The Magic of Africa
Topic: Africa in brief
In my second trip to this continent the magic of Africa had vanished from my memories of this magnificent part of the world. Two years ago my visit lasted only 2 weeks. Yet in that short period of time I was completely bewitched by the rawness and simplicity of this region. East Africa was already touched by tourism then, but the trade was not so developed that one loses touch with the indigenous. It was like tasting a wholesome home cooked meal of top quality ingredients and minimal fuss. The original flavour dominates the palette rather than the condiments.
Southern Africa was equally besotting in its landscape and rich flora and fauna. However, the entire episode felt as though I had paid a visit to the playground of the rich white travellers. All sensations were carefully packaged and all taste buds catered for. One is able to pay by cash, traveller's cheques or credit card. The locals were conveniently left outside the box allowing only tiny peeks though the slits of the carton. That was probably for our own safety.
In my return visit to Africa it felt like dinner at a fancy restaurant. My ideal image of Africa as the wild wild land was thinned after reading a book `A brief history of the continent Africa', which explained its geographical, evolutionary and cultural development. Gone is the fantasy of Africa as the natural and untamed world. Now I remember this place with a realistic perception that it well deserves.
Posted by Ching Yin
at 12:33 AM JST
happy
