A Safari Retreat in Kenya

René's first hand experience on his Safari Retreat with SurfYogaBeer

Introduction: 

Having completed two remarkable SurfYogaBeer trips, I feel compelled to share my experiences and offer a review. While one should be cautious about using extravagant language like "friends/experience for/of a lifetime" to describe one’s impressions, I must admit that the SYB trips come close to such descriptions, leaving indelible memories. I’ll seek to elaborate on why this has been the case. My first trip was to The Philippines in 2020, just weeks before the world went into lockdown, and my second was to Kenya in 2023. Soon, I'll be embarking on a third adventure to Iceland, with the potential for a fourth to Nicaragua next year.

The Diversity of Destinations: 

For avid travelers, many places on the SYB itinerary are likely still on their bucket list. While some Americans may be drawn to the allure of European destinations, being European, I found myself more intrigued by the "exotic" locations. But for sure, SYB offers something for everyone.

Unique Experiences: 

What sets each SYB trip apart is that no two are alike. This variety is undoubtedly one reason why many people return for more adventures with SYB. Some trips are focused on fitness and wellness, others revolve around non-stop boat parties, and there are those that take you on a literal safari. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, seeking a reset, or simply looking for a thrilling adventure at a dream destination, SYB has you covered. In my case the decisions for each trip were quite different, depending on my mood, inspiration and imagination: Philippines – island hopping on a boat coupled with lots of workouts, yoga & partying; Kenya –enjoying the Massai Mara wildlife and connecting to my inner love for animals; Iceland – a lot of trail running in the quiet and beautiful nature; and Nicaragua will be a much needed reset and pure ME TIME + doing a lot for my physical health.

Dynamic Leaders: 

SYB manages to add that special touch that makes a difference with their diverse trip leaders. These leaders bring their own flair to each journey, whether they are professional yoga or pilates instructors, mindfulness experts, fitness trainers, seasoned travelers, or inspiring calisthenics personalities.

Seamless Organization:

SYB takes care of virtually everything for you, from early communication and travel arrangements to organizing activities, adventures, and meals. This meticulous planning ensures that your trip is not only enjoyable but also caters to the desires of modern experience-oriented travelers. After the first trip, you realize the tremendous value in this service, which often keeps people from exploring these destinations on their own due to the daunting planning this involves.

The Personal Experience:

In general, each person's experience on any trip is unique, shaped by their individual choices and perspectives. However, SYB creates an environment and atmosphere that facilitate and enhance each participant's journey. One aspect to highlight is solo traveling. If you haven't tried it, hands down: Do it! The time is now. It's liberating, allowing you to design your itinerary and connect with like-minded people who guarantee you'll have a fantastic time.

Captured Memories:

SYB takes care to document your adventure through a professional photographer. These high-quality images immortalize your extraordinary experiences, ensuring cherished memories for years to come.

Shout-out to the amazing guy behind the camera: IG:@markharrison4 / TT: @marklharrison

Unforgettable Companions:

The people you meet on such trip will inevitably significantly influence your experience. And it’s probably what most people are concerned about when considering such a trap and/or solo traveling.

The community typically comprises young professionals, adventure seekers, fitness enthusiasts, and spirited individuals, and most likely a significant and delightful mix of Americans. My personal encounters with these diverse and open-hearted souls have been the highlight of my trips.

I've realized how vast and beautiful the world is, filled with wonderful people, and I owe it to SYB for creating these connections that I would have missed otherwise. Needless to call all of you wonderful people out by name. You know who you are: all so kind, entertaining and unique.

In Conclusion:

SYB's ethos resonates harmoniously with the current era of travel, attracting young professionals and inquisitive souls alike. As Mark Twain once said, "Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." SYB embodies this sentiment with their motto: "Don't think! Just do!" To my younger self and anyone seeking adventure, I'd advise exactly this: take more risks, travel more, and act on every exciting idea that crosses your mind. SYB trips fit perfectly into this philosophy.

If you crave a harmonious blend of adventure, physical and mental well-being, and camaraderie, SYB might be precisely what you're looking for, just as it was and is for me. Their extraordinary retreats awaken the adventurer within, weaving a tapestry of experiences that will stay with you for the proverbial lifetime.

Finally, let me reiterate the most crucial aspect of these trips, which is best captured in an anecdote from a book: "Which is more important," asked Big Panda, "the journey or the destination?" "The company!" exclaimed Tiny Dragon. And that's exactly what it is with SYB—an enriching journey shared with amazing companions."

- René, SYB Alum