The book describes Brian and Jan's visits to Africa, initially to visit their son who was a volunteer working for VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas). The visits inspired a wish to travel elsewhere which became their hobby in retirement. A large part of the story concerns Eritrea, the first time they had travelled to Africa, where they were inspired by the people who were trying to rebuild a country decimated by a 30 year war with Ethiopia. They followed the country's further war and what happened long after their visit. It also covers visits to other African countries where their son had employment as a VSO.