My Travels – Backpackers
Four women in the #WeWillTravelAgain spirit reminisce about backpacking destinations
ZAMO KASA, AGEING GRACEFULLY
With travelling as her occupation, Kasa visited India, starting in New Delhi. She made her way to Agra, then Rajasthan and Varanasi.
How was the experience? As a female solo traveller, my main concern was safety. But, I never felt unsafe, which was a relief. I met up and travelled with other solo females. Best and worst thing about backpacking? Priceless memories – like the bus driver who looked after me when I had a fever. He bought me chai and biscuits at every stop. What do you wish you knew before the trip? That the poverty is bad. One item you need when visiting this country? Toilet paper!
Any hidden gems in the city? Forget the steps in Jaipur – you have to bribe someone to get a picture on them! Then find Toorji Ka Jhalra! Would you do it again, and why? Definitely! India is not a one-time country.
VUYOLWETHU HOLE , 31
Early childhood development educator Hole cherishes her trip to Ella, Sri Lanka. How was the experience? Out of this world! Travelling from Kandy to Ella by train was a beautiful experience that felt like heaven. The food was amazing, the people really friendly, and most of the hostels were clean and spacious. Best and worst thing about backpacking? I met some really amazing people that I’m still great friends with. Sharing the toilet with strangers in a hostel was uncomfortable. What do you wish you knew before the trip? I didn’t realise that I tried to squeeze so many activities into seven days. Take your time. One item you need when visiting this
country? I can’t travel without a cross-body bag – it’s a lifesaver and so convenient when you’re backpacking and sleeping in dorms.
Any hidden gems in the city? There’s an array of tea plantations. You can tour a tea factory and even do a tasting. Would you do it again, and why? Definitely! For the landscape, food, people and activities.
INNOCENTIA MAHLANGU, 30
This civil engineer travelled through France, and met new people at hostels and backpacker lodges.
How was the experience? It was intimidating at first, but it gets easier. I warmed up to it plus using public transport or e-hailing services. You need to be comfortable with getting lost at first.
Best and worst thing about backpacking? It’s a cheaper way to travel. Be prepared to share a room and communal facilities. What do you wish you knew before the trip? You need to pack as light as possible so you can move around with ease between places. One item you need when visiting this country? Always have a smaller backpack to use as you move around during the day.
Any hidden gems in the city? The Palace of Versailles was one of my highlights. Would you do it again, and why? Yes! It’s great for your pocket and to meet new people.
ZANELE GLORIA NKOSI, 37
Backpacking through the different states of Ghana was the best experience for this Mpumalanga provincial treasury manager.
How was the experience? It was great, and all the fun times began with sundowners by the beach while watching the local children sell coconut water. Best and worst thing about backpacking? It’s cheap, super fun, and the relaxed shared spaces take away all the travel anxiety. But, untidy bathrooms and loud roommates can ruin the fun. What do you wish you knew before the trip? That there were entrance fees at the local parks. One item you need when visiting this country? Ladies, wear light braids or natural hair and no make-up. Any hidden gems in the city? Visit the Black Star Gate and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. Would you do it again, and why? No doubt. Backpacking allowed me the privilege of joining other travellers on excursions, which is safer and less pricey.