This past weekend, Meredith and I, our husbands, my mum and two of our best friend couples got to spend the weekend at the luxe Maroma Resort on the Mayan Riviera celebrating Meredith’s, my brother’s and one of our friend’s 40th birthdays.  It was one of the most luxurious and relaxing weekends I’ve had in quite a long time, and having my in-laws to look after our kids made it even more special.  The weather was perfect for us too, beautiful windy days and not too hot.

One of the things I loved about Maroma, was the high level of attention to detail and the extra special treatment they gave us.  It reminded me of how I like to treat all my clients and I think why so many high end clients seek us out.  For dinner one of the evenings, they arranged a private candlelit 7-course dinner set up on the beach complete with Mexico hats.  It was a magical evening.

The people of Mexico are so warm and inviting and always there to make your stay even more perfect, which reminds me of the people of Africa.  Hope you enjoy this week’s newsletter.

Hugs,

Sandy

What inspires travelers to choose a trip to Africa above any other exotic destination in the entire world? Although it is different for everyone, many individuals would say that one of their lifelong dreams has been to experience an African safari. These adventurers-at-heart might say that from the time they were 10 years-old they’ve imagined blazing through the bush and sprawling plains of Africa with the wind in their hair and the wildlife by their side. But what many travelers don’t realize, prior to their first visit to Africa, is that there is something much greater at work within this glorious continent.

There is something mysterious about Africa that ignites something within. Many would consider the catalyst behind this powerful feeling of bliss to be the pure energy emitted by all living things in Africa.

Everything from the smell of the first rains to the melting sunsets, the bright colors of the sky to the empowering sounds, and the magnetic wildlife to the intricate eco-systems, all have an indescribable energy that lives and thrives. Africa is a place where you leave with a new outlook on life and on yourself. But, what many travelers to Africa consider to be the beating heart within this palpable energy are the people of this fascinating continent.

The People

The people you come in contact with while in Africa will most likely be the most genuine and hospitable individuals you will ever meet. Their smiles, gentleness, sense of welcoming, laughter, kindness, and joy in providing you with happiness on your trip are so powerful that you cannot help but feel transformed by their energy.

Many first time travelers to Africa are blown away by the gentleness and attentiveness expressed by the natives, including staff members and safari guides. In fact, most individuals say that their needs and desires have never been addressed as promptly, thoroughly, and joyously, as they were in Africa.

The Relationships that Form

Every individual you meet in Africa, whether a local, safari guide, staff member, or other traveler, offers another opportunity to build a lasting relationship that lives with you throughout the rest of your life.

As you converse with your private safari guides, who are often with you for days on end, you build a unique relationship with those individuals.

Coming into contact with other travelers is also a highly enriching experience as each individual or group is often from a different part of the world than you. This enhances your cultural experience as you are not only interacting with and learning about African cultures, but you are also speaking with people from Europe, China, Australia, the United States, Canada, and more. Africa’s ability to attract a variety of different people and cultures is what makes it one of the most enriching melting pots of the world.

The Memories

Interacting with the people you meet in Africa will quite possibly be some of the most inspirational memories that remain with you for the rest of your life. Every experience you have in the bush with your guide, family members, and new-found friends is something each and every one of you can connect with 20 years down the road and share with new generations, family members, and friends.