Tanzania

Tanzania, blessed with friendly and hospitable people, has something for everyone – as a big five destination, its north is an ideal destination for a first-time safari. But its north also has quiet, hidden gems such as the Gol Mountains, Lake Natron and the Yaeda Valley which make it a fantastic choice for returnees to Africa. I still can't think of anywhere I would prefer to be in February than in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area among the wildebeest and zebra migration, preferably on foot. Hiking is fabulous in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area where rift valley scenery is unsurpassed. The Ngorongoro Crater may have over 100 vehicles at its designated lunch site, but if you are walking along its crater rim chances are excellent that you are alone. Nor can I think of another culture as intact and inspiring for visitors than Tanzania's Maasai.

When I first went to live in Tanzania my plan was to travel throughout the country but also through its neighbors as well. Three years later, I was still trying to see all of Tanzania which speaks to its size and diversity. Its southern park of Ruaha is some of the prettiest bush anywhere, its western park of Katavi remains a remote, pristine wilderness, while Mahale and Gombe Steam National Parks, also in the far west, are forested sanctuaries for some of Africa's last remaining wild chimpanzees.

I will always consider Tanzania "home". It is where my love affair with Africa began.