Lauren Johansson - Welcome to my profile!

About Me

Having grown up in Africa I cannot imagine living anywhere else. Granted there's a vast world out there to explore and that I have done, but Africa is 'home'. And despite having been involved in the hospitality, travel and tourism throughout my entire career, it's always a thrill to hear that one of my travellers has had a truly memorable African experience!

I've worked as an assistant manager at a remote north Kenyan lodge, been a cabin crew member with a major airline, built up a villa rental department in St. Francis and organised weddings and events at a resort. In the Seychelles I worked on my tan for a year but even that got a bit much. I now live in Gordon's Bay which really is just a small village where everyone knows each other.

South Africa is about the lifestyle. Weekends are reserved for cooking and enjoying it with those I love, as well as exploring the gorgeous beaches and mountains nearby. I also like heading off for a quiet weekend at Struisbaai, near the most southern tip of Africa. Fishing? Yes, I love it! 

Having worked for Go2Africa now for over four years, I still adore what I do! Apart from planning trips, you get to enjoy Africa too - why would I want to do anything else!?

Where have I travelled

I've been fortunate enough to live, work and holiday in some of the most incredible destinations. In Europe I have visited France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany and a host of other regions. In Africa I've done my fair share of travelling too - Kenya, Tanzania, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi plus of course South Africa.

Spending a year on the island of Mahe in the Seychelles was bliss while staying on the Comores was pure adventure, unchartered territory and completely off the beaten track. The other islands that are top of my list of best holiday would be Lamu, Mnemba and Zanzibar.

My favourite travel moment

How does one choose a favourite moment? Possibly my favourite day was at Mnemba Island swimming with the dolphins, snorkelling on the house reef, the sunset from the dhow and then the most delicious dinner on the beach under the African sky.

What I love about Africa

The spirit of Africa. The smell of rain in the air before thunderstorms. The sound of joyous singing. Campfires at night. Skies that seem vaster than vast! The sound of a lion's roar. The sense of being alone in the wilderness. Waves crashing on remote African shores. The fact that Africa still surprises me and leaves me breatheless with its beauty.

Some African travel advice

Always keep your sense of humour. In East Africa they have a saying 'pole pole' (roughly translated as slowly, slowly) so take on the African attitude, take it easy, relax and most importantly enjoy every minute, it's all part of the adventure.

Where I'd love to go next

My next holiday will be skiing (just started the planning!) and after that it's beach destinations: locally, northern Mozambique is close to the top of the list closely followed by the Maldives and Barbados.

TRAVEL BLOG POSTS

Read about Lauren's safari to Mnemba, the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Masai Mara: East Africa Safari.