The circle of life: Tanzania

As a lifestyle writer back when I was living in the Philippines, I was sent one day to cover to the launching of a jewelry line featuring tanzanite. I was so mystified by the story of this shimmering, deep blue stone, which can only be mined at the foot of the Kilimanjaro Mountain in Tanzania, that I wished one day I’d be able own one of those gems.

Many years after, a classic brilliant-cut tanzanite ring is wrapped around my finger, purchased right here where it was discovered by the Maasai tribe. When I made that wish, I haven’t had the slightest hope that it will come true.

But it did! And I am very, very grateful that my choices in life have led me to this special moment.

Prior to that launching, I knew nothing about Tanzania. I watched a lot of Animal Planet programs featuring the wildlife of the Serengeti but I didn’t associate it with the country. When I was searching for new destinations one boring day at the office, I landed upon a safari page and remembered the launching of tanzanite in the Philippines. I knew that I will make that trip. That was eight months ago.

In the coming days, I will be sharing with you our amazing trip in Northen Tanzania, definitely the most beautiful country I have ever been to and the best trip I’ve ever made. My posts will be accompanied by beautiful photos taken by Robin Kuijs. I hope you will enjoy our adventure.

At the end of this series, I’ll post the entire cost of the trip because I think a trip like this must be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

For Robin and I, I know that we will come back.