritreantourism@tse.com.er
Ethiopia
Rock Hewn Churches of Lalibela (New Jerusalem) Home of the Queen of Sheba, Axum African Union Headquarters, Addis Ababa TOTAL Great Ethiopian Race CAPITAL: Addis Ababa www.tourismethiopia.org
Gabon
Cathedral of St Michael in Libreville
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Travel Africa - from page 79
www.magicalkenya.com
Lopé-Okanda Reserve National Park (gorilla) M’Bigou (gold mines/crafts) CAPITAL: Libreville www.legabon.org
The Gambia
Lesotho
Bushmen Rock Paintings Ski Lesotho Highlands (www.afriski.co.za) Sehlabathebe National Park CAPITAL: Maseru www.ltdc.org.ls
Deep Sea Fishing, Atlantic Ocean Liberia Exhibition of the slave trade at Albreda and Sapo National Park Jufureh Kendeja National Cultural Center Makasutu Culture Forest Festival in the Desert Mali uitvconnect.com CAPITAL: Banjul www. visitthegambia.gm
Ghana
Cape Coast Castle Slave Fortress Mount Afadjato and Togbo Falls (Volta Region) Kakum Nature Reserve (tree-top walkway and stay in a tree house) CAPITAL: Accra www.touringghana. com
Firestone Rubber Plantation CAPITAL: Monrovia www.micat.gov.lr
Guinea
Kindia (cloth market) Kinkon Falls Îles de Los CAPITAL: Conakry www.ontguinee.com
Libya
Guinea-Bissau
Bijagos Archipelago Cantanhez Natural Park Museum of African Artefacts CAPITAL: Bissau www.guineabissautourism.com
Kenya
Mount Kenya National Park Tsavo West National Park Watamu-Malindi Marine Park CAPITAL: Nairobi
Akakus Mountains (prehistoric rock art) Ubari Lakes (dune surfing) Leptis Magna (tribute to African Roman Emperor Septimus Severus) CAPITAL: Tripoli www.libyan-tourism.org
Madagascar
Fianarantsoa (Capital of Wine) Montagne d’Arbre National Park Queen’s Palace CAPITAL: Antananarivo www.madagascar-tourisme.com
Malawi
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Lake Malawi Marine Park Nyika National Park Liwonde National Park CAPITAL: Lilongwe www.malawitourism.com
Essaouira CAPITAL: Rabat www.visitmorocco.com
Mozambique
Mali
Festival in the Desert Timbuctou La Boucle de Baoule National Park CAPITAL: Bamako www.le-mali.com/omatho/index.htm
Mauritania
Parc National du Banc d’Arguin Chinguetti, a holy city of Islam Oualata CAPITAL: Nouakchott www.tourisme.mr
Mauritius
Black River Gorges National Park Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve Rodrigues Island CAPITAL: Port Louis www.mauritius.net
Morocco
Todra and Dades Gorges Talassemtane National Park
Maputo Elephant Park Gorongosa National Park Bazaruto Archipelago CAPITAL: Maputo www.futur.org.mz/index-en.html
Namibia
Mahongo Game Reserve Etosha National Park Skeleton Coast CAPITAL: Windhoek www.namibiatourism.com.na
Niger
Agadez ‘W’ National Park Igouloulef CAPITAL: Algiers www.niger-tourisme.com
Nigeria
Cross River National Park Emir’s Palace, Kano
Guinea Peace Corps 81 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | March 2021
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CAPITAL: Victoria www.seychelles.travel
Travel Africa - from page 81
Benin City CAPITAL: Lagos www.tourism.gov.ng
Sierra Leone
Republic of the Congo
Loufoulakari Falls Loango (main embarkation port for slaves) Congo Rapids CAPITAL: Brazzaville Direction Generale du Tourisme et des Loisirs, Tel: 830 953
Reunion
Outamba-Kilimi National Park Freetown Peninsula Bunce Island, Slave Trading Station CAPITAL: Freetown www.welcometosierraleone.org
Somalia
Hargeisa National Park Neolithic Paintings Las Geel
Piton des Neiges Plaine d’Affouches Le Voile de la Mariée (The Bride’s Veil) CAPITAL: Saint-Denis ot.saint-pierre@wanadoo.fr
Rwanda
Cards From Africa, Kigali Parc National des Volcans Gorilla Trek Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk CAPITAL: Kigali www.rwandatourism.com/
São Tomé & Principe
Booking.com/Reunion-Hotels
Bom Bom Island Deep Sea Fishing Humpback Whale Watching Agua Izé Plantation CAPITAL: São Tomé www.saotome.st
Senegal
African Renaissance Monument Retba (Pink) Lake Maison des Enclaves (House of Slaves), Goree Island CAPITAL: Dakar sentouroffice@aol.com
Seychelles
Marlin Fishing in Denis St Anne Marine National Park Aldabra
Indian Ocean Coastal Beaches CAPITAL: Mogadishu www.somali-gov.info/Tourism/index.html
Somaliland
Hargeisa National Park Neolithic Paintings Las Geel Indian Ocean Coastal Beaches CAPITAL: Hargiesa www.somalilandgov.com (Ministry of Tourism & Culture 252-225-7917)
South Africa
Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory & Dialogue, Johannesburg Great White Shark Festival, Cape Town/ Gansbaai The Elephant Coast, Zulu Kingdom CAPITAL: Johannesburg
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www.whitesharkfestival.org www.nelsonmandela.org www.zulu.org.za www.southafrica.net
Stone Town, Zanzibar CAPITAL: Dodoma http://tanzaniatouristboard.com/
Togo
South Sudan
Koutammakou (World Heritage Site) Whale Watching, Gulf of Benin Fosse aux Lions (Lions’ Den) National Park CAPITAL: Lomé www.togo-tourisme.com
Boma National Park Nimule National Park Nile River CAPITAL: Juba www.goss.org
Tunisia
Sudan
Port Sudan, The Red Sea Gemmeiza Tourist Village Pyramids of Meroe CAPITAL: Khartoum www.sudan-tourism.gov.sd/english/index.php
Swaziland
Mkhaya Game Reserve Phophomyane Nature Reserve Usutu River (white-water rafting) CAPITAL: Mbabane www.welcometoswaziland.com
Tanzania
Bagamoyo Slave Trail Katavi Plains National Park Ngorongoro Crater
Desert Trekking from Douz Matmata (Star Wars film site) Sidi Bou Saïd CAPITAL: Tunis www.tourismtunisia.com
Uganda
Mountains of the Moon (Mount Rwenzori National Park) Bwindi National Park (view gorilla) Source of the Nile,Owen Falls Dam, Jinja CAPITAL: Kampala http://visituganda.com/index.php
Western Sahara City of El-Aaiún Dakhla (surfing) CAPITAL: El-Aaiún dajla47@hotmail.com
Zambia
Walking Safari, South Luangwa National Park Musi oa Tunya (Victoria Falls), Livingstone Zambezi White Water Rafting CAPITAL: Lusaka www.zambiatourism.com
Zimbabwe
Great Zimbabwe Lake Kariba Chizarira National Park CAPITAL: Harare www.zimbabwetourism.co.zw
Sources: Colonial Sahara Safricasacountry.com
www.worldtravelguide.net/africa www.internationaltouristboards.com www.worldtourismdirectory.com/directory/africa/ index.html
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Ski Africa Overview: Skiing in Africa
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here are currently 10 indoor and outdoor ski resorts set in the nations of Kingdom of Morocco, Republic of Egypt, Republic of Algeria, Kingdom of Lesotho, Republic of Namibia, and the Republic of South Africa. There are 4 unconfirmed ski resorts. The following facts provide an overview of the ski regions of Africa: Elevation of the Ski Resorts 70 m - 3268 m Elevation Difference max. 658 m in one ski resort Slopes 21 km (max. 10 km in one ski resort) Ski Lifts 23 (max. 7 in one ski resort) Ski Passes € 14.40 to € 30.74
Oukaimeden
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ oukaimeden The ski resort Oukaïmeden is located in the Marrakesh-TensiftEl Haouz Region (Morocco). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 10 km of slopes available. 7 lifts transport the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 2,610 and 3,268 m.
Chréa
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ chrea/ The ski resort Chréa is located in the Province of Blida (Algeria). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 0.5 km of slopes available. 3
Tiffindell
lifts transport the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 1,460 and 1,550 m.
Afriski Mountain Resort
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ afriski-mountain-resort The ski resort Afriski Mountain Resort is located in the ButhaButhe District (Lesotho). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 1.8 km of slopes available. 2 lifts transport the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 3,030 and 3,222 m. AfriSki, the only skiing resort in the Kingdom of Lesotho, is located 3222 m above sea-level in the Maluti Mountains. It offers a main Ski slope, a beginners slope and operates during the winter months.
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ tiffindell The ski resort Tiffindell is located in the Province of Eastern Cape (South Africa). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 2.4 km of slopes available. 5 lifts transport the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 2,700 and 2,930 m. Tiffindell is the highest resort in South Africa. It is nestling snugly on the slope of Ben McDhui (3001m), the highest pass in South Africa and the highest peak in the Cape. Within 15 acres of terrain, there are pistes suitable for all abilities. In an average season, Tiffindell is open for skiing and snowboarding in June, July and August. It has slope-side
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Michlifen
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ michlifen The ski resort Michlifen is located in the Meknès-Tafilalet Region (Morocco). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 1 km of slopes available. 1 lift transports the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 1,880 and 2,060 m.
Ski Egypt
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ ski-egypt/
Newschoolers.com accommodation available for 150 guests and many more day visitors in the surrounding valleys. There is a restaurant, coffee lounge, 2 bars, ski clothing shop and ski school. Non aspiring skiers join in to enjoy a unique experience, making snowmen, throwing snow balls or tobogganing, making it the perfect family holiday for young and old.
Matroosberg
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ matroosberg/ The ski resort Matroosberg is located in the Province of Western Cape (South Africa). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 2 km of slopes available. 2 lifts transport the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 1,794 and 2,132 m.
The indoor ski resort Ski Egypt is located in the Mall of Egypt, 6th October City, Cairo (Egypt). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 0.6 km of slopes available. 1 lift transports the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 150 and 180 m. With over 7,000 tons of snow, Ski Egypt is launching the first ski resort in Africa with the world’s largest indoor snow park, offering everything from skiing, slope snowboarding, sledging and a Polar Express Train to a jolly kids area and a professional Ski School, all in a one stop, breathtaking experience for family and friends.
the Ifrane Province of the FèsMeknès region (Morocco). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 1 km of slopes available. 1 lift transports the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 1,800 and 2,000 m.
Ski Namibia
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ ski-namibia Options for Dune Skiing in the Namib Desert, Namibia (high dunes, breathtaking landscapes, long dune belt) are manifold. Not only the fast ski runs on the dunes bring the kick, but also the landscape and nature aspect are simply one-of-a-kind amidst the world’s oldest desert. For information and arrangements: www.ski-namibia.com, henrik@ ski-namibia.com, P.O. Box 8140, Swakopmund, Namibia.
Jbel Hebri
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ jbel-hebri The ski resort Jbel Hebri is located in the Meknès-Tafilalet Region (Morocco). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 1 km of slopes available. 1 lift transports the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 1,950 and 2,090 m.
Azrou
www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ azrou The ski resort Azrou is located in
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Unconfirmed Ski Resorts
Cape Town, South Africa (In development, possibly) www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ snowfun-cape-town-planned Kingdom of Morocco (mountain climbing resorts that may include skiing opportunities) www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ djebel-bou-iblane www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ hoher-atlas www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ rif-gebirge www.skiresort.info/ski-resorts/ africa
Golf Africa
www.golfworldmap.com/africa/#9.622414142924805,17.05078125,3
afktravel.com
Botswana
Gaborone Golf Club at the Gaborone Sun Hotel Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel Resort www.phakalane.com
Egypt
Alexandria Sporting Club, Alexandria Cascades at Soma Bay Golf and Country Club www.residencedescascades.com Dreamland Golf & Tennis Resort, Cairo www.dreamlandgolf.com Golf City, Cairo Katemeya Heights Golf & Tennis Resort, Cairo www.katameyaheights.com Madinat Makadi Golf Course, Madinat Makadi www.madinatmakadigolf.com Mena House Oberoi Golf Course, Cairo www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_menahouse/index. asp
Mirage City Golf Club, Cairo www.golf.jwmarriottcairo.com/golf Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel, Hurghada www.steigenbergeraldaubeach.com
Kenya
Karen Country Club, Nairobi Kiambu Golf Club, Kiambu Leisure Lodge Beach & Golf Resort, Mombasa Muthaiga Golf Club, Nairobi Nyali Golf & Country Club, Mombasa www.nyaligolf.co.ke Railway Golf Club, Nairobi Royal Nairobi Golf Club, Nairobi The Golf Park at the Jockey Club of Kenya, Nairobi Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club, Nairobi www.windsorgolfresort.com
Mauritius
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Ile aux Cherfs, Trou d’Eau Douce Le Paradis Hotel & Golf Club, Le Morne Peninsula www.paradis-hotel.com Legend Golf Course, Poste de Flacq www.bellemareplagehotel.com Links Golf Course, Poste de Flacq www.princemaurice.com One&Only Le Saint Géran Golf Course, Poste de Flacq http://lesaintgeran.oneandonlyresorts.com Shandrani Golf Club, Blue Bay www.shandrani-hotel.com Troux aux Biches Golf Club, Troux aux Biches www.trouauxbiches-hotel.com
Morocco
Anfa Royal Golf Club, Casablanca Cabo Negro Royal Golf Club, Tetouan Royal Golf of Dar es Salam, Rabat www.royalgolfdaressalam.com/english/index.cfm Club Med les Dunes, Agadir El Jadida Royal Golf Club, El Jadida Fes Royal Golf Club, Fes Marrakech Royal Golf Club, Marrakech Meknes Royal Golf Club, Meknes Mohammedia Royal Golf Club, Mohammedia Settat University Royal Golf Club, Settat Tangier Royal Golf Club, Tangier
Nambia
Keetmanshoop Golf Course, Keetmanshoop Okahandja Golf Club, Okahandja www.okahandja.net/sport/default.html
Orandjemund Golf Club, Oranjemund Rossmund Golf Course, Swakopmund Tsumeb Golf Club, Tsumeb Walvis Bay Golf Course, Walvis Bay Windhoek Country Club Resort, Windhoek www.windhoek.co.za
Nigeria
IBB Golf Course, Abuja IITA Golf Club, Ibadan Ikeja Golf Club, Lagos www.ikejagolfclub.org
Reunion
Golf du Bassin Blue, St Gilles les Hauts Golf Club de Bourbon, Etang Sale les Bains www.golf-bourbon.com/spip/spip.php?lang=en Club du Colorado, La Montagne
Senegal
Golf de Saly, Mbour www.golfsaly.com/intro/presentation_fr.htm Golf International du Technopôle, Dakar Le Méridien President Resort & Golf Club, Dakar www.starwoodhotels.com/ lemeridien/property/overview/index. html?propertyID=1821&EM=VTY_MD_1821_ DAKAR_OVERVIEW
Sierra Leone
Freetown Golf Club, Freetown
South Africa
Akasia Golf Clue, Pretoria www.akasiacountryclub.co.za Atlantic Beach Golf Club, blacknews.com Cape Town www. atlanticbeachgolfclub. co.za/capetown/index.asp Bellville Golf Club, Cape Town www.bellvillegolf.co.za Benoni Country Club, Johannesburg www.benonicountryclub. co.za/pro/Default.aspx Blair Atholl, Fourways www.blairatholl.co.za Blue Valley Golf & see Golf Africa on page 88
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Tiger Woods
from Golf Africa page 87
Country Estate, Olifantsfontein www.bluevalley.co.za Bryanston Country Club, Bryanston www.bryanstoncc.co.za Centurion Country Club, Centurion www.centurioncountryclub.co.za Champagne Sports Resort, Winterton www.champagnesportsresort.com Clovelly Country Club, Cape Town www.clovelly.za.net Crown Mines Golf Club, Johannesburg www.g-i.co.za/clubs/?c=274 Darling Golf Club, Darling www.darlingtourism.co.za/sportdetail. htm#golfclub De Zalze Winelands Golf Estate, Stellenbosch www.golfdezalze.com Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate, Stellenbosch www.devonvale.co.za Durban Country Club, Durban www.dcclub.co.za Durbanville Golf Club, Durbanville www.durbanvillegolfclub.co.za East London Golf Course, East London www.elgc.co.za Emfuleni Golf Estate, Vanderbijlpark
www.emfulenigolfestate.com Fancourt Hotel & Country Club Estate, George www.fancourt.co.za Gary Player Country Club Golf Course, Sun City www.suninternational.com/Destinations/Resorts/ Golf/Pages/Golf.aspx George Golf Club, George www.georgegolfclub.co.za Germiston Golf Club, Germiston www.germistongolf.com Glendower Golf Course, Johannesburg www.glendower.co.za Hermanus Golf Club, Hermanus www.hgc.co.za Houghton Golf Club, Houghton www.houghton.co.za Humewood Golf Club, Port Elizabeth www.humewoodgolf.co.za The Country Club Johannesburg, Rivonia www.ccj.co.za Killarney Country Club, Johannesburg www.killarneycountryclub.co.za Kingswood Golf Estate, George www.kingswood.co.za Kleinmond Golf Club, Kleinmond www.kleinmondgolfclub.co.za Kloof Country Club, Kloof www.kloofcountryclub.co.za
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Knysna Golf Club, Knysna www.knysnagolfclub.com Koro Creek Bushveld Golf Estate, Nylstroom www.korocreek.com Langebaan County Estate Golf & Leisure, Langebaan www.langebaanestate.co.za Leopard Creek Country Club, Malelane www.leopardcreek.co.za Lost City, Sun City www.suninternational.com/Destinations/Resorts/ Golf/Pages/Golf.aspx Malmesbury Golf Club, Malmesbury www.malmesburygolfclub.co.za Metropolitan Golf Course, Cape Town www.metropolitangolfclub.co.za Milnerton Golf Club, Cape Town www.milnertongolfclub.co.za Modderfontein Golf Club, Modderfontein www.mgclub.co.za Monks Cowl Coutry Club & Lodge, Winterton www.monkscowl.co.za
Mossel Bay Golf Club, Mossel Bay www.mosselbaygolfclub.co.za Mowbray Golf Club, Cape Town www.mowbraygolfclub.co.za Paarl Golf Course, Paarl www.paarlgolfclub.co.za Pearl Valley Signature Golf Estate and Spa, Cape Winelands www.pearlvalley.co.za Pecanwood Golf & Country Club, Hartbeesportt www.pecanwoodgolf.co.za Plettenberg Bay Country Club, Plettenberg Bay www.plettgolf.co.za Pretoria Country Club, Pretoria www.ptacc.co.za Randpark Golf Club, Randburg www.randpark.co.za Reading Country Club, Alberton www.readingcc.co.za River Club Golf & Conference Center, Cape Town
Lost Palace Golf Course South Africa
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see Golf Africa on page 90
from Golf Africa page 89
http://riverclub.co.za Riviera on Vaal Country Club, Vereenigning www.rovcountryclub.co.za Royal Cape Golf Club, Cape Town www.royalcapegolf.co.za Royal Durban Golf Club, Durban www.royaldurban.co.za San Lameer Country Club, Margate www.sanlameer.co.za Scottburgh Golf Club, Scottburgh www.scottburghgolf.co.za Selbourne Golf Estate, Pennington www.selborne.com Silver Lakes Golf & Country Club, Pretoria www.silverlakes.co.za Somerset West Golf Club, Somerset West www.somersetwestgolfclub.co.za St Francis Bay Golf Club, St Francis Bay www.stfrancisgolf.co.za St Francis Links, St Francis Bay www.stfrancislinks.com Steenberg Golf Club, Cape Town www.steenberggolfclub.co.za/ Framework/index.asp Stellenbosch Golf Club, Stellenbosch www.steenberggolfclub.co.za/ Framework/index.asp Umdoni Golf Course, Pennington www.umdonipark.com Umhlali Country Club, Umhlali www.umhlalicountryclub.co.za Westlake Golf Club, Cape Town www.westlakegolfclub.co.za Wingate Park Country Club, Pretoria www.wingateparkcountryclub.co.za Swaziland Royal Swazi Spa Country Club www.suninternational. com/Destinations/Resorts/ RoyalSwaziSpaValley/ FacilitiesActivities/Pages/Golf.aspx
Djerba Golf Club, Midoun www.djerbagolf.com El Kantaoui Golf Course, Port El Kantaoui www.portelkantaoui.com.tn/golf Flamingo Golf Course, Monastir www.golfflamingo.com/english/flamingo.htm Golf Citrus, Hammamet www.golfcitrus.com Palm Links Golf Course, Monastir www.golf-palmlinks.com/english/presentation. htm Tabarka Golf Course, Tabarka www.tabarkagolf.com/en/index.htm Yasmine Golf Course, Mannamet www.golfyasmine.com/en/index.php
The Gambia
Fajara Club, Fajara www.smiles.gm/fajara.htm
Tunisia
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African Cuisine!
Republic of Mali
T
he cuisine of Mali, located on the southern edge of the Sahara Desert, consists mainly of millet, corn, or rice porridges served with a variety of “sauces,” or stews. These sauces can be made with peanuts, okra, baobab leaves or sweet potato leaves. Meats and vegetables are added to the sauces, which are then served over porridge, couscous or rice. Beef, lamb, chicken, and fresh or smoked fish are all popular in Mali. Common vegetables are onions, tomatoes, eggplant, plantains and yams. West African dishes like poulet yassa and foutou are eaten in Mali too. Mangoes, bananas, lemons and watermelon finish off meals with a sweet touch. All meals in Mali are prepared by women. And food is eaten with the right hand. Eating with the left hand is considered highly improper in this mostly Muslim nation. Meals are often finished with strong, sweet tea. Tea service in Mali, as in many countries, is a highly ritualized affair. Three rounds are served: the first for life, the second for love, the third for death.
Tiguadege Na (Meat in Peanut Sauce) Recipe provided by Moussa Diallo for Putumayo World Music’s Mali CD and adapted by Keith Nganga-Hackett, former Peace Corp volunteer to Mali. Serves 8 Ingredients: • 2 Tbsp. oil • 2 lb. beef, lamb or, for the adventurous, goat, cubed, off the bone, or 2 lb. chicken meat in pieces or parts
• 2 onions, chopped • 2 large garlic cloves, peeled and chopped salt and pepper to taste • 1 can chopped tomatoes, or 4 large tomatoes, seeded, peeled and chopped • 2 tsp. tomato paste • 4 cups vegetable, chicken or beef broth • 4 Tbs. peanut butter • 1 Tsp. Herbes de Provence ( a blend of thyme, bay leaves, rosemary, cloves, sage, marjoram, basil, etc. that can be found in most spice sections) • 2 carrots, cut into large chunks • 2 potatoes, cut into large chunks • 1 egg plant, chopped Directions: • Heat the oil in a sauce over high heat. • Add the meat and brown well on all sides. • Add the onions and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and continue to cook, stirring, until the onions have softened. • Add the canned or fresh tomatoes and their juice and tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, and let it simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. • Add the broth, peanut butter, Herbes de Provence, and stir until mixed. • Add the vegetables and season to taste with salt and pepper. Cover the pot, and let simmer over low heat for about 1 hour. • Serve over rice.
Tigua Dege Na (Vegetarian Stew in Peanut Sauce) Recipe provided by Betsy Newcomer, former Peace Corp volunteer to Mali Serves 5-6 Ingredients: • 1 tablespoon oil • 3 small onions, chopped • 6 cloves garlic, minced • 1 large (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes • 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste • 1-1/2 cups vegetable broth • 1/3 cup smooth peanut butter (sometimes I add extra
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• • • • • •
peanut butter) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste) 1 teaspoon salt (may reduce if broth is very salty) 1 teaspoon black pepper 2 bay leaves 1 acorn squash, peeled and cubed 1/2 medium cabbage, cut into thin strips (or a 10-14 oz. bag of cole slaw, or a large bag of fresh spinach)
• • • • • • • •
1 lb. ground beef 1 pound black-eyed peas, fresh or canned, rinsed 1 large onion, chopped 2 large fresh tomatoes, chopped 3-4 red hot chili peppers, chopped Ground black pepper to taste 2 gloves garlic, crushed salt to taste 2 lb. okra, washed, end removed, and sliced
Directions: • Put the meat in a large, heavy cooking pot, brown lightly. • Add the beans and all the other ingredients except for the okra. • Add enough water to cover everything, cover, and bring to a boil. • Cook over a reduced heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, then add the okra, and cook over low heat an additional 10 minutes. • Serve hot.
Meni-Meniyong Directions: • In a large pot, heat oil. Add and saute onions and garlic until translucent. • Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, peanut butter, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, bay leaves, and squash. • Bring to a boil. Add the cabbage (or spinach). • Cook until the squash is tender, about 30 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent peanut butter from sticking to the bottom of the pot. • Serve over rice.
Okra Bean Soup
Adapted from Zainabu’s African Cookbook with Food and Stories, by Zainabu Kpaka Kallon Serves 4-6 Ingredients:
Meni-meniyong is a very wonderful Malinese sesamehoney sweet. It’s easy to make and is great for kids and adults alike. ngredients: • Sesame seeds -1 cup • Honey -1 cup • Butter, unsalted -4 tablespoons Directions: • Preheat oven to 450ºF. • Spread the sesame seeds on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. • Remove and cool. • Heat the honey and butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring until it bubbles and darkens somewhat, about 3 to 5 minutes. • Stir the toasted sesame seeds into honey mixture. Spread the mass onto a buttered baking sheet to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. • Cool until it is just warm and break or cut into fingersized pieces. • Cool completely and serve. https://diningforwomen.org/wp-content/ uploads/2014/02/Mali-recipes-Dec-2011.pdf https://afrifoodnetwork.com/recipes/meni-meniyong/ Image credits: diningforwomen.og, Pinterest, solarbora. com
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Travel Services Directory Travel Resources
Travel Noir
Africa Tourism Association theXchange
Travel With Dr. Runoko Rashidi
www.thexchange.africa info@ataww.org +1-917-745-5310
African American Travel Conference https://aatconline.com
www.travelnoir.com www.drrunoko.com
Airlines Air Namibia www.airnamibia.com.na
Black & Abroad www.weareblackandabroad.com
Black Meetings & Tourism www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com
Blue World Travel Corporation San Francisco, CA 94104 USA 1-800-466-2719 fas@blueworldtravel.com www.festivalatsea.com
Air Tanzania www.airtanzania.co.tz
Arik www.arikair.com
Asky Airlines www.flyasky.com/asky
Dream Flights
Henderson Travel Service
www.dreamflightsintl.com
1-818-419-8639 Silver Spring, MD 20910 USA www.hendersontravel.com
Egyptair
Hilton Resorts
www.ethiopianairlines.com
www.egyptair.com/en
Ethiopian Airlines
www3.hilton.com/en/resort
Jet Charters
I’m Black & I Travel
www.jetcharters.com
https://imblacknitravel.com
Leading Hotels of the World www.lhw.com
Kenya Airways www.kenya-airways.com
RwandAir
Preferred Hotel Group
www.rwandair.com
www.PHGMeetings.com
RLJ Hendeja Resort & Villas www.rljkendejaresort.com
Senegal Airlines https://flyairsenegal.com/en
South Africa Airways
Safari Supreme
www.flysaa.com
www.safarisupreme.com
TAAG Linhas Aéreas de Angola
Soul Of America “Black Cultural Travel Made Easy” http://soulofamerica.com/international-guides. phtml
www.flysaa.com
West Africa Airways www.westafricaairways.com
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