Just back from: Tanzania

Just back from: Tanzania: "Paul Padia and Alexandra Echery, San Francisco

We went because: We were celebrating 40 years on Earth, and I guess we had something to prove by trying to climb Kilimanjaro. We met with success.

Don't miss: Climbing to the top. It's not as hard as you think because you climb so slowly.

Don't bother: Stone Town, Zanzibar. It holds a lot of history, but it's crowded and there are safety concerns. Head to the east side of the island for the beach.

Coolest souvenir: The certificate for making it to the top of Kilimanjaro. Also, Organic Coffee from Gibbs Farm (Karatu, Tanzania) is still being enjoyed.

Worth a splurge: Ponge Beach Resort, Zanzibar, on the east side of the island. It was the perfect complement after the climb and safari.

We wish we'd packed: Less. We had weight restrictions on internal flights that made it difficult to bring back souvenirs.

Other comments: No trip to Africa is complete without a safari. Plan your safari in the conservation area where the big migration is taking place during your visit."