Hey Reader!

This email lands in your inbox every Tuesday. It's all about travel insights, personal stories, and lessons from my adventures exploring over 90 countries thus far. Whether it inspires, entertains, or enlightens, let's celebrate the beauty and diversity of this amazing world we share, from a travel perspective! 🌍✨

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Some cities you visit because they're on your list, and then they surprise you.

Brazzaville was one of those for me.

I didn’t know much about the city or country before my visit, so I had no expectations.

The capital of the Republic of the Congo (former French colony) turned out to be a fascinating mix of history, culture, creativity, modernity and, of course, the mighty Congo River.

I spent my first day exploring the city with Romaric, a friendly and knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide, who brought so much enthusiasm and passion to showing me around.

From discovering the story of the city's European "discoverer", Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza, to experiencing the colourful energy of its streets, there was always something new around the corner.

And then came one of those magical travel surprises you simply cannot plan for.

My guide had told me that seeing La Sape, the legendary Congolese culture of elegance and flamboyant fashion, was unlikely on a weekday.

Yet somehow we got lucky and stumbled upon a few of them dressed in their impeccably tailored, colourful outfits, posing with pride in full elegance during a street photoshoot. I was thrilled!

I also discovered some of Brazzaville's more unexpected sides from the impressive Hilton Twin Towers to the curious Ground Zero along the Corniche, where I discovered that when one stands right on a specific spot, your normal talking voice actually echoes (it sounded so weird)!

Then there was the amazing views.

Imagine standing in Brazzaville, watching the mighty Congo River stretch out before you, and looking directly across the water into Kinshasa, the capital of another country. These two cities are the closest national capitals in the world, separated by the river yet connected by geography, history and an extraordinary shared sense of place.

What a remarkable sight it was to take in!

Finally, my guide had cleverly saved Bantu Beach for last, where I indulged in a sumptuous local lunch with my feet in the water, enjoying an uninterrupted view of the Djoué Rapids. The spectacular scenery coupled with the soothing sounds of the flowing waters made a perfect end to a wonderful day.

But perhaps the most heartwarming part of my Brazzaville experience wasn't any particular attraction.

It was the people.

On my second day, my Airbnb hostess and her son generously sacrificed their afternoon to take me around their city. Their warmth and generosity turned what could have been simply another day of sightseeing into something much more personal.

And that's what I love about travel.

The landmarks may be what gets you there, but the people are often what you remember.

Two days in Brazzaville. So many stories. So much warmth.

And a city I’m very glad I gave myself a little time to enjoy, and leave with memories I’ll treasure.

Have you ever visited a place that surprised you in the best possible way?

Where (or how) has travel changed the way you see home? I'd love to hear your story, just hit reply and tell me.

I read every email 😊

Your Travel Coach,

Maria Kamau (aka Mkay)

Travel Enthusiast | Bodacious Adventurer |Travel Writer

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