The Island Girl

Embarking on a journey with friends can transform a mundane trip into an unforgettable adventure filled with shared laughter, unique experiences, and strengthened bonds. However, the dynamic of traveling with friends comes with both pros and cons that can significantly influence the overall experience. Let's delve into the intricacies of hitting the road with your companions. Nosy Iranja with my dear friend Ravaka  Pros of Traveling with Friends: 1. Shared Memories and Bonding: One of the most significant advantages of traveling with friends is the opportunity to create shared memories. From navigating unfamiliar streets to trying new cuisines, these shared experiences can strengthen your bonds and provide a treasure trove of stories to reminisce about in the years to come. 2. Cost Sharing: Travel expenses can add up quickly, but when you're traveling with friends, you can often split the costs of accommodation, transportation, and meals. This not only makes the trip more affor

Andilana Beach,  Nosy Be, Madagascar  While scrolling through my travel pictures, people often think I'm rolling in cash. But here's the kicker: I don't pay for most of my trips. In fact, I'm often getting paid to travel. You must be thinking, "What a dream!" And just to clear the air, no sugar daddies are involved. Keep reading, and I'll share some tips on making your travel dreams come true without breaking the banks. Dream of it and Work for it Don't just vaguely wish to travel for free someday. Truly dream of it with all your heart. Make concrete plans and set clear milestones. Since I was six, I knew I wanted a job that would allow me to travel and use English as my working language. This goal guided all my choices from that point on. Dreaming is just the start, though. Once you have a dream, it’s time to turn it into actionable goals. This means researching opportunities, networking with people in the travel industry, and continuously upgrading y

 Hello fellow travelers ☺️ Do you keep a travel diary ? I do. And this is an excerpt of my trip with my husband to Nosy be in December 2023. Nosy Tanikely 💙 Day 1: The Journey Begins It’s our first day on this enchanting island of Nosy Be. My husband and I have just endured a grueling 24-hour road trip to get here, but the anticipation keeps us going. The main island welcomes us with open arms, and we decide to take it easy today—just chilling, recovering from the long journey. Day 2: Paradise Awaits The alarm jolts us awake at 6:30 a.m., but it’s a welcome sound. Today, we’re bound for Nosy Tanikely—a slice of heaven on earth. We hop into a tuk-tuk and head to a nearby pastry shop for breakfast. The rendezvous with our speedboat is set for 8:30 a.m., and we can’t wait. Madirokely Beach Buzzing with Excitement At 8:30 a.m., Madirokely Beach is alive with energy. Tourists from all corners of the globe—mostly Europeans—gather, their eyes shining with anticipation. Our guide, Manuella, e

Hello everyone ☺️ I am thrilled and honored to share with you something that truly matters to me: Business Outing . This concept, which I created back in 2020, aims to promote local tourism in Madagascar with a unique twist. Unlike regular trips, our outings have a specific added value – a learning component. Our motto is "travel and network," and it has guided us through four successful trips, each better than the last. I'm incredibly proud of the evolution and growth we've achieved. This year's edition was particularly special. We called it the Family Business Camp and tailored activities to suit every family member. The focus was on learning, bonding, and having fun together, creating lasting memories and valuable experiences. Day 1: Music, Soap Making, and Digital Opportunities We kicked off the first day with a session of music therapy led by Kevin Mirija, a psychologist and professional musician. This was a unique and relaxing start, setting a positive tone

Hi world, this is me... I am just back from a journey to an unknown land...maybe music land... Embarking a journey led by the enchanting melodies of Rabesolophone, featuring the virtuoso guitarist Joel Rabesolo, is akin to entering a realm where music transcends language and speaks directly to the soul. The ensemble, comprising the prodigious talents of Tsanta on keyboards and trumpet, Hasina with his saxophone, Toufa Loux’s rhythmic percussions, Harty’s resonant bass, and Miora’s dynamic drumming, creates a symphony that resonates with the heart’s deepest emotions. From the vantage point of a front-row seat, the experience is nothing short of transformative. The musicians, each a maestro in their own right, weave a tapestry of sound that is both intricate and expansive. The passion they pour into every note is palpable, stirring the audience into a collective state of awe. It’s a show where the vibrations are not just heard but felt, coursing through the veins and igniting a fire with

 Madagascar, a land of unparalleled biodiversity, is also home to a vibrant tapestry of people whose stories are as rich and diverse as the island’s flora and fauna. Among these individuals is Dr. Joel Raveloharimisy a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the power of education and determination. Dr. Raveloharimisy, a native Malagasy, serves as the Director of the Masters in International Development program at Andrews University. His journey is one of resilience and unwavering commitment to empowering the youth of Madagascar. Through his extensive experience in conducting conferences, radio broadcasts, and mentoring sessions, Dr. Raveloharimisy has become a pivotal figure in guiding young Malagasy students to pursue higher education and realize their dreams, both at home and on international shores. His influence extends beyond the physical realm into the digital world, where he manages a Facebook group nearing 50,000 members. In this online community, Dr. Raveloharimisy generousl

Nestled not far from the vibrant town of Helville, Nosy Be, Libertalia offers a serene retreat, inviting travelers to unwind amidst its natural beauty. This hidden gem is a haven for those seeking relaxation, boasting a large pool and a picturesque lake with breathtaking views. **Arrival at Libertalia Nosy Be:** Our journey to Libertalia began with a sense of anticipation, and as we arrived at noon, the warmth of the sun greeted us. The resort's ambiance immediately set the tone for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. **The Pakopako Experience:** Libertalia welcomed us with the enticing of Pakopako with beef sticks, a local delicacy that tantalized our taste buds. The flavorful combination of local spices and fresh ingredients made it a delightful introduction to the culinary delights of Nosy Be. It was the perfect start to our day of relaxation. **The Oasis of Refreshment:** Libertalia's expansive pool beckoned, offering a refreshing respite under th

Weaver Trio and Yrinaf, a group of exceptionally talented musicians, have not only captured the essence of professionalism and musical prowess but have also woven a tapestry of friendship that I am fortunate to be a part of. In the realm of professional musicians, Weaver Trio stands out as one of the finest groups I've encountered. Their collective skill and musica l intuition create an experience that transcends the ordinary. Alongside them, Yrinaf, a vocal virtuoso, showcases a vocal range that has left me in awe countless times. To call them simply talented would be an understatement – they are true maestros of their craft. What sets this musical ensemble apart is not just their artistry but their humility. Despite their remarkable achievements, they remain grounded, radiating a genuine warmth that makes every encounter with them a joy. I am proud and privileged to call them my friends, a connection that goes beyond the stage and recording studio. Recently, I had the distinct pl

As the plane touched down in Dubai, the city of lights welcomed me with a spectacular display that left me utterly amazed. The skyline, adorned with towering structures and a myriad of lights, gave the impression that everything in this city was on an XXL scale.  It was a mesmerizing sight that set the stage for an unforgettable adventure.The next morning, my first ride through the city revealed the true grandeur of Dubai. The futuristic architecture seamlessly blended with traditional elements, creating a unique visual tapestry.  Burj Khalifa   From the window, the city unfolded like a work of art, showcasing the iconic Burj Khalifa, which dominated the skyline.Choosing the Rove Downtown Hotel turned out to be a stroke of genius. The view from my room was nothing short of breathtaking.  The city sprawled beneath me, and the Burj Khalifa stood tall and proud, a symbol of Dubai's ambition. The Rove Downtown Hotel not only offered a picturesque panorama but also provided a cozy haven

As the vibrant night unfolded in Tana, the capital city of Madagascar, my excitement reached new heights as I attended a captivating open mic event at Ethnika. The year 2024 marked the beginning of a memorable journey, and this particular night became a standout chapter in my experiences. The stage was set, and the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as the talented musicians prepared to showcase their skills. Among them was Andry Blues, a virtuoso guitarist whose fingers danced effortlessly on the strings, creating soul-stirring melodies that resonated through the venue. Antsaly, a masterful cajon player, added rhythmic layers that brought the entire performance to life. However, it was the enchanting voice of Nampoina that truly stole the show. Her vocals, rich and emotive, wove a tapestry of emotions that captivated everyone present. Each note seemed to carry a piece of her soul, creating an atmosphere that transcended the boundaries of the venue. Emboldened by the electrifying ambi