July 22, 2010

One thing that I find so great about being on a safari, is how very friendly and kind people in Africa are. A smiling face is so easy to find, as their natural warmth and hospitality is so ingrained in their cultures.

I was reminded of this recently when I arrived in JoBurg Airport, after an 18 hour flight I went up to the information desk and asked a question and was quickly put back in my place for not first asking if they were having a nice day!

With Africa's many problems, there is a lot to be admired in the ways that they treat strangers as family.

Have a great weekend!

Mark

How Do You Perceive Africa? The Truth May Surprise You


A common fear and misconception that many travelers have about Africa is that it will be completely non-westernized, anti-west, and / or uncivilized—quite the contrary. Many times, as soon as once-skeptical travelers return from their first trip to Africa, many boast about their feelings of belonging, trust, and sheer joy while visiting and interacting with the locals. Highlights from these trips almost always include the hospitable and friendly people, the delectable cuisine, and the wonderfully organized tours and activities.

But to give you a better idea for how Africa really is, we’ve highlighted some aspects of Africa that have been main traveler concerns for decades:

 

 

The Misconception: The people will be anti-west or uncivilized.

The Reality: The interaction visitors to Africa have with the locals is considered by many to be a life changing experience. As a travel company that has sent thousands of people to Africa, we’ve heard dozens upon dozens of wonderful stories and joyful moments our clients have had in Africa. But an element that has had one of the greatest impacts on our clients has been the people of Africa.

Many travelers compare their accommodation settings to being in the comfort of their own home with friends and family. The staff, often comprised of locals, is not only attentive to your every individual need and desire, but they are also extremely friendly and hospitable. Not to mention, they are delighted to learn just as much about you as you are to learn more about them and their culture.

 

 

The Misconception: I won’t be able to converse with anyone and that makes me very nervous.

The Reality: Visiting a country where everyone speaks a language that is foreign to you can be very unnerving. You worry about not being able to find transportation, interacting with locals, and purchasing items. These fears are completely understandable. However, you’ll quickly realize that everyone you interact with in Africa speaks English. From your safari guides to street merchants, restaurant staff to accommodation staff, transportation professionals to tour guides, you’ll never have a problem with communication when you travel smart.

The Misconception: I can’t eat the food or drink the water for fear of disease. And I also don’t want to eat bland British-based food or strange, exotic meals that I have no idea what they’re made of or where they came from.

The Reality:  There are most definitely areas in Africa where you should not eat the food or drink the water; however, you will not be visiting any of those places on a luxury family vacation or honeymoon.

The accommodations you will be visiting have access to filtered water and sensational fresh food. In addition to the cuisine at your accommodations, you can also visit a variety of fine-dining establishments, quaint bistros, and casual seaside cafes for delectable local fare.

In terms of the types of food to enjoy in Africa, there is a wide variety. Often, first-time travelers to Africa are either under the impression that the food will be completely British-based or bizarre meats and delicacies. Both of those assumptions are completely false. In fact, visitors to Africa often have the choice between more traditional African dishes or westernized dishes for the more conservative eater.

For many travelers to Africa, who are unfamiliar with traditional southern African cuisine, there is a concern about whether or not they will be able to enjoy the food on their trip. But, if you enjoy fresh fruit and vegetables, spicy stews, sensational wines, meats—such as lamb, chicken, beef, ostrich, pork—and freshly caught seafood, you’re going to be in heaven with the food in Africa. And, if you want to try something a little more adventurous, there are delicious meats primarily served only in Africa, which include springbok, kudu, and crocodile.

With a variety of westernized dishes and traditional African dishes, visitors to Africa are guaranteed to find meals that fit their liking.


 
Soul Safari 2011

Trip Name: Kruger Safari and Beaches of Mozambique
Length of travel: 12 days
Countries Visited: South Africa and Mozambique

Highlights:Tintswalo, a charming riverside safari lodge in the private Manyeleti Game Reserve, gives animal lovers plenty of opportunity to enjoy elephants, lions, and buffalo in their native habitat. The Big Five are often spotted during game drives and walking safaris. Relax from your safari and enjoy time alone in a private beach villa with private pool on the white-sanded beaches of Benguerra Island.
Detailed description of itinerary (in PDF)

 

 

Contact us today, and utilize our detailed destination-planning services and expert advice to send you on a life-altering experience like none other.


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The Hills of Africa Travel Newsletter is written by Meredith Hill and Sandy Salle and Hillsofafrica.com. If you have any questions or comments, please send them to: hoainfo@hillsofafrica.com

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