Life is the Cake

It was a mixed bag of emotions as I watched with rapt attention as a popular "YouTuber" from West Africa regaled us with stories of his experience travelling from his home country and traversing multiple countries in Western Europe over a 24-hour span. The best part, he accomplished all this with the stamp of one visa.

Why a mixed bag, you may ask? His story highlights the missed opportunities for a continent of 54 countries and a population of over 1.4 million people (2023) and at the same time also speaks to the fascinating possibilities that the continent could benefit from a borderless Africa .

If you are already there, why not go all the way? 🛫

Picture this, tourist access to the African continent for her sons and daughters 🌍 where travel is open such that you can easily reach your 30 countries by 30 goal or 12 African countries bucket list in 12 months goal list by batch travelling.

Right there is the gift and beauty of borderless travel.

For individuals whose passports allow for visa-free access, batch travelling is a luxury they can testify about. Otherwise, this can quickly turn into an overwhelming and sometimes cumbersome exercise in strategizing how to apply for and receive multiple visas for an epic regional travel itinerary.

For a moment imagine what borderless travel on the continent would look like - Pick four to six countries and with a mapped out itinerary to help you make the most of your days off.  A trip to Southern Africa can start in Malawi, lead to Zimbabwe, flow to Botswana, transfer to Namibia, and conclude in South Africa. 

“Life is a cake and Travel is the icing on top of it"

Would this kind of batching be helpful? Most certainly 👇

When you hear of the region's history, you will get to see how it is translated in different countries and how indigenous groups continue to make a distinct mark in their countries. 

Regions tend to have similar weather patterns during a season, so your summer outfits can translate and your winter ensembles will not be in vain no matter where you go.  

As far as transportation options, countries within a region have the opportunity to offer frequent and direct travel. Whether you choose to fly or drive, there would be no shortage of access to neighboring countries. 

An open mind is key when it comes to travel and being easily adaptable because as much as there may be similarities there may also be differences such as:

✍️ Language can vary widely on a count of history and cultural evolution. Keep your ears perked and remain respectful. 

✍️ Time zones might shift slightly, depending on what end of the continent you are in. Plan to lose or gain time accordingly. 

✍️ One ingredient different takes, so prepare to be wowed by how differently one ingredient can transform from its raw state to your place. Vegetation that thrives in one area often does not translate to the same flavor profiles. Prepare to savor the goodness of it all. Prepare for your body to treat this new intake how it sees fit. 

Few of us have unlimited days off, travel miles, and the stamina for long flights. So if you are in the region, why not make the most of it?