​I have been living in Ethiopia since 2016 and plan to continue being based in Africa through
2018 – and hopefully - several more years to come!
​
1.See Yourself Here
See yourself sipping Ethiopian coffee during an Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony. Shopping in Africa’s largest open market, Merkato. Taking a cruise on Lake Tana. Observing the Falls of the Blue Nile. Visiting some of the oldest Christian communities, Labiela Rock Carved Churches. Hiking the Entoto Mountain.

Or…join me as I try to see as much of Africa as I can…Seychelles, Egypt, Ghana, South Africa, Uganda, Mozambique are the countries at the top of my list!

​2.Focus on Experiences Instead of Stuff
 
My family and I did this last year for Christmas. After talking about going away for the holidays for a few years, we actually skipped gift giving and spent some of that money staying at a resort. We had a blast – relaxing by the firepit, soaking in the hot tub, and not cleaning dishes! An international trip will mean a few sacrifices or changes…Less Starbucks lattes, skipping a few movie premieres, or not updating your spring wardrobe. You probably won’t remember that cinnamon dolce latte you bought on Tuesday in 5 years but a trip to Addis Ababa will stick with you for a lifetime!

3.Save $$$
 
Set up a special account to save money. I love using the Accorn app. It rounds off a small amount from every purchase and invests it. I saved a nice chunk of change in a  year just using the roundup feature and sending an extra $10 a month to my account. Capital360 offers a really nice online account and pays a little higher interest. AND bonus: there are no fees to use the debit card internationally.
 
4.Get Your Passport Now!
 
Getting a passport requires special pictures, completing a form, and paying a fee. It also takes several weeks to receive it. The extra effort is worth it - a passport is good for 10 years. While you’re at it, make sure your shots are up to date and check to see if you need any additional travel immunizations. Your insurance may cover some of the fees!
 
5.Book Your Tickets Smartly
Tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights will help you check out the best times and airlines to fly. A company named Airfordable - www.airfordable.com - will help you pay for your tickets in installments flexibly.