Namibiatakes its name from the world’s oldest and most impressive deserts — The Namib. Along with the famous Skeleton Coast, (check out my previous article here), Etosha National Park must be included on your Namibia safari itinerary. This southwestern African nation is bordered by South Africa, Zambia, and Botswana. A wildlife haven nestled in the heart of Namibia, the expansive park, covering over 22,000 square kilometers, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and safari lovers. The park is not only a wildlife hotspot but also a place that reflects Namibia’s rich cultural tapestry — the local communities surrounding Etosha, including the Ovambo, Himba, and Herero people, contribute to the park’s cultural diversity.
Etosha is renowned for its incredible wildlife and is home to four of the Big Five – elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos – plus, plenty of giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and numerous antelope and bird species. Etosha’s waterholes are a prime location for observing the animals as they gather to quench their thirst, providing unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography.
To reach Etosha National Park, we flew on Scenic Air in a Kodiak Turbo Prop from capital city Windhoek, having spent the night after arriving via a short commercial flight from Johannesburg.
At the heart of the park lies the vast Etosha Pan, an otherworldly expanse of shimmering white salt. During the dry season, the pan is a striking contrast to the arid savannah, creating a surreal landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see and functions as the focal point for both wildlife and visitors alike.
Our accommodations were at Onguma The Fort, located just outside the park. This exceptional property has a classic African feel with a touch of Indian and Moroccan flavors. Eleven private Bush Suites flank the Main Fort building, and all offer unparalleled sunset views of the Etosha Pans, frequently visited by a menagerie of wildlife especially during our evening meals on the lodge deck.
Our days were filled with early morning and late afternoon game drives in an open vehicle, with some time in between to sun ourselves and relax at the pool right off the main lodge courtyard. A big attraction at Onguma is “The Onkolo Hide.” This water-level camouflaged shelter affords guests the opportunity to sit calmly and enjoy the wildlife extremely up close and unobserved. The vantage points give you amazing camera angles.
Namibia is a country that blows away any preconceived notions of what Africa should be, and a visit to Etosha must be included in your itinerary. A gem in Namibia’s crown, this national treasure offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unparalleled wildlife encounters. And, a visit to Etosha, not only offers a unique wildlife experience, but it’s an opportunity to support conservation and anti-poaching efforts.
It’s never TOO early to plan your next adventure. Our safari was organized with Micato Safaris, voted top safari outfitter year after year. They ensured our trip went off with out a hitch, with the best guides, accommodations, transportation, and amenities. Email me, mollie@herrickstravel.com and find out about upgrades, complimentary breakfast, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel customers. To receive my blogs to your inbox, please enter your email address in the subscriber box, and respond to the confirmation email.
An African safari transcends traditional travel – it is a captivating expedition that offers a unique blend of awe-inspiring landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion.
Having visited South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania, I looked forward to returning to Africa, this time to Namibia, a country that blows away any preconceived notions of what Africa should be. We packed our bags and headed on our adventure with Micato Safaris. A nonstop flight took us from New York to Johannesburg where we met up with our expert safari director, Brian. After an overnight stay at the beautiful resort-like Saxon Hotel, we connected with a short flight to Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek, spending a night at the iconic Weinberg Hotel. This serene estate property was the perfect place to recover from jetlag.
From Windhoek, we flew via Scenic Air light aircraft from lodge to lodge – from Etosha National Parkto the Skeleton Coast to Sossusvlei. Our trusted pilot, Cam, made sure we were comfortable in the Kodiak plane throughout our journey, and we were honored to get to know him throughout our two-week trip.
It is indescribable the distinctiveness of this remote, yet well-developed country in the southwestern corner of the continent. Namibia is a land of stark contrasts, where towering sand dunes meet the wild Atlantic Ocean, where traditional tribal customs blend with modern life, and remarkable animal species adapt to a harsh environment.
Our itinerary included an unforgettable stay at Shipwreck Lodge, perched on Namibia’s 310-mile-long Skeleton Coast. This revered and feared National Park is a raw, rugged, and remote slice of African wilderness — it earned its name from the countless shipwrecks that wash up on its shores.
Shipwreck Lodge, which honors the mariners who braved these perilous waters, is an oasis in what is the world’s oldest desert – The Namib. The lodge is uniquely designed to reflect the famous shipwrecks lining the nearby coast. Cabins, nestled between the dunes, with views of the Atlantic Coast, offer a warm and inviting environment that contrasts the harshness of the surrounding area.
Getting here: We accessed the lodge via a flight to Möwe Bay, the nearest airstrip. Very surreal — only a simple hanger and a lone, red and white windsock indicates this is an airport – the runway is barely distinguishable from the desert sand. A 45-minute transfer via the lodge’s 4×4 vehicle included a stop at a seal colony and several wrecks perched on the beaches. There is no official “road” to the lodge, only a lightly marked, constantly shifting, sandy path along the dunes.
Accommodations: The lodge’s rustic elegance and remote location blend easily to create an atmosphere of tranquility and wonder. Ten cozy, eco-friendly, solar powered, wooden cabins come equipped with a wood burning stove to keep warm on chilly nights. Outside the cabin door is a spacious deck with sturdy Adirondack chairs. In the center of the lodge stands the timber and glass lounge, bar, and restaurant. After day-long game drives, we would settle into cozy cushioned couches and chat with other visitors from around the world. A wraparound deck offered uninterrupted views out to the Atlantic Ocean – a great place to just sit and contemplate life!
Excursions: Our first night we joined other lodge guests and drove down to the beach in a 4×4 for a traditional safari “Sundowner.” A delicious display of canapes and gin was set up on a petite table in the sand just steps from the water. As the sun set behind the dunes, we tried to absorb the vastness of this world around us – it was too big to grasp!
On our second day, our guide took us into the dunes just behind the lodge. After a quick lesson, we donned helmets, boarded quad bikes, and then stopped to do some “sandboarding,” taking turns going head or feet first over the edge and then gleefully being driven back up to the top for another run. Afterwards, we formed a neat line of quads and ventured up even higher into the dune-filled world – colossal mountains of sand as far as the eye could see.
On our third day we joined our local guide and explored the scenic Hoarusib River, an often dry, ephemeral river, rimmed by sheer cliffs and narrow canyons. Driving for several hours, we spotted plenty of unique desert dwelling creatures as we followed the riverbed through a constantly changing landscape. We hiked through the russet-hewed Clay Castles which had been carved out for centuries by the flowing water.
Scenic flights: After our stay we returned to Möwe Bay where we boarded our plane and embarked on a scenic flight over the southern Skeleton Coast to our next stop, Sossusvlei. Our bird’s eye view afforded us a glimpse of the rugged coastline, shipwrecks, and a startling thousand-member flock of pink flamingoes below.
Namibia’s pristine wilderness is an escape from the fast-paced world we live in – it gives you a profound sense of tranquility. This country has made a strong commitment to sustainability in its approach to tourism by protecting its rich biodiversity, reminding us of the importance of safeguarding our precious environment. Lodges and safari operators are deeply committed to tourism that specifically benefits local communities and supports wildlife conservation. Your visit helps contribute to preservation efforts and safeguards these environments for future generations.
It’s never TOO early to plan your next adventure. Email me: mollie@herrickstravel.com and find out about upgrades, complimentary breakfast, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel customers. To receive my blogs to your inbox, please enter your email address in the subscriber box, and respond to the confirmation email.
When in Namibia, your eyes can barely absorb all the beauty around you! Check out some videos here below…
On our recent trip to Anguilla, we met many guests that return to the island year after year. After a week in this eastern Caribbean paradise, it’s not hard to understand! A British Overseas Territory, Anguilla is well known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and powdery white sand beaches. Although it boasts a laid-back vibe, it features plenty of top-notch resorts and restaurants giving you the best of both worlds – an escape from reality without sacrificing service, amenities, and a little pampering. Perfect for families, couples, or multi-generational travel:
How to get there… You have a choice of flying to nearby St. Maarten and taking a 20-minute ferry ride or private boat transfer to Anguilla. Or, connect through a variety of cities, including Miami (American recently started offering nonstops from MIA and JetBlue may be following soon). Island hopper flights or private air can also be arranged from nearby islands.
What to do… Rent a car: Although you may not be experienced driving on the left-hand side, it is very easy to rent a car and navigate around the island – there are hardly any traffic lights, and most roads are two lanes.
Snorkel and Scuba Dive: There are several snorkel and dive sites that will bring you up close to spectacular ocean life. Seven marine parks encircle the small island, and a Spanish galleon, sunk during the colonial years, is a great spot to explore – its cannons and cargo are still intact.
Day trip to a deserted island: Sandy Island is just off the coast of Anguilla and is a popular spot for a day trip with a beautiful beach, clear waters, and a few beach bars to explore — it’s a great place to be “shipwrecked.” Prickly Pear, an uninhabited island, is perfect for hiking and snorkeling.
Where to stay… Aurora: Formerly the CuisinArt Resort which was closed in 2017 due to hurricane damage. Reopened as this all-suite world class resort, Aurora Anguilla boasts spacious ocean front suites and gorgeous multi bedroom villas, hydroponic farming for a true farm to table experience, an outdoor amphitheater, kids and teen clubs, a water park, golf course, well-appointed spa and gym. This graceful, spread-out property never feels crowded. With two gorgeous cove beaches, the property is separated into two sections, the Rendezvous and the Merrywing sides.
Four Seasons: This luxurious resort on Barnes Bay has a Miami-ish hip vibe with streamlined decor, spacious rooms and suites, a world-class spa, and several dining options. The reflecting infinity pool and the sunset bar are showstoppers, especially at the end of the day. Golf course and tennis courts round out the resort’s amenities.
Malliouhana: An Auberge Resort Collection property located on Meads Bay has an eclectic décor with a vibrant mix of celadon blue, mango and saffron accented furnishings. Yoga and fitness classes are offered daily and most rooms have an amazing view of the beautiful turquois water and beach below.
Zemi Beach House: Stunning resort on Shoal Bay on the East End of the island. With a Rum Bar, Cigar Lounge, upscale dining, adults only pool, there’s plenty of adult oriented amenities, but it also offers plenty of family focused services. The resort’s toes in the sand restaurant, 20 Knots, is the perfect place to unwind with drink in hand.
Belmond Cap Juluca: Boutique hotel on a pristine cove beach with lux rooms and suites and several restaurants. A new Guerlain Spa will be open in the next few months. The resort features Mediterranean style rooms many with private terraces and dining with a drop-dead views at restaurants Pimms and Cip’s — named for the hotel’s Italian sister hotel, Cipriani.
Quintessence: This Relais & Chateaux property is perfect for a secluded getaway. Set in a completely renovated tropical grand mansion, the Indonesian elements and lush surrounding gardens puts you in a very Zen state of mind.
Where to eat… All the resorts listed above have outstanding dining choices and many with a view, so definitely make plans to visit those. Arrive early, grab a seat at one of their bars or lounges, and enjoy the sunset and a local rum cocktail.
Other independent restaurant options: For casual, beachside Caribbean inspired seafood visit Blanchards or Sunshine Shack. More upscale dining with a view can be enjoyed at Veya and Jacala. Or enjoy breakfast, lunch, or sunset dinner atStraw Hat.
It’s never TOO early to plan your next adventure. Email me: mollie@herrickstravel.com and find out about upgrades, complimentary breakfast, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel customers. Become a SUBSCRIBER and receive all my latest articles right to your inbox: look for the “subscribe to this blog by email” box and then respond to the follow-up email. For more information on my trip planning services, please click HERE.
Well known for its turquoise blue waters, Turks & Caicos is the dream destination for all things ocean: snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, kiteboarding, sailing, and sun tanning. This Caribbean British Overseas Territory is an archipelago of 40 low-lying coral islands in the Atlantic Ocean southeast of the Bahamas. The largest island, Providenciales (Provo) is most well known and most visited due to its pristine white sand Grace Bay Beach and crystal-clear water.
Here are the top seven reasons to visit Turks & Caicos:
Easy access: Less than a four hour flight from New York, or a ninety-minute flight from Miami, nonstop flights from over 11 U.S. cities land at Providenciales International Airport (PLS). From there, it’s a quick ride to many resorts.
Drivable: Rental cars are easily picked up right outside the airport, and driving the island is manageable (although on the left side, so be prepared!)
Year-round sunshine: Turks & Caicos averages 350 days of sunshine a year, and ocean temps stay at around the 80-degree range.
Nature at its best: Looking for casinos, nightlife, or water parks? You will not find this here – Turks & Caicos’ appeal is getting you up close to nature and the powdery white sand that lines its shores with plenty of secluded, crowd-free beaches.
Abundant wildlife: An expansive barrier reef protects the coast and supports an abundant animal life including dolphins, turtles, stingrays, and fish, making this the perfect destination for diving and snorkeling excursions. Hop on a stand-up paddle board or launch a kayak to explore the many winding mangrove channels and see first-hand the island’s beauty.
Amazing resorts: Turks & Caicos natural beauty is complemented by its many first class accommodations. Here are a few of my favorites:
Grace Bay Club: This all-suite property has three distinct offerings: an adults-only section; a family-friendly section; and The Estate, the luxe resort within a resort. The property features a sprawling beach front with open air restaurants and dining for laid back luxury and plenty of elbow room.
Ritz Carlton Turks & Caicos: This newly built luxurious and modern property features beachside dining and pool area, an open-air lobby with a trendy restaurant, bar, and sushi spot, a lux Spa and fitness center plus a kids’ club.
Amanyara: This secluded resort, set in a 18,000-acre nature reserve, has that signature Aman Orient touches throughout. The hotel’s lush tropical pavilions offer quiet seclusion, and the sprawling beach front area overlooks a marine reserve.
Rock House: The island’s newest resort brings Mediterranean cool to the Caribbean. The unique and private hilltop accommodations, some with private plunge pools, are scattered throughout this secluded property. Relax and take in the panoramic views at the 100-foot infinity pool perched on the oceanfront cliff.
Delish Dining: For a small island, there is no shortage of restaurant choices from world-class gourmet dining (BLT Steak, Coco Bistro,Sui Ren, Grace’s Cottage) to casual local beach restaurants and bars (Mango Reef and Da Conch Shack). Don’t go home without indulging in crispy conch fritters, creamy conch chowder, fresh conch ceviche, and steamed spiny lobster.
It’s never TOO early to plan your next adventure. Email me: mollie@herrickstravel.com and find out about upgrades, complimentary breakfast, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel customers.
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For more information on my trip planning services, please click HERE.
The word “safari” comes from the Swahili language meaning “journey,” but a safari is more than a journey – it’s a life changing and mind-opening experience, and something to definitely move to the top of your bucket list now that international travel has opened up.
Tanzania offers one of Africa’s most dynamic safari adventures, whether explored on its own or paired with another East African destination. Bordering Kenya to the north, the Indian Ocean to the east, and Rwanda to the west, twenty five percent of Tanzania has been designated as a conservation area. It boasts multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites, the largest national parks and Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. Most travelers come for the Serengeti’s “Great Wildebeest Migration,” the largest movement of animals in the world, but there is plenty of wildlife to view year-round including the big five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino).
On my itinerary, after spending time on safari in Kenya, we flew from Nairobi’s Wilson airport to Kilimanjaro International Airport, Tanzania, and from there, hopped onto a quick flight by bush plane to Lake Manyara Airstrip.
A safari in Tanzania includes six-to-eight-hour daily game drives conducted by a professional guide to designated protected areas in a pop-up roof style 4×4 vehicle. Most safari vehicles come fully equipped with cold beverages, binoculars, charging ports, and wifi. You will become fully immersed in local knowledge about the landscape, flora, and wildlife encountered along the way. Often a “walking safari” can be arranged and a highlight of the day will be lunch enjoyed outdoors “in the bush.”
There are several locations you can include in your Tanzania itinerary based on how much time you have allotted to your trip. Traveling between the various locations will be by 4×4 vehicle or bush plane, depending on travel distances and budget. Here are a few top locations to consider:
Ngorongoro Crater: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this three million year old volcanic caldera is known for its incredible population density of animals that call this fertile 100 square mile grazing area home.
Lake Manyara National Park: Stretched out at the base of the Rift Valley (a lowland region that forms where Earth’s tectonic plates move apart), its shores are populated by more than 500 bird species including thousands of pink flamingoes. If you look up, you might also catch site of tree climbing lions!
Olduvai Gorge: This “Cradle of Mankind” holds the earliest evidence of the existence of our human ancestors. The Leakey family and fellow paleoanthropologists, discovered human fossils dating back two million years. The forest, swamp, and grasslands are home to monkeys, baboon, jackals, spotted hyena, bull elephants, hippo, and dark maned lions.
Tarangire National Park: Hosts one of the largest populations of elephants in its vast savannah dotted with giant iconic baobab trees. During dry season, herds of zebra, wildebeest, and their predators (lions, cheetahs, leopards) make their way to this area because of its large river, an important water source.
Arusha National Park: Home to Mount Meru, the second highest peak in Tanzania, a walking safari through the wide open plains will get you up close with giraffes, zebras and Cape buffalo.
Serengeti National Park: A World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Africa, this park lives up to its ancient Maasai name which means “endless open plains.” The sweeping savannah grasses turn golden in the dry season, then green and dotted with wildflowers in the rainy season. The Serengeti welcomes the constant grazing of large herbivores. Annually, over 1.1 million wildebeest joined by herds of zebra and Thomson’s gazelle, traverse over 800 kilometers. They graze in the southeastern portion and then make their way towards the north in search of more verdant lands. The Serengeti, along with the South Kenyan Mara ecosystem across the border, is where the wildebeest can be viewed by land, chartered plane, or hot air balloon.
Where to stay? Accommodations in Tanzania include luxury tented lodges, tree houses, small inns, and hotels. Some accommodations are outfitted with private plunge pools and outdoor terraces with panoramic views. As a travel agent, I can help you pick the perfect accommodations for you and family.
Elewana The Manor at NgorongoroNeptune Luxury Lodge NgorongoroNeptune Luxury Lodge
It’s never TOO early to plan your next adventure. Email me: mollie@herrickstravel.com and find out about upgrades, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel customers. Looking for the best of the best Safari experience? Let me help you plan your trip with Micato Safaris, one of the world’s top outfitters, delivering unparalleled service.
Become a SUBSCRIBER and receive all my latest articles right to your inbox: look for the “subscribe to this blog by email” box and then respond to the follow-up email. For more information on my trip planning services, please click HERE.
A Kenya Safari requires much advance planning, but with the help of a travel agent, the process becomes stress free. As a travel specialist, it’s my job to create a seamless experience from take off to safe return home. My recent article on Safari Planning Basics will help you jump start your itinerary and take this from dream trip to reality. After an overnight stay inNairobi, hop a bush plane to Maasai Mara for excellent game tracking, and then on to Mount Kenya for a little rest and relaxation. Next stop, a stay in The Laikipia Reserve — the perfect addition to your safari experience.
Known for its untamed beauty, The Laikipia Reserve was formed when the ranches of the Colonial era were converted from farming to wildlife. Possessing one of the largest elephant populations in East Africa, it is one of the last strongholds of the endangered black rhino. The plateau has reverted back to its wilderness roots, with a wildlife refuge supporting huge numbers of game including lion, cheetah, leopard, wild dog, impalas, gazelle, and reticulated giraffe.
After arriving by bush plane, we visited the Loisaba Conservation Center, a 56,000-acre wildlife conservancy located within Laikipia. As poachers continue to kill thousands of elephants and giraffes throughout Africa, organizations are banding together to develop strategies to stop the illegal killing of these threatened species. Education is one of these key strategies. The organization aims to become the hub for conservation education in Laikipia for the local community, tourists, and students. The center’s ultimate goal is “to help inform visitors about community-based conservation and how this model, with their support, will help preserve the area’s habitat and the endangered animals that live here.” Through their work, they show how conservation benefits both wildlife and the community.
Located within the reserve, Elewana Loisaba Lodo Springs offers the ultra-private lodge experience with eight private, spacious tented rooms each with impressive views over the valley below. With floor to ceiling windows, wide plank wood floors, oversized bathrooms, expansive decks, and minimalist but sophisticated Africana furnishings, they have more in common with boutique accommodations than their canvas namesake. (Click on this video below for a tour of my accommodations.)
Our days were filled with long morning treks and drives across the savannah as we searched out rhino, dik-dik, eland hartebeest, warthog, and Cape buffalo. The resort arranged breakfast served in the bush, and also offers horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and nighttime game drives.
For something REALLY unusual, stay a night or two at the Elewana Loisaba Star Beds. Poised on a rocky outcropping, this lodge features individual thatched roof accommodations with four-poster wooden beds that sit on raised wooden platforms. At night, the beds are slowly rolled out to the outdoor deck for guests to enjoy the most memorable sleep under an endless African sky. The Star Beds are rustic in design and are meant to harmonize with the natural rocky landscape.
It’s never TOO early to plan your next adventure. Email me: mollie@herrickstravel.com, for assistance and find out about upgrades, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel American Express/Altour customers regardless of credit card membership. Looking for the best of the best Safari experience? Let me help you plan your trip with Micato Safaris, one of the world’s top outfitters, delivering unparalleled service.
Become a SUBSCRIBER and receive all my latest articles right to your inbox: look for the “subscribe to this blog by email” box and then respond to the follow-up email. For more information on my trip planning services, for assistance with Amex “Pay with Points” and Amex Fine Hotels & Resort Hotels, please click HERE.
Traveling with kids can take some planning and more so for the single parent, especially during these constantly changing times. With no one to share the load, single parent travel may cause some trepidation. Although most of our family travel was enjoyed together (myself, my husband and our two sons), there were plenty of times, due to work schedules, I ventured abroad alone with my two boys. When my older son went off to college, my younger son even tagged along on some “blended” business/leisure (bleisure!) trips to London and Spain.
There is no reason for any parent to feel overwhelmed – some simple advance planning can help eliminate unnecessary stress and lead to a very memorable vacation whether you are traveling stateside or out of the country:
Use a Travel Agent: That’s me! A travel expert will help you to put all the pieces together in advance and forecast the pitfalls, so you are not caught off guard. Of course, there are always unforeseen events that happen during travel (weather, flight delays, illness), but why not try to control the things you can control?
Survey your documents: Besides checking passports for ample expiration dates, check if you need travel consent from a co-guardian. These are all things that should be worked out well in advance of your trip. If you’re traveling to Canada, for example, you must have your child’s passport, birth certificate, and a letter of authorization from any co-parents. Your vacation plans may abruptly end at the airline check in desk if documents are not in order.
Testing and vaccine requirements: Vaccination status and negative COVID testing will be the key to entry to many countries, cities, tourist sites, and restaurants. In pre-COVID times, vaccine requirements have always been on the books for many destinations, for example Yellow Fever vaccinations. As a Travel Agent, I provide clients with resources to verify requirements for vaccination, testing, and health declarations.
Purchase travel insurance: “Hope for the best, plan for the worst,” and that includes trip delays, cancellation, or illness before or during traveling which can be covered by travel insurance. My kids have visited doctors (for thankfully mostly minor issues) in many corners of the world, including a trip to the ER in Australia for some stitches, so having travel insurance is definitely a necessity. Now, many countries require travelers to purchase specific policies in advance of travel that cover COVID related issues.
Include the kids: Everyone has an opinion, even the little ones. The more invested they are in the trip, the less likely they will complain. Help kids prepare for travel by engaging them in a little research. Planning a beach vacation with snorkeling? Purchase a waterproof Fish Identification Card to study local sea life prior to the excursion. Heading on a hike? Download a trail map to pick out trails that match your family’s experience level. Sightseeing? I always scoped out museum websites in advance to seek out exhibits that would appeal to my boys. They loved archaeology and Egyptology, so when visiting London’s British Museum, we went straight to the Rosetta Stone to catch a glimpse before the crowds converged.
Consider dietary needs: Are the kids on special diets, are there allergies to consider? Check out menus and make reservations in advance – OpenTable is a great resource. Including healthy eating habits while traveling is something that can easily be embraced. Read my article on how to Eat Healthy on Vacation for plenty of tips.
Move more: My recent article on how to Stay in Shape on Vacation includes suggestions on how to keep kids active. Walks, hikes, biking – there are many ways to tire them out. Besides National Parks or UNESCO sites, there are also State or County Parks to explore and those will most likely be less crowded and smaller scale which is perfect for younger travelers.
Get up early: Starting early is always the best way to avoid crowds no matter where you go. If you are traveling west to an earlier time zone, your body clock will still be on your local time so take advantage of early rising. Traveling to a hot weather destination? Mornings are usually cooler which is a great time for strenuous activities.
Fight jet lag: Flying across several time zones is never easy but try not to take the easy way out by crashing at the hotel as soon as you arrive. For an overnight or red-eye flight, I book hotel rooms for my clients for the night before so they can access their room first thing in the morning. Take a quick shower, leave your luggage and head out for some easy afternoon walking, exploring, or beach time. Enjoy an early dinner, and try to get to bed close to normal turn-in time. Jet lag will slowly dissipate each day.
The power of pools: We have taken our kids around the world and one thing we always tried to look for, especially during a city trip, is a hotel with a pool. After a full day of sightseeing, there is nothing better to cool even the crankiest of travelers than an afternoon swim.
Include some down time: On vacation, don’t expect family members to spend every waking moment together. Everyone can use a good afternoon nap no matter his or her age. Schedule some quiet/alone time – adults included!
Keep it fun! As you think about making your future travel plans, even sightseeing focused trips can include some unique activities no matter your destination. In London hop in a Mini Cooper tour, in Paris indulge in a chocolate making class, in Madrid take a tapas tour, and in Portugal, you can even take surfing lessons.
Mix it up: This idea comes from my client, Kenneth Traficante, a certified Financial Planner with Equitable Advisors, New York City. I recently planned a vacation for him and his two teen daughters to Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Sedona, Scottsdale, and Phoenix. Ken wanted to introduce his girls to the juxtaposition of two contrasting experiences: the exciting and over-the-top man-made city of Las Vegas verses the grandeur and natural beauty of the Grand Canyon. “Opposite experiences” keep vacations interesting – consider ways to enjoy both city pursuits and more nature focused activities. Ken’s itinerary included Cirque du Soleil shows, Grand Canyon hiking and star gazing, and a Sedona Pink JEEP tour. He loved that it gave his girls an appreciation and an understanding of the diverse world we live in – a perspective we could all use a little of right now!
It’s never TOO early to plan your next adventure. Email me: mollie@herrickstravel.com, for assistance and find out about upgrades, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel customers.
Become a SUBSCRIBER and receive all my latest articles right to your inbox: look for the “subscribe to this blog by email” box and then respond to the follow-up email. For more information on my trip planning services, for assistance with Amex “Pay with Points” and Amex Fine Hotels & Resort Hotels, please click HERE
My previous articles on Kenya traced my Micato Safari adventure which began with a layover in Nairobi followed by a bush plane transfer to Maasai Mara. Next on the itinerary – a bush plane flight northeast to Nanyuki in central Kenya. Known as the gateway to three-million-year-old, Mount Kenya, and the wilderness of Mount Kenya National Park, Nanyuki is also home to the famous Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club — Winston Churchill and Ernest Hemingway stayed here.
With magnificent views of Mount Kenya, the Fairmont offers 110 luxuriously appointed rooms set in over 100 acres of landscaped gardens. This more traditional, and historical inspired property is a nice compliment to the more rustic/luxury tented camps or boutique lodge experiences found in other parts of the country. The Safari Club, with its central low rise main building, is ringed by individual quaint cottages that offer more privacy. There are a variety of dining options including private al fresco dining experiences; open-kitchen restaurant, Colobus; or cozy wood paneled bar, Zebar. A wide range of services and amenities are offered from rigorous to relaxing – golf, trout fishing, spa, horseback riding, and mountain ascents, which can be combined with visits to local game reserves to continue that Kenya safari experience.
Nestled in the lush foothills of Mount Kenya, Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club is uniquely located right on the Equator, stretching into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. We were welcomed on property with an Equator Ceremony, accompanied by local Kikuyu songs and dance (and an equatorial demonstration that proves water does indeed run down the drain clockwise in the Northern side, and counterclockwise on the Southern side).
Plan to stay a few days at the Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club because there are plenty of excursions within a short driving distance to keep you busy. Safaris can be exhausting with early morning game drives and bush flights therefore you might want to also put a visit to the pool or the spa on your itinerary if you need a little down time or pampering.
Here are a few other day trips and experiences to enjoy in the Mount Kenya area:
Animal Orphanage: Visit the animal orphanage, just a short walk from the hotel, for an opportunity to learn more about endangered wildlife including the Mountain Bongo, one of the largest forest antelopes known for its striking reddish-brown coat, distinctive white and yellow stripe markings, and spiraling antlers. The orphanage, located within the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, is also home to injured, neglected, abused, or frightened wild animals that are tended to with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. Rare white zebras are safe from extinction due to the orphanage’s active breeding and release program. Motivating local youth to become future conservationists is another goal of the organization, hosting over 10,000 students annually giving them one to one contact with wildlife. A stroll through the orphanage will put you up close and personal with a variety of species roaming free including friendly warthogs, tortoises, and llamas.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy: A safari drive through this 90,000-acre ranch will give you the chance to gaze upon the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, and two of the world’s last remaining northern white rhino. The conservancy’s goal is to ensure the protection of existing rhino, elephant, and other wildlife that call this landscape home. And, it is the only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees. The Ol Pejeta Conservancy also supports the people living around its borders to ensure that wildlife conservation translates to better education, healthcare, and infrastructure for the next generation of wildlife guardians.
Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary: This sanctuary was established as an agreement between the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the Kenya Wildlife Service, and the Jane Goodall Institute to provide lifelong refuge to orphaned and abused chimpanzees from Western and Central Africa. Many were confiscated from cramped and unnatural living conditions and arrive with injuries sustained from abuse at the hands of humans. Some arrive with broken bones or bullet wounds and others are psychologically traumatized after witnessing the slaughter of their family members. At Sweetwaters, they are nursed back to health and coached to relearn the many skills necessary to survive in the wild like hunting, eating leaves off a tree, or building a sleeping nest. Some must learn to shed human behaviors such as walking upright. During your visit you will have the chance to watch the chimps as they explore, climb, socialize, and learn to be chimpanzees all over again.
I can’t forget to mention these adorable “domesticated” animals which call the Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club their home. Tusker and Grammy, Canine Ambassadors, who come from a local guide dog association, don’t actually live at the hotel day and night. They are cared for by a staff member who brings them home in the evening and handles all their vet care. These precious pups take their role of welcoming guests very seriously and are available for a leisurely walk around the property.
It’s never TOO early to plan your African Safari Adventure. Email me: mollie@herrickstravel.com, for assistance planning a Kenya Safari itinerary and find out about upgrades, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel customers.
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My recent article, “Ten Ways to Stay in Shape on Vacation,” helped you kickstart and maintain your fitness journey while away. Incorporating an active lifestyle into any vacation can lead to unique ways to really explore a new destination. Another key ingredient of memorable travel experiences is savoring local cuisine. Whether it’s diving into homemade pasta and olive oil in Tuscany or indulging in hot chocolate and crispy churros in Madrid, you want to delight in the diverse local cuisine while abroad without sacrificing all those healthy habits you may have curated during your recent downtime. Enjoying a vacation with healthy goals intact should not be unobtainable.
This week, I am pleased to introduce guest blogger, Wendy Bonilla, an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. Founder of “Well Balanced with Wendy,” she empowers her clients to create a healthier relationship to food through one-on-one coaching. Here are Wendy’s “Seven Ways to Eat Healthy on Vacation”:
Scope out options ahead of time: The great thing about travel today is that internet access is readily available, therefore there’s plenty of access to restaurant menus right from your phone. Before heading out to dine, check out what’s offered and decide what to order in advance. It’s much easier to be less tempted and stick to those healthy choices if a decision is made beforehand. Do some research BEFORE the trip to scope out restaurants, cafes, and food tours that have more healthy options on the menu.
Eat a nutritious breakfast: Breakfast doesn’t have to be early in the morning, but make sure to have a meal before embarking on your day. Studies find that people that wait TOO long to eat end up feeling hungrier than people who start the day with a healthy, filling breakfast. Make sure breakfast includes plenty of healthy fats and proteins. Pancakes are delicious, but they are filled with sugar and will leave you feeling hungrier sooner. A nutritious breakfast will supply the sustainable energy needed to take on the day’s activities.
Watch portion size and eat what you want: Sampling local cuisine is a big part of getting the full experience out of your time away, so don’t deprive yourself! One way to enjoy without guilt or missing out is to eat smaller portions. When eating buffet-style, be mindful of how much food you put on your plate. Take less than what you think you want to avoid overeating. If the food is served to you, check in with how hungry you are after a few bites – most likely, you’ll find you aren’t hungry anymore and you will not need to go back for seconds.
Eat mindfully: Take time with each bite. (People who eat slowly tend to eat less). Enjoy the local fare and slow down and focus on all the flavors, ingredients, and textures for the most fulfilling experience.
Eat more vegetables with every meal: Try to make vegetables at least half of what is eaten at each meal. This trick works especially well at buffets, where there are often WAY too many options. Choose a couple tasty-looking veggie sides, and already, you’ve filled most of your plate.
Pack healthy snacks: Packing snacks in advance can be key to curbing cravings while traveling. Staving off a sudden surge of hunger can lead to healthier food choices throughout the day preventing a frantic binge on less nutritious foods. Some good options to bring along are fruit, trail mixes, and protein bars – pack some individual snack packets in your carry on, or you might even be able to grab a few portable items from the breakfast buffet at your hotel or cruise ship. [This tip is especially helpful if you are traveling with children – of all ages!]
Stay hydrated: Our bodies sometimes confuse thirst for hunger, so it’s important to stay mindful of water intake. Carry a refillable water bottle and take a few sips every thirty minutes. Feeling a burst of hunger? Drink at least eight ounces of water, then check in with your body to see if the hunger has subsided.
Looking to continue on the road to healthy eating? Wendy Bonilla can support you in taking control of your food cravings and emotional eating habits, so you can feel confident in your body and show up more radiant in ALL areas of your life. For more information, connect with Wendy on Instagram or Facebook.
It’s never TOO early to plan your next adventure. Email me: mollie@herrickstravel.com, and find out about upgrades, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks customers.
Become a SUBSCRIBER and receive all my latest articles right to your inbox: look for the “subscribe to this blog by email” box and then respond to the follow-up email. For more information on my trip planning services, please click HERE
Rolling grasslands, graceful acacia trees, sweeping vistas teeming with wildlife, drifting clouds, and sun filled skies. Welcome to Kenya. Home to the some of the richest landscapes and animal life.
Kenya’s most treasured natural resource is the Serengeti Maasai Mara ecosystem – its two names reflect the two countries that share this landscape: Tanzania and Kenya. In the area’s Kenyan north, the landscape varies with winding rivers and greener tint, and is less savannah-like than in the Tanzanian south. The Big Five (lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, rhino, and elephant) inhabit this region along with 500 bird species and a few dozen other mammal species including a half million gazelles, 1.3 million wildebeest, and 200,000 zebras whose famous migration crosses the border between the two countries year after year.
No matter what month you travel in, there is plenty of wildlife to experience in Kenya. Bucket list trips require advance planning, so starting several months out will enable you to select the accommodations and itinerary that matches your specific requirements. Need a general introduction to kick start your safari planning? Check out my recent article, Safari Planning Basics. Most Kenya safari itineraries include bush plane flights between several of the country’s regions including Maasai Mara, Mount Kenya, and the Laikipia plateau. Kenya boasts a variety of accommodations ranging from standard hotel-style to the most lux, boutique-style tented experiences.
My recent trip began with a two-night stay in Nairobi. (Click here, to view my article on Planning a Layover in Nairobi). After our city experience, we shuttled to the local airport and boarded a bush plane for an hour flight to Maasai Mara. Upon landing, we were warmly greeted by Maasai villagers with song, dance, and refreshments before climbing into our safari vehicle to head to the lodge. (The Maasai are a semi-nomadic, indigenous tribe whose ancestral territory stretches across Kenya and northern Tanzania). The safari experience started immediately — we stopped along the way to view the wildlife and enjoy a quick walkabout.
Our home for three nights was the Fairmont Mara Safari Club, a beautiful lodge surrounded on three sides by the Mara River. The main lodge area features indoor and outdoor spaces to lounge or dine including an expansive curved wood deck that winds along the riverbank and offers excellent views to the river below.
The lodge’s bedroom tents, generously spaced throughout the lush property, are set up high along the riverbank and offer a bird’s eye view of the hippo families as they lounge along the riverbank, their ears and eyes just visible above the waterline. Each tent is outfitted with a four-poster pillow top bed, private en-suite bathroom, and outdoor verandah. The décor and furnishings reflect the local community incorporating the patterns and rich reds of the Maasai textiles. Although the sides and ceiling of the tented structure are made from canvas, once you pass through the zippered entrance, the lodging more closely resembles the personality and warmth of a finely appointed boutique-hotel suite.
Days start early on safari with continental breakfast brought to your private verandah (look for my video of a tour of the accommodations at the end of this article). Most mornings, I drank my hot coffee under the watchful eyes of visiting silvery-gray vervet monkeys eyeing my plate of biscuits. After a quick walk down the paths to the lodge entrance, we climbed into our safari vehicle stowing our day packs filled with cameras, batteries, phone chargers, and sunglasses. The safari vehicle with its pop-up top and zip-down windows, was outfitted with binoculars, charging stations, wool blankets, and a cooler filled with beverages. Not sure what to bring on your safari? Check out my article, Safari Packing Tips.
Our mornings were spent on long meandering drives across the savannah led by our experienced guide and ambassador. Kenya guides are experts in botany, ornithology, geology, wildlife tracking, and identification. Our guide would radio other guides to share logistics on interesting sightings: a mama couger playing with her cubs, a lion relaxing in the shade of an acacia tree with her young brood, vultures circling a recent kill, or wildebeest and zebra drinking together from a watering hole.
Mid-morning, a full breakfast was served on a grassy plain, under an acacia tree complete with table linens, hot coffee, and a mix of culinary delights. (Plus, a port-o-potty with a view!) With our bellies full, we continued our trek to farther savannahs and then returned to the lodge midday, for a leisurely al fresco lunch.
In the late afternoon, we set out for our next game drive. Every day on safari is unique – there is always something new to see and experience. One day, our guide pulled over to the side of the path and instructed us to quietly tip toe through the brush. Not knowing what to expect, we were mesmerized to come upon a closely guarded rhino kept company by an around-the-clock armed guard to protect against poachers. So sad that these beautiful creatures are so endangered, but happy to know there are local organizations protecting them.
One day, we visited a Maasai village and met the residents and the village elder who gave us a personal tour of his mud home and showed us how to create fire with just sticks. We wandered through their outdoor marketplace and purchased locally made crafts including wooden sculptures, intricate beaded bowls, and richly colored woven blankets. (Look for my video of the Maasai village at the end of this article).
Afternoon game drives slowly stretch out into the early evening and end with partaking in MY most favorite end of safari ritual, “Sundowners,” which is an African happy hour. What’s required? Just sitting by the glowing campfire, cocktail in hand, watching the sun slip below the horizon, and dreaming of the next adventure.
Video of Maasai Village visit
Video of Fairmont Mara Safari Club Accommodations
Ready to plan your Kenya safari? It’s never TOO early to plan. Email me: mollie@herrickstravel.com, and find out about upgrades, special amenities, and VIP service for all Herricks Travel customers. I am happy to help you book your next safari adventure.
Become a SUBSCRIBER and receive all my latest articles right to your inbox: look for the “subscribe to this blog by email” box and then respond to the follow-up email. For more information on my trip planning services, please click HERE
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