The Sahara is the largest hot desert in the world comprising much of Northern Africa near the Mediterranean Sea. One of the best places to see it is in Morocco, specifically in the village of Merzouga. The village sits near the famous Erg Chebbi, a large area of sand dunes. Merzouga can be seen on a 2 day trip from either Fez or Marrakech.

Chefchaouen is located in the north of Morocco and is most known for its nearly entirely blue facade of its buildings. Initially founded as a military outpost, it is known as the 'Blue Pearl' of Morocco and its name roughly translates to 'look at the horns', referring to the two mountains on its perimeter. The highlight of the city is its medina, where the alleyways are too narrow for cars to pass.

Essaouira is a port city on the western coast of Morocco. Originally called 'Mogador' until the 1960s, it is characterized as a late 18th century fortified town and therefore listed as a UNESCO World Heritage city. The abundance of blue fishing boats makes it quite obvious that this industry dominates the city. The abundant winds the city receives is perfect for windsurfing and kite surfing.

Marrakech is the fourth largest city in Morocco, situated west of the Atlas Mountains. The city was founded in 1070 and is called the "Red City" due to the red sandstone material used in the construction of its early buildings. The city is a UNESCO world heritage site and has plenty of great sites to check out such as Jemaa Al-Fna, Koutoubia Mosque, Souk Semmarine, Bab Agnaou, and Bahia Palace.

Johannesburg is the largest city in the world not situated on a body of water. Gold is what brought people here first, but now it's the Jacaranda trees, proximity to Kruger National Park, Montecasino, Sandton, Sun City, The Panorama Driving Route, The Apartheid and Hector Pieterson Museums, the Soweto Towers, and Blyde River Canyon. Take a few days to explore this city's offerings.

The Western Cape of South Africa (specifically around Cape Town) is ideal for road trips. Here you can find many historical sites like Robben Island, nature sanctuaries like Jonkershoek Nature Reserve and Kirstenbosch Gardens, sports venues/teams like Ajax Cape Town FC (football) and DHL Stormers (rugby), as well as shark diving and whale watching in nearby Gansbaai and Hermanus.

Although not very high on people's travel list, overlooking Namibia as a prime destination for a road trip would be a mistake. If you're coming from South Africa, the journey to this country couldn't be easier. This road trip takes you up to Windhoek, then west to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, then back south to Sossusvlei (Namib Desert), and Kolmanskop (and a return to South Africa).

In just one (very efficient) week's time, you can get a glimpse of the vast history of Egyptian culture. This post outlines how to see the Pyramids at Giza, Valley of the Kings, Temples at Abu Simbel, Luxor Temple, Temple of Karnak, Aswan, Temple of Edfu, and Queen Hatshepsut's Tomb (just to name a few). As far as food, EAT EVERYTHING!

The Western Cape in South Africa is one of the best places in the world for a week's long road trip (which should cover MOST of the sites). You can do a plethora of activities around Stellenbosch and Cape Town like surfing at Strand and Muizenburg, see penguins at Boulder's Beach, drive the scenic Chapman's Peak, hike Lion's Head during the full moon, and dine at the V&A Waterfront.

Morocco is one of those countries with a plethora of different cities to satisfy everyone's tastes. You can choose from the coastal cities of Casablanca and Essaouira, the cultural centers Marrakech and Fez, and the blue city of Chefchaouen (among others). Here I'll highlight some of the places to see in these cities like the Hassan II Mosque, Jemaa El-Fna market, and the Chouara Tannery.

South Africa and wine tasting go hand in hand. If you find yourself in the wine rich region of Stellenbosch, look no further for here is a great guide on what some of the wineries in the region have on offer. Choose from vineyards with excellent tasting menus (wine paired with ice cream, cheese, chocolate, etc) as well as insanely nice views.