Your African Safari begins when you think it does. Here and Now.
Your fun African Safari begins when you think it does. Here and Now.
(This note is a landmine for gender equality. Let me still put it out there.)
Many years ago, I was planning a trip to Africa and needed the Yellow Fever Vaccine. I asked a few friends who visited Africa often, and in addition to the important guidelines, they decided to share some immensely pertinent information from the “Girl world”. Apparently, many sailors and Navy officers travel to Africa, so I could expect dapper, sharp looking uniformed men in the vaccination waiting area. You never know whom you might meet. #serious advice Like really!??!! 😊
There was only one authorized agency in Mumbai, that too in town, pretty far away from my place. In complete license raj style, they conducted the vaccination only early mornings and for limited people. You had to apply prior, submit passport details and get your name on the government “List” atleast a day prior.
After doing my research on the medicine and side effects, and all formalities, I reached the hospital, precisely at 8 am. I thought to myself, ofcourse, I would be the first person to get over with this shot.
Only to find some 50 people ahead of me. They also had their names dutifully on “THE LIST” 🤦 and all men. But yes, my friends were right, it was a bunch of really smart folks.
As we all waited in the queue outside, conversations about Africa started. Sailors do make remarkably interesting story tellers. After a little while, the gentleman ahead of me, insisted —
“Miss, you can go ahead of me”
Initially I refused, but well, he persisted, so I moved ahead. Soon, it became a chain reaction. Practically everyone in the queue, did just that. Lo and behold, when the center opened, I was the first person to get the shot.
Not only that, but chatting with so many travelers, ended up making a few friends, who shared some cool travel tips. It great way to start my Africa adventures. One can’t embark on a safari without getting out of comfort zone and being a recipient of such chivalry was kind of going out of my comfort zone.
Never have I received such chivalry. It flies in the face of gender equality, I know. I am very embarrassed to say — well, it didn’t hurt.
PS: And yes the Yellow Fever Vaccine certificate, was really, bright yellow in color. They really take the “yellow” in it very seriously 😊
