BY Tshegofatso Seemela
Filled with pulsating energy, unique experiences and mysteries, Africa showed its enchanting side to professional traveller and journalist, Lerato Mogoatlhe, who set out to discover her vast lands. She simply defines her journey across over 20 African countries as an ‘ever-changing and vibrant continent and an awe-inspiring location to visit’. Her experience resulted in a critically acclaimed memoir, Vagabond: wandering through Africa on faith.
To her, experiencing Africa was not only about exploration but also a chance for self-discovery. Affectionately known as Madam Afrika, she wanted to be acquainted with her roots that sprawl across her native continent. Yet, it is the people who stood out. The rich experiences she shared with locals in the different countries she visited left a lasting imprint of their affection and hospitality towards travellers.
While stereotypes about the continent are abound, Lerato opted for self-discovery and advocates for arriving at a destination with an open mind and zero expectations. This approach led her to fulfilling travel experiences.
“When we travel, we may unwittingly bring these preconceived notions with us.” She explains that she is molded and influenced by the journey itself, rather than relying on presumptions.
Following her extensive travels, each destination has left a unique impact and charm on her life. However, Mali reserved a special spot in her heart owing to the experiences she shared with the locals and their affection as well as authentic hospitality shared with travellers.
You can establish a connection with a country by indulging in its cuisine, which conveys emotions without using many words, she explains. While exploring Africa, Lerato had the opportunity to broaden her taste buds with lots of diverse dishes from different regions. One of her favourite meals is the national dish of Senegal called Thieboudienne, a delectable blend of fish and rice.
Unfortunately, freedom of movement can be challenging as one crosses Africa’s borders owing to the different regulations countries have in place. Certain countries may limit your movements or require specific visas that often need to be purchased with dollars. ”Having the same freedom of movement as people from some Western countries who are not limited in their ability to travel to various parts of the African continent, would have been the most convenient to me” she says.
However, this should not intimidate you from discovering Africa, she warns. Instead, she has shares tips on how to make your African discovery a reality and ensure that it is as smooth as possible as you plan and start your African journey.
- To embark on expeditions and explore new avenues, it is important to save consistently. Make a conscious effort to set aside any unused money as well as a portion of any additional earnings.
- Explore options for accommodations through platforms such as couch surfing. If you happen to be a woman, seek out groups for female travellers, one of which can be found on social media networks. I relish the opportunity of being hosted as it not only allows me to cut down on accommodation expenses but also provides an authentic experience of local living.
- Allow things to unfold naturally. Some of the most extraordinary moments of my travels occur when I abandon my agenda and allow myself to live in the present. Through connecting with people, one can come to discover things beyond the information available on platforms like Google, Instagram, TikTok, etc.
- Gather information by seeking the opinions of others. Solicit recommendations from locals on must-see places, activities, and cuisine that they deem essential for any tourist to partake in, and make a point of trying them out.
