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Reflections from Tanzania.

Reflections from Tanzania.

by | Aug 15, 2021 | 8 comments

Tanzania safari

What I love about travel is that you are constantly learning. In a previous blog post, I discussed how travel is more than a physical journey. My recent trip to Africa was indeed a learning experience. Here are a few reflections from my trip to Africa.

I truly felt like I returned home. My interactions during my stay were far from customer service, and it was as though I was a treasured guest. Tanzanians were warm, friendly, and genuine. There was a sincere desire to ensure that everything met my needs, not only at my accommodations but everywhere I went. It was a truly unique experience to interact without feeling targeted or a minority. I left Africa with a stronger sense of self-pride and confidence.

“Pole, Pole” Pronounced as Polay, Polay is the Swahili word for slowly, slowly. My new friend Saleh reminded me of this constantly. It was as though I forgot I was on vacation, and he had to remind me that I was. “Pole,” he said. After a while, I started to remember that the journey was just as fulfilling as the destination. I now plan for this phrase to be a part of the new me. I will take life slowly and enjoy the ride.

An African massage on a safari is not the desired perk! However, it is one you will absolutely want to experience. There are no paved roads on the safari, and you are in a four-wheeler. “Hold on,” my guide Elle said, and indeed I did. As the engine started, so did the massage. You are slung from side to side as the guide takes you on your game drive. The African massage is complimentary, painful, but extremely rewarding.

I will never visit a zoo! There is no comparison to seeing wildlife up close and personal and in their natural habitat. Patience is indeed a virtue. We waited almost two hours to see the wildebeest crossing the Mara River. The wait was truly worth it, and it’s an experience I will never forget. My guide Stephen jokingly asked me what “Jaz” meant? After a while, I truly understood, “just another zebra.” Sightings were plentiful and awe-inspiring. However, if I never see another Zebra or Wildebeest in my life, I’m good!

“Maisha marefu,” in Swahili, means long life. My new friend Peter set up a beautiful picnic lunch for us as we left Ngorongoro. He said that he could not think of a better send-off than to wish us a long life. I reflect on seeing the vultures in the Tarangire national park, watching the voracious eating of a zebra and the many carcasses left throughout the safari. The phrase “Maisha marefu” was a poignant reminder that life is to be treasured. It summed up my trip in the best way. Pole, Pole is the way to Maisha marefu, unless you are the prey. Lol.

As a lifelong learner, this trip was indeed a learning experience. I hope you will consider a visit to Africa, whether on a safari or a heritage trip. Africa is a destination all EbonyTravelers should take.

Traveling with the USD

Traveling with the USD

by | Aug 11, 2021 | 0 comments

As a frequent traveler, I am aware of the value of the US dollar. It is the most recognized currency in many foreign destinations. The US dollar is also the closest thing to an international currency because it is so widely accepted. However, please know that individual international businesses can decide whether to take the money. Here are a few tips on traveling with the US dollar.

In many countries, the value of the US dollar is high. Many local vendors prefer payment in USD rather than the local currency. However, when using larger bills, you are often given back change from your purchase in the local currency. If you don’t plan a lengthy stay, the money is usually not worth it back at home. It can also be difficult to get a decent exchange rate.

It is good to note that some foreign countries will not accept currency older than a specific date. On my recent travel to Tanzania, a particular vendor would not take US currency older than 2009. I learned that there are no restrictions on banks to accept or reject the USD with further research. In some cases, if older notes are accepted, you may be given a lower exchange rate.

Similarly, many may not take torn or mutilated currency at some foreign locations. There was much concern while shopping in the local Maasai village because a bill had a small corner ripped. While this is a common occurrence in the US, note that foreigners are suspicious of the currency’s being valid when presented for payment elsewhere or at their banks.

Try to travel with currency in small denominations. Small notes are great for tipping, so before you travel, try getting your small bills from the bank as they are less likely to give out damaged or dated currency. With currency from the bank, you are more likely to have your USD accepted wherever you travel.

Has your US currency ever been denied when traveling abroad? Were you even aware of the possibility of your USD not being accepted when traveling? I’d like to know.

Travel takes you out of your comfort zone.

Travel takes you out of your comfort zone.

by | May 12, 2021 | 0 comments

One of the most significant and most understated values in travel is that it takes you out of your comfort zone.  Since Covid, I have tried a few things and recently realized that trying new things has been my way of getting the experiences that travel once provided.  Here are a few overlooked ways to help recognize how travel inspires us.

Like traveling to new destinations, trying new things is a way to challenge ourselves and our comfort level.  Especially for those who love travel for the sense of adventure, experiencing new skills without taking a trip can be rewarding in its own way. When you try something new and reach your goal, it can create a sense of self-awareness, similar to the travel experience.

Travel is usually a way to leave our stresses at home and a time to escape our realities, if only for a few days.  Many of us have had no choice but to be confined due to the pandemic; the ability to get away is no longer an option.  For many travelers, journeys have had to be internal with a journey of the mind.  If you have found a renewed interest in mindfulness and meditation, the lack of travel might be why.

Travel creates a more open mind. Travelers tend to be more self-aware and respecting of other people’s values, and it creates more respect for new cultures, people, and experiences.  Traveling allows us to learn and interact with different people and places, making us recognize our shared humanity. It enhances our ability to be more tolerant of differences and become more broad-minded.

Travel helps you to embrace your passions and find value and new meaning in your life. As a traveler, you learn to trust your instincts and follow your path. It allows you to focus on yourself and put your enjoyment first and build your self-confidence.

Traveling teaches you the difference between price and value.  Frequent travelers are more conscious and consider the experiences they will have over the price they will pay.  Consequently, their value of travel becomes more defined, and the more inexpensive option may not always be the best choice for them.

Have you stepped out of your comfort zone lately? How? I’d like to know.

Travel and organization

Travel and organization

by | May 8, 2021 | 0 comments

For the savvy traveler, planning and organizing a trip is an absolute must for a great travel experience.  Numerous things can go wrong and are not in your control when you’re traveling.  However, there are ways to make your travel experience less stressful, and organization is critical. Here are a few things to think about before your next trip and why it’s essential to keep all your travel organized.

Reservation numbers and ticket numbers, although similar, can be crucial information if you’ve purchased your tickets through a third party.  Not all airlines use the same system, and while knowing your reservation number, which is a six-digit alphanumeric number, is helpful.  Some airlines require a ticket number that usually is at least ten numerical digits or more. Travelers can find both numbers on their itinerary, but many often overlook the actual ticket number.

Before you pack, think about your travel plans and what you will need on your travels rather than what you may want to carry.  Many travelers equate tropical destinations with all warm-weather clothing.  In reality, evenings can get cool, and while beaches are warm during the day, some can get rather breezy and cold at night.  Packing lists can be beneficial to remind you to pack what you need for a trip and handy in not forgetting your items when packing to return.

There are many methods of packing. Some travelers prefer folding or rolling their clothing, while others insist on using packing cubes to get the best use of luggage space.  Each method is as good as the next, but familiarizing yourself with the different packing styles can be helpful when organizing your packing for a trip.

Planning and knowing your essentials can make traveling a much more pleasant experience.  Having a travel first aid kit can be handy if you feel unwell during a trip.  Unplanned issues like having a headache or stomachache often occur, so having pain relievers convenient can be essential.  For some, a change of clothes is helpful, especially if you’ve ever arrived at your destination and find your luggage missing. Thinking ahead of what’s important during your trip will help you plan and pack your carry-on items with the essentials.

Other things to consider are books, magazines, or games to entertain yourself. A light jacket or travel blanket is helpful as many airlines no longer offer blankets as amenities on many flights.  Additionally, pilots usually make aircraft temperature adjustments, and individual body temperatures are always different. Another excellent organization tool is a travel wallet with your passport, ID, and copies of your airline, hotel, or car rental itineraries, and travel and credit cards.  Having one can be another great way to have your travel plans organized and accessible.

Have you used any of these organizing ideas?  Are there any others you have used? I’d like to know.

5 must have items that stay in my carry-on.

5 must have items that stay in my carry-on.

by | Dec 10, 2020 | 0 comments

As an avid world traveler who has done this both professionally and personally, my carry-on is always semi-packed. Here are my tips and advice on the 5 items I consider must-haves and should always be in my carry on.

1. A lingerie organizer bag (details on another blog post). The one I use has two sides, one for clean underwear and the other for dirty. You never want to get them confused!

2. An electronic organizer bag (blog post coming). With people being so connected it is so inconvenient to lose connectivity and most hotels do not provide enough power outlets for the technology we use in our daily lives.

3. A toothbrush which in my opinion is even more needed than the electronic organizer. Many people pack this in their suitcase but with the chances of your luggage being lost, I like to always have this at hand.

4. A medicine bag with items like Tums, ibuprofen, cold medicine, etc. I tend to also have eye masks, face masks, prescription medications, band-aids, Neosporin, alcohol pads, and such (more on another post).

5. Finally I always have a small makeup bag with the basics like mascara, lip moisturizer, lipstick, makeup remover cloths, toner, and face moisturizer. These are always found at beauty supply stores and pharmacies in travel sizes.

You make have other priorities for your carry-on. If so, what are they? I’d love to find out.