🌍 Solo Parent Adventure | Madagascar @ Antsirabe

🍽️ A Taste of Local Life "Macaroni, spaghetti, carrot & potato salad, drizzled with a light fish broth—just a pinch of salt, yet bursting with natural umami. Simplicity at its most delicious!" 🚐 The Bumpy Ride Even a 16-seat Mercedes couldn’t tame the moon-crater roads! Arrived just in time for June 26th National Day celebrations—the square was alive with music, dancing, and crowds, while police watched from a distance. ✨ Why Antsirabe? Highest-altitude town in Madagascar, with European charm (and French retirees!). Gemstone capital: Tourmalines, sapphires, and more sold in local markets. Key stopover for trips to Morondava (Baobab Avenue!) and southern national parks. 💰 Budget Breakdown Bus (Tana → Antsirabe): 20,000 AR/adult, kids ride free! Exploring: Free! (Abandoned train station + festive squares) 🏨 Stay: La Louis XV 70,000 AR/night – A French colonial villa 170m from the station. Host: A gem-collecting French grandpa (no English, but très charmant!). Pro Tip: For a quicker stop, Hotel Olga is inside the bus station. 👶 Why It’s Great for Kids 1️⃣ Safe & walkable (no chaotic traffic like Tana). 2️⃣ Friendly locals who adore children. 3️⃣ Gem-hunting adventures (even toddlers love shiny rocks!). #SoloParentTravel #ExploringWithKids #MadagascarDiaries