The most exciting place to visit in Africa right now is an offbeat country better known for making sad headlines rather than attracting tourists: welcome to the fabulous new Sierra Leone.
Now, Ebola-free and more than two decades after the end of a devastating civil war, Sweet Salon (the local nickname) is ready to once again welcome travelers to its golden, boulder-strewn shores.
Its Proposal for a new solar powered airport (the first completely green terminal in all of West Africa), relaxed visa restrictions and the type of authentic cultural experiences that can be challenging to find in the continent’s more crowded destinations.
A surprising champion of Sierra Leone’s tourism promotion? Actor Idris Elba (yes, he’s the “Sexiest Man Alive”) whose father was born in Salon and acquired citizenship on one’s own In 2019. The charismatic star has spoken about wanting to “rebrand” the West African country and he’s sticking to his word. is alba Building a sustainable smart city On Sherbro Island with his business partner Siaka Stevens, grandson of the former Sierra Leonean president of the same name.
The project will develop the rural island, which is the size of Chicago and is currently home to about 40,000 people, and will bring wind-powered electricity to the country for the first time. Current plans include a resort and ecotourism experience along Sherbro’s 50 miles of palm-fringed beaches, vibrant Krio board house villages and mangrove forests – a vital habitat for giant tarpon and the endangered West African manatee. Is.
Last February, I went to Sherbro to stay at Bonthe Holiday Village after a heartbreaking visit to its more famous neighbour, Bans IslandThe largest British slave castle on the Rice Coast of West Africa.
Named by some experts as the most important historical site in Africa for the United States, it is where General Colin Powell, then Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was inspired to say, “I am an American. .. But today, I am more than that. I feel my roots in this continent.”
The crumbling ruins, most of which have been lost due to the claustrophobic grip of the far-reaching branches, are an essential stop for every traveller.
Sierra Leone’s tragic past remains, yet these events also reveal the resilient and emotionally generous nation that Sierra Leone has become.
Today. Sierra Leone feels safe, young, optimistic and, above all, friendly.
That enthusiasm is evident in the work of fashion designer Maryanne Cacai Madam VokeyWhose kaleidoscopic, ecstatic dresses have been worn by the likes of Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York and Gabourey Sidibe.
More good vibes can be found at Bureh Beach Surf Club with West Africa’s champion female surfer Kadiyatu “KK” Kamara on a delightful stretch of sand that wouldn’t be out of place in the Maldives.
Another important initiative: Endangered western chimpanzees are being saved by conservationist Bala Amarasekaran Takugama Sanctuary,
Elsewhere, Coal Street, the country’s first true fine-dining restaurant, founded by human rights lawyer Chef Miyata Marque, is creating fresh dishes that respect the country’s new tastes.
Meet all that Sierra Leone, Africa, has to offer adventure with a warm welcome.
