As 2017 Draws to a Close

Dear clients, travel partners and friends
 
It is always so difficult for me to write a succinct message.  I am wordy, but then I am very enthusiastic about life, travel, exploration, seeing and experiencing.  2017 has been a year of GROWTH and learning, both for myself and for Peku Peku.  And there has been change, and change is good, it means you are ALIVE!

This was the first year where I have truly appreciated what Johannesburg has to offer. The Cradle of Humankind is a unique experience, and if you haven’t had a chance to visit it yet, GO! Call us, we will plan an excursion for you. When the Homo Naledi exhibition was unveiled to the public in May 2017, it was a truly momentous occasion for science in Africa. Maropeng, just outside of Johannesburg, needs to be added to your bucket list if you have ever been curious about the origins of man.

The Cradle of Humankind, Maropeng

My second wonderful discovery was Maboneng. This Johannesburg precinct is expanding and growing, and it has new incredible energy. It offers a new face to Johannesburg and I LOVE it! Think art, music, food, crafts, fashion… You are at the right place. One weekend is not enough. I LOVED the fact that there are many young businesses with vision and dreams and they are carving out a new Johannesburg.  I met the owners of CurioCITY Backpackers and over a glass of wine (me) and beer (them), we had a conversation about their dreams for the city they call Jozi, their home. It was a memorable and inspiring evening.  

Udzungwa National Park, Tanzania

I was reminded once again of the magic of the bush. One can never go on safari too often. This year saw me exploring Kruger, Magaliesberg, Mikumi, Udzungwa and Ruaha. Kruger and Magaliesberg I had explored often enough, but Mikumi, Udzungwa and Ruaha National parks in southern Tanzania – this was the first time I truly had time (you need time, and patience).  The roads are not very good in some parts, but OH. MY. WORD. the experience is worth it. In Udzungwa, close to Mororgoro, I saw trees and plants akin to those in Jumanji. It was beautiful!  One of the year’s highlights was the picnic I had at the top of a waterfall in Udzungwa. 

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This was also the year it was announced that the visa on arrival policy for Rwanda is being extended to include more countries from January 2018.  All African countries are issued a visa on arrival.  Dare we dream that soon, an African passport will be a reality… and there will be better co-operation and conversation amongst nations for Open Skies to become a reality?  Cheaper flights within the continent would go a long way in helping increase business conversations and co-operation, as well as increase tourism rates across the board.
 
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all who have used our services. It is such a privilege to be able to share travel experiences with you. 
 
We wish you and your loved ones a peaceful and blessed holiday season.  Take time to rest, restore and rejuvenate. 
 
We look forward to growing and welcoming past and future clients and promise to encourage you to Travel, Explore and Blaze a Trail in your own way.

With love and blessings,

Semwano