Afrika Borwa Experiences had a chat with Farirai Sanyika to learn more about her background, her passion for travel, her favourite Southern African destination, and what she enjoys about traveling. She also shared some travel tips with fellow travellers.
1. TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
I’m Farirai (Fari) Sanyika – a happy solo traveller. I created Gophari.com travel blog in 2017 while working as a chemical engineer. Through Gophari, I teach about the destinations I visit and about solo travel using video, image, and blog content. I have so much fun with it, and I take the approach of sharing as I learn. I work full-time in tech as a product manager while being a content creator. It’s a balancing act that I’m happy figuring out. I’m most proud that I’m growing a community of solo travellers who are finding courage and support through my content.
2. FAVOURITE SA DESTINATION OR SOUTHERN AFRICAN COUNTRY
Travelling around South Africa is my joy. I’m obsessed with Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces. Both were such a surprise to me in my adult life. I often speak about the first time I explored the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga because it was an eye-opening experience for me. I couldn’t believe the beauty of the view of Blyde River Canyon along the Panorama Route. It slapped me inside out and sparked my curiosity for scenic locations in nature in South Africa – especially those outside of the major cities.
3. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT TRAVELLING
I enjoy how much fun it is. It really comes down to fun and joy for me. I do it because I am happy while doing it and shouldn’t we spend our lives seeking experiences that make us happy? I’ve gotten to know what type of activities and destinations I enjoy most which has made it easier for me to keep choosing similar activities and destinations around the world. And even though I’m repeatedly swimming in wild waters or exploring islands or taking in views in nature – each destination’s uniqueness and the randomness of life make each trip special.
4. WHAT IS THE BEST TIP/ADVICE YOU CAN SHARE WITH FELLOW TRAVELLERS
If you want to travel more, consider solo travel. Sometimes we end up delaying travel plans because it becomes increasingly difficult to align dates and budgets with friends and family. When you travel solo, you can make plans independently within your budget and during the best time in your schedule. For me, travelling alone opened up so many travelling opportunities. I became able to say yes to invitations more. I also was able to do last-minute, spontaneous trips because I only needed it to make sense to my schedule.
5. SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS
To collaborate with GoPhari, contact her using the following contact details:
Travel Blog: www.gophari.com
E-mail: contact@gophari.com
Instagram: @Gophari
TikTok: @GophariTravels