What was your favorite destination and why?South Africa – My trips are usually very short given my limited vacation days, but I was able to squeeze 6 weeks in South Africa. The trip was a blend of business (an independent research project on engineering education) and pleasure. I travelled from Johannesburg to Durban and along the eastern coast to Cape Town via the Garden Route and visited Bisho, Umtata, Tsitsikamma and so more meeting wonderful people and sampling great cuisine along the way.

Of all of the locations I visited, Durban was by far my favorite. My nearly two weeks living on a flat on the beach were complete bliss! I spent time with the cast of African Footprints and experienced the coolest blend of African and Indian culture as I explored every inch of the city. Durban is definitely a place I would love to call home one day.

Where have you traveled Internationally? If you describe that location in a single word or phrase, what would it be?

• Durban, South Africa – Afro-Indo fusion
• Bogota, Columbia – Passionate
• Jamaica – Carefree
• Buenos Aires, Argentina – Eurocentric
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Cidade Maravilhosa

What are the Top 3 destinations on your Bucket List?

India

Morocco

Turkey

Has any trip changed the way you think or act – whether politically, socially or otherwise?Every trip I take continues to open my eyes and broaden my horizons. I have come to appreciate all of the little things that we so often take for granted and appreciate and celebrate our similarities and differences in a totally different way.

Have you ever experienced a problem when traveling (passport, victim of crime, etc.)?I’ve never had any major problems while travelling. My travel partner in the Dominican Republic was held a knife point after getting into an altercation over $10 USD. I wasn’t there when it happened, but it was a frightening experience nonetheless.

What’s the strangest thing you’ve eaten when traveling?I can’t really think of anything strange really. I grew up in the south and we just about anything imaginable, so nothing, so far has really been strange yet.

What was your least favorite travel experience and why?I generally have great overall travel experiences overall, but one not so fun experience was my last trip to Jamaica for Reggae Sumfest. We made an impromptu over night trip to Negril to watch the sunset and it stormed the entire afternoon and night. As we were checking out the next morning to head back to Montego Bay, I slipped and fell down the stairs and twisted my ankle. I spent the next 3 days wrapped in ace bandages and applying ice, aloe and whatever else my friends thought would make it better. The whole situtaion kinda put me in a crappy mood for a bit, but I was not letting that deter me from seeing Usher, Buju Banton and rest of the line up at Sumfest. I got dressed in my one shoe and sock and headed out for the last night of concerts. Because of all of the rain the grounds were a complete mud puddle. I hobbled, hopped, limped and sloshed my way through the muddy parking lot to our seats. Though I spent most of the concert sitting down with my foot propped up and was COVERED in mud from the knees down, I still had a blast. We had great VIP seats, great food and the concert was amazing! I even got a quick conversation and photo with Christopher Martin before arriving back at my housing to hose off and get some rest!

What kind of vacation do you prefer, adventure, nature, backpacking, luxury getaways, shopping, relaxing,  other?It really depends on what’s going on and why I decided on the vacation in the first place. If things are stressful at work, I’m definitely looking to hit a beach and relax. If I’m travelling with my best friend, it’s definitely a more luxurious getaway with some shopping and relaxing. If I’m travelling solo, I’m looking for an adventure, to explore nature and historical sites. No matter what my motive I’m always looking to meet new people and have a life changing experience.

What’s the best thing about traveling?  What’s the Worst?

• Best – Everyday is a new adventure!
• Worst – Packing and having to leave to return home too soon!

When you’ve traveled internationally, did you prefer to do things that are familiar (American food/activities) or go outside of the tourists areas and see how the natives live?I totally immerse myself in the culture do what the locals/natives do.

Do you look for Americans when you travel? Also, do you try to ‘blend in’ or don’t think about it.I’m always trying to blend in as much as possible. I don’t really seek out any type of person, but enjoy meeting and interacting with whoever happens to cross my path.

Do you have any travel tips to share?Don’t over plan. Of course it’s good to know where you will sleep, but try to let your experiences and the people you meet guide your day. Keep an open heart and an open mind and live with no regrets!

Any parting shots or Shout outs?I would like to thank all of the amazing people I’ve met through the years on my travels and those who have encouraged me, offered their advice and shared their stories! I added line at the end If you don’t have a passport, get one now!