Day 1
It’s here. Kenya is here! I have been traveling internationally since I was 14 years of age. Ever since I began to explore the world, I became addicted beyond words. The continent of Africa has always been my ultimate goal, especially given the career choice I have selected.
Are you ready for a transformative journey that will change the way you think about travel? Join us on the Thrive with OMU podcast as we explore the topic of “Authentic Experiential Transformation” with special guest, Skyler Mason, Founder and CEO of SKYIN. Skyler will be sharing his insights on how to design immersive and luxurious travel experiences that are both sustainable and impactful. Skyler has dedicated his life to creating immersive and authentic travel experiences in Kenya that support local communities and promote sustainable tourism. He believes that travel can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation, and in this episode, he’ll be sharing his insights on how to design trips that are both enriching and life-changing. So, whether you’re looking to reconnect with nature, discover new cultures, or simply gain a new perspective on life, this episode of the Thrive with OMU podcast is not to be missed! Tune in and discover how you can embark on a journey of authentic experiential transformation!
Number One: WILDLIFE
Slip away and immerse into a country which boasts the very best in wildlife. Whether it be a sanctuary or safari, there is no better place to experience the renowned Big Five. The elephant, African buffalo, leopard, lion, and rhino make up this exclusive group. Safaris are plentiful in Kenya and throughout Africa, but how you experience these intimate moments with such majestic beasts, matters. With SKYIN, regardless of what you do, we seek to make the very most of these adventures.
There is no denying the role of tourism in a country. However, it can only run as deep if it remains only within the national parks and tourist sites, bypassing the communities. All for a more immersive experience, our founder, Skyler Mason, was featured on a podcast episode of RetreatBoss with founder, Catherine Kontos. Tune in as Skyler unveils what inspired him to start SKYIN and his mission on changing the way local communities are impacted by tourism by providing real, non-commercialized experiences connecting travelers directly to Kenya’s suburban and indigenous communities creating a sustainable impact for its people.
By heeding a call difficult to explain, Skyler Mason, left the reliability of working for the family business and established SKYIN. Believing the most authentic way to experience a foreign destination is to immerse oneself with the locals, he took it upon himself to curate the perfect excursion. During a recent interview with a regenerative travel advocate, Rebecca Thomas, founder of Community Back Pocket, Mr. Mason provided insight to the origins of his company as well as the exclusive options available when traveling with SKYIN.
Let’s face it. Venturing into the unknown can be full of trepidation. As you step away from your known surroundings to roam the streets of an adventure, it is always comforting knowing at day’s end, a hotel welcomes you back with familiarity. Especially if you are used to the accoutrements of housekeeping, room service, and Belgian chocolates on a pillow at turn-down. But are you truly getting the full experience of what the country has to offer by sheltering yourself at a hotel?
Just the whisper of the name evokes mystery and magical imagery. While less known than other regions within Kenya, Mombasa is the second largest province, nicknamed the “white and blue city” resting on the southeastern side near the Indian Ocean.
Known for their traditional cow dung mud huts, drinking cow’s blood, dressing in colorful tribal clothing, high jumping skills, and living only amongst their own kind in remote areas; the Maasai culture is one of the most recognized and famous tribes throughout Africa. Shaded hues of rich, red cloth drape the noble tribesmen of the Maasai distinguishing these fearless warriors from other people throughout Africa. Adorned with beautiful hand-crafted accessories and body ornaments, they wear these trinkets to reflect their identity, achievements, and status amongst their community.
“A nation’s culture resides in the heart and soul of the people.” – Gandhi
When one decides to explore a new land, the best way to truly learn the country, it’s people and culture is to experience it like a local, with locals!
There are so many reasons to experience global travel. Each place you visit will impact your life. Traveling to Kenya will provide you with a unique and enriching experience. As one of the more developed countries in Africa, it is an amazing blend of culture and wildlife.
For fun, here’s a list of the top ten great reasons to visit Kenya:
