I’ve always had a fascination for the world around me. Fascination of different lifestyles, languages, landscapes, and lions for that matter, but it wasn’t until my first time in Kenya that my perspective fully transformed. I was in high school at the time, and I still remember that giddy, awestruck feeling I got on my first safari. Years and countries later, I still get that giddy feeling every time I get to see the world through a new lens, and I absolutely love getting to share that feeling with others.
I grew up surrounded by travel with many relatives overseas and a mom who was fresh to the States, but visiting Kenya was a completely new experience for me. I fell in love with their traditions, music, local dishes, and everything in between. Having returned several times, I’ve been fortunate to explore more of East Africa, including Tanzania. From singing and dancing around the campfire to walking on the white sand beaches of Zanzibar, that giddy, awestruck feeling never seems to diminish. I continue to be amazed by Kenya and Tanzania, and I’m so excited to share with you my passion while designing your dream safari.
Q&A with Elizabeth
What’s the best local dish you’ve tasted?
Chapati is hands-down my favorite. Mostly found in Kenya, chapati is a soft, flaky unleavened flatbread served at any meal. During one of my first trips to Kenya, I got the chance to make chapati with local Maasai women. They taught me their techniques and secret tips to making the perfect flatbread, which I’m still trying to replicate. The most common way to eat chapati is alongside stews, meats, or vegetables.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
One summer, I was camping in a Maasai village over the Fourth of July. I was in a remote area of Southern Kenya, and I wanted to bring a holiday tradition for the Maasai to experience — roasting marshmallows. So, I packed a bag of marshmallows in my suitcase, and the night of the holiday, we gathered sticks to hand out around the fire. I quickly demonstrated the process, and then let the Maasai try. They were hesitant at first, but after having their first bite, they were immediately hooked. They ate the entire bag and had the biggest smiles. For the rest of the night, we danced and sang around the fire. It was a Fourth of July I will always cherish.
Where would you love to travel next?
Crete in the Greek Islands has been on the top of my list for quite some time. I studied a lot of Greek art history in college, so I’d love to experience their vibrant culture in person. Between exploring Knossos’ ruins, trying all the local cuisines, and swimming in the crystal-clear water, it would be an absolute dream come true.