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My love affair with Africa started a couple of years ago when I went to South Africa, but it was only after my trip to Tanzania this year that I realised just how much I love Africa. To me, Tanzania stands out as one of the most beautiful and fascinating countries I have ever travelled with its vibrant colours, sounds and smells, warm and open people and of course its massive plains and savannas that will take the breath away from even the most experienced traveller.

When travelling in rural areas of Tanzania you sometimes get the distinct feeling that you are the only white person to ever have set foot there. Children and adults turn to look closely at you as you pass them and shout "mzungo". This is not to be impolite, but a way of getting in contact, and as soon as you greet their shouting with a few swahili frases, there is no end to the hospitality and good-will of the Tanzanians. This is also what makes it easy to travel in Tanzania - people seek out contact with you and will go to immense lenghts to help you out when the buses break down, your money have been stolen or if you simply look sad. You are never alone in Tanzania

It's really a shame that more people don't take the time to visit remote areas of Tanzania, as this is where you will get the real 'feel' of what Africa is all about. Interesting and memorable experiences are just waiting to come to life when you stroll down the bumpy dirt roads with crater-like holes; Old mamas sitting in the shade observing life, young boys herding cattle along the road, giggling girls in uniforms on their way to school carrying firewood and water, old men playing checkers next to their duka. That is what Tanzania is all about

But a trip to Tanzania would of course not be a real trip if you hadn't been on safari. I once talked to a Ugandan safari guide who said: "you people are spoiled in Tanzania". What he meant was that Tanzania is probablyTHE best place to go for safari in all of Africa, as there are so many animals and such a variety of vegetation that you only have to go to 2 or 3 parks to have seen it all. Indeed, people are spoiled in Tanzania

If you are lucky enough, you might be able to see one of the most spectacular sights of all: the big migration. Every year millions of wilderbeest make their way through the serengeti plains on their way to Kenya. Like one giant, black pillow in motion, these animals are a breathtaking sight for anyone. I thought I had seen it all until I stumpled across the BIg Migration. Only then have you seen it all.

Whether you go for the big cities of Tanzania, the remote, rural areas or simply the safaris, you are bound to be taken in by this magnificent country. Its kind people, splendid wild life and not least slow pace and way of life gets in your blood. In Tanzania you can and must take your time. This view of life is perhaps what I treasure most about the country - there is no need to rush things, everything will work out anyway. Slow down and you realise all the beauty around you. It is truly amazing.