Africa captured my heart…
Introduction
I am heading back to Africa to reconnect with incredible partners at Luxury Travel Mart Africa with whom I am continuing curating exceptional journeys for my clients.
This year trip took me across South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania—exploring remarkable lodges, discovering new experiences, and deepening relationships with the people who make these journeys so special.
AndBeyond, a Johannesburg-based company with operations on four continents, organized most of this trip. Widely regarded as a leader in luxury safari and experiential travel, the company is guided by its philosophy: “Care of the Land, Care of the Wildlife, Care of the People,” underscoring its strong commitment to conservation and community impact.
I flew to Johannesburg on Delta from Atlanta. Delta One was comfortable and remains one of my favorite business-class experiences. The only thing – the tray table did not work. It did not bother me too much since I ate in the lounge and went right to sleep after boarding the plane. I did reply to the feedback request sent by Delta and told them about it. I was happy to receive reply from them, and they added 10,000 points for inconvenience.
When I arrived in Johannesburg, the Menzi Aviation VIP airport services team met me at the aircraft sleeve exit and assisted me with immigration and luggage. They coordinated with my driver, and I was soon on my way to the Peech Hotel, about 30 minutes from the airport, where I planned to rest before continuing to safari the next day.
I rested and enjoyed hotel’s gardens.
I noticed that my selfie stick stopped working. Unable to find the battery in my luggage, I decided to walk to the mall to replace it. The hotel security guard mapped out the route for me — about a 30-minute walk, much of it through the park — and offered a few practical safety tips along the way.
It was a beautiful Sunday morning, with the park full of people enjoying the sunshine and fresh air.
At one point, I asked a local woman walking her dog if I was heading in the right direction. She graciously walked with me for part of the journey, showing me her neighborhood, sharing where she lives and works, and pointing out favorite cafés, shops, and local spots along the way.
Moments like that are one of the gifts of solo travel — unexpected connection, kindness, and the opportunity to experience a place beyond guidebooks.
At the mall, I never found the battery, though I found a new selfie stick instead. Naturally, I also somehow ended up in an boutique and left with a silk blouse and Italian tailored pants.
I took an Uber back to the hotel.
Later that afternoon, while reorganizing my luggage, I discovered the original battery tucked away exactly where I had overlooked it!
Serendipity has a beautiful way of leading the journey.
Phinda Lodge
Next morning, my driver picked me up and I went to Johannesburg airport. I boarded a smaller Embraer flight to Nelspruit – a small, relaxed, and wonderfully unpretentious airport. Upon arrival, representatives from the next airline welcomed me and invited to wait in their “lounge” — a simple little room tucked behind a straw wall, with bottled water and a handful of chairs.
Once the aircraft arrived, the staff efficiently sorted and loaded everyone’s luggage onto the respective bush planes. For Phinda Private Game Reserve, there were only nine of us, flying aboard a tiny 10-seater Cessna.
That moment felt like crossing into another world entirely.
andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s iconic safari reserves, located in KwaZulu-Natal between the bush and the Indian Ocean. It is especially known for exceptional cheetah sightings, strong black rhino conservation and diverse ecosystems. The reserve has several distinct lodges, each with a different personality:
- Mountain Lodge, best for families and panoramic views
- Rock Lodge, romantic, dramatic cliffside setting.
- Forest Lodge, contemporary design immersed in rare sand forest.
- Vlei Lodge, intimate and quieter near wetlands
- Zuka Lodge, exclusive use feel
- Homestead, private villa for families/groups.
We met directly on Phinda’s airstrip and were driven to our respective lodges. I stayed at andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge.
The drive from the air strip to the lodge took about 30 minutes, but the safari had already begun. Along the way, we spotted nyalas, zebras, wildebeests, and an entire warthog family. Some of the warthog babies were around six months old.
I had just enough time to change before heading out for the afternoon game drive.
I was paired with a lovely British family traveling with their exceptionally well-behaved 15-year-old twins. During the drive, we encountered two lionesses with their cubs. Our guide, Victor, was outstanding.
The accommodation at Forest Lodge is truly the signature of the property and unlike the more traditional safari style found at many camps. The atmosphere feels almost “Zulu Zen” — minimalist, tranquil, and completely immersed in the forest.
Here is my video.
The suites are raised on stilts within the rare sand forest, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that bring the outside in. Despite all the glass, the rooms feel remarkably private. Nyalas quietly wander nearby, and the entire experience feels deeply connected to nature rather than separated from it.
Unlike some of the other Phinda lodges, the suites here do not have plunge pools. For that, guests would choose a different lodge within the reserve. But Forest Lodge stands apart because of its extraordinary setting and contemporary design — serene, understated, and entirely unique to Phinda.
The next morning drive at Phinda Private Game Reserve delivered one of those unforgettable safari moments: a cheetah mother with her cubs feeding on an impala.
That afternoon, we encountered elephants, buffalo, more lion cubs… and finally, a leopard.
Leopards are usually elusive and difficult to find, but this one seemed completely relaxed, likely after a good meal. He lounged calmly while we watched from the vehicle, utterly unbothered by our presence.
With that sighting, I officially saw the Big Five.
Beyond the wildlife, I also appreciated the rhythm of life at andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge.
Each morning began with a light wake-up breakfast — tea or coffee with biscuits, either delivered to your suite or served in the main lodge before the sunrise drive.
Then, after returning around 9 a.m., a full breakfast was served. At andBeyond properties, there are no buffets. For breakfast, a selection of cold breakfast items is brought directly to the table, followed by your choice of a freshly prepared hot dish.
Lunches were served in the dining room overlooking the forest, often with nyalas grazing peacefully nearby. Occasionally, staff would dash over to chase curious baboons away from the tables, much to the delight of the children staying at the lodge.
There were quite few families with children as young as few years old. Nannies took care of little ones, and kids older than 6 went on a drive, their nannies came too. Guests with kids are required to book private safari. Teenagers were OK in shared.
The children appeared exceptionally well cared for by the staff and dedicated nannies. Judging by the tearful farewells and heartfelt hugs exchanged between the children and staff, it is clearly a very well-run and nurturing environment.
I had three dinners there and they all were different. One was in the main area, once in a boma (BBQ area in the lodge) and once in the bush. For the bush, the staff brought bathroom, water to wash hands and it was served under candlelight and I enjoyed a setup. Food was delicious. A thoughtful touch, so I would not eat alone three times, the guide offered to dine with me. One night there was roasted impala on the menu, and we were wondering if that was an impala that cheetah killed 😊.
I visited local community to find out about AndBeyond current projects. I spoke with entrepreneurs who have stores at the market, local school and newly opened private day care. I was impressed with work done to help local community to prosper and improve their quality of life. It is not necessary, but one can choose donation at any project you like. I contributed to local day care.
I visited other lodges in Phinda, to understand the difference and know which lodge suites to which clients.
Sadly, my Phinda stay ended and I was flying to Capetown back to civilization.
I saw naylahs came close to my room to say goodbye and zebras and rhinos hanging on a airstrip.
It took one hour to fly from Phinda to Kruger MQP airport and from there to Cape Town.
Around 4pm, I’ve made to Cape Town hotel Capitol 15 on Orange Street. I saw some of my colleagues had already arrived and going to different functions. However, I opted to rest, have dinner at hotel and prepare for next three days of work.
ILTM Africa 2026, Capetown
ILTM Africa was held in Cape Town, South Africa, connecting elite African luxury travel providers with international buyers. The event is highly curated, featuring pre-scheduled meetings and networking sessions designed to drive the African luxury tourism market, took place at the Norval Foundation. The organizers did a good job combining meetings with experiences.
First day was wine tasting at 8am. Why not? 😊 .
We took Jeep tour from hotel, stopped at Klein Constantia Vineyard, had wine tasting and continued to trade show, ILTM Africa opened at Norval Foundation, beautiful art museum. We had lunch at another winery. After meetings we went to Diamond works for workshop experience. Then we had an event with local officials and interesting speakers, including photographer who got first picture of Nelson Mandela freed from prison.
Next day we had transfers to the trade show combined with a sidecar tour. We got a fleet of sidecars delivered to hotel to take us to Norval foundation. They had two dogs and I was lucky to ask and get one! Here we are with my friend Danette and dog Theo. We rode for about 1 hour, it was so much fun. I highly recommend this activity in Cape Town.
On the second night, we had dinner at Spyce restaurant located in Silo District at V&A (Victoria and Alfred) Waterfront. It features Modern African cuisine with a strong Cape Malay influence, it is stylish, cultural experiential experiences with live jazz, drumming, and face painting. The restaurant celebrates Cape culture—food, music, storytelling, and spice. Inspired by the historic Spice Route, blending African, Malay, and global flavors, designed as a shared dining experience with bold, spice-forward dishes, fun interaction, dances, drumming and great introduction to African spices. We had a tasting menu of 10 dishes including Cape Malay chicken curry, Bobotie arancini, Masala prawns, Vegetable breyani, Tandoori-style dishes with local twists.
I had three days immersed in the pulse of African luxury travel – connecting with exceptional partners, exchanging ideas, and discovering what’s next in our ever-evolving world.
From meaningful conversations to shared moments with both new and longtime friends, paired with remarkable cuisine, South African wines, beautiful setup at Norval art museum, and unforgettable experiences- this is the essence of ILTM Africa.
I leave inspired – by new destinations, fresh perspectives and the people who are passionate about their jobs, who make this industry so extraordinary.
I had one day before flying early to Kenya, so I moved for one night to the V&A waterfront for great dining, shopping and views, beautiful hotel Cape Grace, managed by Fairmont.
Cape Grace, Cape Town
I arrived Cape Grace in the morning, met hotels sales manager, and I had some time before went for breakfast. I am impressed with spread, but also with service. I noticed that staff greet guests by their names and remember their preferences. “How come Mr. Smith, do you not want mimosa today? ” . Here I am sitting at breakfast and spying on hotel guests and staff! But I need to get a feel of service and the place. Overnight oats are the best I ever tried. It has a touch taste of orange to it. I ordered chicken and waffles. It was beautifully presented but somehow avocado and chicken blended and while each component was tasty, waffle was soggy. I did not finish it, and the waitress took it, and later came back and reported she talked to the chef, and he said next time will not put chicken on top. Thats an attention to details!
I shopped for Tanzanite. At Diamond Works, you do not just shop, but you have an experience through the captivating world of diamonds. The museum/showroom is a celebration of the most precious gemstone on Earth, offering visitors an immersive and educational experience like no other. I did come out with a nice bracelet.
I had lunch at Wiloughby Sushi co and while it located in a busy mall location, the variety and quality of sushi was outstanding.
I went back to hotel and in the evening, I enjoyed view of Cape Town, with wine, fruit and cheese at my suite.
Early departure to Cape Town airport, for my 7:20am (ugh) flight to Nairobi. 6-hour flight to Nairobi was fine, but the business class is not with flat seats. Just bigger seats, 2 + 2 configuration. Probably not worth paying for it in the future on short flights.
I arrived in Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International airport, went from the plane exit to immigration seamlessly with my VIP help. Met my driver Daniel who took me to Hemingway’s hotel for one night. He gave me a lots of information on Nairobi and what’s to do here. You can see giraffes and wildlife right in the city in a Kenya National park.
Hemingways Nairobi
It is a good starting point for Kenya’s classic luxury safari gateway. It is elegant, quiet, and very popular for few nights stays before or after East Africa safaris. It is in the leafy Karen suburb, near the former home of Karen Blixen, a celebrated Danish author, globally recognized for her memoir Out of Africa. Heminghway’s is all suite hotel in a colonial style mansion. I was upgraded to a presidential suite with sweeping views of the estate. It has this “Old Africa” style and is a welcome retreat from the city noise. The atmosphere was quiet and peaceful, more “colonial country estate” than trendy urban hotel. It was just as I needed to decompress after busy days and early flight from Cape Town, before heading into the bush. Here is a video .
I had breakfast at Hemingway and departed for airport with Daniel the driver. This time I was flying from Wilson Nairobi, which is local airport for small planes bound to safari. It is small and mostly manual. I was flying to Loisaba, an airstrip for Lakipia, where I was staying in Suyian Lodge. It is a new lodge by AndBeyond.
The flight was 45 minutes in a small Cessna Plane.
Suyian Lodge
I arrived Loisaba at Laikipia Plateau, sprawled on the edge of the Northern Kenyan Frontier, stretching from the slopes of Mount Kenya to the rim of the Great Rift Valley. There are a variety of ranches and conservancies that can be visited depending on one’s interest. From wildlife areas, a protective haven for the endangered black rhino; to ranches and conservancies further north more focused on community and adventure activities such as horseback riding, camel and walking safaris. It is also a perfect base to explore the wilder north and great lakes of Kenya.
My guide Benard met me on the strip, and we started our 45 min drive to the Suyian Lodge. It took longer since we stopped to see animals on the way. This time I had a private safari, with Benard for all stay.
Next morning, we continued following leopards in the dark. Black leopard is the only one location in the world you can see him. It was special to watch spotted common leopard and black. They are a couple.
I saw reticulated giraffe -is one of the most visually striking giraffe subspecies—and a true icon of East Africa, especially in northern Kenya. It has large, polygon-shaped patches outlined by bright white lines—like a net. The patches are rich orange-brown contrasted sharply with white lines.
I saw Grevy’s zebras, a rare species and one of Kenya’s most distinctive wildlife sightings. Their stripes are narrower and more closely spaced than those of other zebras, their bellies are completely white, and their large ears give them an almost mule-like, horse-like appearance. I also saw a herd of elephants and several hippos.
Next day, I visited local community nearby. It was a village with people living without electricity, water, in huts. The women and men sang and danced their traditional songs and dances. They tend to goats and cows. Women build houses from cow dung. The visit like this shows how other people live in African villages and makes you appreciate what we have… and see life beyond tourist sites.
The conservancy used to operate primarily as a cattle ranch, typical of Laikipia’s colonial-era ranching landscape. The Suyian Lodge sits on what was historically a working cattle ranch and it is still a working ranch. Horseback riding is one of the activity guests take. I visited cattle. The conservancy also owns camels, and local community takes care of them. You can milk a camel. I was going to, but we were late for that. So, I just hang out with camels.
Next day was a travel day. I had breakfast in the room and Benard drove me to the Loisaba (Suyian Conservancy) airstrip. The plane made one stop and picked 3 more people. In an hour, we arrived at Wilson airport Nairobi. I had to transfer to another airline ALS from Safari link. Being OCD in planning, I was wondering how I would get to another terminal in Wilson which is not like usual world airports, more like small buildings spread out.. But ALS team appeared, took my bags at airplane and drove me about 5 mins to their terminal to check me in.
In 45 mins we arrived on Masai Mara airstrip where Bateleur driver picked me up.
Bateleur Camp
Set on the &Beyond Kichwa Tembo concession neighboring the Masai Mara National Reserve, Bateleur Camp offers rare flexibility and exceptional game viewing. Meaning ‘head of the elephant’ in Kiswahili, Kichwa Tembo lies in the remote western Mara — land leased from Maasai landlords, explored almost exclusively by &Beyond guests.
Bateleur Camp AndBeyond had different feel of safari, unlike modern Suyian Lodge. This is a vintage Africa of 1920. Baboons walked on my roof… The suite was smaller, with leather furniture, crystal glassware, full bar, hot water bottle (“bushbaby”, tucked in bed..
I left for afternoon drive, on the way saw leopard, warthog family, baboons, klipspringer, and dik-dik – is one of the smallest antelope species in Africa—tiny, fast and beautiful. They are usually in pairs and mate for life.
In the morning, I shared safari driver with two other guests. We went for a morning drive to Masai Mara. This drive was in National Park, so not much off-roading. We still saw jackal, lioness and cubs, lots of elephants, giraffes, hippos… same animals, but different landscape. We were hoping to see leopards, but they were elusive.
We returned to the lodge and stopped in the bush, surprise! There was lunch set up and the staff appeared performing Massai Mara dances.
Next morning, I had breakfast in my room, said goodbye to the Bateleur camp team, and set off with my driver Poya. I was bound to Tanzania, Sereengeti.
It was two-hour drive to Migori, long travel day, but I enjoyed watching local life along the way. Since Poya is from the region, he shared helpful insights about daily life there. Masai Mara villages are more developed than Lakipia region. They have electricity on the main road and now they are expanding to inside areas. They have schools, churches and shops. They live off land.
We arrived at Migori air strip earlier than scheduled and we were waiting for Tanzanian driver; I shared my lunch packed by Bateleur with Poya and we discussed logistics. Finally Tanzanian driver John arrived and took me to the Sirare Kenya-Tanzania border. I needed my passport, Tanzanian visa, and yellow fever vaccine card. Customs were quick even though there was one group before me. John got me to Tarime Air strip in Tanzania, about 30 minutes’ drive and we waited for my flight Coastal Air to Saronera strip in Serengeti. There was a bathroom, they brought me chairs and a table. Shopping truck folded since I did not shop. I was glad that the plane came earlier to pick me up, I was the only one in this lonely “Lounge”! In next 30 minutes, we touched at Seronera strip, in Serengeti National Park, where I’ve met my guide, Daniel. I was the only one in the camp, he said, and they are waiting for me, and I would be on my own time. We decided to do safari drive instead of going to the camp.
Serengeti
World-renowned for its vast open grasslands and exceptional wildlife sightings, Tanzania’s magnificent Serengeti National Park boasts over 35 species of plains game, as well as prolific birdlife. Of all the documented animal movements, East Africa’s Great Migration is by far one of the world’s most famous, sought-after and photographed wildlife events. It is the astounding, never-ending natural trek of millions of hungry herbivores across the limitless plains of Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti that keeps the world engaged.
Serengeti Under Canvas
My next home was andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas, set in the heart of Serengeti National Park. Like AndBeyond says, there’s a difference between watching Great Migration and travelling with it. The camp is positioned close to the movement of the Great Migration and moves to follow it. And the sense of being part of the landscape is constant. This is your place in the wild, where you come to rest, reset and feel completely present.
The camp features Bedouin-style tents with ensuite flushable toilets, and outdoor bucket showers. Because it moves with migration, it has no permanent location, and water is brought into camp, This was a very interesting experience, being in a tent, but with luxury amenities, butler, etc.
https://youtu.be/2OatLuOFKxs part 1
https://youtu.be/xwNEoeluIPc%20-%20part%202
The butler Shema explained to me how my tent worked. The shower was bucket and I would have to tell Shema when I wanted to take a shower, and he would fill a bucket with water. It took just ten minutes for him to fill it. It was enough water for me, but I had to think do not to waste it. The delicious dinner was prepared, and I had dinner under the stars by the fire. Pumpkin soup, fish with vegetables and potatoes and corn cake. The sunset was spectacular. The security walked me to my tent.
In the morning after sunrise, we went for a drive with guide Daniel and decided to do a full day. We saw Rock Hyrax, small animals on the rock, balloon flight. We stopped for breakfast which Daniel setup for us prepared by camp’s chef.
Since it is almost the end of migration, we had to drive few hours, saw lions, cheetahs, and Massai giraffes on the way but the highlight was when we got to migration and there were crowds of zebras and wildebeest movement. In the season, you do not need to drive far, and the camp is moved to close to migration.
Shema did laundry for me, by hand. There was not rain, otherwise drying would not be possible. Such a simple life. You are in sync with the nature.
I said goodbye to my Serengeti Under Canvas family and I left for next Serengeti AndBeyond Klein Camp. 
The camps manager Gregory went with me since he is choosing the next location to move Under Canvas Camp.
Klein Camp
Klein Camp is a regular based luxury camp, working with tented camp, for example, if there is excess laundry, it is sent to Klein.
We arrived Seronera airstrip, passed “security”, it took 20 minutes flight to Lobo airstrip. In Lobo, Klein camp guides Rabin and tracker Gwandu met us. They brought lunch, and after lunch we left for Klein Camp, still in Serengeti, stopping on the way. It took about 1.5 hours, combining transfer with drive.
On arrival, I had time to rest and have dinner. Massai security guard walked me back to the room (no rifle, but spear!) and I was sound asleep with warm bottle, called bush baby!
Early wake up call with tea and I saw beautiful sunrise. We left for morning safari, saw giraffes and gazelles. We continue searching for lion. We came across lion family. Lioness and three cubs playing. Lioness was keeping the eye for the lion, who went to protect territory. The lion was further afield. 
We stopped for breakfast in the bush and my guides cooked eggs, bacon and sausage and grilled halloumi cheese. They also brought fruit, overnights oats, muffins, and pita. I had coffee with Amarula liquor. Since it is a private reserve, they can cook on a gas grill. In National Park (my previous Serengeti Under Canvas accommodation), it is not permitted, there breakfast is packed. We searched for leopard but did not find it. We went back to camp around noon. It was a great morning.
I came back and found at my patio a wine, a sketch book and paint and a note with suggested painting activity so I tried my creativity.
In the afternoon, after drive, we stopped in the bush before returning to the camp, and a surprise, sundowner was setup in the bush and Massai staff arrived, with dances and snacks and drinks. After that, we returned to the camp for dinner.
Next morning, after breakfast, Rabin and Gwandu drove me to airstrip for 1.5 hours.
That was the end of my safari.
The plane was brand new and it took one hour to get to Arusha airport. Arusha airport has new terminal. It was confusing but my helper appeared and checked me in.
From Arusha airport, I flew on Safarilink to Wilson Nairobi, one hour flight, back to where I started. I was met by driver Alfred in Wilson.
Nairobi
I had some time to kill until my evening 23:15 flight from Jomo Kanyatta. Alfred suggested some shopping at Kobe Tough Beads and Leather. I saw presentations on all the stages of beads making. It offers employment opportunities to single parents from the poor neighborhood, hence earning a living to their families. It is a pottery, ceramic beads and leather factory that makes beautiful gifts and souvenirs which are now exported worldwide. There was a gift shop with beautiful items.
Next, I went to the Giraffe Centre – a conservation and education sanctuary in Nairobi suburb Karen. It was created to protect the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe and has played a major role in increasing their population in Kenya.
This was the third giraffe species I have seen. Massai, Reticulated and now Rotschild. My giraffe education is complete! They carefully breed them and release to the wild. Incredible experience was feeding giraffe, feeling their surprisingly thick, purple tongue wrap around the food right out of my hand.
The center borders with Hotel Giraffe Manor where you can stay and eat breakfast with giraffes sticking their necks.
I invited Alfred to share dinner with me at Carnivore Nairobi. It is unlimited menu of meat and fish. The grilled meat was delicious. It kept coming. I also ate ostrich and crocodile. I passed on ox balls lol. When you cannot eat anymore, you put on a white flag. Two cats helped me eat!
Back at the airport, I skipped lounge meal. I boarded KLM flight to Amsterdam went directly to sleep. KLM business class was very comfortable, new plane, good seat design.
They served meals with elements inspired by Dutch heritage, and the “Delft porcelain” look comes from Delftware—the iconic blue-and-white ceramics originating from the city of Delft. Delft Blue style tableware mimics traditional hand-painted ceramics—white with blue. KLM uses this to subtly showcase Dutch identity onboard. Instead of chocolates, they have souvenirs to the passengers miniature Delft Blue houses filled with Dutch gin. It’s a small but elegant way of tying the inflight experience to the Netherlands—very on brand. I had 5 hours to kill in Schiphol. Lounge was nice and I took a shower to get off that safari dust. They had very good fresh bread. Flight to Tampa was on time.
And this concluded my whirlwind exploration trip to East and South Africa.
Final thoughts.
My luxury AndBeyond journey through Kenya and Tanzania was an extraordinary immersion into the finest of East African hospitality, wildlife, and cultural experiences. From elegant safari lodges and refined tented camps to unforgettable game drives across breathtaking landscapes, every detail reflected the depth and sophistication of luxury travel in the region.
The journey combined iconic safari experiences with thoughtful service, exceptional guiding, and a strong sense of place. Highlights included witnessing remarkable wildlife encounters, exploring diverse ecosystems, enjoying beautifully designed properties that blend seamlessly into nature, and experiencing warm, intuitive hospitality throughout. The trip also offered valuable insight into the operational excellence, conservation efforts, and personalized guest experiences that define the top luxury safari brands in East Africa.
Beyond the properties themselves, the trip reinforced how transformative safari travel can be — balancing adventure, comfort, culture, and meaningful connection to the natural world. It was both professionally inspiring and personally unforgettable, further deepening my passion for creating elevated, legacy-driven journeys across Africa for my clients.
Transfers/Communication
For my clients, I always include airport assistance — and I enjoyed the service myself. On safari, the small bush planes don’t allow wheeled luggage, including carry-ons. I checked my larger duffel and carried only a backpack and a small bag. It wasn’t heavy… but after walking through Tampa and Atlanta airports, I felt it — even with all my “core strength training.”
But here’s what truly matters:
From curb to gate, I was personally met, fast-tracked through security, and escorted every step of the journey while my luggage was handled seamlessly. My driver delivered me directly to the hotel, and my luggage appeared in my room without me touching it once along the way.
Effortless travel isn’t a luxury.
It’s the standard I create for my clients.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated concierge team stayed connected with me on WhatsApp, providing real-time support anywhere in the world. Luxury travel should feel easy, personal, and fully supported.
If you’re considering a bespoke journey through Kenya or Tanzania, let’s design it properly.
Contact me if you consider the experience of bespoke Africa.
Solo Travel
Some people asked me how I am traveling solo.
Solo travel has a way of quieting the noise and sharpening what truly matters. It’s not only about the places you go, but how you return to you, changed, inspired, and more connected to yourself and to the world around you. Solo travel is not about isolation.
It is about freedom, confidence, presence, and discovering the world on your own terms.
Some journeys give you memories. Others give your perspective.
And when every detail is thoughtfully designed behind the scenes, you are free to simply experience the journey.
That is the kind of travel experience I strive to create for my clients.
My recent time through Kenya and Tanzania reminded me that the most meaningful luxury is not excess — it is ease, presence, and the freedom to fully experience a place without distraction. The right journey connects you — to people, to places, to perspective, and ultimately to yourself.
Food
Food is a big part of traveling for me personally, to experience country’s culture through food. I enjoyed South Africa cuisine at Phinda and in Cape Town at Spyce restaurant, sushi at the waterfront, and wine country specialty dining at the wineries.
In the cities, you can find great variety of food. Seafood was abundant. South African cuisine is a vibrant melting pot of Indigenous, European, and Asian influences, centering heavily on bold, hearty flavors, outdoor cooking, and aromatic spices introduced by Cape Malay settlers.
As for snacks, I love biltong (air dried and cured meat) and I always enjoy it locally and bring home. In South Africa it is is typically made from beef, game meat (kudu, springbok), or ostrich marinated in vinegar and spices. In East Africa, however, I discovered that wild game meat is not available but I still had beef biltong
At lodges, AndBeyond had a high-end, “field-to-table” dining experience that emphasized fresh, local ingredients, featuring hearty breakfasts, light lunches, and sophisticated dinners, often served in dramatic, scenic locations. The cuisine was wholesome and authentic, frequently highlighting regional specialties.
I had Typical Safari Dining Experience
- Early Morning: Coffee, tea, and fresh biscuits/muffins before the first game drive.
- Morning Break: “Amarula coffee” and snacks during a break in the bush.
- Breakfast: A full, hot, made-to-order breakfast served back at the lodge.
- Lunch: a healthy meal with few selections, carefully prepared and served at the table
- High Tea: bush game drive, a selection of savory and sweet snacks.
- Dinner: was a romantic, themed event, such as a “bush dinner” under the stars, a “boma” (fire-lit) meal, or fine dining at the camp, featuring dishes like fresh grilled fish or traditional roasts.
Key Culinary Features
- Chefs are trained to accommodate specific dietary requirements, like gluten free, low salt, low calories, etc. We also can provide Kosher meals on request with advance notice.
- Local Focus: Menus reflect the region, such as freshly caught seafood on the coast or garden-grown produce at for example, in Suyian lodge they had their vegetable garden.
Drinks
- Sundowners (drinks at sunset) are a staple, featuring a full bar, including local wines, spirits, and beers.
Special thanks to AndBeyond who helped me to arrange these incredible experiences, and my wonderful guides and drivers, and all who helped me along my journey.
Copyrights 2026, Sophia’s Travel, EMCO Travel LLC