We were touring on the Skeleton Coast, named for the wooden ships that once ran aground here. In this spectacular part of southern Africa, driving an all-terrain vehicle on the towering dunes is one of the highlights for travelers.
Our guide Shiimi assured us the ride would be smooth and easy. It was my friend Teresa’s first time driving any kind of motorized vehicle. But I watched her just GO. She climbed on her ATV and drove fearlessly behind Shiimi for two hours.
Me, not so much. It was my first time driving an ATV (my excuse) and I drove like an old Asian lady (I’m pretty sure I’m allowed to say that because I fit the description sometimes). My husband Michael literally drove circles around me, entreating me to shift out of first gear so I’d go a little faster.
Suddenly, in the distance, I saw Teresa and Shiimi at the base of what appeared a very high wall, of Game of Thrones proportions. Had I forgotten to tell Shiimi about my fear of heights? If I followed them to the top, would I have the nerve to go down?
Again, I watched Teresa just GO. If she could do it, so could I.
I decided not to look too far ahead and to just focus on what was directly in front of me. I drove like this until I reached the top. And then I stopped to look around.
BREATHTAKING, right?
And so WORTH IT.
I’d like to share a few takeaways from this experience with you: Be present. Trust your guide. Open yourself to new experiences (why we travel). Travel with people who can set the pace, lead the way and be by your side. I hope your travels result in equally breathtaking moments.