My First True Adventure in Algeria.

I’ve always made it clear to people: I don’t make plans when it comes to traveling. Or as I like to call it, “happening.” It’s something I’ve always been oddly proud of, a trait I even brag about sometimes. Why? Because no matter where I find myself, it always turns out to be a great time for me and the people around me. I don’t know if that sounds narcissistic, but I’m willing to take the risk of being judged.

Spring was the first time I gathered the courage to “happen” to another city in Algeria (Béjaïa) since I’d arrived. Honestly, I wasn’t too concerned about how the experience would turn out. As long as Kitaaka (Elijah, for those unfamiliar) was going to be there, I was ready to face whatever came my way.

A Cool Student Perk in Algeria.

One of the coolest things about being a student in Algeria is the accessibility. With just a student ID, you can stay at any student residence in the country, provided you have someone to host you. Outa, one of my seniors, was more than happy to host me. Kitaaka had his own arrangements, but this story isn’t about him.

Before this trip, I hadn’t met any of my seniors. In fact, as you might recall from the first episode of this blog, I was my own senior in Batna, given that we were the only Ugandans there. I didn’t even know how I’d made the friends I had by that point, considering I never initiate conversations, no matter how much I want to. I guess I had not yet embraced my charisma.

With most friendships, I’d just find myself laughing and talking with people because of a mutual connection. As for the friendships with the opposite sex…well, I’d usually approach them out of attraction. Somehow, though, I’d always end up in the friend zone—well, for most, not all (disclaimers are important!).

I was anxious about sharing a room with a senior I’d just met and that is why i have just opened up to you about my friendships. The only connection we had was that we were both Ugandan. Most of the time, I’d sit quietly, watching as he and Kitaaka chatted away. I’d occasionally chime in just to avoid making things awkward.

The Special Charm of Béjaïa.

Béjaïa, where we stayed, is a special place. If this were a conversation, I’d ask you to press me for details—but since it’s not, I’ll just tell you.

The residence we stayed in was unisex. Yes, male and female students living under one roof. In a predominantly Muslim country like Algeria, where these are the only recognized genders, this was a big deal. Naturally, I was excited. After months of forced celibacy, I saw this as my chance to shake things up. But, like many others before me who thought that way, I was disappointed. Eventually, it settled in that I was here to study, not for “co-curricular activities.”

A Necessary Journey.

This trip turned out to be a milestone for me. It was the first time I met people who would go on to make my summer unforgettable. Looking back, I realize this visit was necessary—it helped me step out of my comfort zone and embrace new experiences.

PS: Before Béjaïa, there was Blida on New Year’s Eve and Anaaba before spring, but it was so short-lived that I don’t consider it an adventure.

One of the most exciting things about traveling (or “happening”) is the power it gives you when you return. You get to decide which parts of the story to tell, what to exaggerate, and what to keep to yourself. It’s always fun to see how people react to your adventures, even when they don’t know the full story.

Do you love to travel?

If the answer to that is yes, then comment below what you love most about travel and how your style differs from mine.

If the answer is no, comment below what you love to do when the world decides to lift it’s stress off your shoulders.