Having experiences with the local make your trip that much more meaningful and that is why it’s amazing when a tour will allow you to see places, meet people and have experiences you couldn’t have otherwise. Visiting a township, meeting local craftswomen and trying local street food were all on the itinerary and more–and that’s why my trip to South Africa was truly memorable.
The Food & Wine of South Africa on tour with Swain Destinations
Food is a big part of my travels at least, and when I was heading off to South Africa, I was giddy with excitement as I knew this country was home to a burgeoning food scene and world renowned wines.
My tour with Swain Destinations made sure that we had access to the best of the best–the highest quality dishes handcrafted while in Kruger National Park, incredible wines right from the source in the Cape Winelands and meals at some of the best restaurants in Cape Town. Eat & drink up!
It made all the difference that we had extremely bright Egyptologists with us at every site. They made sure to explain all the important parts in a way that was easy to understand and they never tired of all our questions. I learned so much more on this trip than I ever learned in school because of their skills. It truly makes the Egyptian experience come to life.
For me the best part of travel is getting to learn about a new place through it’s people. I was amazed at how USTOA member Abercrombie & Kent agreed with that sentiment and made sure that we had many opportunities to meet & interact with true locals. Communicating with them and sharing laughs, foods and stories is truly the magic of travel.
One of the most storied histories in the world, Egypt has long been a popular destination for it’s history, it’s culture and of course, it’s amazing pyramids & temples. Egypt needs to be on every person’s bucket list–see why this country changed me.
USTOA Live Like a Local Series
Cruising the Nile with Abercrombie & Kent
The Nile is one of the most incredible places that I’ve ever seen and getting to experience while on board a luxury cruise with USTOA member Abercrombie & Kent, was a personal highlight of my visit to Egypt. You could see the heart of Egypt from the deck and jump on & off at various important stops, like the Temple of Dendara, Valley of the Kings as well as Karnak and Luxor Temples.
The tombs aren’t the only Egyptian places full of treasures–one of my favorite parts of the journey was getting to stop at markets & workshops to discover the local crafts, jewels and spices. Luxor Market, a rug cooperative and Giza’s market were a sensory overload and I had to take more than a few treasures home with me.
I was thinking a lot about temples & pyramids when I was heading to Egypt but what I didn’t expect was how great the food was! Largely vegetarian, I had the most light and chewy bread, soft & fluffy falafel and surprisingly tasty savory koshary, made with chickpeas & lentils. And the hummus–WOW. From our gourmet restaurants to street food, Egypt’s food is exoctically delicious!
Episode 12: Our final stop! Get Lost on Amtrak Series. Kelley takes the Southwest Chief from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Think you wouldn’t be comfortable sleeping on a train? Think again. The Roomette Cars on Amtrak’s Southwest Chief are actually quite comfortable. They convert from seat to bed, with comfy pillows and space to store your things and move around. Plus you are going somewhere as you are counting sheep!
Episode 11: Our final stop! Get Lost on Amtrak Series. Kelley takes the Southwest Chief from Chicago to Los Angeles.
From Chicago, across the snowy midwest, through the red sands of New Mexico & Arizona, we completed our journey by pulling into Union Station, Los Angeles. The trip had come full circle but it wasn’t over yet! This train traveler was ready to see the sights of Los Angeles and since I was invigorated by my relaxing train ride, I was ready to take Los Angeles, Santa Monica & Venice by storm. Check out this fast-paced 24-hour adventure through the beaches and hills of LA.
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