While on holiday in Bermuda last week, Safari coordinator Cara Spencer could not resist the temptation to share with locals, her love and knowledge of Africa.

Ms Spencer, a 20-year veteran of African safaris, gave a free presentation and slide show at the Princess Hotel last Friday on the wonders, culture and exotic wildlife that makes the continent one of the most fascinating places on earth.

"I came here on holiday and at the last minute threw together this show,'' she said. "I'm on my way to the US to do some presentations and I thought since I'm here and I have all of my stuff with me I should do one here.'' Armed with some 500 slides, Ms Spencer said she planned to talk about the African tribes, scenery and different things one could do while visiting Africa.

"I focus on east Africa -- Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda -- as well as southern Africa which includes South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana.'' The South African-born, British educated, consultant said she also answers the bevy of questions the audience throws at her after her slide shows.

"The most frequent questions I'm asked are `Is it safe?', `Are there bugs?' `Are the people friendly?' and `What are the accommodations like?','' she said. "All the replies to those questions are all positive.'' Ms Spencer said she reassures the audience that Africa was civilised enough to enable them to drink the water and eat the food.

"It really is comfortable,'' she said. "People are amazed that the game lodges are so nice.'' And Ms Spencer added that most Americans were surprised that Africans, who tend to be poor, were so happy.

"They (Americans) are impressed that you can be poor and be happy at the same time,'' she said.

Aside from satisfying the audience's logistical queries, Ms Spencer said she wants audiences to leave her presentations being "touched'' by the mystic of Africa.

"I want them to be touched by it. After all its the roots for all of us, no matter what their origin. '' she said. "I want to try to share my love of Africa with people and leave them with a little taste of it. I feel happy when I can do that.'' "It's a very emotional continent. Its very raw and natural. I think everyone in the west needs to go there to get some perspective. It puts us in harmony with the rest of the world.'' Ms Spencer added that Africa tended to be a place where those who visit, wish to return again and again.

"Ernest Hemmingway once said `You can leave Africa, but Africa won't leave you','' she pointed out.

For more information on Africa can contact Ms Spencer at Old Timbers, Dippenhall, Farnham, England GU10 5DU or call 01252-724513.

AFRICAN QUEEN -- Visiting safari veteran Cara Spencer last week hosted a slide presentation on Africa at The Princess.