Arriving on a rain-soaked morning at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, my curiosity was mingled with nervousness and excitement. As I navigated Nairobi's streets with a mix of eagerness and nervousness, my anticipation grew. I spent the entire afternoon calling my family and friends to let them know that I had arrived. The next morning, I took a half an hour flight to Ukunda Diani, at southern palms situated along the white sandy shores of the Indian ocean, 35 kilometers from Mombasa. ALSO READ: Exploring the world with a Rwandan passport: 63 visa-free destinations The place’s name sounded like a Rwandan name and that got me excited, to know what it is all about. All I had read about Diani was that it has a lot of beautiful beaches. Rain may have dampened the initial thrill of arriving at the Diani airport, but Saturday brought forth a vibrant Diani. The streets, adorned with handmade treasures, beckoned exploration, while the warm embrace of Maasai traders added cultural richness. Exploring the Indian Ocean, I marveled at its aquatic symphony. Although aquaphobia kept me on the boat, witnessing others snorkel and dive provided a vicarious thrill. I had to put my feet in the ocean to live the moment and capture some. The vibe at Diani beach was unmatched when people from different parts of the world danced to East African Music. Holding beautiful ocean species like a starfish and leaving my mark on the ocean's canvas, I revelled in the unique aroma of its white sands. Diani's Colobus Conservation Center, a sanctuary for endangered monkeys, offered a poignant experience. Overcoming threats like electrification and road accidents, the center's three-stage rehabilitation process underscored the commitment to preserving these primates. The grandeur of Langata's Giraffe Center, with its towering inhabitants and the heartwarming encounter with giraffes marked the finale of a beautiful adventure. Conquering fears, I fed these beautiful, majestic creatures, leaving me humbled and inspired. From the vibrant ocean to the lush centre, each experience added layers to my appreciation for East Africa's diverse beauty As I journeyed back to Nairobi for the East African Regional Tourism Expo, East Africa's beauty left an indelible mark. The trip, a testament to the wonders of exploration, fuelled a commitment to visit more places, starting with frequent visits to my homeland Rwanda. The voyage affirmed a universal truth: the world's beauty awaits those willing to embark on the journey, unlocking the richness of cultures, nature and self-discovery.
