Djibouti is a strategic hotbed of military activity, hosting a plethora of foreign troops and facilities, including US Africa Command's only permanent base in Africa, Camp Lemmonier, which serves as a vital hub for counter-terrorism operations and humanitarian assistance efforts across the Horn of Africa.

As I stepped off the plane in Djibouti, I was struck by the juxtaposition of modern, French-colonial architecture with ancient traditions and breathtaking natural beauty, from the towering red rock mountains to the shimmering Gulf of Aden waters, making this tiny African country a thrilling discovery for any city traveler.

Djibouti is a tiny but mighty nation that has stolen my heart with its rugged beauty, warm hospitality, and resilience in the face of adversity, where the scent of frankincense and myrrh fills the air and the sun sets over the majestic Gulf of Tadjourah.