Travel Africa

April-May

In This Issue… April-May 2023

4 From the Publisher…

8 Why Uganda Wants to Join the SingleAfrica AirTransport Market

10 Big Plans for theAirports andAirlines in SouthAfrica

12 The Power of Representation: Why Including Black People inYour Digital Illustrations Matters

14 Global Hospitality Industry Releases Net Positive Pathway V2.0 for People, Planet, Place, and Prosperity

15 Cirium Partners with GO7 and EDIfly

16 Google isTesting Free Price Guarantee for Flights

17 Traveling Overseas this Summer? Get Your PassportASAP

18 TSAand Clear to Launch SingleApplication for both Programs

48

19 Uganda Passes a Law Making it a Crime to Identify as LGBTQ

20 Clever New Way Hotels Will Charge More ForThe “Same” Room

22 ACloser Look at TSA’s new Cybersecurity Requirements forAviation

24 Google SearchAdds NewTravel Features to Save on Flights and Hotels

25 No Room forAir Rage

26 Marriott CMO Julius Robinson is Ushering in a NewTravel Experience

Feature

30 CapeTown Wants to Become the World’s Main Gateway toAntarcticaTourism

31 SinaiTrail - Egypt’s 1st Long Distance HikingTrail

32 ThisAfrican Hidden Gem Should Be On Your Bucket List

The drama of the Namib Desert page

Ricky Katsuya Publisher

Welcome…

Dear Travel Enthusiasts,

In this edition of our Travel Africa, we highlight African tourism destinations and cuisines.

Africa is a treasure trove of natural wonders, ancient history, and unparalleled hospitality that will leave you spellbound. From the Namib Desert’s towering sand dunes to the exotic wildlife in the Serengeti, from the majestic Victoria Falls to the bustling city life in Johannesburg and Nairobi, Africa has it all.

If you’re looking for a wild safari experience, nothing beats Africa! Youcanwitnessthe“BigFive”gameanimalsupcloseintheirnatural habitat and revel in the beauty of Africa’s natural landscapes.

Africaisalsohometosomeoftheworld’smostfascinatingcultures. Whether you want to explore ancient pyramids in Egypt or learn about tribal traditions in Tanzania, there’s something for everyone on this amazing continent.

Don’t forget to indulge inthe irresistible local cuisine and immerse yourself in the exuberant music and dance of Africa. With friendly localsreadytowelcomeyouwithopenarms,you’llfeelrightathome in no time.

So, pack your bags and head to Africa for an adventure of a lifetime this summer! Contact us now to book your African escape and create unforgettable memories.

Sincerely,

Ricky Katsuya

aba@africabisinessassociation.org

travelafrica@africabusinessassociation.org www.africabusinessassociation.org

About the Africa Business Association

The Africa Business Association is an independent international business development organization. We offer accesstothelatestresources,information, and best practices in advocacy and communications for the African Diaspora and the African entrepreneurs in Africa.

We work to help you have access to news and events as starting points for constructive conversations and calls to action. We seek to cut through the froth of the political spin cycle to underlying truths and values. We want to be so focused on progress that together we can provide a credible and constructive generation of Africans that take seriously our previous generations and act upon all their wishes, our hopes and aspirations to make lasting change for all future generations.

Africa Business Association

"Travel Africa"

PUBLISHER/PRESIDENT

Ricky Katsuya

ADVISORY BOARD

Earl 'Skip' Cooper, II, CEO, Black Business Association

H.E. Sheila Siwela, Ambassador

H.E. Kone L. Tanou, Ambassador

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ricky Katsuya

LAYOUT/TYPESETTING

Lion Communications

AFRICA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION NEWS 6564 LOISDALE COURT, SUITE 600 SpringÞeld, VA 22150 USA

1-240-467-6811

aba@africabisinessassociation.org

dawn@africabusinessassociation.org www.africabusinessassociation.org

Copyright © 2022 by Africa Business Association News

All Rights Reserved.

The posting of stories, commentaries, reports, documents and links (embedded or otherwise) on this site does not in any way, shape or form, implied or otherwise, necessarily express or suggest endorsement or support of any of such posted material or parts therein.

Image credits: Cover- Kat Kimball,The Spruce

Vice President Kamala Harris Invites You to Explore Trade Opportuni es with the Republic of Zambia

The USA and the Republic of Zambia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote and support interna onal trade opportuni es between the two na ons.

ABA DAWN has curated a report on the recent tour to Africa by Vice President Harris and a separate report detailing the substance of the five-year MOU.

Find the digital publica ons on the Africa Business Associa on website.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris

H.E. Hakainde Hichilema President of Zambia

Executive-Led Trade Mission to Africa

August 6-15, 2023 | South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria

The U.S. Commercial Service is pleased to announce that U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves will lead the Global Diversity ExportInitiative (GDEI) trade mission to South Africa,Ghana, and Nigeria. The Nigeriastop is optional.

If you area GDEI company in the automotive, consumer goods, ICT, or safety/ security industries, join us to gain market insights, make industry contacts, solidify business strategies, and advance your specific projects in Africa.

Participating in a trade mission led by a high-level federal government officialcan enhance a company's ability to secure meetings and gaingreater exposure in international markets.

Apply today! Space is limited & applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis.

Learn More & Apply for the Mission - Click Here

Not Sure Which African Market is Best for You??

Register for our 8-market webinar series “Access Africa Now.”

Every Second Wednesday, February to September 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. ET | Virtual

Learn More/Register for the Access Africa Webinar Series - Click Here

Sponsorships Are Available.Learn More

By Tatenda Karuwa

The Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) is a project of the African Union to create a single market for air transport in Africa. Once completely in force, the single market is supposed to allow significant freedom of air transport in Africa, advancing the AU's Agenda 2063.

UGANDA HAS MOVED positively to join the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) following a stakeholder meeting organized by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) in Kampala earlier this week (4-28,2023).

For many years Uganda was doubtful about joining SAATM, but after lengthy deliberation, it may be ready to sign on to the project. To date, 34 out of 54 African nations have come onboard toopenupAfrica'sskiesandpromotethevalueof aviation throughout the continent. The 34 nations represent over 80% of the existing market in Africa.

Advances to join SAATM

Following the stakeholder's meeting, Uganda showed interest in signing on to the project by forming a committee involving players from different sectors. The committee will include the Ministry of Finance, Works and Transports, the Uganda Tourism Board, and private sector stakeholders.

Duringthemeeting,theimportanceoftheSingle AfricanAirTransportMarketwasdiscussed,citing the benefits an enhanced aviation market would bring to various sectors in the country. Pitching the idea to the nation, UCAA Deputy Director General Olive Birungi Lumonya said;

“Flying is efficient, quicker, and safer but is not utilized much as the other forms of travel. If this agreement is signed by

Uganda, we will be joining the rest ofAfrica inreducingthecostoftravelandincreasing air traffic and business.”

In East Africa, Uganda and Tanzania are the onlymajoraviationcountriesthathavenotsigned on to the project. Before the pandemic, Ugandan authorities were focused on various domestic projects, which stopped them from signing onto SAATM.

TheEastAfricanswereintheprocessofreviving Uganda Airlines; hence they were worried about the competition a unified air transport market would bring on the flag carrier. Deputy Director General Lumonya added;

“Initially, Uganda did not sign the Solemn Declaration to join SAATM pending the establishment of mechanisms to give assuranceto therevivalofUgandaAirlines, which at that time had not commenced operations taking into consideration a highly competitive market resulting from the grant of unrestricted fifth freedom traffic rights to African Airlines.”

TheywerealsodevelopingEntebbeInternational Airport (EBB) into a major regional hub. With its domestic projects almost complete, and the African aviation market nearing pre-pandemic levels, Uganda may be ready to join SAATM.

SAATM

SAATM is a flagship project of the African Union to create a single unified air transport market in Africa. It will fast-track the development of civil aviationonthecontinentandactasanimpetusto Africa's economic integration agenda.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) fully supports the initiative and suggests that if 12 keyAfrican states opened their markets and increased connectivity, an extra 155,00 jobs and $1.3 billion in annual GDP would be created in those countries. Uganda is expected to benefit from up to 5,000 jobs and over 1.2 million in annual revenue.

Uganda has become a key player in African aviation. Its flag carrier has grown, adding 12 destinationsinninecountriessince2019.Entebbe International,itsmainairport,isoneofthebusiest in the region. Joining its neighbors Kenya and RwandainSAATMwouldbemonumentaltowards developing regional air travel.

World air travel has almost fully recovered

from the pandemic. While Africa is leading in the recovery, EastAfricahasseenthemostsignificant numbers compared to other African regions. This can be leveraged to develop fifth-freedom flights and reduce airfares across the continent.

Despite having about 18% of the world's population, Africa contributes about 2% of global air travel. This is because many states restrict their air service markets to protect their national carriers,andforthatreason,manycountrieshave not signed on to the open skies initiative.

Most states have realized the adverse effects of these restrictions.Amajor aviation country like Uganda joining SAATM will be a big step towards havingmoresignatoriesandopenskiesforAfrica. This will reduce the incredibly high airfares and promote intra-Africa connectivity.

https://www.fastcompany.com/90855324/ canada-super-pig-invasive-species-boar-hybridexplained

Background information: https://www.nepad.org/ publication/single-african-air-transport-market

Background video: https://au.int/en/ videos/20201009/saatm

Image credit: SimpleFlying, newtimes.co.rw

The importance of Uganda joining

Big Plans for the Airports and Airlines in South Africa

By BusinessTech Staff Writer

Minister of Transport Sindiswe Chikunga

O.R.TamboAirport, Johannesburg (JNB)

The new Minister of Transport has met with the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa (BARSA) to discuss plans to reignite the air transport business.

SpeakingataneventinCapeTown,theMinister of Transport Sindiswe Chikunga said that the air transport industry faces various challenges, including poor infrastructure,a lackofhumanand physicalresources,limitedconnectivityandalack of transit facilities.

“Although substantial progress has been made during the last decade, our country is still lagging compared to other regions in terms of ‘soft’ and ‘hard’infrastructure,” said Chikunga.

She said to bring South Africa’s aviation industry back to fighting weight, new partnerships that enable a fast recovery and create more employment and investment opportunities will be needed.

The industry is fundamentally different to how it was five years ago; these are realities that policy needs to be adjusted to account for, she added.

Over the past five years, the global aviation industry has seen significant changes, such as an increased focus on new technologies and changing consumer behaviours due to the pandemic.

SouthAfrica’saviationindustrywashitharddue to the pandemic, with many private airlines falling into financial black holes. Comair, the company behind Kulula, fell into business rescue and subsequently ended operations – taking 40% off of all domestic airline capacity.

Other smaller airlines were then relied on to fill this gap – at an added cost to consumers, with demand skyrocketing, pushing ticket prices up, especially around the holiday season.

The state-managed South African Airways has also been in a state of flux, with details around its financial status remaining murky.

Airports across the country have also faced disruptions to flight routes as a result of a lack of jet fuel.

Chikunga said that South Africa has now endorsed a continent-wide African Union plan to

address fundamental deficiencies relating to the regulatory framework around the aviation industry as well as security and safety measures.

Aviation heavyweights such as the International Air Transport Association, in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organisation and others, have committed to support the Africa Strategic ImprovementAction Plan, she added.

“The plan encourages African governments to fosterregulatoryoversightthroughtheadoptionof globally accepted safety and security standards,” the minister said.

Arecentlypublisheddocumentbythedepartment of transport titled the National Land Transport Strategic Framework (NLTSF) for 2023-2028 has highlighted some further initiatives to reform the aviation industry.

Over the next five years, the department of transport under the NLTSF aims to provide a strategic framework to guide all modes of transport, including the integration of airports and harbours.

One of the fundamental goals of the NLTSF is to link major origins and destinations, including airports, hospitals, and recreational facilities, in anintegratedtransportplan,saidthe department.

Thestate-ownedrailtransportsystemPrasahas, forexample,maderecognitionofthepossibilityof connecting current and growing nodes to major airports across the country.

New minister

SindisweChikungahasreplacedformerminister Fikile Mbalula in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s latest cabinet reshuffle.

The role of Minister of Transport was left open since Mbalula took up the full-time position of Secretary General of the governingANC.

Chikunga was previously deputy minister in the portfolio.

https://businesstech.co.za/news/ government/671717/big-plans-for-the-airportsand-airlines-in-south-africa/ Image credit: SABC News, Pinterest

The Power of Representation: Why Including Black People in Your Digital Illustrations Matters

By John D Saunders

Representation is an important aspect of digital illustrations. It not only serves as a tool for artistic expression but also plays a significant role in creating a sense of inclusivity and diversity.

Unfortunately, the lack of representation of Black people in digital illustrations is a significant issue that has been going on for a long time. This article aims to highlight the importance of including Black people in your digital illustrations and the impact it can have on representation and inclusivity.

Why representation matters

Representation is important because it impacts ourpsychologicalandemotionalwell-being.Seeing oneselfrepresentedinmediaandadvertisingcan createasenseofbelonging,whiletheabsenceof representation can lead to feelings of exclusion and marginalization. The lack of representation of Black people in digital illustrations contributes to stereotypes and prejudice, leading to a narrow and distorted view of Black people.

However, there are examples of successful representation in media and advertising. The success of Black Panther, for example, showed the impact of positive representation on the audience. The film’s emphasis on African culture and Black excellence provided a sense of pride and belonging to Black viewers.

The lack ofBlack representation in digital illustrations

Despite the growing awareness of the need for representation and inclusivity, Black people are still underrepresented in digital illustrations. According to a study by Allure, out of 156 fashion and beauty brands analyzed, only 15% of their Instagram posts featured Black people.

This lack of representation is not only harmful to Black people but also limits the perspective and creativity of artists and designers.

The lack of Black representation in digital illustrations has an adverse impact on society as awhole.WhenBlackpeoplearenotrepresented, it reinforces the false narrative that Black people are unimportant or insignificant. This can lead to further discrimination and prejudice, which can affect the mental health and wellbeing of Black people.

Benefits of including Black people in your digital illustrations

There are several benefits to including Black people in your digital illustrations. First and foremost, it increases representation and inclusivity, which is essential in promoting diversity and equality. Additionally, including Black people in your digital illustrations can connect you with a wider audience, including the Black community. Furthermore, it provides an opportunitytochallengestereotypesandpromote diversity by showing the world that Black people are multidimensional and complex.

Conclusion

Incorporating Black people in your digital illustrations is crucial for representation and inclusivity. The lack of representation of Black people in digital illustrations perpetuates harmful stereotypesandreinforcesthefalsenarrativethat Black people are unimportant or insignificant. By including Black people in your digital illustrations, you can help promote diversity, equality, and inclusivity.

Remember,whenincludingBlackpeopleinyour

digital illustrations, it is essential to avoid harmful stereotypes,conductresearch,consultwithBlack people, incorporate diverse perspectives, and consider hiring Black artists. Together, we can create a more inclusive and representative world through digital illustrations.

It is our mission to create beautiful, black illustrations for use in digital projects around the world. Browse hundreds of illustration packs and SUBSCRIBEtogetaccesstotheentirelibrary.

https://www.blackillustrations.com/blog/thepower-of-representation

Image credit: Black Illustrations

Global Hospitality Industry Releases Net Positive PathwayV2.0 for People,Planet, Place,and Prosperity

From Sustainable Hospitality Alliance

The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance),whichbringstogethertheindustry to create a prosperous and responsible global hospitality sector that gives back to the destination more than it takes out, is released its latest Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality v2.0 at ITB Berlin

First launched in March 2022, this updated version of the Pathway provides a more holistic and practical four-stage roadmap to accelerate hospitality towards asustainableand contributory future. It harnesses the power of the four pillars ofpeople, planet, place, and prosperity combined with the industry’s transformative power, innovation, and resources. It aligns with leading global frameworks and standards and integrates them into one place to combine the collective power of resources available to industry and reduce fragmentation of effort. This approach enableseveryhoteltoadvanceitspositiveimpact, regardless of size, starting point, or location. Specific elements of the Pathway released today include:

• Definition of Net Positive Hospitality and demonstration of how people, planet, place, and prosperity are interrelated.

• An outline of the material topics for the industry.

• Ambitions that the industry should look to achieve on its journey towards net positive hospitality.

• Alignment with various leading frameworks and standards, including the WorldTravel and Tourism CouncilHotel Sustainability Basics, Glasgow Declaration for ClimateAction in Tourism, Global BusinessTravelAssociation

RFPtemplate, Global SustainableTourism Council Criteria,TravalystAccommodation Criteria, and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Across all industry sectors, the private sector is implementingactionstoreducecarbonemissions,

improve biodiversity, conditions for employees and impacts on local communities. This Pathway builds on that effort and promotes pollution minimisation, efficient resource use, protection, and regeneration of destinations, creating fairness in the workplace, including equitable and better opportunities for employees, working with communities to develop partnerships and social respect,andmaintainingnetpositivegovernance.

“We’re pleased to be a part of the Alliance’s Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality which includes our Hotel Sustainability Basics; the globally recognised and coordinated set of criteria that all hotels should implement as a minimum to drive responsible and sustainable Travel & Tourism. Our research shows that most business owners know their environmental responsibility, but many sustainability practices, such as efficient water use initiatives,arepatchy.Basicsfillthegapbycreating thatlevelplayingfieldforthesector.

JuliaSimpson,WTTCPresident&CEO

The Pathway has been developed in close collaboration and strong support with the industry andsustainabilityexperts,suchasEY,Considerate Group and Greenview. It will continue to evolve as understanding of what it means to be Net Positiveadvances.Infuturereleases,theAlliance will include detailed guidance to support every hotel (regardless of ownership structure, size and location)toworktowardstheseambitions.Further, to help measure progress towards Net Positive, this additional guidance will include content on regionality and a KPI measurement framework aligned with ESG reporting requirements.

To explore the Pathway, visit https:// sustainablehospitalityalliance.org/our-work/ pathway/.

https://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4115373.html

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FgX__utp0

Image credit: sustainablehospitalityalliance.org

From TravelDailyNews Media Network

Cirium, global aviation analytics leader, announced a partnership with EDIfly and AeroCRS, now part of GO7, to enable small and medium-sized travel providers distribute schedules data to the wider travel ecosystem. EDIfly and GO7 are the latest companies to partner with Cirium, enabling the automated distribution of schedules and changes forthoseairlinesusingAeroCRSbyGO7.Airlines using AeroCRS gain time and money-saving efficiencies in their operations and are able to reach a global audience with their schedules.

Withthisthree-waypartnership,AeroCRSusers can expect easy-to-use integration into the global travel data ecosystem, at no additional charge. EDIfly securely exchanges data between the AeroCRS system and Cirium.

This cooperation ensures that airline flight information will always be consistent and updated in all 3rd party distribution channels and reservations systems at the same time, reducing costly communication errors and minimizing passenger handling costs.

Cirium is an aviation analytics and data aggregationcompanythathelpsconsolidateflight information (schedules, status, fleets) for airlines globally for distribution into the travel ecosystem, supporting search engines, TMCs/OTAs, travel apps, GDS and airport signage. globally.

Danielle Molder, Vice President, Global Partnerships, Cirium said; “We are excited to partner with AeroCRS and EDIfly to distribute the flight information of our airline partners to the widertravelcommunity.Wereachmorethan35% ofglobaltravelersviaourB2Bsolutionswithmore than 2,000 aviation industry customers globally. We believe that democratizing flight information

empowers the traveler and unlocks new market opportunities for every airline in the world.”

GO7, formerly 777 Travel, is committed to empowering airlines by making it easier for airlines to navigate the complexities of travel industry technology. AeroCRS by GO7 provides aninnovativeanduser-friendlypassengerservice system that empowers transport providers with the same tools that larger carriers use without breaking their budget. Their network is an online distribution platform for airlines based on API integrations with over 20 distribution channels globally.

Rachael Smith, Chief Commercial Officer of GO7, added “GO7 is putting travel brands back in control by helping airlines meet consumer demand, generate more dynamic experiences and accelerate revenue growth without adding layers of complexity. Our partnership with Cirium is an excellent example of empowering airlines to evolve revenue and distribution channels without theusualheadache.Gettingflightscheduledatato therightpartnersiscriticalforairlinestomaximise operational and commercial results.

Our partnership with Cirium provides airlines on AeroCRS by GO7 with a cost-free way to make their schedule data available on third-party channels.

We’re excited about this partnership because it allows us to retain our commitment to helping airlines reduce their unit technology costs, and a number of our airlines are already leveraging our partnership, including Aero Mongolia, Lift Airline, Fly Namibia, and FlightLink, to name a few.”

EDIfly enables integrated low-cost messaging in aviation and logistics. Since 2010, its unique transmission technology allows secured data exchangeswithouttheneedforaVPNorcomplex and costly infrastructures. This partnership will drive efficiency and reduce manual work for AeroCRS users.

https://www.traveldailynews.com/aviation/ciriumannounces-partnership-with-edifly-and-aerocrsto-more-widely-distribute-schedules-data/

Google is offering a price guarantee on flightsthatgivesconsumersarefundifthe airfarepurchaseddropsbeforedeparture.

The pilot program is available on select itinerarieswherethecompanysaysits“algorithms are confident that the price you find is the lowest available before the flight departs.” In a limited scan on the site, it appears the guarantee is currently offered only on some flights from Spirit Airlines and Alaska Airlines for bookings made directly with the airlines through Google.

InAugust2019,Googleranasimilarpilot,initially for flights booked for travel within a two-week period from mid-August until early September. The company says it paused that pilot due to the COVIDoutbreak,butitisnowexploringwhetherit canofferpriceguaranteesonalonger-termbasis.

Whenaskedformoredetailsabouttheprogram, a Google spokesperson says, “We’re currently testing price guarantees in the U.S. as part of our broader goal to help travelers feel confident they’ve booked the best price for their trip.” A formal announcement about the pilot is expected next month.

While many airlines such as American, Delta and JetBlue have eliminated fees for changes or cancellations in most fare classes – in effect enabling a consumer to re-book a trip if they find a lower fare – those policies require the traveler to monitor the fare and initiate the change. And refundsaregivenintheformoffutureflightcredits.

InthecaseofGoogle,thecompanyautomatically monitors the price for any fare designated with a “price drop guarantee” symbol, until the first flight of an itinerary departs.

Google is Testing Free Price Guarantee for Flights

By PhocusWire

Ifatanytimeinthatperiodthefaredropsat least $5, Google pays the difference back to the consumer in Google Pay, where it can be used tomakepurchases online,totransferto another Google Pay user or to transfer out to abankaccount.Googlesaysrefundsaretypically issued within 48 hours after takeoff of the first flight.

Accordingtothe termsoftheprogram,travelers can receive up to $500 back total per calendar year for up to three price guaranteed bookings at any one time, and the guarantee applies only to flights that depart from the United States, booked with a U.S. address and phone number.

Google’s price guarantee product is similar to what Hopper is offering through its B2B product, Hopper Cloud. Currently its partner Capital One Travelofferstheguarantee,butit’snotidenticalto what Google is testing.

According to the terms of Capital One Travel, free price drop protection is automatically added to flights it designates as “buy now.” Capital One Travel then monitors fares for that exact itinerary for 10 calendar days after purchases and, if the fare drops, the traveler receives the difference up to a maximum of $50 in the form of a Capital One Travel credit.

InSeptemberGoogleannounceditwasshutting down Book onGoogle for flights forusers outside the U.S. at the end of that month and for U.S. usersonor afterMarch31,butthecompanysays it is exploring options to offer price guarantees without Book on Google.

PhocusWire will update this story as more information becomes available.

https://www.phocuswire.com/google-testingprice-guarantee-for-flights Image credit: PhocusWire

Traveling Overseas this Summer? There’s Huge Demand for Passports, so Get Yours ASAP

By Kaitlyn Radde

If you’re planning a summer getaway outside of the country, make sure you get your paperworkin order soonerratherthan later.

Passports are in “unprecedented demand,” U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Thursday during a House Appropriations subcommittee budget hearing. In 2022, the State Department issued a record 22 million passports — and 2023 is “on track to break” that record, Blinken said.

The U.S. State Department is fielding half a million passport applications a week, Blinken said. “That’s 30 to 40% above last year, so it’s dramatic.”

The standard processing time for a passport is 10-13 weeks, and an expedited request takes about seven to nine weeks. That doesn’t include mailing time, which can take up to two weeks each way.

“Processing times fluctuate throughout the year dependingondemandandweanticipatethatthey will rise, especially as we approach the busier travel season,” according to a State Department news release.

Duringthepandemic,“demandwentwaydown,” Blinken said, and the department pulled back the number of staff dedicated to processing passport and visa requests. “Emergingfrom COVID, we’ve had to build back.”

He said the State Department has hired more staff, authorized overtime and opened satellite offices to process passport applications more quickly.

As pandemic restrictions eased, travel ramped up, with 52% of Americans planning to travel in the next six months, according to the U.S. Travel

Association. Travel spending and demand for flights are both higher than 2019’s pre-pandemic levels.

Demandusedtobecyclical,withabusyseason starting in March and ending in late summer, Blinken said, but now it’s consistently high.

Americans who already have a passport soon will be able to renew it online. The department halted a pilot program “to make sure that we can fine-tune it and improve it before we roll it out in a bigger way,” Blinken said, but “65% of renewal customers for passports will be able to do so online, once this program isfully up and running.”

ForthoselookingtotraveltotheU.S.,themedian wait time for visitor visa interview appointments is abouttwomonths,halfaslongasayearago,and it’sshorterinmanypartsoftheworld.Blinkensaid the department is prioritizing visas with economic impact,likethoseforstudents,temporaryworkers and business travelers.

“Incategoryaftercategory,we’reactuallygetting back to and even better than pre-pandemic levels,” Blinken said, touting the fact that so far in fiscal year 2023, the department has issued 18% more non-immigrant visas than the same period in fiscal year 2019.

Immigrant visas “are a whole other issue,” Blinken said.

TSA andClear to Launch Single Application for both Programs

By Caroline Tanner

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration is expected to issue a single application for travelers to apply for TSA PreCheck and Clear, per spokespersons from each expedited security program.

When asked about a Needham analyst report suggesting that Clear is set to launch the TSA PreCheck sign-up in some airports by early May, the TSA said this was not accurate and added that Clearis one of two providers being added for PreCheck enrollment, in addition to longstanding provider, Idemia.

“TSA will authorize Telos and Clear as TSA PreCheck enrollment providers when each is ready to begin operations, and there is no established date for either enrollment provider at this time,” per an agency spokesperson. “Telos and Clear will join Idemia in time, butanydiscussionabouttimeframes and how they each will go to market is entirely premature.”

Both Clear and PreCheck have more than 14 million members, with TSAPreCheck membership growing to 14.3 million in 2022, representing a 27% growth from 2021, per the analysis.

The expanded partnership is a resultofrequirementssetbytheTSA

Modernization Act and the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018.

However, analyst Josh Reilly surmised it’s an acknowledgment of “the opportunity for Clear to accelerate PreCheck adoption as significant,” saying the overall “penetration for Trusted Travelers,” including PreCheck and Global Entry, could evolve to 129 million passengers, reflective of the 30% increase year to year ofTSA-boarded passengers as of February.

“Clear has been on a mission to make experiences safer and easier since day one, so we’re looking forward to becoming an authorized TSA PreCheck enrollment provider to help bring TSAPreCheckenrollmenttomorepeopleinmore places,” a spokesperson said via email. “Once Clear successfully meets all TSA requirements to become an enrollment provider and completes a trial period, Clear will be approved by TSA to begin offering TSAPreCheck enrollment services tothepublicatselectlocationsusingClearpods.”

Experts, including Reilly, expect an uptick in PreCheck renewals and new sign-ups once this single application launches.

“It’s like the lion laying down with the lamb because TSA PreCheck and Clear have had a contentious relationship at times,” said Henry Harteveldt, an airline and travel industry analyst and president of Atmosphere Research. “TSA feels that Clear is cutting into some of its turf in terms of passenger screening, creating some tension with airports, but at the same time, Clear has shown that it understands biometrics and it can help improve the productivity of the airport passenger screening process.”

Both TSA and Clear declined to comment further on the expansion, including whether the currentpricesofeach($78forafiveyear PreCheck membership, $189 annually for Clear) would remain the same.

Greater adoption of both programs seems likely, though, per Harteveldt.

https://thepointsguy.com/news/tsa-

Uganda Passes a Law Making it a Crime to Identify as LGBTQ

From Reuters

Uganda’s parliament passed a law on recently making it a crime to identify as LGBTQ, handing authorities broad powers to target gay Ugandans who already face legal discrimination and mob violence.

More than 30 African countries, including Uganda, already ban same-sex relations. The new law appears to be the first to outlaw merely identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ), according to rights group Human Rights Watch.

Supporters of the new law say it is needed to punish a broader array of LGBTQ activities, which they say threaten traditional values in the conservative and religious EastAfrican nation.

In addition to same-sex intercourse, the law bans promoting and abetting homosexuality as well as conspiracy to engage in homosexuality.

Violations under the law draw severe penalties, including death for so-called aggravated homosexuality and life in prison for gay sex. Aggravated homosexuality involves gay sex with peopleundertheageof18orwhentheperpetrator isHIVpositive,amongothercategories,according to the law.

“Our creator God is happy (about) what is happening...Isupportthebilltoprotectthefuture of our children,” lawmaker David Bahati said during debate on the bill.

“This is about the sovereignty of our nation, nobody should blackmail us, nobody should intimidate us.”

The legislation will be sent to President Yoweri Museveni to be signed into law.

Frank Mugisha, a prominent Ugandan LGBTQ

activist denounced the legislation as draconian.

“This law is very extreme and draconian ... it criminalises being an LGBTQ person, but also theyaretryingtoerasetheentireexistenceofany LGBTQ Ugandan,” he said.

Museveni has not commented on the current proposal but he has long opposed LGBTQ rights and signed an anti-LGBTQ law in 2013 that Western countries condemned before a domestic court struck it down on procedural grounds.

In recent weeks, Uganda authorities have cracked down on LGBTQ people after religious leaders and politicians alleged students were being recruited into homosexuality in schools.

This month, authorities arrested a secondary school teacher in the eastern district of Jinja over accusations of “grooming of young girls into unnatural sex practices”.

She was subsequently charged with gross indecency and is in prison awaiting trial.

The police said on Monday they had arrested six people accused of running a network that was “actively involved in the grooming of young boys into acts of sodomy”.

Reporting by Elias Biryabarema; Editing by Aaron Ross, Hereward Holland and Josie Kao

https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/ugandapasses-bill-banning-identifying-lgbtq-2023-03-21/ Image credit: REUTERS/Abubaker Lubowa

Clever New Way Hotels Will Charge More For The “Same” Room

By Gilbert Ott

Aroom nearer the elevator, a right justified room,a view ofthis streetnot that street, or one with a slightly larger television.

Virtuallyalloftheabovewillsoonbecomeselling points in the strategic hotel vision of moving from boring room categories like standard, deluxe, or suite to newly unlocked opportunities to charge different prices forwhat would’ve previously been considered the same room type, by charging for exactly what you want instead.

There’s a lot to unpack and it’s not necessarily all bad. It may even offer marginally better pricing on entry level rooms, and for now it’s all in the name of personalization.

Whatever happens, thanks to new “attribute based” technology, there’s no escaping that the sales process for hotel rooms will change more in the next two years than in the last 25. Here’s everything you need to know about this clever new adaptation.

Hilton Is Leading TheWay

At the Skift ‘Future Of Lodging Forum’ in London, Hilton championed their cutting edge new “attribute based” sales technology built in the cloud which aims to make it easier for guests to get exactly what they want out of a hotel stay, particularly when booking direct.

It all started quite simply: guaranteed connecting rooms at the time of booking. It sounds basic, but this was previously a disjointed process which required manual contact with the hotel desk to request and hope.

Hilton developed its own sales system which is able to integrate with each hotel on a more detailed “mapping” level that can automatically block specific connecting rooms, rather than just saying something to the hotel system like book twostandardrooms,withthesubsequent,manual request to connect in the reservation notes.

Noonelikesthatstress.Thesystemsolvedthat.

It’s been a remarkable triumph with more than 1 million of these connecting rooms booked thus far according to Hilton, but it’s nowhere near the completevisionofwhat“attributebased”salescan bring. The vision is mega sales personalization and with that usually comes opportunity — both for guest satisfaction and revenue.

As we all know, all deluxe rooms aren’t created equal.

A hotel may have 50 deluxe rooms and currently charge the same price for each, but in reality most are different.

Some will be corner deluxe rooms, some will havespecificviewslikeriver,skylineorcourtyard. Others will have the room justified in different directionsandmanywillbespreadacrossvarying floors and varying distances from the elevators.

These things are already “productized” to an extent, but not as far as they could be. For now, it’sbeingreferredtoaspersonalization, butit’san entry point.

Hilton is arguably the first seizing on the opportunity to find new margins by defining these differences and individual guest preferences but they certainly won’t be the last.

Hilton teased that this new sales and hotel integration system is an opportunity to better personalize the sales flow. Hotels will be able to map and uniquely identify the things which make specific rooms different and that will create opportunities to charge different prices accordingly.

Pricing won’t just be standard, deluxe, junior suite or suite anymore. It will be further fragmented by what matters to the guest, rather than an internal label like deluxe. It might be a room close to the elevator with a South facing view and a larger screen.

Zooming out, you can think of the technology asallowingroomsto besoldlikeabuildyour own burritobowlratherthanjustchoosingaburritobowl offasetmenuoffouroptions.Eachcustomization addsexponentialopportunitytochargeadifferent price.

Specific rooms are currently selectable in many Hilton properties already, but this wider choice and variety inselling specific features even within thesamestandardizedroomcategoryhaslagged ever so slightly.

Once you see the possibilities here, it’s hard to

unsee them.

The ability to charge even just $5 more for a specific feature of a specific room within a previously “one sized” room type across millions ofnightsbooked,bringsinmillionsinnewrevenue potential.

Being able to commoditize even the smallest unique room features and turn them into small pricing differences can really add up at scale. Typically,that’smeantcustomerspayingmore,but from a loyalty perspective, it’s a great opportunity to reward valued members more too.

One thing is for certain, the days of standard, deluxe, junior suite and big suite are on thin ice. They’llalwaysexistinternallyinsomefashion,but customization will erode these classic labels as people cherry pick the features they value most, and the hotel itself is the only label that really matters.

Who cares if you’re in a deluxe room or a superior room, if it’s exactly what you want?

https://www.godsavethepoints.com/new-wayhotels-charge-more-attribute-booking/ Image credit:YouTube

A Closer Look at TSA’s new Cybersecurity Requirements for Aviation

By Sal Morlando, Senior Director of Products, OPSWAT

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently issued new cybersecurity requirements for the aviation industry, which follows last year’s announcement for railroad operators. Both announcements are part of the Department of Homeland Security’s effort to improve the nation’s cybersecurity resiliencyandalignwiththeNationalCybersecurity Strategy released by the White House earlier this month. While the strategy is not perfect, it draws attentiontotheimportance ofzerotrustwithinour nation’s critical infrastructure.

Just like any other critical infrastructure sector, the aviation industry is a prime target for cyberattacks due to the critical nature of its operations and the potential for significant financial and reputational damage. Within the TSA emergency amendment are four actions that TSA-regulated aviation entities must take to mitigate cybersecurity threats:

• Network segmentation

• Creation of access control measures

• Implementation of continuous monitoring and detection, and

• Reduction of risk of exploited unpatched systems

By constantly verifying and monitoring user and deviceactivity,aviationorganizationscanachieve a higher level of security and better manage their cyber risk.

Network segmentation

In the aviation industry, operational technology (OT) systems are used to control a variety of critical processes, such as air traffic control, aircraft maintenance, and flight operations. These systems include sensors, control systems, communication networks, and other devices that are used to collect data and provide real-time informationaboutaircraftsandtheirsurroundings.

In many industries,OTisairgapped to ensure isolation from networksconnected totheoutsideworld. However, conventional air gaps are no longer secure as informational technology (IT)/OT convergence evolves and organizations demand connectivity and data analytics from these industrial or highly secured environments.

TSA’s requirement is in accordance with cybersecurity best practices established by NIST andCISA,whereusingone-waygatewaysordata diodes to segment networks where possible is preferred.CISAguidancespecificallystates:“Use one-waycommunicationdiodestopreventexternal access wherever possible” and “Implement a network topology for ICS that has multiple layers, with the most critical communication occurring in the most secure and reliable layer.” One-way gateways or datadiodes arean effectiveway to isolate OT/industrial control systems (ICS) assets and protect against threats that originate with IT.

Access control

The second requirement TSA outlines is to “create access control measures to secure and prevent unauthorized access to critical cybersystems.”Accesscontrolisafundamental security practice that regulates who is allowed to access specific resources, such as data, applications, systems, or physical locations that any organization within critical infrastructure should have in place. It also ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical ITand OTfunctions.

Zero trust network access (ZTNA) is emerging as a standard for secure access and access control – especially with a vulnerable software

supply chain and distributed workforce – where all users, devices and applications are assumed to be potentially malicious and must be checked and verified before granted access. The aviation industry’sinvestmentinzerotrustnetworkaccess solutions would allow operators to secure cloud, remote, andon-prem access to their critical cyber systems and operations.

Asset monitoring

In the aviation industry, asset visibility and monitoring are particularly important for ensuring the safety and security of passengers, crew, and aircraft. Continuous monitoring and detection of OT assets through visibility solutions enables operators to not only see what is connected to theirnetworksbutalsobealertedshouldnefarious activity occur. Also, after assessing people, processes, and the risk of impact to operations, assetvisibilityandmonitoringisoftenthenext step when building a cybersecurity program and achieving better maturity.

This TSA requirement will help aviation organizationsidentifyandassesspotentialsecurity risks and vulnerabilities in their IT infrastructure, including those associated with OT systems, and identify and respond quickly should a breach or attack occur. By implementing robust asset visibility and monitoring practices, organizations can help to reduce the risk of cyberattacks and other security breaches that could compromise the safety and security of air travel.

Endpointmanagement and protection

The fourth action in TSA’s requirement is to “reduce the risk of exploitation of unpatched systems through the application of security patches and updates for operating systems, applications,driversandfirmwareoncriticalcyber systems in a timely manner using a risk-based methodology.”

Simply installing security patches and updates is not enoughtoensurecybersecurity. Operators must also take steps to ensure that their systemsareproperlyconfiguredandsecured. Endpoint protection solutions can help detect vulnerabilities, deploy automated patches, and enforce endpoint compliance and updates when necessary – which will be crucial for compliance among aviation organizations.

Conclusion

TSA’s cybersecurity requirements for the aviation industry are a necessary step in improving the nation’s cybersecurity resiliency, especially with digital connectivity bridging the digital and physical worlds. And, as part of the National Cybersecurity Strategy, we can expect to see similar requirements in other industries in the coming months.

https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2023/03/23/ aviation-industry-cybersecurity-requirements/ Image credit: disciplesofflight.com, outbounders.

Google Search Adds New Travel Features to Save on Flights and Hotels

By Ryan McNeal

Ahead of the busy travel season, Google is launching a few new Google Search features. The features aim to help users findandsaveonflightsandhotelsandfindthings to do while on vacation.

In a blog post, the tech giant announced it’s rolling out three new Search features travelers should find pretty handy. These new additions includeafeaturethatwillmakeiteasiertobrowse hotels on mobile, a price guarantee for flights, and something that will help users find things to do while on their trip.

Browsing Hotels

Betweenreadingreviewsand looking at prices, searching for hotels using a phone wasn’t exactly the best experience. But Google’s hotel browsing feature appears to optimize the mobile experience, making it a bit easier. Now if you look for something like “Soho London hotels” and tap on view more, Googlesaysyou’llbepresented with “a new option to explore each property in a swipeable story format.”

When you’re there, you can swipe through photos of the hotel, save the hotel, pull up more details about the area, and view a summary of what people find notable about the hotel. After you’re done, you can swipe up to continue browsing.

Saving on flights

Possibly the most interesting feature is the new price guarantee badge. The company describes the feature as “a new pilot program for price guarantees in the US.” While users could already see whether prices were low, typical, or high,

this new badge points out what Google thinks is the lowest priceavailableforaflightbefore takeoff.

Google also says that it will continuallymonitor pricesevery day. If there’s a better price, Google will send users the difference through Google Play.

We’ll monitor the price every day until departure, and if it does go down, we’ll send you back the difference via Google Pay.Nowyoucanbookwiththe confidence that you’re not missing out on a great deal. During this pilot program, price guarantees are only available for ‘Book on Google’itineraries that depart from the United States.

Finding things to do

The last feature is designed to help users discover experiences and top attractions in the area of their vacation.AccordingtoGoogle, whenyoulookforanattraction or tour company, “you’ll find prices directly on their listing, plus a link to book your ticket.”

In addition, attractions will come with suggestions for other similar experiences.

This announcement comes only days after the company revealed new features for verifying information. This included a Perspectives feature and an “About this result” tool.

No Room for Air Rage

By Robert Curley

Air rage could earn passengers a ban from flying commercially under legislation now pending in Congress.

During the COVID-19 pandemic “Air rage” incidents spiked, sometimes sparked by resistance to masking requirements put in

on a plane or at a security checkpoint,” said Reed. “There should be zero tolerance for any violent behavior that affects flight safety and this bipartisan bill will help us get there.”

place to slow the spread of the coronavirus. The FAA lifted those requirements in April 2022, but violentincidentsamongpassengersandbetween passengers and airline crew members have continued at an elevated level.

Zero Tolerance for Unruly Passengers

Inresponse,lawmakersSen.JackReed(D-RI), Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL), Rep. Eric Swalwell (DCA) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) called for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to ban passengers who are fined or convicted of physical assault or intimidation and abuse from flying on commercial flights.

“The Protection from Abusive Passengers Act would require TSA to develop a no-fly list for individuals who engage in dangerous behavior

Several flight attendants took part in the March 29th announcement of the legislation, which was endorsed by the Air Line PilotsAssociation, flight attendants’ unions, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines, among others. “Assaults on our airline workers are completely unacceptable, and both airlines and regulators need to act to put an end to this crisis,” said John Samuelsen, president of the Transport Workers Union International.

The bill is identical to one initially introduced in Congress inApril 2022 that failed to advance to a vote.

The FAA investigated 831 unruly-passenger incidents in 2022, up from 183 in 2020 but lower than the 1,099 incidents investigated in 2021 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

https://www.prevuemeetings.com/news/no-roomfor-air-rage/

Zero Tolerance for Unruly and Dangerous Behavior Toolkit: https://www.faa.gov/data_ research/passengers_cargo/unruly_passengers/ toolkit

Image credits: faa.gov

MarriottCMOJulius Robinson is Ushering in a NewTravel Experience

By Daron Pressley

Anative of Newark, New Jersey, Julius Robinson is at the forefront of changing how we approach travel.

As chief marketing and sales officer for Marriott, Robinson is responsible for leading leads the sales, distribution, field marketing, franchise sales, marketing & revenue management support, and public relations and crisis communications for Marriott International.

With acareer spanning nearly three decades, Robinson and Marriott Bonvoy are creating a total hotel and hospitality experience that meets the guests at various points by integrating products, services, and technology into their stay.

Robinson, who began his Marriott career in a call center asaRutgersUniversitystudent, has held various leadership positions with Marriott—from Global Brand Leader for Autograph Collection Hotels and Tribute Portfolio to Vice President of Global Sales and Brand Franchising,

He plays a pivotal role in the development and implementation of strategic priorities designed to yield profitable sales, increased market share, and expanded competitive advantage for more than5,800ManagedbyMarriott and franchised hotels.

The act of service

Asayoungmangrowingupin Newark,NewJersey,thechurch was abigpartof his upbringing. “The New Jersey community is abigpartofmylifeandthework I do in the hospitality industry,” he says. As a junior usher, Robinson began learning the act of service early on.

“Being an usher teaches you discipline, but also the act of service through greeting, helping people find their seats, opening doors, and shaking hands,” he explains.

From the moment you begin hotel shopping, there is a visual experience and a service experience expectation. Robinson adds.

“The hospitality industry takes a certain level of service and sacrificeofyourselftohelpothers deliver on their expectations,” he says. “The goal is to provide anexperiencethatmeetsneeds at the beginning, throughout, and the end of a stay.”

Providing a personalized solution

Whether a guy or girl trip, wedding, business conference, AAU tournament, or a weekend getaway, there is something special about hotel stays.

Trip purpose plays a vital role in the way our hotel brands speak to customers and target messaging that will resonate at a personal level. Marriott hotels

and brands arewellknown, and “our goal is to have a product that supports every single trip purpose you have. We really think about our customers not just based on who they are but their trip purpose.”

An example of this personalized experience is Marriott’spartnershipwithNCAA and travel. The diversity of the NCAA through sports, alumna, students, and fans creates an opportunity to serve people from global backgrounds.

“We service our world and provide a personalized approach with partners like the NCAAthat align with the world,”

he says. “The excitement and anticipation that comes with sports allow us to be creative and innovate through our Marriott Bonvoy program.”

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Engaging Marriott on a global level, Robinson has an enlightened perspective on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Spending the appropriate time “understanding who people trulyare,andmeetingpeople wherethey are whilehaving the ability to do business or build a relationship in their environment is essential in DEI,” adds Robinson. The world has changed, and business travelers and guests present themselves in many ways. Robinson points out that “in its simplestform,ouremployee base needs to look like our customer base.”

Believing in the continuous efforts of Marriott’s diversity focus, Deborah Lee heads the social impact and inclusion committee.

“Bridging the Gap is Marriott’s financial contribution pledge of 50M to help women and minoritygroupsbecomehotel ownersbyleadingthemthrough

that process,” he says. On the campus of Howard University, the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership is “establishing innovative, and practical learning opportunities to expand the pipeline of highly qualified students to lead hospitality companies.”

Grooming Future Executives for Success

Robinson believes the confidence to show up as yourself is paramount for any future leader. “There is no reason to be someone that you are not,” he says. “Even if you are successful in trying to be someoneyouarenot,ultimately you will not be.”

Building networks and coalitions are essential to all of our success and continues as we reach higher levels. In Robinson’s view, “success is not an individual thing, and you will need people to help you be successful.”

“People have to believe what you are saying and believe that you are committed to what you are saying,” he says.

https://www.blackenterprise. com/marriott-cmo-juliusrobinson-is-ushering-in-a-newtravel-experience/

Image credit: Julius Robinson, BusinessTraveller

As the number of tourists interested in visiting Antarctica continues to increase, Cape Town is positioning itself as the ideal location to visit before venturing to the continent. As a result, Cape Town could potentially become a hub forAntarctica tourism. Cape Town’s Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis, shared on Twitter that the initiative would provide opportunities for local businesses and create jobs in the hospitality industry.

To promote CapeTown as the premier gateway to Antarctica, Hill-Lewis launched the Gateway To Antarctica campaign in February. He recently embarked on a day trip from South Africa to the remotecontinent.ThedirectflightfromCapeTown to the Wolf’s Fang runway in Queen Maud Land takes five hours. It crosses the Southern Ocean during the 24-hour Antarctic daytime. The flight typically operates during the Antarctic summer season, which runs from November to March.

This positioning places Cape Town in a prime economicpositiontoreapthebenefitsofbeingan Antarctic gateway city.

Sustainable Tourism InAntarctica

Antarctica tourism is expected to increase due to a growing interest among travelers in remote and untouched destinations. However, concerns about the impact of tourism on the fragile ecosystem ofAntarctica have also been raised.

CapeTown WantstoBecome theWorld’s MainGateway toAntarctica Tourism

By Brunno Braga

Researchers at bases operated by multiple countries, including South Africa, benefit from sharedflightswithtourists.Thishelpsto minimize environmental impact and meet logistical needs.

“We want more people to choose our city as their preferred gateway to reach international scientific bases or to experience the continent’s unique sustainable tourism offerings,” Hill-Lewis said at a press conference. “We are launching a new destination marketing campaign with a clear message – Cape Town is the best place to come before you head way down South.”

According to the mayor, “Sustainable tourism holdsnot onlyeconomicandjobcreation benefits for our city as a gateway but also enhances the viability of scientific research on the continent.” Cape Town is one of five cities on the Southern Ocean’s rim that nearly all supplies and people traveling to or fromAntarctica must pass through, along with Punta Arenas, Chile; Ushuaia, Argentina; Hobart, Australia; and Christchurch, New Zealand, are the westernmost and easternmost cities, respectively.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/ voices/next-five-years-future-hospitality-industrytrends-you-need-to-know/

Sinai Trail - Egypt’s 1st Long Distance Hiking Trail

The Sinai Trail is Egypt’s 1st long distance hiking trail. It launched in 2015 as a 220km route, taking 12 days to complete, and involving three Bedouin tribes. The original trail ran from the Gulf of Aqaba to the top of Jebel Katherina – Egypt’s highest mountain – and was completed by hundreds of hikers from Egypt and around the world. It was voted the best new tourism project in the world at the BGTWTourism Awards in 2016. Later, in 2017, Wanderlust and Outdoors magazines both ranked it one of the world’s best new trails. The trail was successful, but the Bedouin behind it did not want to stop. They wanted to continue developing the trail it until it showed as much of the Sinai as possible and created opportunities for all its tribes.

Following two more years of work – and thousands of kilometres of exploration on foot – the three tribes who began the trail worked with other, new tribes toextend the route. Today, it is a 550km trail, taking 54 days to complete, involving eight tribes.

Today, eight Bedouin tribes work on the Sinai Trail: these tribes are the Tarabin, Muzeina, Jebeleya, Awlad Said, Gararsha, Sowalha, Hamada andAlegat.

https://sinaitrail.net/ Image credit: sinaitrail.net, wanderlustofdill.com

Distance:340miles

TimetoTackle:50days

Termini:Serabitel-Khadim(west)andRasShaitan (east)

This African Hidden Gem Should Be On Your Bucket

By Brunno Braga

One African hidden gem that should be on everyone’s bucket list is Mozambique. Located in the southeast of Africa, Mozambique is not as popular with tourists as South Africa and Tanzania. However, this Southern African country has beautiful beaches and a wide range of wildlife.

Mozambique’s Own Hidden Gem

Mozambique is the perfect place to visit if you want to see more of the continent. It also comes with its own hidden gem: The Bazaruto Archipelago. The Bazaruto Archipelago, a group of islands in the water off the coast of Inhambane Province, is a great way to enjoy your stay in this African hidden gem. Paradise Island (aka Santa Carolina) isthemostwell-knownoftheseislands.

The archipelago offers islands with unspoiled beaches, clear waters and an abundant marine life. Divers and snorkelers often visit the archipelago because the seas around the islands are full of fish, coral and more.

This African hidden gem is wellknown for its high-end resorts. It is also home to some of the most beautiful sunsets in all of Mozambique. The Bazaruto Archipelago is a traveler’s paradise. It’s a great place to get away from the business of everyday life. There are many things to do from snorkeling in crystalclear waters to exploring untouched beaches. There is something for every person in the family to enjoy.

Benguerra Island

OneofthemoststunningislandsintheBazaruto Archipelago is Benguerra Island. It is located insideanationalmarinereserveintheclearIndian Ocean.

Scuba divers looking to spot humpback whales, dolphins,dugongs, mantarays and flamingos are in the perfect place. When planning a trip to the area from July to October, travelers can easily

reachtheislandbyplane. The Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies

(BCSS) is a non-profit, solar-powered ocean observatory that accepts visitors.

The exquisite island cabins on Benguerra are an essential part of the environmental philosophy. This area maintains and preserves the island environments. That helps the lush forests, grasslands,

marshes, freshwater lakes and enormous dunes. Several endangered marine species also are benefiting from the dedication to protecting the island.

Santa Carolina Island

Santa Carolina is a small island between Mozambique’s mainland and Bazaruto Island. It is different from other islands because it is made entirely of rock. Its waterways are very deep.TherearecoralreefsrightoffthreeofSanta Carolina’s beaches.

Magaruque Island

Magaruque Island also is part of the Bazaruto Archipelago and is surrounded by crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors also can explore the island’s sandy beaches and hike through its nature trails.

Magaruque Island

The island provides an unlimited supply of fish, so fresh seafood is always available. Prepared in the Mozambican and Portuguese styles, fresh seafood can be found on the menus of many restaurant, which pay homage to the region’s natural beauty.

The island also has a permanent deep water channel that makes snorkeling a breeze. Since Magaruque Island is only a 20-minute boat ride away from Big Blue. It’s the perfect day trip destination for families with young children. It’s a great place to witness local fishermen living in

harmony with the environment, and the island itself is stunning.

https://travelnoire.com/this-african-hidden-gemshould-be-on-your-bucket-list

https://www.facebook.com/people/MozambiqueHorse-Safari-Benguerra-Island/100067606121090/ Imagecredit:JacquiShanno,islandferries.co.za, bigbluevilankulo.com

@ Paul RetzlaffAfrican Parks

Juanita Ingram Builds Purpose into Travel with Focus on Representation

By Mia Nicole

For the past 18 years, Juanita Ingram and herfamilyhaveembracedlivingabroadand alltheculturalandpersonalgrowthbenefits that come along with it.

The Tennessee native first moved to London following her husband’s job promotion in 2011, followed by Taiwan and their current home in Singapore. “Singapore is such a melting pot and it’s like London; everybody is here. It’s so refreshingbeinghereandbeingAfricanAmerican because nobody cares.”

With a true passion for travel and experiencing life through diverse cultures, Ingram is about exposing others, especiallyAfricanAmericans, to a global lifestyle while providing tips, information andresourcestohelpnavigatethroughchallenges and opportunities that come along with doing so.

Receiving a New Vision

Before there were planes and trains to exciting international destinations, foods with distinct flavors and cultural norms outside her own, Ingram was a successful corporate attorney, having earned herlaw degree fromtheUniversity of Memphis and previously a bachelor’s in accounting fromTennessee State University.

Being a lawyer was all Ingram imagined herself to be, and she worked hard to bring that vision to pass. However, a seed was planted early in her marriage when she and her husband decided to go to Italy for their honeymoon, both leaving the United States for the first time.

“When we got married, we had an option of where we wanted to go on our honeymoon. And we were looking at Florida or Punta Cana…And I remember feeling in my spirit, ‘I think God is going to have us have an international life.’ I had noreasontothinkthat.Neitheroneofushadever

left the country. So I told my husband, ‘I think we needtogoaboard.IthinkGodisgoingtoprepare us to have an international life. So we went to

▲Juanita Ingram and friends taking a raw vegan cooking class inTaiwan

 Juanita Ingram and her family

Romefor our honeymoon.Theneveryyear after that, committed to taking one international trip,” says Ingram, who is also a travel show host.

Herintuitionprovedcorrect,withherhusband’s jobofferingtheopportunitytopermanentlyleave theU.S. Ingramalsodecidedtoleaveherpractice as an attorney. She said her family thought she hadlosthermindleavingsuchalucrativecareer, but Ingram knew God was preparing her family for something bigger.

However, once in London, Ingram says, “I had anidentitycrisisbecausemyentireexistencehad been wanting to be an attorney.” She says she began to reach back and explore parts of her life

that took a backseat to law, such as writing and participating in pageants.

Taking the time to embrace a new vision for her life, Ingram celebrates this part of her journey, using it to inspire others looking to create successful lives for themselves by expanding her platform and work with the global organization Dress for Success, which she first started working with in 2008. She is the founder of the Tennessee and Greater London affiliates and shares that she is the only woman in history to own two affiliates.

Ingram’s new vision also included revisiting her pageant days. Prior to moving abroad, she was the first Black woman to compete and win the title of Mrs. Indiana in 2007. Continuing to wear her crowns, she captured the title of Mrs. Great Britain World in 2011, Mrs. U.K. Universe in 2013, Mrs. UK International in 2014, and last year in 2022, the world saw the Singapore-based entrepreneur be crowned as Mrs. Universe.

Duringhercollegiateandlawschoolyears, Ingram —a member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority —often battled digestive issues and eventuallystoppedeatingpork. Sheswitched to a vegetarian diet before eventually going plant-based, and today says she is always striving to make healthy choices.

She shares, “For those of us who are dealing with health issues, look at the possibility.Lookatthingsinahealthyway,in a tasty way. Start having a relationship with food. Have a positive or new relationship. I tellpeopleallthetimeIdon’teatjusttoeat.When I do, I engage with food as opposed to just eating it.”

However, being intentional does not mean limiting yourself, especially when surrounded by amazing culinary experiences. One of the things Ingram is passionate about is experiencing foods in a different culture in a way that you can taste similarities and differences in products. This also includes drinks and condiments you get used to in your home country. “You have to explore other cuisines and opportunities, and to each its own. But before you decide to live abroad, you must

to page 36

Expat Living - from page 35

navigate different cuisines. You just can’t eat at McDonald’s,” says the mother of two.

Whenaskedwhatcountrymakeshertastebuds singthemost,withouthesitation,shesaysTaiwan duetoampleveganoptions.Atthetopofthelistis UncleQ’s,avegansoulfoodspotinTaipeiopened by professional basketball player Quincy Davis.

Foodisdefinitelyafamilyaffair,withbothherson and daughter having the benefit of experiencing diverse and authentic cuisines all their lives and herhusband—anAlabamanativewithastomach of steel — likes to get just as adventurous as Ingram herself.

“My husband has eaten more interesting things than I have. One time he ate bird’s nest soup. Neitherofusknewwhatitwas.Itisbird’sspit.Had heknownitwasmadeofbirdphlegmregurgitated into a nest, he probably wouldn’t have eaten it. But my husband enjoyed it. They say it is found on one side of a particular mountain in Malaysia and can only be harvested one time a year. [It is] supposed to be extremely good for you and help you live a long time. Apparently costs $800 [US] a bowl.”

Representation Through Travel

Livingabroadmaynotbeforeveryfamily.Still,for familieswhowanttogiveitashot,Ingramcreated the perfect show, “The Expats – International Ingrams Smart Reality Docuseries,” now in its second season.

“Icreatedashowtoshowcasehowyounavigate through change, whether it be through culture, through food through experiences, so that we would know we have options,” Ingram shares.

“I was already an entertainment lawyer, and I had some clients who were in the reality space doing their deals and being on set with them. I thought there was a need and a niche that wasn’t fulfilled for family-friendly, positive content for Black-ledcast,”shesaysregardingtheinspiration for the show.

Traveling the world is not something new to Black people, but expat living is for most and watching a loving, funny and successful African American family as they travel the world and experience opportunities is a show that the world needs to see.

And others agree with one viewer writing, “The entire Ingram family is fun to watch and relatable. Iloveseeingeachoftheirownpersonalitiesshine through. But what I liked the most is seeing how thisAllAmericanfamilykeepsitrealandhowthey handle and deal with real life situations.”

Ingram stresses that the show is about both representation and helping others navigate through unfamiliar situations while living the life they want for themselves. Most importantly, not letting anyone tell you what you can or can not do. You have options. You have possibilities and opportunities.

“People will put a box around you and dare you tostepoutsideofitandputalidonitanddareyou to pop it off. And be [mad] with you for stepping into what they consider their lane.”

Her reply to such a reaction is to do what feels right and, most importantly, listen to the spirit within and just go it.

Follow Juanita Ingram on Instagram, Facebook andonTwitterformoreIngramfamilyadventures, speaking engagements and more.

https://www.cuisinenoirmag.com/juanita-ingraminternational-ingrams/

Image credit: Purpose Production Inc., Brienda Yin, Stephanie Bobault

Juanita Ingram in Paris

Heritage Travel

HUSTLE & FLOW #45: A Newsletter

From Marie Lora-Mungai

BeforeIrollouttherestofthisnewsletter,let usbidfarewelltoCalypsosinger,actorand civil rights activist Harry Belafonte, who died on April 25 at 96 years old. In the 1960s, Belafonte used his wealth and fame to bring American attention to the apartheid regime in South Africa, playing a crucial role in promoting thecareersoftheSouthAfricanmusiciansMiriam Makeba and Hugh

Masekela.

OffwegoforHUSTLE&FLOW#45:HERITAGE

Africa's stolen artifacts are slowly making their way back to the continent. And that's a great opportunity for some countries' tourism industry. Today, the majority of African artifacts in museums are held outsideAfrica. The most wellknown of these artifacts are the Benin Bronzes, which were looted from Nigeria's Benin City by Britishsoldiersin1897.Tolearnmoreaboutthis,I recommendreading Barnaby Philipps' great book 'Loot'.

Now, 88 years after Nigerian traditional ruler Oba Akenzua II championed the cause in 1935, formercolonialpowersarefinallyheedingthecall for restitution.

 Last year, the United States, United Kingdom and Germany transferred the ownership of about 121 Benin artifacts to Nigeria.

 In the nearby Republic of Benin, 26 artifacts looted by France’s colonial troops were returned in November 2021.

 The impact of the restitution movement is not only important from an ethical, historical and cultural perspective - it also presents potentially huge economic benefits forAfrican countries.

 In parallel to the transfers, Nigeria and Benin have negotiated capacity building support from the returning countries to train local staff in museum management and conservation.

 The return of the artworks is also attracting substantial investment in the countries'

heritage and tourism infrastructure.

 In Nigeria, Edo state is building a cultural district in Benin City, which will eventually include the Edo Royal Royal Museum, the Edo Museum of WestAfricanArts (EMOWAA), a research and educational facility, and a mall.

The project is part of Edo state's tourism master plan, which sets the road map for the development of a tourism corridor connecting 72 different tourism sites including a wildlife park as well as cultural and natural sites. The Edo government is targeting $4.3 billion of tourism revenue in the next 10 years.

 Meanwhile, the Republic of Benin has announced the creation of the Museum of the Epic of theAmazonsand Kings of Dahomey inAbomey.The project includes the rehabilitation of four royal palaces that attracted $38 million in financing fromAgence Française de Développement. Last year, a free exhibition in Cotonou of the returned artifacts attracted more than 200,000 visitors.

And this is just the beginning. An estimated 500,000Africanartifactsarestillheldbymuseums and institutions in Europe alone.

Read the complete Newsletter here: https://www. linkedin.com/pulse/hustle-flow-45-netflixs-175mafrica-investment-go-nfl-lora-mungai/

Image credit: answersafrica.com

Ganvie: The Floating Village of the Benin Republic

From #UnitedStatesofAfrica

GanvieisauniquevillagelocatedintheWest African country of Benin. What makes it so unique is that it is situated entirely on water. Often referred to as the “Venice of Africa,” Ganvieishometo around 20,000peopleand has a long history dating back to the 16th century.

Ganvie was founded by the Tofinu people who were looking to escape the slave trade that was rampant in the region at the time. Legend has it that the Tofinu people were inspired to build their village on the water after seeing a vision of a serpent that instructed them to settle in a lake. This is why the village is sometimes called “the village on stilts.”

The village is situated near Cotonou on Lake Nokoué, which is the largest lake in Benin. The Tofinu people constructed their homes and businesses on stilts that rise above the water, creating a network of canals that serve as the village’smaintransportationsystem.Thevillagers use canoes to navigate around the village, and visitors can take boat tours to explore the waterways.

Despiteitsunusuallocation,Ganvieisathriving community with its own schools, markets, and places of worship. The people of Ganvie rely heavily on fishing for theirlivelihood, and many of the homes in the village have fish farms beneath them. The villagers also cultivate crops such as maize, cassava, and vegetables on small plots of land.

Tourism is a significant industry in Ganvie, with visitors coming from all over the world to experience the unique lifestyle of the village. However, the village’s popularity has also led to some challenges, such as overcrowding and pollution of the lake. Efforts are being made to

address these issues, such as the construction of a waste regulations on boat traffic in the village.

ForthosewhoyettovisitBeninthereisnodoubtthat,Ganvie village that offers a glimpse into a way of life that is unlike and location on the water make it a must-see destination

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php

Image credit: globalgaz.com,

waste management system and Ganvieisafascinatingandvibrant unlike any other. Its history, culture, destination for anyone visiting Benin https://www.facebook.com/profile.php globalgaz.com, africageographic.com, Flickr

Travel Tips

Travel Hacker Kemoy Martin Shares His Top Tips

By Ayah A.

Travelhackingisalltheragethesedayswith travelers across social media and beyond singing its praises. You may, for example, have seen your favorite travel hacker or content creatorbragaboutbookingabusiness-classflight for under $400, or post about scoring a five-star hotelstayfor lessthan $50 anight. But,notmany share the details of how they got such a deal.

Well,today,KemoyMartinisdoingjustthat.Travel Noire spoke to the travel hacker, entrepreneur and influencer about how he maximizes rewards and points to redeem for incredible luxury experiences. From flying first class and gaining accesstoexclusiveairportloungestopayingnext to nothing for a luxury stay or room upgrades, the benefits are numerous. Here, he drops some of his top travel hacking gems.

Who is Kemoy Martin?

Born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in Brooklyn,NY,MartinnowresidesinMiami,FL.He begantravelingin2012anddefinestravelhacking as “the art of earning free flights, hotel stays and car rentals by using travel rewards credit cards.” Hehasvisited63countries,andformanyofthese destinations, he was able to upgrade his trip.

“FormymostrecentbirthdaythispastSeptember, I traveled to four countries in Europe (Hungary,

Malta, Luxemburg and France),” he said. “I spent the majorityof thetripinfive-star hotels with suite upgrades for free.”

“On the American Express travel portal, they hadaHiltonpromotion.Withthembeingatransfer partner, cardholders were able to get 2,600 Hilton Honors points for every 1,000Amex points transferred. You get the most bang for your buck by transferring points to airline partners rather thanhotelpartners.But,itwasagooddealandfit my needs for this trip.”

Some of Martin’s favorite websites to use to aid him in making the most of his reward points are www.awardhacker.com, which helps users find reward travel, and www.awardwallet.com, a site where users can track points and miles.

When it comes to rewards credit cards, he is a fan of American Express’ Gold and Platinum cards,theChaseSapphirePreferred, and theBilt Mastercard.

Sign up for airlines’frequent flyer program

“To earn miles with your desired airline, you will first have to sign up for their frequent flyer

program. It is free and relatively easy to sign up as a member of a frequent flyer program. To sign up, go to your airline’s website and navigate to thefrequentflyermilessection.Youcanthenclick on the sign up option and follow the instructions provided to get your account set up.”

Have a strong card opening strategy

“Thiswillbecrucialtohelpingyouaccumulatelots of travel reward points. Overall, sign-up bonuses will form the bulk of your accumulated miles. Chase is one of the biggest credit card providers in the country with the best sign-up bonuses, and you need to ensure that your application for a credit card with Chase will be accepted.”

“You will have to keep track of the number of credit cards you have applied for within the past 24 months. Chase will immediately reject your

application if you have been approved for more than five personal credit cards across all credit card companies over the past 24 months. I would strongly encourage you to apply for a Chase Sapphire Preferred card as well as a Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card for your first few cards.”

Look for travel cards with big sign-up bonuses

“Witheachsign-upofacredit card, youcanexpecta sign-up bonus of about 50,000 points. This translates to between $500 to $1,000 in terms of travel value. However, if you are able to redeem the points during certain promotional periods, you may even get up to$2,000oftravelvaluefroma single sign-up.”

Transfer points to airlines or hotel partners

“The best way to use points istotransferthemtoairlinesor hotel partners. A big mistake people make with their points is only booking travel directly fromthecreditcardcompany’s travelportal.You’lloftengetmorevaluetransferring points instead of using the portal.”

Use a spreadsheet to stay organized

“Organization is key in all this so I would recommend using a spreadsheet. Here are a few thingstokeeptrackofthecreditcardnumberand type of cards you have opened, credit score to ensurethatitstayshealthyandthatyou’realways in a position to apply for new cards, how many miles you have accumulated and when these miles expire, [and] the annual fees that you have to pay on your credit cards to ensure that you are not paying late fees or other unnecessary charges.”

https://travelnoire.com/travel-hacker-kemoymartin-shares-his-top-tips

Image credits: Kemoy Martin

NYC Students Travel to Senegal to Find Their Ancestral Roots

By Jasmine Osby

ImaginegrowingupBlackinAmericaandbeing able to visit Africa before you turn 18 years old. A group of students from New York City were able to have this magical experience that transformed their lives.

Throughtheschool’sGlobalCitizensProgram, students from the Bronx Preparatory High School were able to spend one week in Senegal, West Africa. The all-expense paid experience was designed to help mold the students into future leaders.

Less than 20 students were selected to attend the immersive expedition. The competitive selection process had over 400 applicants. After returning home, students described their time in Senegal as “life-changing” and impactful.

“They’remuchmoreappreciativeoftheirschool, of being in the Bronx, of their own families,” Principal Cassius Gil told News 12 The Bronx. Their time was spent engulfed in Senegalese culture; experiencing the language, food, and aura of the locals that live there. For many of them, it was their first time leaving the country. One student, Fouday Singhateh, described the trip as a homecoming and his first chance to visit the country where his ancestors were from.

“MybackgroundisSenegalese,andIneverhad

a moment to go toAfrica for the first time,” he said.

The students from the high-performing charter school visited numerous attractions, sites, and landmarks while in the WestAfrican country. One of the most transformative moments during the trip wastracingslaverootsonGoreeIsland.At the Door Of No Return in Dakar, students were able to walk the same path many slaves walked before watchingAfrica fade away into the horizon forever.

“Theygot toaplace called Goree Island, which is traditionally a launching point for slave ships that have then traveled west, andthat’salwaysapoignantandemotional part of the trip for them,” Gil said.

CEO of Democracy Prep Public Schools, NatashaTrivers,fullysupportstheschool’sGlobal Citizens Program. She believes that it’s difficult to convince future leaders they can change the world when they haven’t seen it.

“All young people, but especially those from historically underserved communities, should travel internationally because the world is literally theirs,” she said. “They need to sit in their power and know that they belong in any arena in any country they might find themselves in. They also need to connect with people from different countries,ethnicities,andculturalbackgroundsso they can learn about these differences and show deep respect for these communities but also get grounded in our shared humanity.”

The students’ trip to Senegal will not be their last. The school is sending them to Maine this summer and overseas again in 2024.

“Test scores are great, strong discipline is great butwhatareyoudoingtofeedthewholechildand I think travel is a huge part of that,” George says.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/nycstudents-travel-to-senegal-to-find-their-ancestralroots/ar-AA1arIVT

Imagecredit:oo.ma

Door of no Return is Here

Black Hair Care Tips for Black Women Travelers

By Black Travelers International • Feb 08, 2023

As black women our hair is extremely important to us. Our hair says much about who we are, what we believe in, how we feel,andhowweseetheworldandourselvesinit. We were taught as children that our hair makes a statement and should be groomed appropriately. Whentravelingtonewcountrieswewanttomake sure that our hair is well maintained whether it’s permed,natural,longorshort. Asablackwoman traveler we are concerned with some of the following:

Hair Concerns

► How do I maintain my hair while traveling?

► What should I take with me while traveling?

► Will I be able to find my favorite products while traveling for extended periods? For some, the question is an easy answer. However, for some, we may be concerned with humidity, rain and other weather conditions that mayaffectourhair. Wearealsoconcernedabout activities and the impact of those activities on our crowning glory.

► Should I take the all-day boat excursion to an island?

► Should I go swimming?

► Should I participate in the mud bath and if so, how do I protect my hair?

Belowaresomeoption/selectionformaintaining your “do” while traveling:

Wear a Protective Style

Wearing protective styles such as braids,

crochets, and other similar styles require little to no maintenance when traveling. The versatility of these styles will allow you to wear them loose during theday and then wear them up at night for a night on the town. Some braid sheen or oil can be used to keep your braids and scalp fresh and nourished.

Take a Hat, Hair Wrap, or Wig for Bad Hair Days

Leave the hot iron, combs, etc. at home. Bring a hair wrap, hat, or wig as the climate may cause your hair to frizz or become unruly.

Bring a Satin Pillowcase and Scarf

Bring a satin pillowcase and/or scarf to protect your hair at night.

Invest in Travel Size Bottles ofYour Favorite Products

If you are unable to find travel size hair care products, you can find travel size bottles and fill them with your favorite products.

https://www.blacktravelersint.com/black-haircare-tips-for-black-women-travelers

Image credits: Byrdie

Wangari Maathai’s Daughter Wanjira wins Sh13.5 Billion to Restore Forests, Lakes

By Leon Lidigu

Wanjira Maathai, daughter of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Wangari Maathai, will spearhead a new restoration projectinthecountryandregion after the World Resources Institute (WRI), where she is the managing director of Africa and Global Partnerships, won US$100 million (about Sh13.5 billion).

This comes after TED, a nonprofit organisation that aims to create a future worth pursuing for all through the Audacious Project launched in 2018, announced during TED2023 in

Vancouver, Canada, that WRI’s Restore Local project has won US$100 million over four years to accelerate locally-led land restoration in three African landscapes, namely the Lake Kivuand Rusizi River Basin, Ghana’s Cocoa Belt and Kenya’s Greater Rift Valley

“I am honoured that Restore Local has been selected for

catalytic funding through The Audacious Project, which is a clear signal of confidence in locally-led action,” said Ms Maathai.

Protect Communities

“Restorationisoneofthemost powerful investments we can make on the planet, because restoring degraded land can simultaneously mitigate climate

Lake Kivu, Rwanda

changeandprotectcommunities from its worst impacts. It can also restore land productivity, create jobs and improve family incomes.”

100 million hectares of degraded land

According to Ms Maathai, WRI aims to change this by accelerating the AFR100 movement, an initiative to

Wanjira Maathai, daughter of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Wangari Maathai, willspearhead a new restoration project in the country and region after the World Resources Institute (WRI), where she is the managing director ofAfrica and Global Partnerships, won US$100 million (about Sh13.5 billion)

restore 100 million hectares of degradedlandinAfricaby2030.

“Butthemillionsofsmallholder farmers who will drive this movement need the support of governments, development banks, investors, NGOs and others to fully engage in restorationandreapitsbenefits,” Ms Maathai stressed, recalling that creating a continental restoration movement requires capacity building, more funding, supportive policies and monitoring progress.

Ms Maathai’s mother, Prof Wangari Maathai, was the founder of the Green Belt

Movement, which encouraged the planting of trees in local environments.Itwasresponsible for more than 30 million trees being planted in Africa. She won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace.

https://nation.africa/kenya/news/ wangari-maathai-s-daughtersh13-5-billion-restore-forestslakes-4203888

Imagecredit:minervapath. blogspot.com,primenewsghana. com,alexanderdeering.blogspot. com,NanyangTechnological University

Cocoa Belt, Ghana

Rift Valley,Kenya

Wangari Maathai Foundation Awards Million-shilling Prize to Climate Activists

By Lilys Njeru

The Wangari Maathai Foundation named two young climate activists as the recipient of its first Wangari Maathai legacy prize. The two climate activists from Tanzania and Nigeria were awarded $8,000 (Sh1.24 million) and $2,000 (Sh256,000) for demonstrating a commitmentto the valuesthat uphold the life and work of Wangari Maathai.

Hellena Sailas, the winner of the inaugural Legacy Prize, is the founder of Arena Recycling industry, a social enterprise that recycles plastic waste into eco-friendly building materials for the construction of affordable houses, toilets, and other buildings in rural areas.

Thefirstrunner-up,a23-year-oldclimateactivist who lives in Osun State, Nigeria, founded the ZeroPlasticStrawCommunity tosavethe Ocean

and the planet through behavioural change and environmental education.

The winners were announced during this year’s Wangari Maathai Day, which commemorates the life and legacy of Prof. Wangari Maathai, a Nobel laureate, environmentalist, and human rights activist who championed environmental conservation and social justice. In Kenya, the eventwasmarkedatKaruraforest,oneofWangari Maathai’s favourite places.

In her speech, 51-year-old Wanjira Maathai, daughter to Wangari Maathai and board member Wangari Maathai Foundation, spoke of her mother’s legacy and how she inspired people aroundtheworldtofightforahealthyenvironment.

“Mymotherwasalwaysaheadoftheworld.She understood how crucial it was, the fact that the

Wanjira Maathai, daughter to Wangari Maathai, gives a speech on Wangari Maathai day. This year’s celebration was marked at Karura Forest, Nairobi. pool

environment was the source of everything good. She used to say that the environment is our life support system and this has been manifested in her enduring legacy that continues to impact people across the globe,” she offers.

NjeriKabeberi,thePresidentandCEOWangari Maathai Foundation, emphasised the need to amplify Wangari’s ideals globally, so that each person can contribute towards a better world.

“Wangari wrote her story from an early age and continues to write it in our hearts. Her spirit of knowledge, understanding, courage, wisdom and compassionshehadfortheworldpropelledherto constant and perpetual action. Majority of people know Wangari as an environmentalist.They don’t know her as a human rights defender, peace makerandanadvocateofwomenempowerment. Going forward, wewill be awarding young people in the different categories that embodies her work,” she offers.

Elizabeth Wathuti, a Youth Climate Activist, spoke about the importance of reconnecting with natureandcultivatingempathyandrespectforthe environment. She also highlighted the planetary crisiswearefacing,includingdrought,biodiversity loss, and climate-related displacement, and called on individuals to take action to protect the environment.

In his speech, Norwegian Ambassador to

Kenya, Somalia, and Seychelles, and Permanent Representative to UNEP and UN-HABITAT, H.E Gunnar Andreas Holm, spoke about Wangari Maathai’scontributiontosustainabledevelopment, democracy, and peace, and emphasised the need for actors like the Green Belt Movement to strengthen actions for nature.

“Norway is a proud supporter of reducing emissions from deforestation globally and protecting tropical forests while improving livelihoods of those who live off, in, and near forests,” he says.

H.E. Arnaud Suquet, the Ambassador of FrancetoKenya,spokeaboutFrance’sdedication to addressing global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss and commitment to supporting countries in their efforts to protect forests and biodiversity. He also recognised Karuraforestasoneofthemostobviousexamples of Wangari Maathai’s green legacy.

The event also featured planting a tree in her memory. Karura Forest is a crucial biodiversity hotspot in Nairobi and is home to various wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies.

https://nation.africa/kenya/news/wangarimaathai-foundation-awards-million-shilling-prizeto-climate-activists-4154072

Image credit: kenyaholidays.travel

Karura Forest, Nairobi. World’s largest inner-city forest.

World’s Most Spectacular Sand Dunes You Should Have On Your Bucket List

By Brunno Braga

Have you ever tried visiting sand dunes? Sand dunes are a unique, natural phenomenon that offer a thrilling experience for those who love adventure and nature. The mesmerizing beauty of the undulating sand formations and the vast expanse of desert landscape make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking something different.

Someofthebestplacesforsand dunestourismincludetheSahara Desert in Morocco, Sossusvlei in Namibia, and the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado, USA. These destinations offer unique experiences and stunning landscapes for travelers to explore.

Travelerscanenjoyavarietyofactivitiessuchas camel riding, sandboarding, andstargazing inthe Sahara Desert and Sossusvlei. The Great Sand Dunes National Park offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and camping opportunities for visitors.

Travel Noire has prepared a list of the world’s most beautiful sand dunes for travel enthusiasts to explore and experience the unique beauty of thesenaturalwonders.TravelAfricaishighlighting thetwoAfricandestinations.Followthearticlelink to read about the other dune-scape destinations.

Sossusvlei Dunes, Namibia

ThesedunesarelocatedintheNamibDesertand are known for their towering red sand dunes that riseover1,000feettall.Thedunesarebelievedto be the oldest in the world, with some dating back over 5 million years. The area is also home to a varietyofuniquedesert-adaptedwildlife,including oryx and springbok. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to observe these animals in their natural habitat and learn about the conservation efforts

being made to protect them from extinction.

Erg Chebbi Dunes, Morocco

TheErgChebbiDunesinsoutheasternMorocco near Merzouga are stunning. These Sahara Desert dunes are known for their 500-foot-tall, 30-mile-long sand dunes. The wind shapes the fine-grained, golden sand dunes. Camel treks across the Erg Chebbi Dunes are popular with tourists.

The sunrise and sunset over the dunes are breathtaking, and visitors can ride camels through them. Many desert campsites let visitors experience the desert lifestyle. Many of these campsites have tents or cabins with comfortable beds and serve Moroccan food, music, and entertainment. Sandboarding, quad biking, and 4×4 desert tours complement camel trekking and camping.Nearbyvillages offerBerbercultureand handicrafts.

Morocco’sErgChebbiDunesofferauniqueand unforgettable desert experience.

https://travelnoire.com/worlds-most-spetacularsand-dunes

Image credit: GetYourGuide, istockphoto.com

Namib Desert

Namib Desert

Sahara Desert

This Zimbabwean Entrepreneur Created a Digital Platform to Teach African Languages

By Abu Mubarik

At the age of seven, Chido Dzinotyiwei moved to neighboring South Africa with her family. While inthe rainbow nation, she grewupspeakingEnglishandZulu,totheneglect of her native Shona language.

She recalls the times she traveled with her parents back to Zimbabwe to visit relatives and how she struggled to communicate in Shona, which is the dominant language in the Southern African country.

“When I was young, I could grasp English and isiZulu at school, but it became difficult to speak Shona when I went back home to visit because my vocabulary and accent were off. Fortunately, I had old Shona books and started reading and reminding myself of the language. Before I knew it, I was fluent in my home language again,” she told City Press.

According to Dzinotyiwei, her inability to communicateinhernativelanguagefrustratedher asshefeltshewaslosingapartofheridentityand culture. Aside from her, she later discovered that there are so many people like her dotted across

Africa who cannot speak their local languages due to urbanization and emigration.

In the case of Zimbabwe, she notes that economic upheavals since 1990 have compelled manyZimbabweanstopourintoSouthAfricaand further abroad in search of greener pastures.

This means that several Zimbabweans and other nationals have not had the chance to becomeproficientinthelanguageoftheirparent’s birthplace.

HerfrustrationoverherinabilitytospeakShona led Dzinotyiwei and fellow Zimbabwean, Dorcas Kwaramba, to launch Vambo Academy. The platform is an educational technology (EdTech) platform that uses digital resources to offer language learning, translation, and knowledge services. Vambo teaches indigenous languages online and offers a dictionary, blog posts, and podcasts on cultural topics.

So far, the platform offers 10 languages spoken in South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland,aswellastwoofZimbabwe’smost dominantlanguages, Shona and Ndebele. For now, the platform is web-based.

Vambo offers unique features that leading language teaching platforms do not have, like face-to-face tutorials with a human teacher, instead of a robot.

“It’s not just automated. You can actually sit [virtually] with a local, book a session, and speak aboutnuancesaroundthelanguageorsomething you want to learn,” Dzinotyiwei told La Prensa Latina.

However, the founders are working around the clock to develop an app that will mimic language teaching platforms like Duolingo, Memrise, and Babbel.

Currently, Vambo’s main market is in South Africa, but Dzinotyiwei and her team hope to expand it to include more languages across the continent ofAfrica.

Since launching Vambo, the platform has offered650lessons.Itoffersone-on-oneorgroup sessions with a fee of $10 per lesson for 45 minutes.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/ this-zimbabwean-entrepreneur-created-adigital-platform-to-teach-african-languages/arAA19AWpt

https://www.facebook.com/VamboAcademy/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/ vamboacademy/ Image credit: VamboAcademy, LinkedIn

Explore the very best of both Senegal and The Gambia in the this one-of-a-kind eight day excursion. Senegambia awaits!

Meet us on Zoom - May 15, 2023, at 8PM EST, to discuss what it’s like to be in Senegambia.

Your NextTrip Is Here

Join us in Senegal &The Gambia

Seven Stunning Island Hotels Opening Around the World in 2023 - Focus on The Seychelles

By Lebawit Lily Girma

The Seychelles is, by definition, secluded. But its newest resort, the $100 million WaldorfAstoria, is a true castaway fantasy. In fairness, getting there only means taking an extra 20-minute flight from the main island of Mahé.Andyetthelogisticsofbeingonanoutlying islandoftheSeychellesmakesthishotel’screation a rare feat; parent company Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc.got lucky by acquiring anisland that came with its own airstrip. When it’s completed later this year, it will have 50 seafront villas set amid a vibrant landscape of palm forest, lagoon and coral reefs that are home to hawksbill turtles and eagle rays. Each will enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to a private pool, plus a dedicated concierge. Bonus: The resort has its

own solar field for sustainable power, and an onsite garden will help supply fruits and vegetables to the six restaurants scattered across the island. Opening in the fourth quarter of 2023.

The opening of Waldorf Astoria Seychelles PlatteIslandwilltakeHilton’sSeychellesportfolio to five hotels as it further expands its footprint in the destination, joining MangoHouseSeychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Seychelles NortholmeResort&Spa,HiltonSeychellesLabriz Resort&SpaandDoubleTreebyHiltonSeychelles -Allamanda Resort and Spa. Hilton also expects to open Canopy by Hilton Mahé soon.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/202303-10/7-stunning-island-hotels-around-the-worldopening-in-2023

Chefs In Africa

From Conde Nast Traveler, Chefs-In-Africa

Chef Dieuveil Malonga says “My culinary identity is Afro-Fusion. And Africa is the garden of the world.” The Congolese restaurateur behind Meza Malonga in Kigali, Rwanda, which showcases ingreditents like njangsaseedsfrom Cameroomandcacaooilfrom Ghana,cuthisteethinsomeofGermany’s leading kitchens. His Chefs-In-Africa project celebrates culinary talent across the continent and advocates for equitable recognition on the global stage, includingAfrica’s first Michilin Guide.

OnmyjourneytoEastandwesternAfricatopromote Afro-fusion (a mix of different cuisines that you can find in Africa. I’m talking about 54 countries) andsharemyloveforAfrica’srichcuisine,Iwas blown away by the desire of some young chefs, whose goal is to reinvent African cuisine. Enthusiastic, creative, determined, these culinaryartistshopeforonething:UniversalizeAfricanGastronomie.

Buttheirpathislitteredwithpitfalls, amidstlackofEquipments,new skills,social prejudices,African chefs are struggling to be known.

Thus the birth of Chefs-In-Africa,whose goal is to shed light on African Gastronomy. Thanks to this platform, young and talented chefs will be narrating their culinary Journey and philosophy and use this opportunity to boost their careers.

Chefs-In-Africawantstobethecrossroadtotheseenergeticyoung men and women, from Abidjan to Cape, Nairobi to Tokyo, pointe noire to New York, to portray Africa from a different perspective, boldly and Gastronomically.

Visit our site, peruse our topics, try our recepies, then join us for a meal or two.

Your “Afrovisionist”

Dieuveil

Malonga

http://chefsinafrica.fr/

Image credit: World’s 50 Best, roughoats.blogspot.com, Goway Travel, chefs-in-africa

Peppersoup

Dieuveil Malonga Tilapia Farm

Dar Rhizlane

Linda Mazibuko

Tilapia Farm

Chef Selassie Atadika, Culinary Tour of Accra

Chef Selassie Atadika is at the vanguard of the “New African cuisine” movement. After eating extensively across Africa, America and Europe, shestudied at the Culinary InstituteofAmericaandwentontoestablishTrio Toque, a modern African restaurant in Senegal. NowbasedinGhana,sheisadvancingtheAfrican food discussion via Midunu, a dining experience inspired by the food traditions of her homeland and other countries around the continent.

Welcome to Ghana

Ghana is a wonderful place. If you’ve never been to Africa, it’s a great place to start from. The weather’s great, but it could be hot for some people. It’s warm year-round and humid. There’s alotofgreatfoodandalotofgreatmusic.Ikindof feelthatanexamplewouldbeWestAfricainterms of flavours, sounds, colours and fashion. It’s all here.Thefoodculturehereisquitevibrantandhas changed in the last few years. Ghana used to be a place where you ate mostly at home.Adecade ago it was really just hotel restaurants, but today there are lots of places to go out and eat. There are the high-end international restaurants serving Japanese, Chinese, French and Italian food. We’vealsogotdininginthemiddlethat’smorefor theeverydaypersonandalotofinternationalfastfood chains have recently popped up, too. But to me, there’s room and a need for restaurants that are inspired byAfrican flavours and ingredients.

An Introduction To Ghanaian Street Food

Then there’s more of what I call the street food scene where you get certain dishes from certain people. A lot of these street food vendors have been run by the same families for years and years,sothey’reknownasthebestplacetogetX, YorZ.Soitreallydependsonwhatyou’relooking for. But the international street food rule – where

you see a long queue, there’s where you go –still holds true.There are a few quintessential dishes. In the morning, you’ll get waakye which is like beanswithallthefixings,therearelotsofdifferent toppingsyoucanputontopit.Therearebreakfast foods like hausa koko, a millet-based porridge whichyoucangetinthemorningaroundtownthat is classically eaten with ground nuts or peanuts and sort of a local doughnut. In the afternoon you get the heavier foods, not so much street food, but what we call chop bars [a traditional eatery] whereyoujustgoand“chop”whichmeanseating inslang.Thisiswhereyoucan getsomethinglike fufu which is a pounded cassava and plantain sort of spice that goes with different foods. We also have something called kenkey which is a fermented corn dough that can usually be eaten with fresh fish.At night there’s kelewele which is fried,spiceplantainwithcayenneandginger.Iget myfavouriteonefromaplaceinaneighbourhood called Julua.

How To Support The Local EconomyAnd Environment

Try to eat what grows here. It’s not always

completely evident, but for example, try some of thelocaltubersinsteadofpotatochipsorapotato mash.There’salotofamazingandbeautifullocal fresh, tropical fruit. A lot of local beans. A lot of local greens. Some of the challenges that would be hard for people to know would be which is the local rice and which is the imported rice, but I think having a conversation with the people who arerunningtheestablishmentisastart.Trytoeat somethingdifferenttowhatyou’reusedtoandit’s mostlikely goingtobe alocal dishthat uses local ingredients.

Where To Enjoy Traditional Ghanaian Dishes

Most traditional Ghanaian dishes are best eaten at lunch time. There are a few Ghanaian restaurants in the low- to mid-range. Bukaserves Ghanaian and Nigerian dishes and has an outdoor space, but there’s also a space that is air-conditioned. It’s a good place to visit at lunch time. Azmera is another spot and has a massive buffet of different Ghanaian dishes. Again, I’d recommend visiting at lunch instead of dinner.

The Best Grilled Fish In Town

Au Grand Ecuyer is an Ivorian restaurant that does beautifully grilled, fresh fish. For me, it’s the best in town. It’s an outdoor spot with printed tablecloths. They grill your fish to order so it can take a while. I usually call ahead and ask them to grill it. By the time I arrive it’s almost ready. They also serve a really good steamed cassava dish which you can have with a beer or shandy.

Drinking With Friends

If industry friends are visiting, I would take them for a drink and snack at The Republic Bar & Grill. It usually has live music so it’s a great place to go in the evening. Both old and up-andcoming artists come through to play. It’s outdoors and full of energy. There’s a local gin made from sugar cane that’s used in the cocktails. I’d also take them for drinks at Front/Back, a member’s club with a lot of affiliated bartenders.They make classic cocktails and cocktails made using native ingredients.It’sbothanindoorandoutdoorspace; and the work of artists from around the continent is often exhibited.

AGreat Spot To Work

Cafe Kwye is just behind the Holiday Inn and is a great spot to hang and catch up on emails. It has a cafe-bistro feel and uses local ingredients

as much as possible. The owner supports a lot of local food entrepreneurs who are coming up with new products. There are wraps, sandwiches and salads on the menu. We do some of their desserts.

Two Other Local Dining Experiences

DineOnTheMatisapop-updiningexperience that I recommend. The chef is from Sierra Leone butisofFulanidescent,soshedoesalotofFulani dishes.ThechefatLaChaumiereisNorthAfrican and has some interesting and lovely French and NorthAfrican dishes on his menu.

Japanese Tasting Menus

Santoku is one of my favourite places. It is a high-end Japanese restaurant that does a la carte but it also offers a couple of tasting menus, including afantasticvegetarian one withamazing mushrooms. There’s a great cocktails menu. I love the atmosphere: the décor is nice and the service is great.

ACasual, Neighbourhood Restaurant

Bistro 22 is a quintessential neighbourhood restaurantwithalovelylittlegardeninthebackfor friends to meet for a drink. The menu has steak frites and things like that, but it isn’t only French food.Theyserveburgers;grilledfish;avegetarian curry; and a really nice braised octopus.At lunch time, there are salads and sandwiches, too.

My NewAfrican CuisineApproach

My restaurant Midunu serves what I call New African cuisine and brings to life the lessons I’ve learned living across Africa. It’s plant-forward and uses ancient grains like sorghum and millet; wild and foraged things; and nuts and seeds to supplement protein. I tend to use animal proteins more as a garnish and meat that’s better for the climate: goat, for example, instead of beef. Goats tend to be more free-range and are also low maintenance animals. We also use snails in our food: another traditional source of protein. Communal dining and shared plates are also very traditional in many parts of the continent, so we broughtsomeofthose lessons into what we do. It’s going beyond

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Profile - Chef’s View of Accra

Profile Accra - from page 57

contemporaryplatingandthinking:“howdowetake cuisine, community and culture and intersect that with environment, sustainability and economy?” Try to use more local ingredients and generate the economy instead of going for imported items. We have a quarterly nomadic dinner (communal dining) and a tasting menu every Thursday night. And for that we have our 12-course tasting menu whichlooksatsomeofthetubersandsomeofthe grainsthataremoretraditional.Thewinterseason is the drier part of the year where the winds are coming off the Sahara and brings a special menu with it. Different things are in season in different times of the year and we try to highlight those ingredientsandtellpeopleabouttheiruniqueness and the journey they’ve travelled. We’ve done a mostly Ghanaian tasting menu where the first course is a water course. Traditionally, when you arrive home, you are given a glass of water that, inthecoastalareas,isinfusedwithsmoke.That’s how we greet our guests at the beginning of the tasting menu. When we move on to a new menu we celebrate dishes, inspirations and flavours from around the continent.

An Edible Souvenir From Ghana

When visitors are heading out of the country, they should definitely pick up some of our handcrafted chocolate made using chocolate made in

Ghana. It’s great to actually buy the chocolate in Ghana, not just cocoa beans from Ghana. You can order our Midunu chocolates online and we willdeliverthemtoyourhotelthenextdayororder via http://midunu.com/our-chocolates for delivery to the USA.

https://thelocaltongue.com/a-chefs-guide-toaccra-ghana-selassie-atadika/ Image credit: http://midunu.com

JourneyBackToTheNileValley

KEMET STUDYTOUR

AUGUST 1-15, 2023

COST: $4,799.00

Let’sReturnToTheNileAnd ShareInTheDeepHistorical AfricanRe-Membering.

A15-day group learning experience to “the deep well” of knowledge with Dr. Greg Kimathi Carr & Dr. Mario Beatty.

“Far from being a self-indulgent fixation on the past, the examination of ancient Egypt is our wisest option if we intend to plan and create our cultural future.The heritage of Greek and Roman antiquity has had a decisive impact on Western culture. Just as profoundly, the heritage of ancient Egypt will help shape theAfrican culture we aspire to rethink and remake.” —CheikhAnta

Diop

FindAllTheDetailsHereDownloadtheTourBrochure

Sphinx

KEMET STUDY TOUR OVERVIEW

When: August 1-15, 2023

Where: NewYork to Cairo

Cost: $4,799 (From New York)

Hosts: Dr. Greg Carr & Dr. Mario Beatty

Highlight: 50 sites over two weeks

Deposit & payment: A deposit of $500.00 per person is required at the time of booking. Final payment must be made no later than June 1, 2023. Payments received after the deadline date will be subject to $50.00 administrative fee.

DESCRIPTION

The Kemet Study Tour seeks to bring us together from all walks of life to learn about and understand many of the truths embedded in the wisdom of ourAfrican ancestors in the Nile Valley and to self-consciously utilize what we know and have learned in order to live meaningful lives and to improve the life of our communities.

Over the course of two weeks, we will visit over 50 sites, including major pyramid complexes, temple complexes, tombs, museums, a major mosque,andaCopticChurch.Oneofthegreatest highlights of our tour occurs at the end where we visitaNubianvillageonElephantineIslandandwe

commune with the community and provide them with a collective voluntary donation of money and school supplies.

A significant part of the intellectual preparation for the tour has already begun on the Knubia platform through the teaching of the Medu Netcher language course by Mario Beatty. These language lessons are archived to view at your leisure and they will tremendously assist you in going to the Nile Valley as a deeply informed visitor. In addition to the language course, we will also provide participants with further detailed readings to support the study of various sites.

After the beginning of the new year in January 2023, we will provide periodic general orientation sessions for participants in order to provide more detailed experiences and advice on traveling to Egyptandtofieldanyquestionsthatmayhavenot been answered or addressed by Consolidated Tours Organization, Inc., the travel agent managing the details of the tour.

Itisourhopethatthisstudytourwillbeahistoric convening that both inspires and nourishes all of us from the “deep well” of the best of our African worldview and humanity.

Temple of RamessesMeryamun atAbu

Simbel annees-depelerinage.com

Sphinx and Pyramids deluxetoursegypt.

Women of Winter Inspires the Downhill Rush that Uplifts – and Diversifies

By Jodi Hausen

See Ski Africa on page 76

On a recent snowy weekday afternoon, Chris Walch shuffles her skis in a lift line at Big Sky Resort – she’s multitasking to the max. Founder of a high-tech business, she texts for work on her smartphone while, in her other role as the founder of Women of Winter (WoW), she’s guiding a group of women of color, likeher,upto ablackdiamond bowl at9,500feet.

She’s one of several snow-sports instructors trainingwomentopursueoutdooradventuresand become models for other women not significantly representedontheslopes.Today,she’sononeof severalrunswiththisgroupofBlack,Hispanic,and Asian women who’ve come here from around the country to train for a Professional Ski Instructors Association (PSIA) exam.

The course is meant to produce women ski instructors of color who can take teaching skills back to their local ski hills. For many, the class provides a sense of inclusion on the slopes they’ve rarely felt.

WoW instills a sense of belonging in the snowsports environment that has been “predominantly pale and male,” says Peggy Hiller, PSIA chief executive officer. “There’s a huge opportunity to grow our instructor base to represent our entire population, which includes women and people of color.”

Ms. Walch, who grew up in Hawaii, the child of anAustrian father and Filipino mother, learned to ski on theAustrian slopes in her 20s. She stayed in the Tyrol region to teach. With long, midnight black hair and brown skin, shestood out and was easily spotted on the mountain. And, as a new skier, this made her uncomfortable. She says

she was considered “exotic,” with students often requesting “the Hawaiian instructor.”

“I felt like I had a lot of eyes on me no matter what I did,” she says. “But I really wanted to ski, and if that’s the cost that came with it, that’s the cost that came with it ... [it’s] not the cost that I want anyone else to have to pay.”

ShefoundedWoWin2018whilealsoestablishing her own business, LifeScore, an award-winning artificial intelligence music-creation platform used for live-synchronized driving playlists in luxury vehiclesandtelevisionsoundtracks.WoWinitially started as an inspirational storytelling event in Bozeman, Montana.

Two years in, Ms. Walch says, the organization pivoted “from inspiration to action,” providing opportunities for women to participate in winter adventures with funding from local businesses and nonprofits, as well as sports-equipment companies like Rossignol. Since 2020, WoW has awardedmorethan100scholarshipstowomenof colortoattendeventsincludingprofessionalsnowsports instructor certification, avalanche safety, andperformance-enhancingmindfulnesstraining. Women participating in snow-sports instructor certification also receive a comprehensive gear package and lift tickets, making an expensive sport more accessible.

The 32 women who participated in the recent

‘▲ Chris Walch Hausen

‘◄ Valentina Codrington, snow-sports instructors.

WoW trainings arrived from across the country, and their sense of joy was palpable.

Valentina Codrington, a business analyst from Baltimore,worestylishfloweredskipantsandwas excitedly anticipating her instructor certification. She recalls once walking by a bus of children of colorataskiresortandintentionallyremovingher hat to expose her long, dark braids. When they saw someone who looked like them, she says, she witnessed their faces register confidence knowing they were welcome.

Women of Winter gathers women of color from around the country – like Valentina Codrington, a business analyst from Baltimore – to train as snow-sports instructors.

ASense of Belonging

Former WoW scholarship recipient Yolanda Carlton, who works in IT security for the federal government, came from Washington, D.C., to ski with this year’s students. She teaches at Liberty Mountain Resort in Pennsylvania, an area attracting a diverseclientele. However, out of200 instructors there, she says, only about five are people of color and only two of those are women.

“When I first came to be with the Women of Winter, immediately I felt a sense of belonging, which is something I’ve never really experienced onthemountainbefore,”Ms.Carltonsays.Seeing

women with so much experience in snow sports “opened my mind to all the possibilities and opportunities,” she adds. “This, right here, is my retirement plan.”

The National Brotherhood of Snowsports (formerly Skiers), founded as a nonprofit Black ski organization, recently welcomed more than 2,100attendees toits50thanniversary event for peopleofcoloratVailResortsinColorado.Henri Rivers, its president, says people of color, who oftenliveinurbanareas,aren’theavilyexposedto nature.Heexplainsthatpartofhisorganization’s mission to offer outdoor recreation experiences is to impart an understanding of climate change and to promote inclusivity.

“It’s not about breaking up the monopoly of white people having fun in the outdoors,” he says. “It’s for everyone.”

Ms. Hiller, at PSIA, agrees: “I think it’s really important to be welcoming and inclusive to all people who want to join our sport, and instructors are the gateway. [Snow-sports] teachers need to represent our student base.”

Shared Experiences

It wasn’t difficult procuring industry support for the WoW mission. After all, the more people involved in snow sports, the better for the industry. The biggest challenge, Ms. Walch says, was proving that the boost for women of color is needed, because so many people don’t believe it’s necessary. It is not uncommon for people to post racist or antagonistic comments about the group online, she says.

“I can’t change the world,” she says, “but I think I can change the world I live in. So, I’m going to focus on that.”

That focus, she adds, is that “people want community.And one of the ways that we connect with people is our background, what we’ve gone through. So, creating spaces where there is community for people of color, specifically, we have a shared experience and we can show up and be vulnerable and be OK and say, ‘Oh yeah, we understand the things you’ve gone through.’”

https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Making-adifference/2023/0322/Women-of-Winter-inspiresthe-downhill-rush-that-uplifts-and-diversifies

Walch (left) with Carolyn Stempler former WoW student. Jode Codrington, a business analyst from Baltimore trains as instructors.

AmaWaterways Unveils More Ways to Celebrate African & Black Diaspora in 2024

From Pax Global Media

AmaWaterways has announced three new opportunities for guests to celebrate the African and Black Diaspora on the rivers in 2024.

Due to the “overwhelming demand” forthe firstever Soulful Epicurean Experience on the Rhône River in France embarking August 24, 2023, two new June departure dates havebeen announced for that itinerary, the luxury line says.

The special journeys include the Colours of Provence cruise plus three nights in Paris. Also added for 2024 is a Soulful Epicurean ExperienceinEgyptonSecretsofEgypt&The Nile itinerary starting in Cairo on May 17, 2024.

The unique experiences available during the cruise and land packages invite travellers to discoverandcelebrateimportantaspectsofBlack history and culture unique to each country.

“We are fortunate to work with many travel advisorsintheBlackcommunitywhoadvisedand encouraged us to develop these special interest cruises celebrating Black history and culture,” said Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways. “As our first Soulful Epicurean Experience cruise in France scheduled for 2023 sold out almost immediately, we are proud to give our global family additional opportunities in 2024 to celebrate and appreciate the diverse Black heritage found in France and Egypt.”

Forthefirsttimeever,AmaWaterways’ispairing its Soulful Epicurean Experience with its 11-night Secrets of Egypt & The Nile itinerary starting in Cairo on May 17, 2024.

In addition to the seven-night river cruise onboard the splendid 72-passenger AmaDahlia, guests will enjoy three nights pre-cruise and one night post-cruise in Cairo.

Theseven-nightrivercruiseonboardAmaDahlia sails roundtrip from Luxor visiting Edfu, Aswan, Esna, Kom Ombo, and Qena and includes daily

immersive tours and onboard experiences that shine light on the country’s vast African history and its regional delicacies.

Guests also have the one-of-a-kind opportunity to visit a Nubian Village and meet the wonderful people who continue to carry the traditions of theirancestorsthatonce ruled Egypt.

The small group tours are guided by experienced Egyptologists and include visits to the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Valley of the Kings and Queens, Karnak and Luxor temples, as well as a papyrus making class.

There will also be exclusive experiences unique to AmaWaterways, such as a private lunch at the Abdeen Presidential Palace and a private tour of Queen Nefertari tomb.

Colours of Provence, Soulful Epicurean Experience

The Colours of Provence river cruise itinerary is settowelcomeguestsagainin2024fortwoSoulful Epicurean Experience on board AmaKristina.

The seven-night cruises will start or end (depending on the departure date) with a threenight land package in Paris, where many famous Black artists, writers and entertainers made history.

While exploring the City of Light, travellers will

dive deep into Black culture during a specially curated Josephine Baker excursion and a “Black History of Paris” city tour.

As guests sail along the Rhône River between Lyon and Arles, they will enjoy a variety of experiencesexclusivetothisspecialitinerarythat shine a light on Black heritage both onboard and ashore.

The guided tours, including a full-day Black Heritage Tour in Marseille, showcase the region’s best jazz, food and wine so travellers

canfullyimmersethemselvesintotherichcultural history.

ThesetwouniqueColoursofProvence10-night journeys will begin either in Arles on June 13, 2024 cruising to Lyon and finishing in Paris on June 23, 2024 or guests can start with the Paris land package on June 17, 2024 and conclude in Arles on June 27, 2024.

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THEAMAKRISTINA

Soulful Cruise

Soulful Epicurean Experience from page 65

https://news.paxeditions.com/news/cruise/ amawaterways-unveils-more-ways-celebrateafrican-black-diaspora-rivers-2024

Image credit: rivercruise.com, seatrade-cruise. com, travelmart.org, bluedanubeholidays.com,

goastrotravel.com, www.amawaterways.ca/ soulful-2024#egypt

Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary

Republic of Senegal

whc.unesco.org

Situated in the Senegal River delta, the Djoudj Sanctuary is a wetland of 16,000 ha, comprising a large lake surrounded by streams, ponds and backwaters. It forms a living but fragile sanctuary for some 1.5 million birds, such as the white pelican, the purple heron, theAfricanspoonbill,thegreategretand the cormorant.

By its location, Djoudj National Park is morethanahavenforPalaearcticmigratory birds. It is an oasis in the desert consisting of a chain of lakes, backwaters, fords and sandbanks. It is the first migration stopover after crossing the Sahara for species of Palaearctic and Afrotropical birds.Itshouldbenotedthatduetotechnical improvements to upgrade the conditions of migration reception (building nest boxes), species began to breed. With the annual renovation of these improvements and efforts to control the hydraulic system, the number of migratory as well as nesting species is increasing.

https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/25

Image credit: Pinterest, birdphotoph. proboards.com, susanfleck.com, birdwatchingdaily.com, blogspot.com. https://www.naturalworldheritagesites. org/sites/djoudj-national-bird-sanctuary/, planete-senegal.com

Great

Commorant

African Spoonbill

White Pelican

Travel Africa

Where To Go, What To Do

Algeria

Tamanrasset Camel Trekking

Sahara Dune Skiing

The Turquoise Coast

CAPITAL:Algiers

www.algerie-tourisme.dz

Angola

Fort Sao Miguel Slave Depot

Calandula Waterfalls

Palmeirinhas Beach

CAPITAL: Luanda

www.angola.org

Benin

Lake Village of Ganvie

Nakoue Lagoon

Pendjari National Park

CAPITAL: Porto-Novo

www.benintourisme.com

Botswana

Okavango Delta

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Transfrontier Park (Kgalafadi National Park)

CAPITAL: Gaborone

www.botswanatourism.co.bw

Burkina Faso

International Arts and Crafts Fair, Oct-Nov

Ranch de Nazinga game reserve

Mare aux Hippopotames

CAPITAL: Ouagadougou

www.ontb.bf

Burundi

Chutes de la Kagera Waterfall

Lake Tanganyika

Craftwares Village at Giheta

CAPITAL: Bujumbura

www.burunditourisme.com

Cameroon

Mandera Mountains (hiking, climbing)

Bouba Ndjidah National Park

Festival National des Arts et de la Culture (FENAC) in December

CAPITAL:Yaoundé

www.cameroun-infotourisme.com

Cape Verde

Baia das Gatas Festival

Scuba Diving and Snorkelling at Boa Vista

UNESCO world heritage old fort site at Cidade Velha

CAPITAL: Praia

Ministry ofTourism, Praia, Santiago: +238 615 697

Central African Republic

Boali Waterfalls

Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park

Lobaye Region

CAPITAL: Bangui

ministere_tourisme@yahoo.fr

Chad

Camel racing in the Tibesti Mountains

Galawa Beach on Grande Comore

Lake Chad

CAPITAL: N’Djamena

Office du Tourisme,Tel: 01 45 53 36 75

The Comoros

Climb Mount Karthala (active volcano)

Nzwani Island

Mount Tonkoui, Cote D’Ivoire afroculture.net

Hot Sulphur Springs at Lac Salé

CAPITAL: Moroni Comoros NationalTourist

Board Office,Tel: 269 73

3044

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

Frère Gillet Botanic Gardens world-famous rare orchids (Kisantu)

Ruwenzori Range

Virunga National Park

CAPITAL: Kinshasa

Ministère desAffaires Foncières, Environment etTourisme,Tel: (+243) 8802093.

Côte D’Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Yamoussoukro

Mount Tonkoui (mountain climb)

Comoë National Park

CAPITAL:Yamoussoukro www.tourisme.gouv.ci

Djibouti

Gulf of Tadjoura (snorkling/diving)

Lake Abbé

Lake Assal (windsurf on wheels)

CAPITAL: Djibouti

www.office-tourisme.dj

Egypt (Kemet)

Nile River Cruise, Aswan

Temple of Ranses II, Abu Simbel

Alexandria

CAPITAL: Cairo

www.tourism.misrnet.gov.eg

Equatorial Guinea

Arena Blanca

Pico Malabo Volcano (mountain climbing)

Cascades of Moca

CAPITAL: Malabo

www.embarege-londres.org

Eritrea

Dahlak Archipelago

Tour of Eritrea (bicycle race)

Akordat

CAPITAL:Asmara

eritreantourism@tse.com.er

Eswatini

Mkhaya Game Reserve

Phophomyane Nature Reserve

Usutu River (white-water rafting)

CAPITAL: Mbabane

www.thekingdomofeswatini.com

Ethiopia

Rock Hewn Churches of Lalibela (New Jerusalem)

Home of the Queen of Sheba, Axum

African Union Headquarters, Addis Ababa

TOTAL Great Ethiopian Race

CAPITAL:AddisAbaba

www.tourismethiopia.org

Gabon

Cathedral of St Michael in Libreville

Lopé-Okanda Reserve

National Park (gorilla)

to page

M’Bigou (gold mines/crafts)

CAPITAL: Libreville

www.legabon.org

The Gambia

Deep Sea Fishing, Atlantic Ocean

Exhibition of the slave trade at Albreda and Jufureh

Makasutu Culture Forest

CAPITAL: Banjul

www.visitthegambia.gm

Ghana

Cape Coast Castle Slave Fortress

Mount Afadjato and Togbo Falls (Volta Region)

Kakum Nature Reserve (tree-top walkway and stay in a tree house)

CAPITAL:Accra

www.touringghana.com

Guinea

Kindia (cloth market)

Kinkon Falls

Îles de Los

CAPITAL: Conakry

www.ontguinee.com

Guinea-Bissau

Bijagos Archipelago

Cantanhez Natural Park

Museum of African Artefacts

CAPITAL: Bissau

www.guineabissautourism.com

Kenya

Mount Kenya National Park

Tsavo West National Park

Watamu-Malindi Marine Park

CAPITAL: Nairobi

www.magicalkenya.com

Lesotho

Bushmen Rock Paintings

Ski Lesotho Highlands (www.afriski.co.za)

Sehlabathebe National Park

CAPITAL: Maseru

www.ltdc.org.ls

Liberia

Sapo National Park

Kendeja National Cultural Center

Firestone Rubber Plantation

CAPITAL: Monrovia

www.micat.gov.lr

Libya

Akakus Mountains (prehistoric rock art)

Ubari Lakes (dune surfing)

Leptis Magna (tribute to African Roman Emperor Septimus Severus)

CAPITAL:Tripoli

www.libyan-tourism.org

Madagascar

Fianarantsoa (Capital of Wine)

Montagne d’Arbre National Park

Queen’s Palace

CAPITAL:Antananarivo

www.madagascar-tourisme. com

Malawi

Lake Malawi Marine Park

Nyika National Park

Liwonde National Park

CAPITAL: Lilongwe

www.malawitourism.com

Mali

Gola Rainforest National Park Liberia

Festival in the Desert

Timbuctou

La Boucle de Baoule National Park

CAPITAL: Bamako

www.le-mali.com/omatho/index.htm

Mauritania

Parc National du Banc d’Arguin

Chinguetti, a holy city of Islam

Oualata

CAPITAL: Nouakchott

www.tourisme.mr

Mauritius

Black River Gorges National Park

Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve

Rodrigues Island

CAPITAL: Port Louis

www.mauritius.net

Morocco

Todra and Dades Gorges

Talassemtane National Park

Essaouira

CAPITAL: Rabat

www.visitmorocco.com

Mozambique

Maputo Elephant Park

Gorongosa National Park

Bazaruto Archipelago

CAPITAL: Maputo

www.futur.org.mz/index-en.html

Namibia

Mahongo Game Reserve

Etosha National Park

Skeleton Coast

CAPITAL: Windhoek

www.namibiatourism.com.na

Niger

Agadez

‘W’ National Park

Igouloulef

CAPITAL:Algiers

www.niger-tourisme.com

Nigeria

Cross River National Park

Emir’s Palace, Kano

Benin City

CAPITAL: Lagos

www.tourism.gov.ng

Festival International du Sahara de Douz GoNOMAD

Republic of the Congo

Loufoulakari Falls

Loango (main embarkation port for slaves)

Congo Rapids

CAPITAL: Brazzaville

Direction Generale duTourisme et des Loisirs, Tel: 830 953

Reunion

Piton des Neiges

Plaine d’Affouches

Le Voile de la Mariée (The Bride’s Veil)

CAPITAL: Saint-Denis

ot.saint-pierre@wanadoo.fr

Rwanda

Cards From Africa, Kigali

Parc National des Volcans Gorilla Trek

Nyungwe Forest Canopy Walk

CAPITAL: Kigali

www.rwandatourism.com/

São Tomé & Principe

Bom Bom Island Deep Sea Fishing

Humpback Whale Watching

Agua Izé Plantation

CAPITAL: SãoTomé

www.saotome.st

Senegal

African Renaissance Monument

Retba (Pink) Lake

Maison des Enclaves (House of Slaves), Goree Island

CAPITAL: Dakar

sentouroffice@aol.com

Seychelles

Marlin Fishing in Denis

St Anne Marine National Park

Aldabra

CAPITAL: Victoria

www.seychelles.travel

Sierra Leone

Outamba-Kilimi National Park

Freetown Peninsula

Bunce Island, Slave Trading Station

CAPITAL: Freetown

www.welcometosierraleone.org

Somalia

Hargeisa National Park

Neolithic Paintings Las Geel

Indian Ocean Coastal Beaches

CAPITAL: Mogadishu

www.somali-gov.info/Tourism/index.html

Somaliland

Hargeisa National Park

Neolithic Paintings Las Geel

Indian Ocean Coastal Beaches

CAPITAL: Hargiesa

www.somalilandgov.com (Ministry ofTourism & Culture 252-225-7917)

South Africa

Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory & Dialogue, Johannesburg

Great White Shark Festival, Cape Town/ Gansbaai

The Elephant Coast, Zulu Kingdom

CAPITAL: Johannesburg

www.whitesharkfestival.org

www.nelsonmandela.org

Gorilla Tracking CongoConservationCompany

www.zulu.org.za

www.southafrica.net

South Sudan

Boma National Park

Nimule National Park

Nile River

CAPITAL: Juba

www.goss.org

Sudan

Port Sudan, The Red Sea

Gemmeiza Tourist Village

Pyramids of Meroe

CAPITAL: Khartoum

www.sudan-tourism.gov.sd/english/index.php

Tanzania

Bagamoyo Slave Trail

Katavi Plains National Park

Ngorongoro Crater

Stone Town, Zanzibar

CAPITAL: Dodoma

http://tanzaniatouristboard.com/

Togo

Koutammakou (World Heritage Site)

Whale Watching, Gulf of Benin

Fosse aux Lions (Lions’ Den) National Park

CAPITAL: Lomé

www.togo-tourisme.com

Tunisia

Desert Trekking from Douz

Matmata (Star Wars film site)

Sidi Bou Saïd

CAPITAL:Tunis

www.tourismtunisia.com

Uganda

Mountains of the Moon (Mount Rwenzori National Park)

Bwindi National Park (view gorilla)

Source of the Nile,Owen Falls Dam, Jinja

CAPITAL: Kampala

http://visituganda.com/index.php

Western Sahara

City of El-Aaiún

Dakhla (surfing)

CAPITAL: El-Aaiún

dajla47@hotmail.com

Zambia

Walking Safari, South Luangwa National Park

Musi oa Tunya (Victoria Falls), Livingstone

Zambezi White Water Rafting

CAPITAL: Lusaka

www.zambiatourism.com

Zimbabwe

Great Zimbabwe

Lake Kariba

Chizarira National Park

CAPITAL: Harare

www.zimbabwetourism.co.zw

Sources:

www.worldtravelguide.net/africa

www.internationaltouristboards.com

www.worldtourismdirectory.com/directory/africa/index. html

Ski Africa

Overview: Skiing in Africa

There are currently 10 indoor and outdoor ski resorts set in the nations of Kingdom of Morocco, Republic of Egypt, Republic of Algeria, Kingdom of Lesotho, Republic of Namibia, and the Republic of SouthAfrica. There are 4 unconfirmed ski resorts. Thefollowingfactsprovide an overview of the ski regions of Africa:

ElevationoftheSkiResorts

70m-3268m

ElevationDifference max.658minoneski resort Slopes

21km(max.10kminone skiresort)

SkiLifts

23(max.7inoneskiresort)

SkiPasses

€14.40to€30.74

Oukaimeden

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ oukaimeden

The ski resort Oukaïmeden is located in the Marrakesh-TensiftEl Haouz Region (Morocco). For skiingandsnowboarding,thereare 10 km of slopes available. 7 lifts transport the guests. The winter sportsareaissituatedbetweenthe elevationsof2,610and3,268m.

Chréa

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ chrea/ TheskiresortChréaislocatedin the Province of Blida (Algeria) Forskiingandsnowboarding,there are 0.5 km of slopes available. 3 liftstransporttheguests.Thewinter sportsareaissituatedbetweenthe elevationsof1,460and1,550m.

Afriski Mountain Resort

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ afriski-mountain-resort

The ski resort Afriski Mountain Resort is located in the ButhaButhe District (Lesotho). For skiingandsnowboarding,thereare 1.8 km of slopes available. 2 lifts transport the guests. The winter sportsareaissituatedbetweenthe elevationsof3,030and3,222m.

AfriSki, the only skiing resort in theKingdomofLesotho,islocated 3222 m above sea-level in the

Maluti Mountains. It offers a main Ski slope, a beginners slope and operatesduringthewintermonths.

Tiffindell

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ tiffindell

TheskiresortTiffindellislocated in the Province of Eastern Cape (South Africa). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 2.4 km of slopes available. 5 lifts transport the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of2,700and2,930m.

Tiffindell is the highest resort in South Africa. It is nestling snugly on the slope of Ben McDhui (3001m), the highest pass in South Africa and the highest peak in the Cape. Within 15 acres of terrain, there are pistes suitable for all abilities. In an average season,Tiffindell is openfor skiing and snowboarding in June, July and August. It has slope-side accommodation available for 150 guestsandmanymoredayvisitors

inthesurroundingvalleys.Thereis arestaurant,coffeelounge,2bars, ski clothing shop and ski school. Non aspiring skiers join in toenjoy a unique experience, making snowmen, throwing snow balls or tobogganing, making it the perfect familyholidayforyoungandold.

Matroosberg

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ matroosberg/

The ski resort Matroosberg is locatedintheProvinceofWestern Cape (South Africa). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 2 km ofslopesavailable.2liftstransport the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of1,794and2,132m.

Michlifen

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ michlifen

The ski resort Michlifen is located in the Meknès-Tafilalet Region(Morocco).Forskiingand snowboarding, there are 1 km of

slopes available. 1 lift transports the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of1,880and2,060m.

Ski Egypt

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ ski-egypt/

The indoor ski resort Ski Egypt islocatedinthe MallofEgypt,6th October City, Cairo (Egypt). For skiing and snowboarding, there are0.6kmofslopesavailable.1lift transports the guests. The winter sportsareaissituatedbetweenthe elevationsof150and180m.

With over 7,000 tons of snow, Ski Egypt is launching the first ski resort in Africa with the world’s largest indoor snow park, offering everything from skiing, slope snowboarding, sledging and a Polar Express Train to a jolly kids area and a professional Ski School, all in a one stop, breathtaking experience for family andfriends.

Jbel Hebri

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ jbel-hebri

The ski resort Jbel Hebri is located in the Meknès-Tafilalet Region(Morocco).Forskiingand snowboarding, there are 1 km of slopes available. 1 lift transports the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of1,950and2,090m.

Azrou

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ azrou

TheskiresortAzrou islocatedin the Ifrane Province of the FèsMeknès region (Morocco). For skiing and snowboarding, there are 1 km of slopes available. 1 lift transports the guests. The winter sportsareaissituatedbetweenthe elevationsof1,800and2,000m.

Ski Namibia

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ ski-namibia

Options for Dune Skiing in the Namib Desert, Namibia (high dunes, breathtaking landscapes, long dune belt) are manifold. Not only the fast ski runs on the dunes bring the kick, but also the landscape and nature aspect are simply one-of-a-kind amidst the world’s oldest desert. For information and arrangements: www.ski-namibia.com, henrik@ ski-namibia.com, P.O. Box 8140, Swakopmund,Namibia.

Unconfirmed Ski Resorts

Cape Town, SouthAfrica (In development, possibly)

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ snowfun-cape-town-planned Kingdom of Morocco (mountain climbing resorts that may include skiing opportunities)

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ djebel-bou-iblane

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ hoher-atlas

www.skiresort.info/ski-resort/ rif-gebirge

www.skiresort.info/ski-resorts/ africa

Sand Sking SouthAfrica POWDER Magazine

Golf Africa

www.golfworldmap.com/africa/#9.622414142924805,17.05078125,3

Botswana

Children try golf at a golf course inYamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, as part of a project for the disadvantaged.

Gaborone Golf Club at the Gaborone Sun Hotel

Phakalane Golf Estate Hotel Resort

www.phakalane.com

Egypt

Alexandria Sporting Club, Alexandria

Cascades at Soma Bay Golf and Country Club

www.residencedescascades.com

Dreamland Golf & Tennis Resort, Cairo

www.dreamlandgolf.com

Golf City, Cairo

Katemeya Heights Golf & Tennis Resort, Cairo

www.katameyaheights.com

Madinat Makadi Golf Course, Madinat Makadi

www.madinatmakadigolf.com

Mena House Oberoi Golf Course, Cairo

www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_menahouse/index.

asp

Mirage City Golf Club, Cairo

www.golf.jwmarriottcairo.com/golf

Steigenberger Al Dau Beach Hotel, Hurghada

www.steigenbergeraldaubeach.com

Kenya

Karen Country Club, Nairobi

Kiambu Golf Club, Kiambu

Leisure Lodge Beach & Golf Resort, Mombasa

Muthaiga Golf Club, Nairobi

Nyali Golf & Country Club, Mombasa

www.nyaligolf.co.ke

Railway Golf Club, Nairobi

Royal Nairobi Golf Club, Nairobi

The Golf Park at the Jockey Club of Kenya, Nairobi

Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club, Nairobi

www.windsorgolfresort.com

Image Credit:AFP

Mauritius

Ile aux Cherfs, Trou d’Eau Douce

Le Paradis Hotel & Golf Club, Le Morne Peninsula

www.paradis-hotel.com

Legend Golf Course, Poste de Flacq

www.bellemareplagehotel.com

Links Golf Course, Poste de Flacq

www.princemaurice.com

One&Only Le Saint Géran Golf Course, Poste de Flacq

http://lesaintgeran.oneandonlyresorts.com

Shandrani Golf Club, Blue Bay

www.shandrani-hotel.com

Troux aux Biches Golf Club, Troux aux Biches

www.trouauxbiches-hotel.com

Morocco

Anfa Royal Golf Club, Casablanca

Cabo Negro Royal Golf Club, Tetouan

Royal Golf of Dar es Salam, Rabat

www.royalgolfdaressalam.com/english/index.cfm

Club Med les Dunes, Agadir

El Jadida Royal Golf Club, El Jadida

Fes Royal Golf Club, Fes

Marrakech Royal Golf Club, Marrakech

Meknes Royal Golf Club, Meknes

Mohammedia Royal Golf Club, Mohammedia

Settat University Royal Golf Club, Settat

Tangier Royal Golf Club, Tangier

Nambia

Keetmanshoop Golf Course, Keetmanshoop

Okahandja Golf Club, Okahandja

www.okahandja.net/sport/default.html

Orandjemund Golf Club, Oranjemund

Rossmund Golf Course, Swakopmund

Tsumeb Golf Club, Tsumeb

Walvis Bay Golf Course, Walvis Bay

Windhoek Country Club Resort, Windhoek

www.windhoek.co.za

Nigeria

IBB Golf Course, Abuja

IITA Golf Club, Ibadan

Ikeja Golf Club, Lagos

www.ikejagolfclub.org

Reunion

Golf du Bassin Blue, St Gilles les Hauts

Golf Club de Bourbon, Etang Sale les Bains

Club du Colorado, La Montagne

Senegal

Golf de Saly, Mbour

www.golfsaly.com/intro/presentation_fr.htm

Golf International du Technopôle, Dakar

Golf Club de Bourbon, Etang Sale les Bains

Le Méridien President Resort & Golf Club, Dakar www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/ overview/index.html

Pointe desAlmadies Dakar https://www.golfdakar.com/fr/enseignements/ regles-du-golf

Sierra Leone

Freetown Golf Club, Freetown

South Africa

Akasia Golf Clue, Pretoria www.akasiacountryclub.co.za

Atlantic Beach Golf Club, Cape Town www.atlanticbeachgolfclub.co.za/capetown/ index.asp

Bellville Golf Club, Cape Town www.bellvillegolf.co.za

Benoni Country Club, Johannesburg www.benonicountryclub.co.za/pro/Default.aspx

Blair Atholl, Fourways www.blairatholl.co.za

Blue Valley Golf & Country Estate, Olifantsfontein www.bluevalley.co.za

Bryanston Country Club, Bryanston www.bryanstoncc.co.za

Centurion Country Club, Centurion www.centurioncountryclub.co.za

Champagne Sports Resort, Winterton www.champagnesportsresort.com

Clovelly Country Club, Cape Town www.clovelly.za.net

Crown Mines Golf Club, Johannesburg www.g-i.co.za/clubs/?c=274

Darling Golf Club, Darling www.darlingtourism.co.za/sportdetail. htm#golfclub

De Zalze Winelands Golf Estate, Stellenbosch www.golfdezalze.com

Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate, Stellenbosch www.devonvale.co.za

Durban Country Club, Durban www.dcclub.co.za

Durbanville Golf Club, Durbanville www.durbanvillegolfclub.co.za

East London Golf Course, East London www.elgc.co.za

Emfuleni Golf Estate, Vanderbijlpark www.emfulenigolfestate.com

Fancourt Hotel & Country Club Estate, George www.fancourt.co.za

Gary Player Country Club Golf Course, Sun City www.suninternational.com/Destinations/Resorts/ Golf/Pages/Golf.aspx

George Golf Club, George www.georgegolfclub.co.za

Germiston Golf Club, Germiston www.germistongolf.com

Glendower Golf Course, Johannesburg www.glendower.co.za

Hermanus Golf Club, Hermanus www.hgc.co.za

Golf Africa page 79

TigerWoods

Houghton Golf Club, Houghton www.houghton.co.za

Humewood Golf Club, Port Elizabeth www.humewoodgolf.co.za

The Country Club Johannesburg, Rivonia www.ccj.co.za

Killarney Country Club, Johannesburg www.killarneycountryclub.co.za

Kingswood Golf Estate, George www.kingswood.co.za

Kleinmond Golf Club, Kleinmond www.kleinmondgolfclub.co.za

Kloof Country Club, Kloof www.kloofcountryclub.co.za

Knysna Golf Club, Knysna www.knysnagolfclub.com

Koro Creek Bushveld Golf Estate, Nylstroom www.korocreek.com

Langebaan County Estate Golf & Leisure, Langebaan www.langebaanestate.co.za

Leopard Creek Country Club, Malelane www.leopardcreek.co.za

Lost City, Sun City www.suninternational.com/Destinations/Resorts/ Golf/Pages/Golf.aspx

Malmesbury Golf Club, Malmesbury www.malmesburygolfclub.co.za

Metropolitan Golf Course, Cape Town www.metropolitangolfclub.co.za

Milnerton Golf Club, Cape Town www.milnertongolfclub.co.za

Modderfontein Golf Club, Modderfontein www.mgclub.co.za

Monks Cowl Coutry Club & Lodge, Winterton www.monkscowl.co.za

Mossel Bay Golf Club, Mossel Bay www.mosselbaygolfclub.co.za

Mowbray Golf Club, Cape Town www.mowbraygolfclub.co.za

Paarl Golf Course, Paarl www.paarlgolfclub.co.za

Pearl Valley Signature Golf Estate and Spa, Cape Winelands www.pearlvalley.co.za

Pecanwood Golf & Country Club, Hartbeesportt www.pecanwoodgolf.co.za

Plettenberg Bay Country Club, Plettenberg Bay www.plettgolf.co.za

Pretoria Country Club, Pretoria

www.ptacc.co.za

Randpark Golf Club, Randburg www.randpark.co.za

Reading Country Club, Alberton

www.readingcc.co.za

River Club Golf & Conference Center, Cape Town http://riverclub.co.za

Riviera on Vaal Country Club, Vereenigning

www.rovcountryclub.co.za

see Golf Africa on page 82

Pointe desAlmadies Dakar (Senegal)

Golf Africa page 81

Royal Cape Golf Club, Cape Town www.royalcapegolf.co.za

Royal Durban Golf Club, Durban www.royaldurban.co.za

San Lameer Country Club, Margate www.sanlameer.co.za

Scottburgh Golf Club, Scottburgh www.scottburghgolf.co.za

Selbourne Golf Estate, Pennington www.selborne.com

Silver Lakes Golf & Country Club, Pretoria www.silverlakes.co.za

Somerset West Golf Club, Somerset West www.somersetwestgolfclub.co.za

St Francis Bay Golf Club, St Francis Bay www.stfrancisgolf.co.za

St Francis Links, St Francis Bay www.stfrancislinks.com

Steenberg Golf Club, Cape Town www.steenberggolfclub.co.za/ Framework/index.asp

Stellenbosch Golf Club, Stellenbosch

www.steenberggolfclub.co.za/ Framework/index.asp

Umdoni Golf Course, Pennington www.umdonipark.com

Umhlali Country Club, Umhlali www.umhlalicountryclub.co.za

Westlake Golf Club, Cape Town www.westlakegolfclub.co.za

Wingate Park Country Club, Pretoria

www.wingateparkcountryclub. co.za

Swaziland

Royal Swazi Spa Country Club www.suninternational. com/Destinations/Resorts/

RoyalSwaziSpaValley/ FacilitiesActivities/Pages/Golf.aspx

The Gambia

Fajara Club, Fajara www.smiles.gm/fajara.htm

Tunisia

Djerba Golf Club, Midoun

www.djerbagolf.com

El Kantaoui Golf Course, Port El Kantaoui www.portelkantaoui.com.tn/golf

Flamingo Golf Course, Monastir www.golfflamingo.com/english/flamingo.htm

Golf Citrus, Hammamet www.golfcitrus.com

Palm Links Golf Course, Monastir www.golf-palmlinks.com/english/presentation. htm

Tabarka Golf Course, Tabarka www.tabarkagolf.com/en/index.htm

Yasmine Golf Course, Mannamet www.golfyasmine.com/en/index.php

Imagecredit:https://gulfnews.com/world/africa/ ivory-coasts-penniless-children-try-golf-game-of-therich-1.1934581

African Cuisine! Back to the Source-Senegal>USA

AJourney to

WestAfrica TracesAmerican Food Back to Its Source

By Megan Zhang

The table was halfway through polishing off a platter of thieboudienne, a hearty Senegalese one-pot number with fish and rice, when our host Cherif Mbodji asked what home meant to each of us. We all munched silently, considering the question. Someone responded that home was wherever family was; another said it was a sense of security that he carried with him. Though Mbodji himself never answered, I wondered if being here, back in his home country of Senegal after three years away, had spurred this introspection.

Mbodji and his close friend and business partner, chef Aaron Bludorn, had been talking about someday traveling to Senegal since their days working together at New York City’s Café Boulud, where they met in 2014. Today, the two

live with their families in Houston, where they relocatedin2020tolaunchBludorn,arestaurant serving Gulf Coast-inspired fare cooked with French-influenced techniques. As joint partners, chef Bludorn helms the kitchen while Mbodji directs front-of-house and business operations. They followed that restaurant’s acclaim with the seafood-driven Navy Blue in 2022, and a third restaurantisslatedtoopenlaterthisyear.Though entrepreneurshiphasmade theirlivesbusier than ever, the duo’s Senegal plans only seemed more paramountthe moretheir business grew: not only was the country responsible for instilling Mbodji’s early notions of hospitality, it was also the original source of countless culinary traditions beloved throughout the South, including their now-home on the Gulf Coast.

That connection became vividly clear as we helped ourselves to more thieboudienne, Senegal’s national dish. Mbodji mentioned how muchitremindedhimof Gullahredrice,whichis common in the Lowcountry and American South. Around the table, flickers of familiarity crystallized into unmistakable recognition. Of course—therewereobviousshadows of each dish in the other, from the savory broth that cooks the grains to the sweet acid of the tomatoes. It began to sink in that what we were tasting was the trunk of a family tree. Thieboudienne is also an ancestor of jambalaya, another dish familiar to longtime southerners—including former NFL champions Michael and MartellusBennett.Thebrotherswere joining usonthistrip,havingbecome friendly with the Bludorn team after dining at the restaurant, and the two were curious to learn more about their Senegalese ancestry. “There

see page 84

Mbodji and Bludorn are all smiles after the boat installation.

Photography by Duc Hoang

are a lot of things that we did subliminally that we didn’t understand why we did them,” Michael pondered, reflecting on cooking customs that are commonplace in the Black community. Martellus nodded, adding, “There’s no bridgeback toAfrica to tell the stories of what happened.”

Though enslaved people played an outsized roleincreatingcountlessAmericanstaples—from gumbo to hoppin’ John—credit for centuries of culinary innovations has long lagged behind enjoyment of the dishes themselves.After Mbodji arrived in Michigan at age 20 on an academic scholarship, it took him years to realize the undeniablesharedDNAbetweenWestAfricanand American food. One day in 2006, he was flipping through an Edna Lewis cookbook at Barnes & Noble when he stumbled on a bean fritter recipe, and dormant neurons began firing. “I know this dish,” he recalled realizing: the snack was clearly a cousin of akara, black-eyed pea fritters eaten throughout West Africa. When he relocated his family to Houston to open Bludorn, American

cuisine’s West African roots became even more apparent.Ingumbo,hetastedevidenceofsoupou kandja, a Senegalese stew that similarly uses okra as a thickener. “You see okra everywhere here in the summer. It’s one of the ingredients thatcangrowlocallyandthriveintheTexasheat,” saidMbodji.“It’sthesamethinginSenegal—okra is one of the most abundant ingredients.”

The origin of these culinary parallels lays bare poignant truths we confronted during a visit to the island of Gorée. A short boat ride off the coastal capital of Dakar, the island was a slavetrading post from where ships carrying enslaved West Africans departed between the 15th and 19th centuries. Gorée has become a pilgrimage destination forpeopleacrosstheAfricandiaspora to both confront and reconcile with the scars and devastation that dark period left on humanity. Our local guide Abdoulaye Mamadou Ba, who has been giving visitors tours of Gorée for almost 20 years, accompanied us around the island and pointed out the stark contrast between the former slaves’ quarters and the opulent homes in which slave traders once lived. While we stood in the House of Slaves memorial, Mbodji told me he had been to Gorée before, and that “coming here doesn’t get easier.”

The transatlantic slave trade targeted West Africans in large part for their agricultural knowhow, culinary historian Adrian Miller, the author of Soul Food, told me later over the phone, noting that it was enslaved people’s knowledge of rice cultivation which jumpstarted the crop’s production in America. In Black Rice, Judith A. Carneywrites:“TheonlypeopleinSouthCarolina possessing this familiarity were Carolina slaves who originated in the rice region of West Africa,” which included Senegal, Gambia, and Sierra Leone. In addition to enslaved peoples’ agrarian expertise, West African ingredients like okra, watermelon,andblack-eyedpeasalsomadetheir way across the Atlantic through the transatlantic slave trade—eventually becoming staple foods throughout the Southern United States.

For many enslaved people, food offered a link back to their homeland. Seeds they planted in personal garden plots allowed them to cook familiar dishes, which they often adapted with availableingredients.Today,theWestAfricanroots of staple American dishes are tangible evidence

Thieboudienne is Senegal’s national dish.

Photography by Megan Zhang

of, as Miller put it, “both the tragedy and triumph” of enslaved people. During our visit to Gorée. Ba told us that, however grim and tragic a symbol it may be, the island is also a reminder of Senegal and Africa’sresilience. “Enslaved people who made it to the Americas fought for their survival—and laid the foundation for future generations of BlackAmericans.”

IntheAfricandiasporatoday,foodoftenremains a vehicle for connecting with one’s ancestry. “I feel like I’ve found a part of my history that was missing,withthem,”MbodjitoldmeoftheBennett brothers,ashewatchedthemtryfoodslikegrilled thiof, a popular Senegalese grouper dish, for the first time. Introducing his friends to native flavors and seeing them find connection in it fortified their shared lineage.And though their genealogy diverged into different paths, food is a bridge which can always bond the diaspora with their ancestral homeland.

ThoughMbodjihasnowlivedintheUnitedStates longer than he did in Senegal, his demeanor unwaveringly reflects his native country’s famous hospitality. When we sat down to lunch on Ngor, a small island off the coast of Dakar (and the westernmost point of Africa), Mbodji helped us order enough plates of Burbot fish skewers and grilled thiof to ensure we all got to sample generous portions of the local specialties. He and the server spent several minutes assembling the optimal order, the server’s patient generosity mirroring Mbodji’s.

Senegal’scelebratedhospitality,adeeplyrooted culturalnotionknownasteranga,notonlyechoes throughMbodji’s personal interactions; ithas also profoundly informed his approach to his career

in the restaurant industry. “Just knowing what a phenomenal human being he is,” said Bludorn, “I was curious to know more about what part of the world created that. It’s obviously here. Locals welcome you not only into their homes, but also into their hearts. It opens you up, and makes you want to pay that forward.”

Theimportanceoftreatingpeoplewithgenerosity anddecencywasinstilledinMbodjiearly.“Mydad usedtotellusthatthereisnothinginourlivesthat will matter more than people,” he told me later. “Whatever we do, we need to make sure that we are impacting people in a good way.” When he looks back, it’s clear his father’s values planted seeds which led Mbodji to a lifetime in hospitality. WhilestudyingbusinessmanagementatWestern Michigan University, he found work as a busboy in restaurants, where the energetic environment reminded him of the lively household he’d grown up in. “Whether it’s lunch or dinner, it felt like a partyallthetime,”hesaidofhisfamilyof11.“The moment Istepped foot ina restaurant,I knew this is a place that I want to stay.” After graduating, he worked his way up the front-of-house, holding positions at iconic institutions like Michael Mina, the now-closed Bouley, and eventually, Café Boulud.

In the American world of upscale restaurants,

see page 86

Burbot fish skewers (L) and grilled thiof we ate during our trip.

Photography by Megan Zhang

Back to the Source page 85

most of the food was and still is Eurocentric. That West African culinary influences are rarely displayed and celebrated overtly was a reality Mbodjiaccepted.Onedayin2015,heandBludorn were grabbing a bite in Harlem’s Little Senegal when Bludorn suggested the two conceptualize some dishes that paid homage to Mbodji’s native country for Café Boulud’s Le Voyage, a rotating menu that explored global cuisines through French techniques. Mbodji couldn’t imagine how the dishes he grew up with could possibly fit into white-tableclothed surroundings. “I could not see the connection of those two worlds,” he recalled. Bludorn, though, was already pulling out a pen and drawing on a napkin. “I could see a light go off in his eyes,” said Mbodji. “He was so excited.” Bludorn quickly sketched a plate that had mafe, a peanut-based stew, on one side and dibi, or skewered grilled meat, on the other—a duo showcasing the flavors and fragrance of Senegalese cooking. Then he drew a reimagined thieboudienne, deconstructed to highlight the individual components of rice, fish, and sauce. A few months later, working alongside Senegalese American chef Pierre Thiam and chef-owner Boulud, Bludorn and Mbodji brought those handdrawn visions to life.

The project was a gesture of friendship that not only reinforced Mbodji’s pride in his cultural identity, but also opened up an avenue for him to ponderandreframehowhethinksaboutfinedining in the U.S. “It gave me the courage to continue to have conversations about the connections that exist with West African cuisine, how food travels across borders and connects back to our history,” he reflected. Why shouldn’t Senegalese cuisine be recognized in fine-dining settings more often— served proudly, with dignity and care—particularly when it is so clearly an ancestor to so many American dishes?

Though West African cuisines continue to be underrepresented in the U.S. restaurant scene, particularly in fine dining, chefs of Senegalese origin are working to change that. A national movement of what Miller calls “diasporic dining experiences” examines West Africa’s past and celebrates its present. At Dakar NOLA in New Orleans, chef Serigne Mbaye serves a tasting

menu that draws inspiration from Senegalese and Creole fare, producing courses like the “Last Meal,” a black-eyed pea soup that echoes what enslaved Africans were fed ahead of their forced transatlantic journeys. “We have been stepped on, walked over, disrespected. It’s time now to let us have our flowers,” said Mbaye. “My goal is to let people know that West Africa belongs.” Thiam has a similar mission at his African-inspired restaurant Teranga, where the menu teems with homestyle Senegalese fare like ndambe, a hearty and comforting black-eyed pea stew, and yassa poulet, grilled chicken in a tangy caramelized onion sauce. With his food brand Yolélé, Thiam is also connecting farmers inAfrica with international markets to spotlight sustainably grown local ingredients like fonio. At Boston’s new Comfort Kitchen, helmed by chef Kwasi Kwaa and managing partner Biplaw Rai, dishes trace the flavors of theAfrican diaspora by way of the international spice trade; the menu features innovative creations like tender jerk roasted duck and smoky za’atar-spiced trout.

Asmorechefs raiseawarenessoftheirheritage cuisines, they are rewriting the narrative of American food—and reclaiming West Africa’s role in creating it. Documentaries like High on the Hog and books like Bryant Terry’s Black Food and MichaelTwitty’sTheCookingGene are also educating eaters while paying long-overdue homage to the culinary innovations of enslaved people in America. “Eventually, the truth rises,”

Bludorn’s crab rice dish is a mainstay on the menu. Courtesy of MichaelAnthony

said Thiam. “It was just a matter of time.” For many BlackAmericans like the Bennett brothers, interested in researching their family trees and identifying their cultural roots, that time is now.

Afterweallwentourseparatewaysandreturned home to the States, Mbodji and I caught up over thephone.Hementionedthatwheneverhebrings guests to Senegal, the days leading up to the trip are tinged with some apprehension. “It’s difficult to describe what Senegal looks like to someone who’s never been there. I always wonder how people will react—will they be comfortable? Will they understand? Will they connect with it?” This trip,though,reinforcedtohimthatthecountryhas a way of embracing outsiders and emphasizing their commonalities rather than their differences.

To this, I brought up the question he had posed tous backin Dakar:what didhomemean tohim? He thought for a moment before telling me that, after he and his family moved to Houston, he felt remarkably at ease. The competitiveness of New York City’s high-stakes restaurant scene all but receded into the backdrop inTexas. “The amount ofsupportthatpeopleshowyou,and thegenuine love and care that they have for you and your business—they want your business to succeed,” hesaidofHoustonians,whoseneighborlinessand community spirit reminded Mbodji of Senegal’s ever-present hospitality. “I don’t know that there’s abetterwaytomakesomebodyfeelathomethan that.”

What’s more, for Mbodji, Houston feels like a place where anyone can fit in while still staying connected to their cultural roots. Immigration has made The Bayou City not only the fourth most populated metropolitan in the U.S. but also one of the most diverse—a multiculturality that is reflected in a thriving restaurant scene which embraces global flavors. “It’s a city where I feel that I have a place. I feel that I belong. I don’t know how to explain it, but it’s a genuine feeling.”

Though the restaurant is named for its Minneapolis-born chef (which was Mbodji’s suggestion), Bludorn insists that Mbodji’s role in the restaurant runs just as deep. “I wouldn’t have been able to do it without him,” said Bludorn. “In many ways, he is almost a bigger face of the restaurantthanIamtoday.”Onthemenu,acrowd favorite is the crab rice that Bludorn cooks in the style of jollof rice, which he learned to make from

Mbodji. The chef then smothers the rice in crab étouffée as a nod to the French flavors present in both Senegal and the Gulf Coast. While the rest of the menu changes seasonally, the crab rice always stays—a tribute to Mbodji’s indispensable leadership at the restaurant, and a celebration of WestAfrican ancestry in Southern cooking.

Now, there’s an equally permanent expression ofSenegalatNavyBlue:duringourtrip,thegroup selecteda local fishingboat—painted red, yellow, and green, the colors of the nation’s flag—to ship across theAtlantic back home to Texas. The vessel, now hanging high on the wall behind the bar, is adorned with Mbodji’s late father’s name, Mam Mor.

For those who don’t recognize the vessel’s origins,itcouldsimplybeanodtotherestaurant’s emphasisonseafood.ToMbodji,it’sapieceofhis old home, now ever-present in his new one.

https://www.saveur.com/culture/bludorn-journeysenegal/

Recipes!

Ndambe (Senegalese Lamb and Black-Eyed Pea Stew) https://www.saveur.com/recipes/ndambesenegal-breakfast/

In Senegal, ndambe, a black-eyed pea stew, is a dinnertime staple—warming, hearty, and filling. While dried black-eyed peas are more traditional, this streamlined recipe, adapted from Mbodji and

see page 88

Back to the Source page 87

Fall’s version, uses canned ones instead, cutting the cook time substantially.

Red palm oil, derived from palm fruits, is frequently used in African cooking. Because the oil’s production is associated with deforestation concerns on the continent, look for sustainably andresponsiblyproducedpalmoil.Ifyoucan’tfind it, vegetable oil is a suitable—but less flavorful— substitute. Featured in: “In Senegal, This Hearty StewDoublesasaDelightfulBreakfastSandwich.”

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp.African red palm oil

• 10 oz. boneless leg of lamb, cut into ½-in.

cubes

• 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped

• 1 medium red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and finely chopped

• 2 medium scallions, finely chopped

• ½ cup parsley leaves, finely chopped

• ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more

• 1 Tbsp. tomato paste

• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 2 tsp. smoked paprika

• 1 Tbsp. distilled white vinegar

• 3¾ cup drained, canned black-eyed peas, rinsed well

• 2 bay leaves

• 2½ cups beef, chicken, or vegetable stock

• 1 medium red potato, peeled and coarsely chopped

• 1 baguette, cut crosswise into quarters

Instructions

• To a large Dutch oven over medium heat, add the palm oil. When the oil begins to shimmer, add the lamb and cook, stirring occasionally, untillightly browned all over, 2–4 minutes.Add the onion, bell pepper, scallion, parsley, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, untilthe onions are translucent, 2–4 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and continue cooking, until the vegetables soften and turn a deep reddish-brown, 10–12 minutes. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and vinegar, cook for 2 minutes, then add

the black-eyed peas, bay leaves, and stock. Turn the heat up to medium-high to bring to a simmer, then turn the heat to medium and cook, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the lamb is tender, about 30–35 minutes.

• Add the potato, cover, turn the heat to medium-low, and cook until the potatoes are soft and beginning to break down, 40–45 minutes. Remove from the heat, season the stew with more salt as needed.

• To serve, split the baguette quarters and spoon the stew over the bottom halves of the bread.Add the tops to make sandwiches and serve hot.Because the dish tastes better with time, ndambe, traditionally served for dinner, has evolved into a popular breakfast in Senegal, where it’s stuffed inside baguettes as a convenient on-the-go meal. Mbodji and Fall recommend opting for a loaf with a soft, tight crumb—or serving ndambe over rice.

StovetopYassa Poulet (Chicken inCaramelized Onion Sauce) https://www.saveur.com/article/ Recipes/Yassa-Poulet-Grilled-Chicken-CaramelizedOnion/

This classic dish from the Casamance region of southern Senegal pairs grilled chicken with a tangy onions-and-pepper sauce called yassa. While there are many types of yassa prepared across Senegal and West Africa, this chicken version is by far the most popular, infused with thecomplexflavorsoflime,ginger,andhotchiles. DakarlocalKhadyMbowsharedherrecipeforthe piquant sauce with writer John O’Connor in 2012.

Featured in: “AFeast ForAll.”

Ingredients

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

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• 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced

• ⅓ cups apple cider vinegar

• ⅓ cups fresh lime juice

• 2 tbsp. peeled and finely chopped fresh ginger

• 1 tbsp. finely grated lime zest

• 1 Scotch bonnet chile, stemmed, seeded, and finely chopped

• 2 tsp. coarsely cracked black peppercorns

• 1 tsp. cayenne pepper

• 1 bay leaf

• Kosher salt

• 2 lb. bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks

• 1 tsp. whole allspice berries

• 2 tbsp. peanut or canola oil, plus more for brushing

• Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

• In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the onions, garlic, carrot, vinegar, lime juice, ginger, lime zest, chile, black peppercorns, cayenne, bay leaf, and salt; add the chicken and seal the bag. Refrigerate, occasionally tossing the chicken with the marinade, for at least 4 hours.

• Remove the chicken pieces from the bag, reserving the marinade. Set a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl and strain the marinade; reserve the solids and liquids separately.

• In a large Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook, turning once, until golden brown on both sides, about 8 minutes per side; transfer to a plate.Add the allspice to the pot, and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.Add the strained marinade solids to the Dutch oven and cook, stirring occasionally, untilthe onions have softened, about 5 minutes. Return the chicken to the pot, then add the strained marinade liquid. Bring to a boil, then turn the heat down to maintain a simmer. Cover the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, untilthe chicken is tender and cooked through, about 30 minutes.

• Transfer the chicken pieces to a serving platter.Turn the heat back up to mediumhigh and cook, uncovered, until the liquidhas almost completely evaporated and the onions are lightly caramelized, about 20 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then pour the sauce over the chicken; serve warm with rice.

Imagecredit:freeflagicons.com,freeiconspng.com

Before You Go…

https://en.wikivoyage.org/

Abijan, Ivory Coast (Côted’Ivoire)

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Abidjan

Abuja, Nigeria

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Accra, Ghana

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AddisAbaba, Ethiopia

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Algiers,Algeria

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Antananarivo, Madagascar

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Asmara, Eritrea

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Bamako, Mali

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Bangui, CentralAfrican Republic

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Banjul, Gambia

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Bissau, Guinea-Bissau

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Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo

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Cairo, Egypt

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Conakry, Guinea

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Dakar, Senegal

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Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Dar_es_Salaam

Freetown, Sierra Leone

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Gaborone, Botswana

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Gitega, Burundi

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Harare, Zimbabwe

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Hargeisa, Somaliland

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Johannesburg, SouthAfrica

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Juba, South Sudan

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Kampala, Uganda

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Khartoum, Sudan

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Kigali

Kigali, Rwanda

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Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

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Libreville, Gabon

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Lome

Lilongwe, Malawe

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Lilongwe

Lomé, Togo

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Lome

Luanda,Angola

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Luanda

Lusaka, Zambia

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Malabo, Equitorial Guinea

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Maputo, Mozambique

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Maseru, Lesotho

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Mbabane, Eswatini

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Mogadishu, Somalia

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Monrovia, Liberia

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Moroni, Comoros

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Nairobi, Kenya

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N’Djamena, Chad

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Niamey, Niger

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Nouakchott, Mauritania

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Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

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Port-Louis, Mauritius

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Porto-Novo, Benin

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Praia, Cape Verde

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Rabat, Morocco

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Saint-Denis, Reunion

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Saint-Denis_

(Reunion)

São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe

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Tifariti, Western Sahara

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Tripoli, Libya

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Tripoli

Tunis, Tunisia

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Victoria, Saychelles

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Victoria_ (Seychelles)

Windhoek, Namibia

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Windhoek

Yaoundé, Cameroon

https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Rabat

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