Exploring 100 Countries: A Journey Through Africa and Europe

Celebrating Milestones and New Adventures

Let’s get straight to it: August and September have been monumental months. For starters, I hit a massive personal milestone by visiting my 100th country—Botswana. This has been a long-time goal, and reaching it brings an exhilarating sense of accomplishment. I spent a whopping 34 days in Africa, marking my longest trip to the continent yet. With a packed itinerary for September looming large, I knew I had to combine my recaps for both months into one. The journey from scenic Italian islands to the captivating landscapes of the Czech Republic—and not forgetting the breathtaking sights in Africa—seems like an odyssey worth celebrating. What follows is a glimpse into my travels during these two months, filled with remarkable experiences.

Where I Went

Here’s a rundown of the destinations that showcased the incredible diversity of cultures and environments: - **Ischia (Forio and Sant’Angelo), and Naples, Italy** - **Prague, Kutná Hora, Srbsko, and Řevnice, Czech Republic** - **Cape Town, Franschhoek, and Johannesburg, South Africa** - **Maun, Okavango Delta, Gweta, Makgadikgadi Pan, Nata, Kasane, and Chobe National Park, Botswana** - **Livingstone, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, and Livingstone Island, Zambia** - **Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe** Each location brought unique stories and moments that will stay with me forever.

Highlights of the Journey

August kicked off on a high note during my birthday trip to Ischia, where I turned 42 in style. Spending the day sailing the pristine waters of the island with Charlie and our skipper Vito from West Coast Ischia was unforgettable. We reconnected over fresh sea urchins, a delightful treat straight from the ocean, and I savored every moment, whether it was relishing my favorite pizza or indulging in tiramisu. Our stop in Naples for pizza at Di Matteo was another culinary win. If you’re ever in the city, seek it out—I guarantee it'll be one of the best pies you've ever had. Then, we ventured to Cape Town for a week, which absolutely justifies its tourist popularity. With this being my fourth time in the city and Charlie's inaugural visit, I was eager to unveil its treasures. I ticked Robben Island off my bucket list. The weight of its history hit hard, but it’s an experience I wholeheartedly recommend. We meandered through vineyards with the wine tram in Franschhoek, dined at the exceptional La Colombe, and explored Boulders Beach, filled with charming penguins. My new African outfit made the experience feel all the more immersive. And then, my highly anticipated tour through Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe began. This was my second tour with Rock My Adventure, and knowing that Botswana marked my 100th country made the experience even sweeter. Our safari in the Okavango Delta was pure magic, offering a chance to witness incredible wildlife, from lions lounging to the elusive aardwolf. Camping under a star-strewn sky at the Makgadikgadi Pan was surreal. Getting up close with meerkats and riding quad bikes across the terrain rounded out those days perfectly. As we made our way to the iconic Victoria Falls, adventure took on new heights as we took a dip in the Devil’s Pool, a thrill that felt more like a stunningly photographed dare than a risk. The experience was exhilarating and a testament to the careful management of this breathtaking natural wonder. After crossing into Zimbabwe, we took the time to immerse ourselves deeper, from sunset cruises to delightful dinners that included traditional dances—yes, we embraced the full experience. A few days of relaxation set the stage for the final leg of my trip, where my mom joined me in Africa for a new adventure. As we explored Hwange National Park, we encountered moments of both scarcity and abundance in wildlife sightings, yet each sighting proved to be exceptional. Throughout this journey, from city sights to sweeping landscapes, the stories and connections made along the way became the real treasure. This escapade encapsulated not just new destinations but celebrated the joy of travel and the bonds we forge along the way. If you’re considering venturing into any of these countries, you’ll find experiences worth remembering and tales you’ll tell for years to come.

Feeling the Strain of Travel

Burnout isn’t just a buzzword; it can completely reshape how you experience life. After mapping out a busy summer with five trips squeezed between June and September, I knew I was in for a rough ride. I spent more than half my summer away from home, juggling celebrations and family events. Sure, they were fantastic adventures — weddings, birthdays, you name it. But they took a toll on my mental wellbeing. August became a battle of discontent. I found myself wandering through days feeling aimless and cluttered, struggling to concentrate on work or even find some creative spark. The pressure of this hectic schedule was exhausting, not just physically but mentally. Sure, if I had a do-over, I might give up my birthday trip altogether, hoping to postpone it to a quieter time.

Certain Bathroom Experiences

Camping in Botswana was a wild experience, but let’s talk about the less glamorous side: the bathroom situation. During our tour, we pitched tents three times, but the last campground was different — just simple tents in a national park where hyenas roamed nearby. The safety rules about nighttime restroom breaks? Hold it or pee outside. Can you imagine? Needless to say, that was a hard pass for me! While Charlie was able to hit the hay right away, I was left tossing and turning, anxious about the potential need to relieve myself in the middle of the night. Sure enough, that anxiety manifested when Charlie awoke in desperate need. The sun couldn’t rise quickly enough for us, and we were holding out as if we were training for a marathon. In hindsight, I’d definitely pack a [women's portable urinal](https://amzn.to/4xXcw6n) next time to alleviate that dread.

A Nerve-Wracking Boat Ride

Now, onto the speedboat excursion to Elephant Cafe. We had a thrilling ride there, navigating through rapids and dodging crocodiles. The excitement was palpable. But on the return trip, our driver announced that the boat had broken down, and his vague assurance that help was on the way was anything but comforting. Let me add some context: a few years back, I endured a shipwreck in Indonesia, an ordeal that left me shaken — anxiety about being on the water became an unwanted companion. So you can imagine how my heart raced as I sat on a malfunctioning boat in the Upper Zambezi. If the situation went south, we'd be heading over the falls, not exactly a comforting thought. Fortunately, we limped back to shore without further incident, but I won’t lie, it was far from enjoyable for me.

Flight Mishaps

Coming home should have been easier, but my mom and I nearly missed not one but three flights from Africa! The misadventure started when our driver seemingly chose his own route to the airport instead of following Uber. What should have been a 35-minute ride turned into an hour-long scramble. And to top it off, we had to navigate two different terminals for check-in and departure. Let’s just say our hearts raced as we barely made it for final boarding. A word to the wise: if you’re ever flying out of OR Tambo Airport, plan for extra time — aim for three hours before your flight. Then came drama on our Johannesburg to Dubai leg, where a flight attendant accidentally slammed a beverage cart into my mom’s knee leading to a swollen aftermath. After a whirlwind at the Dubai Airport Medical Center, we found ourselves once again in a race against time, trying to make our connecting flights. Thankfully, we arrived just as final boarding commenced. In the end, my mom was cleared to fly, and I remain grateful for the decision to upgrade her to business class for her long haul to Boston. Trust me, economy would have been quite a challenge with her in discomfort.It’s striking how quickly an ambitious endeavor can devolve into chaos, particularly when oversight seems lacking. In examining the tumultuous history of Facebook, it becomes evident that youthful exuberance and financial backing don’t always equate to competent leadership. The disconnect within the company wasn’t just about missteps; it was a fundamental lack of direction—a scenario where the people at the helm, buoyed by resources, appeared to be adrift without a clear understanding of their mission or responsibilities. Reflecting on the zeitgeist of a prior era, when the book in question made waves, encapsulates a sense of urgency. I recently dusted it off after spotting it on Kindle Unlimited, intrigued yet apprehensive about its heavy themes. For those who prefer tales with a silver lining, prepare for a somber journey. This isn’t light reading—it's a dive into shades of despair that can be overwhelming if you’re seeking uplift. Let’s pivot briefly to something brighter: I picked up a delightful read called *The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency* by Alexander McCall Smith, the charming story of Precious Ramotswe in Botswana. The juxtaposition of a woman forging her path in a male-dominated sphere adds both humor and warmth to a cultural discussion. I must admit, it caught me off guard to learn the author wasn’t a local but a white Zimbabwean—a reminder of how narratives can transcend borders, although not without implication. Then there's *The Dry* by Jane Harper, a gripping thriller steeped in the haunting realities of a drought-ravaged town. While I wouldn't consider myself a thrill-seeker, the vivid portrayal of desperation in the Australian landscape kept me invested. Yes, the pace may lag at times, but the evocative setting made it worthwhile—Stephen King himself sang its praises. Every literary experience has its pros and cons; *Winter’s Bone* haunted me in the best way with its raw depiction of life in the Ozarks, where moral ambiguity and survival instincts clash violently. With a film adaptation showcasing Jennifer Lawrence’s acclaimed performance, it remains a standout for me. On another note, I found *This Story Might Save Your Life* a tad overreaching—its quirkiness felt forced, a hipster vibe trying too hard for authenticity. Yet, it wasn’t without merit, particularly in its nuanced portrayal of sleep disorders. As I gear up for October, a shift to a quieter pace feels necessary. Just one short trip awaits me—a journey to Hamburg for *Traverse 26*, a conference focused on travel creators. It’s an opportunity to connect, learn, and recharge in one of my favorite cities. There’s just something about Hamburg that I find irresistibly inviting. So, as the leaves turn and I embrace simpler days ahead, I'd love to hear what you’re planning for October. Are you diving into any compelling reads, or maybe a weekend getaway? Let's exchange stories!