Updates from Luxika Africa

Top 10 Safari activities you must experience

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 11:45:01 GMT

1. Minibuses

In Africa, game drives are used for game viewing. Closed or open 4 by 4 vehicles are used. Closed vehicles have hatches and normal windows while the open ones have shades. Minibuses are not used for game-viewing but are used in the afternoons and mornings while the animals are inactive.

2. Walking Safaris

Walking is common in Africa. You can, therefore, have a nice bush experience, unlike a game drive. Walking awakens your senses now that no engine sound draws your attention. Therefore, you can hear, see, and smell things that you could have missed if on a vehicle. You also exercise more when trekking mountains or on normal walking safaris.

3.Riding Safaris

Camels, elephants, and horse-riding safaris are only limited in certain countries in Africa like South Africa, Kenya, and Botswana. These countries also provide different options that can suit your bush exploration experiences. Different camps have stables rendering riding safari options, therefore, making your exploration flexible.

4. Species Interests

Africa is greatly endowed with wildlife viewing with the main species being; white and black rhino, elephant, gorilla, big cats, wild dog, and chimpanzee. You can also focus on the birds and mammal species because they can capture your passion. However, not all species can be guaranteed in different safari destinations because they are rare.

5. Cultural Experiences

Africa’s enriched culture is diverse and famous for its colorful people, wildlife, and other holiday sites. The people can render some exciting memories. Whether traveling to the beaches or national parks, you will meet the locals and learn a lot about their daily lives. The local communities also have distinct ways of doing things and interacting with them will be more interesting.

6. Water-Based Safaris

Africa has many great lakes, lagoons, and rivers that support canoes, wildlife, and boats. These water sources attract tourists over the holidays who come to enjoy the fantastic species viewing. Therefore, you can view crocodiles, hippos, water birds, and otters. Others living on land like elephants, antelopes, buffalos among others depend on these water sources to quench their thirst.

7. Africa’s Air View

Game-viewing only happens on the ground, but the aerial positions can demonstrate the exquisite African scenery. You can enjoy perfect views of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia, the Namib Desert, and other famous local landscapes.

8. Watersports

East and South African countries like South Africa, Madagascar, Tanzania, Mauritius, Kenya among others offer the best snorkeling and diving opportunities. The coat is tidal, therefore, promoting the best watersports and fishing activities.

9. Adventure Activities

South Africa renders the best outdoor adrenalin sports like paragliding, tubing, abseiling, rock-climbing, white-water rafting, and bungee jumping. Victoria Falls and Livingstone are Africa’s most adventurous capitals

10. Mountain Climbing

Africa has some of the highest mountains in the world including; Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Mt. Kenya in Kenya are the greatest tourist attraction sites you can visit and explore. Reaching the peaks should be your target, and the experience will be memorable.

Enjoying The Mysteries of Djibouti

Sat, 06 Aug 2022 12:45:00 GMT

Some people may wonder what activity they can experience in this small country on the horn of Africa. The answer is simple: there are plenty of things to do and see when travelling to this city. What’s more interesting is that the country has its own way of doing things and has many mysterious places as well. One of the most popular destinations in Djibouti would be Lake Assal and Goubet, two great places to visit with friends or family and enjoy the wonders of the country.

Where is it located?

Djibouti is a small country on the Horn of Africa east of Ethiopia and directly north of Somalia. At nearly 30 degrees Celsius throughout most months of the year, the country is great for those looking for a little more sunshine during their trip. Most people don’t know where it is, but there are some very interesting places to visit.

Visiting Lake Assal

Lake Assal is definitely one to see; it has salt water and fresh water mixed together. This lake was formed by a meteorite hitting Earth millions of years ago; locals call it “The Doorway to Hell.” It is a crater lake that sits at an elevation of about 4,200 feet. It’s located near a volcanic field known as Erta Ale. That’s important to note because Erta Ale has erupted over 20 times in recorded history, and it’s expected to erupt again soon. Lake Assal will be temporarily filled with lava from all that hot magma when that happens. It only takes one eruption for Lake Assal to appear like a series of craters on earth. If you love luxury travel this activity is a must-do when you visit this country.

Visiting Dolphin Excursions

Dolphin excursions are a great way to experience some of Djibouti’s natural beauty as part of a luxury travel itinerary. During these half-day cruises, you will be able to see dolphins and enjoy both snorkeling and swimming opportunities in freshwater springs. Be sure to come prepared for an adventure since boat rides can be quite bumpy in order to avoid other boats on open water.

Visiting Goubbet al-Kharab

You can also visit Goubet, which is famous for its forest grottoes that you can explore on your own or take a tour group. In Arabic, Goubbet al-Kharab translates to "the Gulf of the Demons" and is comprised of black basaltic lava fields. It takes a day trip by private vehicle or public bus to reach Goubbet al-Kharab from the city. From here, you can hike along dark volcanic rocks into Goubbet al-Kharab, which sits at an elevation above 3000 feet.

However, before venturing out onto these lava fields, visitors should consider hiring a guide as it is easy to get lost among black stones that don’t contain any footpaths or landmarks.

Rediscover Cameroon's Pygmies Culture

Sat, 09 Jul 2022 12:45:00 GMT

If you plan on taking a trip to Cameroon, then you’re in for a treat. It is at the crossroad of art and African culture and is home to more than two hundred ethnic communities, all of whom contribute to the country's rich creative and cultural history. Common examples include Bantu, Sudanese, Arab-Berber, and others who make up this astonishing explosion of people, each bringing its own culture, art, and music to the table.

The wooded territories of Middle and West Africa, which border the Atlantic Ocean, are home to Pygmies, the world's smallest people. Despite thousands of years, they continue to garner global interest due to the primitive lifestyle they have maintained from the "first age." They are believed to have inhabited the area for roughly 5,000 years and have been identified as one of Africa's first occupants.

Today, it is estimated that there are around 120,000 Pygmies on the globe. Most of them dwell in a forested region in Cameroon, near the Atlantic Ocean.

The Pygmy population is classified into two groups: Baka and Bage. The Baka dwell in undiscovered portions of the forest, hidden from public view, whereas the Bage coexist alongside the Bantu people, who live adjacent to forestlands. The Bage, however, are more interested in stable life.

Learning about the Pygmy way of life is possible since they are not hostile and are welcoming. So if you do plan on taking a trip to Cameroon for a vacation, Luxika can help you create an unforgettable experience by the Ocean Forest where you’ll learn more of the Pygmy.

A Life-Changing Experience: Rwanda Gorillas

Sun, 22 May 2022 01:11:35 GMT

Rwanda, also known as the land of a thousand hills, is known for its breathtaking scenery and is blessed with incredible wildlife living through its montane rainforest and volcanoes. It is home to the largest living primate, the gorilla. This incredible country receives visitors from all over the world who come to see these beautiful creatures.

Gorillas are spread across Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda and are subdivided into two species mainly, mountain and lowland gorillas. Seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an incredible lifetime experience. After a face-to-face encounter with these primates, many visitors describe the adventure as a life-changing travel experience.

Volcanoes National park is the best place to visit during your luxury vacation to have an encounter with mountain gorillas. It is located in Musanze province and is approximately 2 hours drive from Kigali, Rwanda's capital city.

The journey up the mountain is quite an adventure. Before hiking, you are divided into tour groups and allocated a gorilla family. Volcanoes National Park has well-trained and experienced rangers who guide the trek, making navigating through the rainforest and locating the gorillas easy. The park rangers and guides will often clear the walking trails engulfed with undergrowth, making it impossible to walk.

The trek up the mountain takes about 2-4 hours and can be pretty overwhelming for a physically unfit person. Besides that, the walking trails are muddy and slippery during the dry and rainy seasons. In addition, you can opt to hire a local porter to assist in carrying your bag; the cost range is 10$-20$. Hiring a porter allows you to navigate the rugged terrain easily.

Eventually, after the long walk, you will have the opportunity to see the gorilla families. You are allowed to watch the gorilla for an hour from a distance (5m away), but there is no one-on-one interaction with the gorillas as they can unexpectedly go wild. Watching the gorillas go about their activities such as feeding, fighting, and playing is spectacular. Visitors are advised to avoid being noisy when watching the gorillas as it may disrupt their activities. The one-hour duration spent watching the mountain gorilla family passes by so fast that some visitors opt to take two treks.

Bottom line

Taking a luxury vacation to experience mountain gorilla trekking is exceptional in every way and an adventure you will leave to cherish.

The 5 Wonders Of Africa

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 20:04:04 GMT

Africa is a land still ruled by nature, a land of titans. Here is a selection of five of the gigantic marvels of wild Africa, land of allurement. There are definitely more, but let's start with these ones.

1. The Nile River

The longest river in the world, the Nile runs through ten countries, emptying into the Mediterranean just north of Cairo, bringing fertile soil to its huge delta each year. Cruising along the river is a trip through history as you pass the Pyramids at Giza, the statues of kings at Abu Simbel, Luxor, and the Valley of the Kings, and busy, modern Cairo.

2. The Sahara Desert

As big in area as China, with sand dunes 600 feet high, the landscape of the Sahara may seem never to change. Yet the beauty of the stark rolling dunes and the oasis cities is reflected in the sunsets and shadows, the faces of the people, and the ancient ruins. Covering most of the northern third of the continent, the desert is immense. Ride a camel, tour in a Jeep, or join a group in a comfortable, airconditioned bus. Sleep under stars like you have never seen, soak in a desert spa, watch exotic wildlife at an oasis lake. Make memories.

3. Victoria Falls

The largest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls is 350 feet high and over a mile long. The waters of the Zambesi River rush over and cascade down the rocks. Named by Dr. Livingstone, the British explorer, for Queen Victoria, the falls are truly a wonder of nature.

4. The Ngorongoro Crater

The crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tanzania, was formed 2.5 million years ago when a huge volcano exploded, leaving an even larger caldera. The valley is 2000 feet deep and covers 100 square miles. The valley is the largest intact crater in the world, the valley floor mainly open grassland, home to elephants, lions, leopards, wildebeests, gazelles, zebras, warthogs, and water buffalo, an exotic milieu. The Great Migration passes by, around and around, just outside the crater.

5. Moun t Kilimanjaro

The peak of this dormant volcano in Tanzania tops out at 19,341 feet, making it the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Always snowcapped, it dominates the landscape, soaring above the grasslands. Climbing Kilimanjaro is a major undertaking and somewhat dangerous but is an adventure to remember for a lifetime.

Africa is huge, the second largest continent in the world, a land of wonder. There are so many incredible things to explore. It is definitely worth multiple trips.

Most popular types of Traditional African Jewelry

Sat, 02 Apr 2022 12:45:03 GMT

Types of Traditional African jewelry

There are many different types of traditional African jewelry, and each one has its unique history.

1. Beaded Necklace

One of the most popular types of traditional African jewelry is the beaded necklace. Beadwork has been flourishing for millennia, and African beads are some of the most beautiful in the world.. There are many different colors and styles of beaded necklaces, and both men and women can wear them.

2. Anklet

Another popular type of traditional African jewelry is the anklet. Anklets are often made from metal, wood or beads and worn on the ankle. They can be very decorative, and many people wear them to show their cultural heritage.

3. Head Jewelry

There are many different head jewelry types in traditional African. There are headbands, crowns, and other styles that both men and women can wear.

4. Earring

There is also a variety of earrings that are popular among African people. Some of them have screw backings, while others don't. Some of the more popular types include dangling earrings, a curved post, and oversized hoop earrings.

Materials used in the making of Traditional African Jewelry

The materials used to make traditional African jewelry vary depending on the region. However, some of the most common materials include metal, beads, wood, and feathers.

1. Metal

In many cases, African people make jewelry out of materials they have hunted or found. They often use their hunt's bones and teeth to make bracelets, earrings, and rings. Other examples include shields, animal horns, and leather pieces.

2. Beads

One material that is used in a variety of different ways is beads. Beads can be made from various materials, including glass, metal, and bone. They are often used to make necklaces, bracelets, and anklets.

3. Wood

In some cases, traditional African jewelry is made from wood. For example, many necklaces are carved from a single piece of wood. In other cases, the wood is used to make beads used in jewelry.

4. Feathers

Another popular material for traditional African jewelry is feathers. They can be used to make earrings, necklaces, and headpieces. In some cases, the feathers are dyed different colors, and in others, they are left their natural color.

However, several different types and varieties of African jewelry depend on the area, culture, and people. The most popular across all of Africa are the ones listed above.

Why You Should Consider a São Tomé and Príncipe Tour

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 18:12:01 GMT

Reasons Why You Should Consider a São Tomé and Príncipe Vacation

The island of Sao Tomé and Príncipe is a small, untouched African gem. The country's natural habitats are home to many birdlife and mammals such as elephants, monkeys, and leopards. The islanders' rich culture will also inspire visitors. As well as the capital São Tomé, the islands of Príncipe and Santo Antão, both inhabited and uninhabited, can be enjoyed while on holiday in this African country. Holidays at this place are fun, relaxing, and exciting at the same time.

1. Luxury hotels

There are around 20 luxury hotels on Sao Tomé and Príncipe. These luxurious hotels offer visitors a five-star experience that will give you holidays that are both memorable and relaxing.

2. A su stainable island

Sao Tome is a fully-autonomous country with the president being elected on the island of São Tomé. The country is one of the most eco-friendly in Africa, and its government has committed to preserving its natural environment. It has led to more than half of the land on Sao Tome being declared a nature reserve, and conservation efforts are ongoing.

3. Paradise under the sea

The natural beauty of Sao Tome means that underwater activities are popular with visitors. A trip to Sao Tome can include diving in beautiful coral reefs and snorkeling amongst fish and shellfish on the seafloor.

4. Historic sites

The islands of Sao Tome and Príncipe face the Atlantic Ocean, and humans have inhabited them since prehistoric times. The islands have an ancient history preserved in the remains of hundreds of chapels, mosques, castles, and forts. Visitors can explore these historic sites during a city tour. Luxury travel around the city is also available to visit the capital city, São Tomé.

5. Diverse cultures

Sao Tome and Príncipe is a country of diverse cultures. The island's population comprises mixed ethnicities, many of whom maintain traditional dances and festivals. Visitors will find exciting food and drink in the many bars in Sao Tome.

6. Nature and wildlife

Sao Tome is home to an impressive array of birdlife and mammals. The country's natural habitats are home to more than 500 bird species, including the critically endangered Sao Tome Grosbeak.

Sao Tome and Príncipe offers visitors a taste of the African experience. The country is a diverse environment of natural beauty and preserved cultural heritage.

Top Best Places to Visit in Senegal

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 05:29:32 GMT

Senegal, a country in West Africa, is one of the top five best places in the continent that can be visited in a travel tourism expedition. The nation is home to various people and cultures that make visiting unique and exciting. It has historical sites still standing today, state of the art landmarks and monuments, as well as modern museums where you can learn about African art history or listen to traditional music from its neighbors.

Here are the top best places to visit in your next tourism adventure.

Natural Reserve of Bandia

The Natural Reserve of Bandia is one of Senegal's top best places to visit. The reserve lies adjacent to a National Park in Diourbel. The park encompasses 133 hectares of rich forests and waterfalls surrounded by savannah grassland. The nature reserve is a home for about 3,600 plant species which 12 are threatened with extinction.

The Senegalese Village in Thies

The Senegalese Village in Thies is one of the country's top best places to visit. It is located extremely close to the capital city of Senegal. The town has maintained its old traditional architectural style and has become a tourist attraction for visitors from across the world.

The entry fee to this village is reasonable per person. Local artisan products are also available at reasonable prices, which can be bought and taken home.

The Casamance National Park

The Casamance National Park is one of Senegal's top best places to visit. The park is poorly known among most people in the country because it is a new park. The park was created to protect and conserve animals like antelopes, gorillas, monkeys, elephants, lions, and many more.

Gorée island

Gorée Island is one of the top best places to visit in the country. The tiny landmass located just 5 kilometers off the coast of the mainland has a historical past that dates back to the 16th century when it was used as a trading port for the Europeans and Western Africans.

The island is a tiny island with only about 4 kilometers of land. The island has now been converted into a historical/educational site, and they also have a small beach resort that recently opened.

The Gorée Island Museum allows you to learn all about how Africans were brought to different destinations under horrifying conditions. You can also get a first-hand account of how innocent people were transported throughout the world on ships as enslaved laborers and how the slave trade affected Africa in general.

Plan your next Africa travel journey in 2022 and enjoy the beauty of this country. Enjoy its vast, beautiful sceneries and diverse culture.

Common Misconceptions about Africa

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 20:14:46 GMT

Debunking 8 of the worst beliefs about Africa

When you meet people who have never been to Africa, they sometimes tend to have certain perceptions that portray the continent in a way that is misleading and not factual.

Today we take a look at seven (7) common misconceptions and stereotypes about Africa which have been transmitted through various forms of media for decades and which are not considered to be the true representation of the continent.

Humans and Wild Animals live together

A common misconception is that Africa is a huge forest in which humans and wild animals coexist together. This misconception is that we keep wild animals like lions or leopards, as well as other wild animals as pets, and that it is common to see lions roaming the streets of cities. It is true that Africa is home to many wild animals, but it is not true that they roam the streets. The story of a visiting tourist who shook his head in dismay as he landed at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is often told. Much to the tourist's dismay, he realized that he had landed at an airport located in a town that looked much better than the rural town he came from. According to the middle-aged tourist, all the content he had consumed about Africa, safaris and wildlife in Africa made him believe he would see wild animals roaming the airport as soon as he landed.

All Africans live in Huts

There is a common misconception that all Africans live in huts made of mud and manure. It is true that mud huts are one of the most common forms of housing in some rural areas of the continent, but it is not fair to dismiss the rapidly growing urban centers across the continent. Many African nations are home to cities with high-rise buildings, highways and other forms of urban development. The silhouette of most African cities is nothing more than skyscrapers of magnificent architecture that have become a source of pride for their homelands.

Lack of Technology

One of the most common ways Africans in Africa are sometimes insulted on social media is through punchlines like "I didn't know they had internet in Africa" or "I didn't know Africans used computers ". This stems from the misconception that has been prevalent for decades that the continent is seriously lagging behind when it comes to technological advancement or, worse yet, that there is no technology available on the continent. Although some parts are slightly behind the times, technology is developing rapidly on the continent as a whole. For instance, Africa is the fastest growing region in the field of mobile telephony and all the latest mobile devices and brands are being marketed on the continent. How about that?

All Africans have dark skin

A common stereotype is that all Africans are dark skinned. This is not true. We have different skin pigments and different shades of black for different tribes and different regions of the continent. It is also important to note that there are also immigrants from other continents who came to Africa many generations ago, and their descendants have settled on the continent since then. A good example is South Africa, which is also referred to as the Rainbow Nation because of the diversity it is known to have when it comes to skin color.

Africa is only corruption, poverty and war.

A common stereotype about Africa is that the continent is poverty stricken, full of corruption and always at war. It is a misrepresentation of the continent which is so vast and which presents various political, social and economic differences. The majority of the countries of the continent are peaceful and full of welcoming people. We also saw free and fair elections, with a peaceful handover of power to democratically elected leaders. When it comes to corruption, some African countries have been ranked among the most corruption-free nations in the world by Transparency International.

All African countries depend on International Aid

An economic misconception is that all African countries survive on aid. The continent is rich in natural resources, and each country has its own economic activity that its governments pursue. It is true that a huge amount of aid is sent to different countries on the continent, but it is also important to note that not all countries depend on aid to improve the lives of their citizens. On the contrary, some of Africa's best governed and most developed countries receive little or no foreign aid.

Africa is a desert

Africa is not a vast expanse of desert as many tend to believe. Even though it is home to the Sahara Desert, it covers only a third of the continent. The rest of the continent is made up of tropical forests, fertile land used for agriculture, and bodies of water. The contrasting landscapes are all beautiful in their own way.

All Africans share a homogeneous culture

Can we all jump and dance like Massaï people or run a marathon? The answer is no! It is often mistakenly believed that Africans share the same culture because they are Africans. This is simply not true. In fact, Africa is so rich in diverse cultures that no country on the continent is ruled by the same culture. It is undeniable that there are common cultures like Ubuntu; however, each ethnic group has a unique set of cultural beliefs to which it adheres. This can manifest itself in dress code, piercings, skin marking and food, as well as other tribal traditions.

We show you Africa, the one you don't see or hear about. Click here to know more.

10 African Dishes You Must Absolutely Try

Sat, 28 Aug 2021 09:36:48 GMT

Our Top 10 Most Delicious Dishes from Africa

If there is one thing that makes Africa so charming, it's its delicious, varied and original cuisine. The beautiful continent is full of various culinary specialties from one region to another. For the pleasure of your taste buds, here is our selection of 10 of the dishes we love the most and we recommend you absolutely try.

1. Ndolè

2. Garba

3. Bobotie

4. Maf é

5. Doro Wat

6. Thieb

7. Yassa

8. Soya

9. Okra Stew

10. Poulet D.G

This is only 10 of the dishes we love the most from the African Cuisine. The list is absolutely not complete and goes on and on. Is there a dish that is not mentioned but is part of your favorites? Feel free to let us know and recommend!

How To Regularly Travel With A Full Time Job

Sat, 14 Aug 2021 05:07:34 GMT

Maximize your travel experiences while holding a 9-5

Traveling with a full-time job is not always easy. On one hand, you have to work to earn money for travel, but on the other hand, a full-time job may leave little to no free time for the trips you save for. You might end up feeling stuck in a position where you can't travel as much as you would like. Fortunately, there are ways to include more travel in your daily routine. Put some of these tips into practice and your trip planner will soon be filled with upcoming trips!

1. Leverage your weekends

Weekends are underrated resources for maximizing travel. Starting your trip on a Friday afternoon after work and taking advantage of those extra days days is key! Weekends are useful for extending longer vacations; a one week trip can easily be extended to nine days if the two weekends on each side are included. Don't waste those potential travel days!

2. Never waste a long weekend or a holiday!

Long weekends and holidays can be used to your advantage by incorporating these paid days off into your travel plans. Some holiday periods (Memorial or Labor weekends in the US for instance) usually offer 4-days off or more, and you can use long weekends throughout the year to extend your vacation. In the US, most states have long weekends a year, in addition to other holidays that may or may not fall alongside a weekend. Make sure you're never home for one of them!

3. Spread shorter trips throughout the year

If you want to travel more often, consider taking a few short trips throughout the year instead of one big trip. It might be more satisfying to spread your vacation days to include shorter trips, which means you can use more weekends to maximize your trips and also discover a variety of destinations instead of just visiting one place. This travel style is most effective for adventure lovers who are comfortable travelers already and do not mind venturing outside of their comfort zone for few days only.

4. Plan ahead to make your trips more efficient

Planning a trip can take some time, but anyone who has ever organized a trip abroad knows that this is an important part of a successful trip. People who put effort into planning their trip usually end up paying less and making their trip more efficient. By brainstorming ideas for the most suitable destinations based on the number of vacation days you have available, choosing specific travel goals and breaking those goals down into smaller tasks and setting reminders to make reservations will help you. It will be easier to make the most of the free time provided. Agencies like LUXIKA are dedicated to take the hassle away from you and plan the best trip for you considering your needs and availability.

5.Make traveling your top priority

If there's one thing we recommend to anyone who wants to travel more, it's to make travel the number one priority in your life. Prioritizing travel means saying no to other things that might affect your travel goals, like sacrificing restaurant meals and buying new clothes when you don't really need them. No one ever regrets spending money on travel - trust us on this one!

My Travel to Africa Changed My Life

Sat, 31 Jul 2021 22:57:39 GMT

What I learned in Africa and why you should absolutely travel there!

Traveling to Africa is a must-do experience as it will most definitely give your life a completely new perspective! My dad is French, my mother is Gabonese. Being bi-racial, living in France (4-6 hours away from black Africa) and having many African friends, I always thought I knew what I needed to know already about the continent. My life changing story started when we all had to travel to a cultural event held by my father's company in Cote d'Ivoire (West Africa). I was 19 years old then and i t was the first time in my life that I felt this damp heat settling on my skin. A 1-week trip ended up becoming a 2-year self discovering journey throughout Africa. A journey that changed me for the better and thought me key lessons.

You'll realize that "poverty" is a paradoxical wealth

First contact with people who have so little material goods, but so much generosity to offer. Being confronted to a different standard of social comfort for the first time is difficult. Today, I'm so thankful for this eye opening experience that made me realize how spoiled and ungrateful I was and exposed me to a different truth. I have long since cultivated a great need to understand and see the different realities of the people who live on our planet. In that sense, it was this discovery that sowed the seed of generosity in me.

2. You'll grow out of your comfort zone and what you're used to

I had never seen so many people gathered in small streets. It was a chaotic spectacle at first. But I fell in love with that sense of community and ended up exploring almost the entire continent. I have met people who have incredible wisdom. I thanked life for having met such altruistic people, then I wondered if, in Paris, a family of strangers would have offered me a bed in their house like so many did in Africa, with so little hesitation. This trip made me realize that the structure imposed by our Western society is just an imaginary one, that social conventions are borders created by humans, that there are many ways of looking at life, love, respect, different ways of reading a book, left to right or right to left. In short, different ways of navigating the world.

3. You'll become more aware of moments of life

I discovered the little and simple pleasures in life, like blowing bubbles when washing hands and playing soccer with old milk cans. I emptied my pockets, but I filled my heart. Full of compassion, I oscillated between empathy and sympathy. Being aware of these things suddenly made me responsible. I went from a spoiled young woman who thought she deserved everything from the world to a more humble person who recognizes her place in the universe. Once we know certain things, our whole life is turned upside down, it is even the whole meaning of life that changes.

4. You'll crave more of similar experiences

The return to France was difficult, but I didn't stay for long and I quickly left for a three month trip to Madagascar. I wanted (or needed) more of the colorful houses, fishing villages, and unique cultures. I signed up for a volunteer internship with a local non-profit and I taught french to the locals. Every morning I walked to the main road to the school and those are some of my best memories.

5. You'll become a better person!

Regardless of your destination in Africa, one thing I can assure you is that a trip there, will definitely change you for the better. It was after discovering Africa that I began to make sense of this quest, a meaning to my life. I needed to see more of that world and know its suffering in order to find my place in our society which is so upright and sometimes a little too individualistic for my taste. I needed to hear people's stories, to see realities different from mines, to choose what kind of job I wanted to do in France.

When I think back to my j ourney through Africa , I am instantly happy with all that my eyes have seen, with all that I have learned in those 2+ years , and I am even more eager to travel. I want to go to bed every day having learned something new and being a better person. I am even more convinced that knowledge enables action and learning more about other people is what we'll save humanity.

How To Save For A Luxury Vacation

Sat, 26 Jun 2021 07:34:51 GMT

5 Tips to treat yourself to the vacation you deserve

Money is always a delicate and particularly difficult topic to avoid when it comes to travel. While there are tons of cheap ways to travel (low cost flights, hostels, etc.), your budget should be planned out well before you jump on the plane. Whether you're planning a trip around the world or a simple weekend getaway, you're going to need to save a little beforehand. It may seem impossible to you if, like many of us, the end of the month is tight. But not so fast! There is still a way to save without breaking your head too much!

Open a travel savings bank account

Opening a savings account that will only be used for travel purposes is our number one recommendation. We suggest to give it a powerful name such as "Africa, here I come" or "The Vacation I deserve". Get into the habit of making deposits into your account like a percentage of your paycheck for instance, a specific amount, or your "spare" money at the end of the month. The idea is to turn it into an automated move. If possible put some restrictions that will limit access to the account unless it's extremely needed or it's time to travel. Pick up this habit and watch your travel savings go up.

2. Design and stick to a budget

Saving means spending less, which means adjusting your lifestyle: cancelling a few memberships, finding a roommate or even going back to living with parents for instance. Budgeting also requires reviewing your finances and organizing expenses into necessary and frugal ones. Maybe going out less is what you need to do, or walking instead of taking an Uber or waking up a little early for your coffee at home rather than spending $ 5 every morning on your super latte. We're a good gang to spend without looking too hard. However, if you really want to save, you're going to have to keep track of your income and expenses. You might find that $ 3 here for a coffee and $ 4 there for a snack is starting to add up. You might even be paying for services you don't use! If you find yourself unable to design a manual budget, try an app to help you set a goal each month and organize your spending history by category.

3. Sell some stuff

In addition to reducing expenses, you must also think about increasing your income. One easy way to do this is to sell the things you no longer need or use. Sort through your belongings and sell the things that don't give you as much satisfaction as traveling. You can sell your clothes online on platforms like Poshmark or other items on ebay or Craigslist for example. Several bookstores also buy used books. Another idea is to have a garage sale with your friends or sell your stuff at a flea market. There are plenty of ways to make money, but don’t forget to put it into your travel savings account!

4. Find another income generator

Another way to increase your income is to find a side activity. It can be just about anything, but we suggest to find something of interest to you. After all, it's work in addition to your regular work. Do you like animals? Why not try to be a dog sitter. You can find customers simply by talking to those around you or by putting out ads online. Are you good are crafting things? Etsy might be a good platform for you. If you're familiar with writing, graphics, web design, or virtual assistance, telecommuting is worth considering. Offer your services directly to businesses or use apps like UpWork to operate as a freelancer.

5. Stay motivated!

Last but not least, stay motivated by thinking about how well spent your travel money will be and the satisfaction it will yield. For example, a beer with friends might be fun, but that expense could also definitely count towards your lodging at an amazing spot in Rwanda! By looking at things that way, in a matter of months, you may find yourself with enough saved money to pay for your return flight from Djibouti. The more you relate your travel plans to your daily expenses, the more motivated you will be to save.

Need more motivation to save for a one-of-a-kind experience well worth all the spending restrictions? Check out our dreamy destinations and subscribe to our newslette r to receive the latest travel updates about your new favorite destination.

Top 5 Unusual Destinations to Visit in Africa

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 06:00:48 GMT

Why You Should Plan on Touring the Least 5 Visited Countries in Africa

We've been saying it over and over and that's what we're all about: Africa is a gem full of unexplored regions. After a trying year, 2021 is synonymous of hope and renewal, with the desire to sail towards fresh horizons. So then, why not travel original this summer? Be sure to impress everyone and have the best stories to tell after your vacation? Africa!! Better yet, try one of the least visited African countries. Everybody is already aware of and sticking to the well-known destinations. Let's be cool and try the places off-the-beaten-track. They are often times quite full of surprises, more than the common ones. Here is our selection, inspired by the British Daily Mail.

São Tomé and Príncipe

Peaceful and uncrowded, the two islands of São Tomé and Príncipe form the second smallest of African states and are poles apart (figuratively speaking) of Africa. Few are familiar with these islands, fewer actually visit, but their charms are becoming less of a secret, and for good reason: deserted beaches as far as the eye can see, crystal clear waters, jagged peaks and tropical forests. Add to that a relaxed lifestyle, real good coffee, delicious seafood and… Are you still here?

2. The Comoros

Another island: seeing a pattern already? The Comoros are islands very close to Madagascar, off the coast of Africa. In the heyday of transoceanic trade, the Comoros were a traditional stopover for ships passing through. Today, only 25,000 people visit each year. In Mayotte, which is part of the archipelago but has remained a French territory, you can admire one of the largest lagoons in the world. In addition, superb corals, impressive volcanoes and small peaceful villages make it a pleasant destination despite the low level of tourism.

3. Djibouti

Djibouti is located in the Horn of Africa and is almost entirely covered with a magnificent arid landscape. It is the least visited country in the world excluding those which are islands! The view of the sunrise on a lake at the edge of which colonies of pink flamingos are gathered is magical. Fields of black lava, mysterious naturally occurring steam-spewing chimneys, and sun-scorched plains stretching as far as the eye can see make it feel like a trip back in time. This tiny country compensates for its geographical smallness with the striking beauty of its landscapes, which will particularly delight lovers of geological curiosities. Few countries, with the possible exception of Iceland, offer such stunning vistas: salt lakes, extinct volcanoes, collapse plains, steam-spewing limestone chimneys, basalt plateaus and majestic canyons.

4. Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone, a West African country, was hit hard by an Ebola crisis in 2014, causing tourist numbers to plummet. The World Health Organization has confirmed that Ebola has been eradicated since March 2016, so the mountains and beaches of this country are once again discoverable! Mighty waterfalls, lush forest and white sand beaches are the major attractions of the destination. In addition, the country is endowed with a rich cultural and historical heritage, the people are extremely welcoming and friendly, and each of its cities brings a unique history.

5. Madagascar

Madagascar, its red lands, its baobabs ... The island separated from the African continent about 120 million years ago, and is a very beautiful territory in the south-eastern part of the continent. You'd better consult a travel agency to better prepare your journey, because this territory is full of many places to visit absolutely. Among them is the national park of Isalo, the alley of the Baobabs (or Avenue of the baobabs), the integral nature reserve of Tsingy de Bemaraha and many other sites. For lovers of animal parks, Madagascar is the ideal place. There are about fifty of them. For relaxation, Madagascar has countless beaches for to walk with family and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere of the country.

After your first adventure trip to our motherland, you might find yourself wanting to wander. Whatever attraction you are most drawn to, visiting Africa is truly an eye-opening experience. Don't be put off by your fears (or what you see on TV) and start planning today! Best news is, LUXIKA is currently planning trips to 3 out of 5 of the least visited destinations in Africa. Check it out and let us take you!

Curious about us? Read away!

Fri, 28 May 2021 02:25:57 GMT

Inside Luxika - FAQ style

Ever since we started this journey, we've gotten a lot of questions from all over. We thought we'd let you in on the five most popular ones:

(Don't feel like reading? Listen to our podcast about the same topic instead ��)

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?

Let us tell you...Africa is special! There is this "je-ne-sais-quoi" about that place that we think is unmatched. And by that place we mean all 54 countries! Unfortunately, unlike Europeans who are well versed in the tourism industry and are pretty familiar with most of our destinations, Americans tend to still only see Africa from a very predictable perspective. I mean, we know it: the Giraffe Manor is amazing, South Africa is Nelson Mandela's and Zanzibar's beaches are perfect. But that is a small tiny part of what the continent has to offer in terms of culture, food, experiences, views etc. To those who have seen the other black Africa, so much is being missed out. It was out of that frustration that we decided to present those places off the beaten track people don't know they want to go to yet.

WHY THE NAME "LUXIKA"?

Luxika is a combination of Luxurious and Africa. Luxurious: "characterized by opulence, sumptuousness, or rich abundance, of the finest and richest kind"(Merriam-Webster dictionary) or "extremely comfortable, elegant, or enjoyable, giving self-indulgent or sensuous pleasure" (The Oxford dictionary). These definitions represent exactly the way we feel Africa and the experience we want to share.

WHO ARE YOU?

We're all from Africa. We've also each lived in different countries in Europe and America. We're all in our 30s and we're all part of the American workforce. Our professional backgrounds are in Finance, Engineering, Healthcare and Information Technology.

HAVE YOU BEEN TO THE DESTINATIONS YOU PROMOTE?

We haven't all been to all the destinations. However, all our travel experiences combine provides us with a deep knowledge of each of the destinations we select. We're from different countries (Cameroon, Gabon, Senegal and Cote d'Ivoire) and have different perspectives of the countries we're promoting which led us to create amazing and diverse circuits for any type of travelers.

WILL YOU ONLY FOCUS ON THE DESTINATIONS ON YOUR WEBSITE?

For now, yes. However, we definitely have the passion and desire to show more of the Unseen Africa as there are still so much beauty to see and feel. We'll progressively assess and evaluate where/how to do so and we'll adjust.

If you haven’t explored the Unseen Africa yet and are looking to start, click here to check out our destinations and trips.

Celebrating Art and Culture

Thu, 27 May 2021 03:42:34 GMT

"Levers for Building the Africa We Want"

The month of May celebrates Africa, its culture, traditions, art and heritage. This year's events were centered around the theme: "Levers for Building the Africa We Want" The celebration kicked off on May 5th, the African World Heritage Day, proclaimed in 2015 by the General Conference of Unesco.

Following that event is Africa Day, which corresponds to the creation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) on May 25, 1963 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ancestor of the African Union (AU). This day is an opportunity for each country on the continent to organize events aimed at promoting solidarity and collaboration between African people. A deeply rooted tradition that highlights the struggle of the entire African continent for liberation, development and economic progress.

Africa is rightly considered the cradle of humanity. The continent is the origin of a large number of human groups, languages, religions and traditions. It's also the home of some of the most extraordinary natural resources in the world.

For the occasion, the UN Secretary General delivered a message aimed at presenting African heritage as the foundation of post-Covid recovery. In his own words, "Africa's rich and diverse cultural and natural heritage is important for sustainable development, poverty reduction and the maintenance and consolidation of peace" and we couldn't agree more. Africa's heritage can serve as a solid foundation for inclusive economic progress as the continent strives to tackle the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Luxika is devoted to contribute to Africa Month's mission, by showcasing the amazing hidden beauties present on the continent, and encourage the world to experience them.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist For Africa

Fri, 07 May 2021 05:57:04 GMT

Travel essentials to Africa

Are you headed to any African country and wondering what to pack for your trip? Packing for a trip can be overwhelming, especially if it’s some place new. In this post, we’ll be sharing the travel essentials for Africa we think first time travelers should absolutely take along with them.

Appropriate Clothing Items

Seasons vary a lot in Africa, they even differ from one country to another. It’s important to conduct your research and pack appropriately for the season.

Also pack clothing items based on the activities on your itinerary. This is a no brainer: hiking shoes/boots for hiking and trekking activities, swim wears for the beach, rivers, waterfalls etc, and a pair of sandals or/and flip flops.

A Universal Charging Adapter

This is particularly important if you’re traveling internationally to adapt to the country's voltage and electricity port. A universal charger ensures you always stay connected without taking the risk to overload and damage your device.

Sanitary Travel Kit

In the past year, travel essentials have made a huge shift from what they used to be to what they are now. Be sure to include a basic first aid kit , hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, tissues and masks . Do not omit insect repellent if your destination is a tropical one, and sunscreen.

Travel Insurance

The importance of this item can not be over emphasized. It’s as essential as your plane ticket, passport, accommodation etc. You shouldn’t leave your country of origin without it, regardless of your destination.

Been to any African country before? What other travel essentials for Africa do you recommend for first time travelers?

If you haven’t explored the lush lands of Africa yet and are looking to start, click here to check out our destinations and trips.