From Brussels to Cape Town
Freija & Jeroen
January 2003 – September 2003
Expedition Trip Details
About the book:
In early 2003, Freija de Corte and Jeroen Demeester set off in a jeep [Toyota Land Cruiser], which they named Daffy, on a journey through the Middle East and East Africa, culminating in Cape Town. "Across Africa" contains two parts: "Travel Report" and "Practical Information."
The first part is exactly what it says and pretends to be: a report. So don't expect a travelogue. The rather impressive experiences and events are presented in a summarizing manner. Initially, you might think the two writers are taking turns, a potentially captivating approach. Then it turns out that "Jeroen," "Freija," and "we" are used interchangeably, resulting in inconsistent perspectives, and the editor's work, who also struggles to find a coherent narrative, not to mention the sometimes sloppy and somewhat poor language.
With its many beautiful photos (color selection at the front), maps, and the interesting (if somewhat superficial) narrative, this book does have some strengths. Because they focus so much on their own endeavors, the publication is, paradoxically, highly recommended for anyone interested in these kinds of long journeys. The second, practical part is, in that respect, simply an extension of the first. The preparation and experiences in each country are discussed in detail. [Wilfried Poelmans]
In early 2003, Freija de Corte and Jeroen Demeester set off in a jeep [Toyota Land Cruiser], which they named Daffy, on a journey through the Middle East and East Africa, culminating in Cape Town. "Across Africa" contains two parts: "Travel Report" and "Practical Information."
The first part is exactly what it says and pretends to be: a report. So don't expect a travelogue. The rather impressive experiences and events are presented in a summarizing manner. Initially, you might think the two writers are taking turns, a potentially captivating approach. Then it turns out that "Jeroen," "Freija," and "we" are used interchangeably, resulting in inconsistent perspectives, and the editor's work, who also struggles to find a coherent narrative, not to mention the sometimes sloppy and somewhat poor language.
With its many beautiful photos (color selection at the front), maps, and the interesting (if somewhat superficial) narrative, this book does have some strengths. Because they focus so much on their own endeavors, the publication is, paradoxically, highly recommended for anyone interested in these kinds of long journeys. The second, practical part is, in that respect, simply an extension of the first. The preparation and experiences in each country are discussed in detail. [Wilfried Poelmans]