South Africa: Seychelles, Kenya & Tanzania

Experience the blending of traditional Arab culture and modern western culture in Dubai. Gaze skyward to see the tallest building in the world, the 2,722-feet-high futuristic Burj Khalifa tower, or walk over to the impressive Jumeirah Mosque. Seek out jet-set haunts or stroll through the heart of the old city, Dubai Creek, which is home to the Dubai museum as well as the labyrinth alleyways of gold, spice and textile souks, where bargaining is part of the fun and ritual.

La Digue, though the Seychelles' third-most inhabited island, feels like a paradise untouched by time. Much of the island is undeveloped and guests and locals alike often bicycle between points of interest – and there are many of those. Quiet bays, spectacularly beautiful beaches, large granite rocks rising from azure waters and a hilly jungle interior await your exploration. Paradise seekers and sun worshippers need to look no further than this small island in the Indian Ocean.

Take a sabbatical in the Seychelles capital of Victoria. Located on Mahé Island in the Indian Ocean, it’s famous for its exports of vanilla and coconut oil. Take a stroll through the Seychelle National Botanical Gardens full of flora, fauna and fruit bats. Stop by the Selwyn-Clarke Market for some street shopping. Try some local Ladob, a dish that can be served either sweet or savory. Then settle in for some sun at Beau Vallon Beach or visit the Navasakthi Vinayagar hindu temple.

Modern Mombasa is a vibrant port city where cultures from Africa, India and Arabia meet. Located in a sought-after spot by the Indian Ocean, Mombasa’s history is full of battles to control the city. This is such a big part of Mombasa’s history that in Swahili, the city is called “Kisiwa Cha Mvita” or “Island of War.” Get a glimpse of this history at Fort Jesus. Built by the Portuguese in 1593, this fort changed hands nine times in a little over 200 years. When you’re ready for a bite to eat, enjoy foods from several different cultures all in one place. Get a mouthwatering chicken tikka or try Mishikaki, a kind of grilled kebab.

Zanzibar is a beautiful chain of islands off the coast of Tanzania with white sand beaches and a diverse culture. Zanzibar’s capital (Zanzibar City) is located on the island of Unguja, and its historic center Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Zanzibar is known for its thriving spice industry, particularly cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper. Animals, both land and sea, are all important to the economy here, as well as a major tourism draw. Endemic species like Zanzibar Red Colobus and the Zanzibar Leopard have long captivated visitors while spotting coral, frog fish, crocodile fish, octopus and more make snorkeling and ocean safaris popular outings.

Immerse yourself in Madasgascar’s largest and most popular destination, Nosy Be. This “Big Island” off the northwest coast is famous for its natural splendor and Ylang Ylang trees that make up a major part of the local economy. Spend the day hanging out with lemurs and chameleons at the Lokobe Reserve. Indulge in local cuisine like the diverse and delectable variations of Laoka. Then brave the highest peak on the island at Mont Lokobe or relax on the beaches of Befotaka Bay.

Lose yourself in the Mauritian capital of Port Louis. Named after a former French emperor, this port city was a major point of passage for ships sailing around the Cape of Good Hope. Visit the famous Champs de Mars race track. Learn about the local history and culture at the Blue Penny Museum. Walk through the gorgeous foliage in Les Jardins De La Compagnie. Then stroll along the Caudan Waterfront to check out the shops, restaurants and famous Chinese Pagoda.

Lose yourself in the Mauritian capital of Port Louis. Named after a former French emperor, this port city was a major point of passage for ships sailing around the Cape of Good Hope. Visit the famous Champs de Mars race track. Learn about the local history and culture at the Blue Penny Museum. Walk through the gorgeous foliage in Les Jardins De La Compagnie. Then stroll along the Caudan Waterfront to check out the shops, restaurants and famous Chinese Pagoda.