LOVING LUSAKA | ZAMBIA
LOVING LUSAKA Extra Time is Worth the Dime
[ WRITER: Brooke Berlin ]
[ PHOTO: Johann Vanzyl ]
It’s perplexing to me, those who go to Paris for art, Sydney for opera, Tokyo for tastes, but avoid African cities. Is it out of fear, or maybe just a lack of understanding about how contemporary and culturally rich they are? Being from New York, I have a lovehate relationship with “Sex in the City”, but being African at heart, I have a love-love affinity for “An African City” and all things urban. This is why I go out of my way to stay and play in cities across the continent. In the time of travel where pre-departure Covid testing is often required, it’s great to know that there are many metropolises where you can get a test and then have a wonderful time while waiting for the results.
Brooke Berlin
Founder of Karoo Consulting, a company focused on promoting travel to Africa and supporting conservation and community nonprofit organisations, Brooke has been exploring the continent for 15 years and has been to 19 of Africa’s 54 countries. She studied journalism and cultural anthropology and her passion and skills combine to bring awareness to the diversity and uniqueness of Africa. Her favourite activities include: participating in a rhino notching and elephant rescue; boating and flying; enjoying designer outfits from Johannesburg, Lusaka and Accra; and visiting tribes in the Omo Valley, Nubian Desert and West Africa. www.karooconsulting.com
In Dakar, I’ve listened to Baaba Maal live closing out a film festival; in Johannesburg, I’ve watched a matinee of “Sophiatown” that would rival any on Broadway; in Nairobi I’ve discussed politics with artist Michael Soi in his studio; and in too many places to mention I have commissioned couture clothing, and Lusaka is one of those cities! Lusaka is my most beloved, approachable African city: there isn’t a lot of traffic; the majority of attractions are closely situated, especially to my favourite hotel, Latitude15; and the Zambian people are exceptionally warm, welcoming and wonderful.
(plus it’s right next to the best butcher in town for biltong and droëwors), Cantina for a Mexican dinner, and the mid-day café breaks at 37D, The Lechwe Trust, and The Lusaka Collective. When we didn’t want to go anywhere, the various al fresco areas at Latitude15 provided the perfect oasis paired with a menu serving up mouth-watering fare. The only thing I didn’t get to taste was some traditionally prepared street food just outside The Lusaka Collective, where they can set up a meal for those wanting to experience the truly authentic.
On my last trip in September 2020, I stayed longer in Lusaka – seven nights total split between arrival and departure. My husband, Johann Vanzyl, and I ate out (literally outside) several times. We enjoyed the casual atmosphere of Zambean for a healthy lunch
As a connoisseur of craft and virtuosity alike, I love that Lusaka provides both. The Lusaka Collective is the perfect place to peruse countless items made from across the country. It is a hub for beautiful souvenirs or gifts, with an outdoor area for a spot of tea with WiFi May - Aug 2021 | TRAVEL & LEISURE
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