These American people spent some time in different regions of Madagascar. They tell us about their best moments in the country.

Roy Cox, former Peace Corps Volunteer in Madagascar

“I had the pleasure to live alongside Malagasy people for three years and was impressed by the culture of generosity in Madagascar. In both cities and rural places, people are generous with their time, happy to talk, teach a skill, or invite you along on an errand or to a party.

Malagasy people, even those with little to spare eagerly invite you to share their food and often their home. To “mandray vahiny” or give hospitality to a guest, is among the most important Malagasy values.

What I experienced as a visitor, I saw take shape between Malagasy people as a strong drive to build community, an enthusiastic social engagement, and a love of debate and conversation.  This is exemplified by the formation of fikambanana (a society or organization) ubiquitous in every part of Madagascar for mutual professional, civic, or educational benefit of members. No matter how busy or tired, Malagasy people come together and share.”

Fiona Fitzgerald, Tourist.

"After graduating from university, I spent three months working, traveling, eating and exploring the beautiful country of Madagascar. My time in Madagascar was particularly unique for an American because I was staying with family who lives in the country. This resulted in me immediately being immersed into the culture and life of the Malagasy.

What stands out to me the most about Madagascar is its people. Madagascar is full of the most kind, welcoming and happy individuals in the world. I don't speak Malagasy, nor do I speak French, yet I made lifelong friends despite the language barrier. While in Fort Dauphin, my surf instructor spent all day trying to teach me how to catch a wave (which was a sad sight). And after I finally called a quits, he invited me out to town without a thought. I spent the night drinking THB, munching on brochettes and attempting to learn Malagasy. I still recall; “Iza ny anaranao?” and “Ny anarako dia Fiona.”  The people of Madagascar welcome you into their country with open arms, welcome you into their home as if you are family and are proud to share their beautiful culture. Madagascar will always hold a special place in my heart thanks to the people I met, and I thank everyone along the way for that."

Tim Fallon, Backpacker.

“Madagascar was the adventure of a lifetime. In 10 short weeks, I learned some Malagasy, some French, learned to surf, had my first lychee, saw lemurs and chameleons and crocodiles and gigantic snakes. Most importantly, I learned about Malagasy culture and their beautiful people. In the 2 years after I graduated from university, I managed to backpack around the world and see a fair amount of interesting cultures. I am ever thankful for these two years and all of the places in between, but I am proud to label my time in Madagascar as the best times of my life. An entire country welcomed me with open arms and taught me everything they could about being Malagasy. I was most impressed by the pride of the people and the land that they occupy. Brochettes, langouste, THB, and oysters filled my stomach and my heart while Ambatovy, Tana, Mahajanga, and Fort-Dauphin filled my eyes. One of my favorite memories from my time in Mada was witnessing a victory from the football (soccer in America!) team and celebrating with all of Tana. ALEFA BAREA!”

Payton Hansen & Austin Bergera – Vazaha Miteny Gasy

Payton: “Before arriving in Madagascar, I didn't have any courses learning about the culture, and didn't know a single Malagasy person. So, my initial arrival (I first lived in Ambositra) was quite a shock! Being the first country in Africa I ever visited, I had the impression that all of Madagascar (and even Africa) was just like Ambositra: few paved roads, a lot of farming land, very few stores and amenities etc. After later spending time in Antananarivo and Mahajanga, I, of course, learned that this was not true. The diversity of each Malagasy city, combined with the charm of its people is what I first fell in love with. Malagasy people are very welcoming, and very smiley; this really helps for new visitors to feel at home quickly. They were also VERY encouraging while I was learning to speak Malagasy. Even when I was just learning, they would often comment "Ary mahay miteny gasy be ianao an!" This really boosted my confidence and helped me learn quickly. After getting comfortable with the language, I fell even deeper in love with people's straight-forwardness and desire to connect. I share this desire to connect with people as well, chatting with people in the streets, making jokes with street vendors and talking with everyone I meet. These are some of my favorite things about Madagascar.”

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This article is also available in the 11th release of "The American" magazine. The full PDF version of magazine is available for download here.