Travellers’ Tales – Meet Rai from A Rai of Light

Meet Rai from A Rai of Light

I created the “Travellers’ Tales” section to give other travellers an opportunity to talk about their travels on my blog. Today I would like to introduce you to Rai , a travel blogger from South Africa. He blogs at " A Rai Of Light ".

I would love to hear about your travels too. Go to “Travellers’ Tales” , fill in the quick questionnaire and email it to me with your blog links.

Read about Rai’s travels here,

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

Growing up in a small town, I have always had a relentless desire to see much of the world. I am curious about how people in different parts of the world live, how the world in general operates, and my place in the world. I had travelled sporadically, but it wasn't until my first big international trip in 2006 that the travel bug hit, and has never let go, despite the number of countries I have visited since.

I have also left the safety and comfort of a corporate finance job to pursue travel and photography full-time. I had never intended my career break to be permanent, but I will say that I am trying to make travelling full-time last for as long as possible.

2. What is your earliest travel memory?

Probably exploring the bush with my family. I have always loved animals and discovering them in their natural home in the wild is a sure highlight. Fortunately, growing up in South Africa, we’re never too far from exploring the wilderness, and the convenience makes it that much more special.

3. Where was the last place you travelled to?

I visited Nepal, for the second time, to do some hiking and it remains one of my favourite countries. The people are so kind, the food is great, and of course nothing beats the sight of the surrounding mountains. Nepal also has an air of spirituality which I am drawn to.

Rai of Light

4. What was the best thing you did there?

The best thing was trekking in Nepal. The Himalayas is a special place and getting to see this first-hand for an extended period of time is something I will never forget. Even though the physical exertion is tough, the experience is well worth it. Being completely immersed in the Himalayas and disconnected from the rest of the world is something that rarely happens and is a special feeling.

5. What was your best holiday ever? Why?

Probably the time I climbed Kilimanjaro. It certainly doesn’t fit into the description of a typical holiday. However, the journey to achieve something so mentally and physically demanding as climbing a mountain, for a greater cause is something I can never forget.

6. What is your favourite travel destination?

I’ve tried, many times, to pick a favourite travel destination. However, this is to no avail. I’m the type of person that the region I find myself exploring becomes my favourite. That is until the next destination. A couple of my favourites include Egypt, France, Nepal, Indonesia, Tanzania, and Norway.

7. What must one do there?

Try to integrate with the environment and the locals as much as you can. Don’t be a tourist and rush to see the highlights, but take your time and see the places not often visited by the usual tourist.

Rai of Light

8. Who is your favourite travel companion/s?

Probably my brother. We complement each other pretty well and have similar interests. He is also skilled at navigating and a great photographer, which is a bonus.

9. Name one item you must have when travelling.

I need to have my cellphone. It holds all the logical details, doubles as my camera, and my connection to the world. I also keep books and music on hand for those long bus rides.

10. Your best travel advice?

Go with the flow. Don’t try to plan everything in advance as you could miss out on the best part of the travel experience.

11. The one place you want to visit before you die?

Ah, so many places. However, I would love to see and explore all the islands of Indonesia. There is so much more to this region than just Bali and I’d like to get a first hand experience into the life and culture of these islands. I also think the natural scenery is unmatched and worth checking out.

12. How can people connect with you?

Blog: A Rai Of Light

Instagram

Twitter

Thank you, Rai , for sharing your fascinating adventures with us!

I would love to hear about your travels too. Go to “Travellers’ Tales, fill in the quick questionnaire and email it to me with your blog links.

Who will I feature next? I’ve got an exciting line-up ahead. Make sure you subscribe to the free newsletter so you don’t miss out on some exciting travel tales.

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