Morne Blanc Hiking Trail
Before I visited the Seychelles, I had read a lot about how this is one of the most expensive destinations in the world and not at all suitable for backpackers. Moreover, since it is termed as a honeymoon spot, I wasn’t sure if going solo here was actually a good choice or not. But, in the end, my love for traveling to islands won over my fear of traveling solo in an expensive country and I am really grateful for it. You know why? Because Seychelles is not as expensive as they claim it to be. Yes, it is still slightly expensive in comparison to South East Asian countries but it is quite easily manageable. I managed my entire 15 day solo trip to this island for $730 USD, and here is how you can do it too.
Cape Town, South Africa
Just to prove that you don't need to be a millionaire, tighten up your budget and explore the countryside and cosmopolitan of Cape Town because there are so many great things to do without having to spend a fortune.
As summer approaches, discussions of potential family vacation destinations arise. Without a doubt, an African safari is on your wish list. Elephants, leopard, rhino; seeing them in the wild against a backdrop of bushveld as the sun sinks is incomparable. A safari is also the perfect multigenerational holiday; we’re never too young or too old to enjoy watching wildlife in its habitat. A safari is exciting, fun, bonding, and a fascinating natural history lesson every day. It will become the best trip your family has ever taken.
The Sinai Peninsula of Egypt is truly a fascinating place. During our time in the area, we spent a few days near Mt. Sinai and a few more relaxing on the coast of the Red Sea. First, our journey took us from Cairo on a fairly long bus ride to the town of Katreen, near the base of Mt. Sinai and St. Katherine's Monastery. We slept at a small Bedouin camp and met some other travelers who had hiked to the top of the mountain the night before, starting at 2:00 in the morning. Supposedly this was the best time to hike in order to avoid the heat and also see the sunset from the top of the mountain.
Here are a few more photos from Morocco, one of our favorite countries.
Hamer girl, at the Jumping of the Bulls ceremony
The theme of this week's Photo Friday is Southern Ethiopia. This is part of my personal effort to convince as many people as possible to visit Africa. After spending several months on the continent, we realized that we had only experienced a drop in the bucket. Africa is so huge and diverse that it would take years to fully understand all of the cultures, history, tragedy, and beauty that this immense land has to offer.
One of the rock churches of Lalibela
Despite what you may have heard, Ethiopia is not starving. It is green, lush, and full of life and culture. It is diverse and amazing. From the highlands in the north to the tribal lands of the south, to the religious and historical sites to the stunning landscapes, Ethiopia offers something for everyone. We spent a month in the country. You should, too.
The kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco
Morocco: an exotic land of yummy Tagine, the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara, and maze-like medinas. This is where Europe meets Africa, and the land of the Moors. If you haven't been, hopefully these photos will inspire you to include it in your next itinerary.
Saint-Louis, Senegal
Saint-Louis, Senegal, sits at the mouth of the Senegal river on the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is covered with long fishing boats, livestock, leftover food, and playing children.
Along the shore of the Red Sea in Sinai, Egypt
In 2009, we spent 11 months traveling through Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. We want you to learn from our experience, so we put together a trip planning guide: How To Plan A Trip Around The World. We cover everything from budgeting to packing, route planning to insurance, safety to vaccinations, and visas to round-the-world plane tickets. Combining our first hand experience with tips and resources from other travelers, we leave no stone unturned.
