“Traveling – first it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – the words of the great Berber-Moroccan scholar and explorer, Ibn Battuta, capture the essence of what travel means to me. It’s not just about ticking off destinations or snapping the perfect photo; it’s about the yearning to be moved, inspired, and connected.
More than the scenery or the itinerary, it’s the moments that move us – the quiet awe of a vast landscape, the joy of discovering something unexpected, and, most importantly, the people we meet along the way. Time and again, I’m reminded that it’s the meaningful conversations – with guides who generously share their knowledge, with hosts who welcome us into their world, and with the many warm, passionate individuals who work in tourism – that truly enrich our journeys. These encounters offer us a deeper sense of place and perspective, and it’s this connection that makes travel so worthwhile. And that inspires every journey and every page of Travel Southern Africa.
In this issue, we snorkel the crystal-clear waters of the Seychelles, trace African connections through time on the remote island of St Helena, and cycle through the heart of Johannesburg. We disconnect in the soulful wilds of Namibia, search for spring’s floral spectacle on the West Coast, and explore the beach-meets-bush beauty of the Zululand Coast.
We also shine a light on inspiring conservation milestones and community-driven tourism projects – stories that show just how powerfully tourism can impact lives and protect our natural heritage.
May these pages leave you a little speechless… and ready to write your own stories.
So, whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply dreaming of new horizons, may this issue inspire you to keep exploring, connecting, and storytelling.
Welcome to Travel Southern Africa. The journey starts here.
