If you’ve followed my angst over traveling to Africa, you’d know that it was a last minute addition of my friend Curtis to join me.
Since inquiring minds want to know, here’s some answers to your questions.
1. Am I still married? Yes. And no I’m not leaving him or dating – it was cute to get some messages inquiring though.
2. Who’s that dude? His name is Curtis, he lives in Montana, and he’s the partner of a very dear friend of mine.
3. Have you traveled together before? NOPE! It’s a big, huge gamble to travel with someone for 13+ days and not know whether you are compatible travel companions. But, I’ve known Curtis almost 15 years and have stayed at his house countless times — he’s stayed at mine countless times, including when I’ve been out of town. We have mutual respect, a shared love of animals, and of course we are both crazy dog people.
4. Why? It has been Curtis’ dream since he was a young child to see Africa and go on Safari. The timing, opportunity, and cost were right.
5. How did it go? OMG – it was awesome! Curtis was so helpful with me (see post on my illness before the trip), he was FUN!!, we laughed SO much, and guess what? He’s Jack Hanna – no, seriously. He knew every animal and all about them. I’m still in awe at the depth of his knowledge. Best of all Curtis was OK with my organization, planning, and schedule. My vacations are often called amazing races… and this one was no exception.
Back to the title of this post – we seriously, as a society, need to normalize traveling with friends. Let me start: it is OK to travel with your friends. Go as far as you can, on as many adventures as you can, and just dive in! Life is meant to be shared and lived in community. Also, stop judging people. I’m not a bad person/wife for traveling. My husband didn’t want to go, and that’s OK too. It is NORMAL for married couples to have other interests and still be married. Sharing my adventures with my friend were wonderful. If travel renews your spirit, like it does mine, then do it!
In closing, get out there!! I thoroughly enjoyed our trip and we are already planning the next one.
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