Timbuktu is in the Republic of Mali in western Africa. Just inside the southern edge of the Sahara Desert, the city is connected by a 20 kilometer canal to the Niger River, the third largest river in Africa. Timbuktu is famed as a wellspring in the spread of Islam throughout western Africa and as a center of learning. Today, the city is in constant struggle with the Sahara as the desert expands southward. All but the entry road are covered in sand. But the city still manages to impress. Nothing much grows in Timbuktu, which means all structures are made of mud. Local tradesmen study as apprentices for years to learn the art of sculpting mud. Mosques and dwellings are built after the short rainy season. Residents include the Tuareg, Mande, Songhay and Fulani peoples. Markets are well known for beautiful, hand-painted cloth. Before the arrival of Europeans, gold was traded from western Africa through Timbuktu in exchange for goods from as far away as Libya and Rome. Take an overnight boat down the Niger River from the city of Mopti to really appreciate the surroundings.
The ancient Egyptian city of Thebes, now modern-day Luxor, is crowded with sights of interest. Places not to miss include the Karnak temple complex and Hatshepsut's Tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Visitors to the Valley of the Kings can see the necropolis where King Tutankhamen was buried as well as many other pharaohs, queens and persons of nobility. Also nearby is the impressive Hatshepsut's Tomb, a massive stone temple carved straight into the solid rock of the mountain side in honor of the female pharaoh. Lastly, a trip to visit the astounding Karnak temple complex is a must. Considered the finest example of ancient religious architecture in the world, the site is occupied by massive pylons, temples, chapels, study areas and the impressive Hypostyle Hall. The best time to visit is after dark when a well-produced light and music show is offered.
Zanzibar, an island off the coast of Tanzania, is a real-life paradise. Once used for slave trading, the heart of Zanzibar is the architecturally astounding Stone Town. Stone Town's winding, narrow alleys and mix of Omani, Indian and East African architecture are worthy of exploration. Small, clean, well-furnished hotels can be had here for cheap as well. Residents and visitors alike descend upon the waterfront nightly to enjoy the outdoor seafood barbecue and to taste the fresh squeezed sugar cane juice. For the adventurous, take a dala-dala, a transport truck, and head north to Kendwa Beach for some quiet, seaside nights under the stars. Kendwa faces the mainland, which means no great tidal changes and calm, warm water. Snorkeling and scuba-diving enthusiasts will be happy.
In southern Africa, Zambia offers visitors one of the best wildlife sanctuaries on the continent and probably the least visited. The Luangwa River Valley is in eastern Zambia, hours away from the border of Malawi. The area is home to Luambe and North and South Luambe National Park. Wildlife in these regions are the same species found elsewhere on the continent. They include predators such as lions, leopards and cheetahs, herds of elephants, rhinos, hippopotamuses, baboons, gelagos, hyenas, wild dogs, kudus, hartebeests, topis, aardvarks and crocodiles. Lodges in the river valley range from all-inclusive establishments to backpacker hostels. A great way to view wildlife here is by booking a walking safari with armed park rangers. Make certain to travel to the capital, Lusaka, and to visit the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls.
Located in northern Morocco, Casablanca makes for an interesting diversion either alone or as a break from a holiday in southern Spain. Casablanca can seem a bit run down in some places but still offers many interesting sights. Strolls through the old medina to view its distinctive architecture as well as the stately and ornate Hassan II Mosque are lovely ways to spend a few hours. At sunset, a stroll by the port to view the fishermen and bobbing boats can be relaxing. The Royal Palace of Casablanca can be the last stop before heading to Rick's Cafe Casablanca, designed after the club and bar of the same name in the film "Casablanca."
