If anyone is thinking of taking a trip to Africa, I strongly urge you to make Tanzania your jumping off point. The country is stable in comparison to many of the surrounding nations, and there is a plethora of things to do and sights to see. I recently spent a month in this beautiful country and came home with memories and images that will stay with me forever. I set out to do the quintessential trips--safari in the Serengeti (AMAZING!)and a jaunt over to Zanzibar. Both were fantastic experiences. But, what I'm most grateful for, is my decision to get off the beaten track a little. My stay at Mkoma Bay Tented Lodge on the Northern coast (near Tanga and Pangani) was one of the most rewarding holiday experiences of my life. (And I've traveled the globe!) In all of my travels, never have I seen such beautiful and unspoiled scenery surrounding a first class resort. The accommodations were charming and unique, set amidst a stunning backdrop. I felt safely and comfortably tucked inside my spacious tented lodge amongst palm trees, singing insects and the roar of the Indian Ocean just outside my tent walls. Lisa and Ulrik were gracious hosts and were beyond accommodating. They offer an array of amenities and activities like sea kayaking, river cruise, fishing, Crocodile and bird watching, scuba diving, snorkeling, island hopping, mountain biking, local cultural tours and all the beach, sun and swim you can handle. The place is rustic enough to make one feel in the elements, but also charming, comfortable and first class. Visit their website for more info: www.mkomabay.com/