Safari-ed out?

So, I am back from holiday! My Dad seems to frequently ask "How much vacation do you actually get?" as he feels he always hears of multiple trips. To answer - a lot, actually, but in this kind of work, it is absolutely crucial to my sanity. As I've been in Africa, I thought I should do "African" things and what better way to lure friends over from the US and UK then by planning safari / Indian ocean trips. Valerie came over from Atlanta for 2 weeks which was very exciting. Our first week we took a safari to Tsavo West, Amboseli and Masai Mara, all parks in Kenya and then headed to the coast to enjoy the Indian Ocean a bit south of Mombasa. A few things to note:

• While Amboseli appears to be only a few centimeters from Masai Mara on the map, it is actually a 10 hour drive on gravel/dirt roads. Tip of the day: Consider flying. Both parks have airstrips and flights leave from Nairobi daily.


• Despite the fact that you didn't remember someone sticking a sign on your forehead saying "I would love a beaded necklace or giraffe carving," everyone will think you do and believes you will change your mind after being asked 5+ times.


• Prices on everything (including pharmaceuticals) are negotiable. Growing up in the western world, I think we've encountered a disservice in the fact that our negotiation skills are non-existent. My one time experience at the Honda dealer was no match for the East Africans.
  
• As Kenya is a former English colony, clearly they've taken on English customs - including foods. Tip - "pancakes" are actually crepes! Avoid the disappointment. (PS, while I know crepes aren't English, maybe they have taken over some French customs afterall!)
  
• If you visit Kenya before November (and maybe even anytime during the year after), claim to be British, Australian or South African or you will be forever asked if you are voting for Obama.


• Honestly, there is no reason to wear khaki-colored clothing and a safari vest is completely unnecessary (I found a lot of humor in seeing all these mostly Americans in their North Face / REI pants with safari vests and safari hats.) I mean, seriously people, you are riding around in safari trucks not deer hunting in South Georgia. You don't need to be camaflouged and most animals are color blind anyways, so save yourself some money, and while you should dress comfortably, don't go overboard!
  

All in all, we had a great time. We stayed at some wonderful lodges in the park with excellent views, ammenties and food. I think the highlight of the trip was the 6:00 am hot air balloon ride over Masai Mara where we even spotted a cheetah with two cubs. The landing was a bit scary as the basket tips as it hits the ground, but we survived. Definitely a good life experience.

During the second week we stayed at a resort on Diani Beach south of Mombasa. The weather was terrific. I definitely got to relax, take in some sun and mark a few books off my reading list. One night we left the resort to eat at the famous Ali Barbour's restaurant which is inside of a cave - it is very cool and a must-do if you are in the area.

So after my two safari and beach trips, I think I will graduate to something else. I am forseeing an Ethiopia or South Africa trip next. All visitors welcome!