Hey Reader,

While many parts of the world rely heavily on distinct winter and summer seasons, that really isn't the case here in Kigali. Although June through September is technically the dry season, the year-round 6:00 PM sunset doesn't exactly lend itself to those long summer nights you get elsewhere. I can't complain, though. Kigali has some of the best year-round weather in the world.

Last month I hosted my very first art tour, and it was so great! We had a wonderful mix of new and familiar faces come out to explore six different studios around town. I’m definitely leaning toward hosting another one later on. You can explore the art galleries on your own with my Art Galleries in Kigali: A Self-Guided Walk post, too.

I’m mostly going to be spending this summer out of Kigali, with just a few stretches to explore the city in between. Next week, two of my besties from DC are coming to visit, and we are doing another grand tour of Rwanda!

Having hosted a few people now, I'm putting together a super simple "Steal My Itinerary" guide for those hosting guests in Kigali to help reduce your own planning stress when people come to town. Let me know if you want the draft.

My summer lineup is busy! First, I have a work conference in the UK (and will see friends in London!), then I'll be spending some time with my sister in Turkey before heading to Kyrgyzstan with Wilhelm for some serious hiking (send thoughts and prayers). I'm so excited about all of it!. Later in the summer, I'll be heading back to DC and over to Boulder to visit family. I'll try to share a few updates in the newsletter in between. If not, I'll see you in August.

KIGALI

I've collected all my favorite spots to get a cocktail in Kigali, from innovative cocktails at Imizi Residency to rooftop drinks at Boho, and classics night at The Rock. Let me know if there's anywhere else I need to check out.

Where to get cocktails in Kigali ​Read more...​

MUSANZE

After our visit to Volcanoes National Park to see the gorillas in April, I put together a quick How to Visit the Gorillas guide, including a breakdown of my expectations vs. reality. I still can't believe that a gorilla undid my shoelaces. If you missed it in real-time, you can watch the highlight on the 'gram and see all the pics in the post.

I also updated my Musanze accommodation guide with a few new hotel options. Check them out and let me know if I'm missing any of your favorite spots to stay there. I see a few new hotels popping up as well that I want to visit.

Murugo Bay (usually $500/night) has a summer discount running that I saw online: use SUMMER25MURUGO on their website.

If you're a planner who is already thinking about where to escape in December, I absolutely loved our 12 days in Djibouti. I've finally written up several guides to help you plan the most epic and unique adventure. From my favorite camping destination, our realistic whale shark experience, and visiting Abourma Rock Art (these are 7000-year-old art carved into the rocks!), I've got a complete guide on the blog to help you plan.

12-Day Djibouti Itinerary ​Read more...​

You can keep up to date on what I'm up to on Instagram. Otherwise, chat to you later!