...a journey of a life time through ibn batuta's africa

about us - the johstones

The Johnstone Clan came to Saudi Arabia in 1995 leaving behind close knitted families in the beautiful mother city of Cape Town. Love for traveling and zest for adventure took the Clan backpacking across Egypt, Sinai and Gaza to the Holy City of Jerusalem. Expatriate life in The Middle East opened up numerous opportunities for exploring exotic cultures. With Al Khobar as base the clan traveled to Morocco, experienced England, enjoyed Euro Disney in France, visited the blending cultures of the friendly Malaysians, toured the beautiful mosques in Turkey, shopped in UAE , explored the ancient cultures and natural beauty of Oman and Jordan and recently enjoyed a skiing holiday in Iran with its exquisite architecture. Camping trips in Saudi Arabia allowed extensive desert experiences. The African Adventure will be a life long dream coming true and definitely the greatest challenge.

Abdullah Johnstone, the educationist, is the adrenaline seeker and adventure with a deep interest in outdoor life. Enjoys playing soccer, rugby, cricket, squash and hiking. Loves planning trips and the African Safari happens to be the ultimate challenge with the steepest learning curve.

Fatima Regal-Johnstone, takes a keen interest in reading. Loves comfort with the proverbial beauty sleep even on camping trips. Recently resigned as Director of an International English Franchise School and hopes to use newly acquired time preparing for the African Safari. Enjoys cooking and entertaining and looks forward to being a housewife.

Ateeqoh Jawahir Johnstone, age sixteen, is the aspiring journalist. She is currently studying at Manarat Al Sharkiya Girls School and plans to write IGCSE exams this year. Ateeqoh Jawahir loves reading and writing, and takes an immense interest in sports. Like all the fellow comrades embarking on this trip, she holds a great sense of adventure.

Bilqees Johnstone, age thirteen,  remembers her initial years in the kingdom as difficult and challenging and refers to Saudi Arabia as �home�. Although she had the opportunity to visit many countries, she hopes to add more African countries to the list. The Khobar to Cape Town journey is a once in a life time experience and she looks forward to the trip. Bilqees enjoys cooking and baking and hopes to become an Interior designer.