Well I didn't think we would get to Boston yesterday. There were major flight delays in Boston Thursday. After several delays we finally landed in Boston around 4am. Then after several wrong turns out of the airport and many recalculations on our GPS we pull into Amesbury @ 6am.
Why Chrissy and Paul could not have stayed in Hawaii is beyond me. There is a ton of snow and it is cold. BRRRR.... Amesbury is a very cute historic town. There alot of nice old houses that are all decorated for Xmas. Driving around, you feel like your are driving through one of those Xmas cards. We just needed a sleigh instead of an Impala.
We went to have lunch @ Phat Cats this afternoon (after driving several circles around a bunch of roundabouts). The place is in an old brick building,but it has alot of character. They have decorated very nice. It is very cozy. Well of course the food is great!! Paul whipped up a nice seafood soup w/ a lobster stock and a very tasty chicken soup.
I took a few pics. They are posted at http://picasaweb.google.com/jaraeho/PhatCatsBistro I will add more over the weekend.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Well I was awake for just about 30 hours in order to get home, and I believe that have slept about 24 hours since Friday night. After not seeing a Starbucks for 3 1/2 weeks, I have visited them quite a few time since being home. It is not that I really missed their coffee per se, just the convience of it really.
All pics are posted now. We have 1567 pictures. http://picasaweb.google.com/jaraeho Enjoy!
All pics are posted now. We have 1567 pictures. http://picasaweb.google.com/jaraeho Enjoy!
Friday, August 10, 2007
We are home
I am happy to report that Kyle and are home. Kyle arrived Fri am and I waiting for my ride at the airport. It is good to be home
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Then there was one. Kyle left Jo'burg around 2ish on Thursday bound for Brazil. He then flies to Houston and then home Friday afternoon. I had a couple more hours to hang out at the hotel before my flight. I entertained myself by watching non-stop music videos on VH-1. Go figure...they actually show videos and not reality tv. I saw some good classics from the 80's that haven't seen since MTV actually showed videos.
It is now Friday and I am now in Paris. Since my layover was several hours, I was hoping I might could get a taxi and go see the Eiffel Tower. It took me 2 hours just to find and get to my gate. Then a friend who is familiar w/ Paris said it was too far for a taxi, and to take the train. This required for me to take 3 trains. Since I haven't really slept in the past 24 hours that was too much for me to try to comprehend. I will just have to see it another time.
I am still in the process of posting pics. I will let you know when they are all posted. 18 or so hours I will be home!! Whoo-Hoo!!!
It is now Friday and I am now in Paris. Since my layover was several hours, I was hoping I might could get a taxi and go see the Eiffel Tower. It took me 2 hours just to find and get to my gate. Then a friend who is familiar w/ Paris said it was too far for a taxi, and to take the train. This required for me to take 3 trains. Since I haven't really slept in the past 24 hours that was too much for me to try to comprehend. I will just have to see it another time.
I am still in the process of posting pics. I will let you know when they are all posted. 18 or so hours I will be home!! Whoo-Hoo!!!
Aug 3rd
Today was a travel day. Third world airports are just as bad as the US, except on a smaller scale. They are crowded, disorganized, and people are annoying. You have to pay to get out of Zambia. We asked the porter where we paid, and he said once we go through the metal detector then they will tell us where to go. Once we get inside there are 3 checkin counters w/ no info above them, so of course we chooser the shortest line. Once we finally get to the front of the line, we are told we are at the wrong counter. She can only check us in for the 203 flight not the 205 flight that we are on. When I glance over to the counter they say we need to be at it is probably 10 people long. Since these people do not move very fast, I was like no way we are goin over there. I informed the the lady behind the counter that no one was around to inform us that we were to be in a specific line. Someone instructed her to assist go ahead and check us in. I received my first hand written boarding pass. As we proceed through customs we get to the guy who ensures you have paid your money before you exit the country. Well we had not, and thought we could pay him. OH NO! This should have been done before we had gone through the metal detector. So we have to go out and pay our $30. Then go back in and show him our receipt.
We have been flying Nationwide airlines while traveling within Africa. I have never heard of this airline before. However, I do not recommend traveling with them. Every flight we have flown with them has been late. When we flew to Zambia, there seemed to be plenty of people checking people in, but they kept yelling at one another, and running around with their heads cut off. We made it to the front of the line, because if we did not we have missed it. We had 3 people assisting us, and it still took forever. We finally make it to the gate, and the woman taking the tickets was one of the people in the front helping us check in. Then we have to take a bus to get to the plane. When we get there another girl that was helping us to check in was at the plane to greet people. No wonder they were all disorganized. They are all doing several jobs. I was surprised not to see one them as a flight attendant.
We finally got to Cape Town and our hotel around 9pm. We walk into our room, and it is just 1 double bed. This is not what I requested. I had to share a bed w/ Kyle at Zulu and all he did was kick me. Oddly enough I have several bruises up and down my leg, which I have no idea how I got. However, I am just gonna say it is because Kyle kicked me all nite. When we were in Zambia, we had our own bed, and it was so nice to sprawl out and sleep sideways across the bed like I normally do. All I had to deal with was Kyle snoring. Although he will say he does not snore, and I am making the whole thing up. So we went back down and got another room with 2 beds. Everyone is happy now.
Aug 4th – Cape Town
We had a Walk to Freedom tour scheduled for our first day. Our guide was Craig, and he was from Cape Town. His mother was from India, and father was black. Our first stop was the District Six area. He had a lot of insight on the area, because his family lived there, and was moved out when the whites moved the out to the Cape Flats. The whites decided this area should be just for whites. They moved everyone out, and completely demolished everything. This was back in the 1960’s. Since then nothing has been built except for a few homes. Apparently, the land is very expensive, and not very people can afford to build there. What is interesting about apartheid is just wasn’t the whites being prejudice against the blacks, they were prejudiced about anyone against anyone that was not white. Even if whites dated or married outside their race they were discriminated against as well. We then went to the District Six museum, http://www.districtsix.co.za/frames.htm which gives you a history of the area and the people that lived there.
We then went to the Langa township, http://www.capetown.at/heritage/city/langa.htm which is probably about 20 minutes outside of Cape Town. It is the oldest township in the Cape Town area. We visited what would we could call a community center. They teach people certain skills. They were making pottery in the back, and then they sell them at the center. There were various other artist there selling their goods. They get funding from various organizations, but not the government. Steffi Graff funds a dance program for the children of the township, http://www.stefanie-graf.de/sgm-en.html The Gates Foundation has also donated computers and internet access. Our guide then walked us through the neighborhoods, working class and upper class. Most houses were very small, and constructed of cement. Within the last 20 years electricity and indoor plumbing have reached the townships. Everyone now owns their houses. Some were nicer then others. They can add additions to their house if they want, and some people had done that. While other houses looked like no one had done anything to them in 20 years. We then reached the hostels, that just look like cheap apartments. They used to be men hostels because they would not let women or children live in the township. So the men lived there while they worked. Now families are allowed, and these rooms that were designed for 4 or so men, are now packed w/ families. Needless to say the rooms are cramped and do not have many modern conveniences. They are in the process of remodeling the hostels, which is half way done and so far as taken 5 years to complete this.
We then visited a primary school. The children sang and danced for us. No matter where we go where children are and no matter what age they are, they always want their pic taken and then they want to see it. They were all very cute.
At the people back of the township is shanty town. The people that live here cannot affor a house, and do not want to live in the cramped hostels. So they take any scrap of metal, cardboard, plastic. Wood and whatever else they can find and construct a shack of a house. The government finally put in toilets, but before that there was just a hole. We were able to go into 1 house. It was a portioned into 3 rooms, living room, kitchen, and bedroom. It housed a family 5, 3 children and 2 adults. Kyle looked around, but I felt like such an intruder. However, from what we have been told they are not ashames\d of their living conditions. This is their life. The government has built some new apartments in the area, and plan to build more. However, people can not afford to live in them. So they just move back to Shantytown, because it is free to live there. I can’t even imagine.
We drove through the center area of the township which was the shopping district. There were wood shacks all setup along the road with people selling food and goods. They are also chopping the heads off of chickens, plucking and cleaning them right there in the open. They then just sit out in the open waiting for someone to buy them. I guess salmonella is not in the African language? We did not eat lunch here!
August 6th
The weather was pretty crummy today. It poured rain and was really windy. Kyle wanted to go see The Simpsons, so we went to the movies. I wanted some chocolate, so I went to the concession stand. There were not huge bags of chocolate to be found in anywhere. When I asked if she had something like milk duds or m&m's the girl looked puzzeled. She opened up a cabilet and there were 2 boxes of m&m's. I said I would take 2 bags. She then walks over to another woman, and then returns and says she cannot sell them seperatly. I have to buy a kid combo. I had to buy a small popcorn and coke to get chocholate. Can you believe. The popcorn was horrible. Lesson learned, buy your chocolate before you go to a movie in South Africa.
Today was a travel day. Third world airports are just as bad as the US, except on a smaller scale. They are crowded, disorganized, and people are annoying. You have to pay to get out of Zambia. We asked the porter where we paid, and he said once we go through the metal detector then they will tell us where to go. Once we get inside there are 3 checkin counters w/ no info above them, so of course we chooser the shortest line. Once we finally get to the front of the line, we are told we are at the wrong counter. She can only check us in for the 203 flight not the 205 flight that we are on. When I glance over to the counter they say we need to be at it is probably 10 people long. Since these people do not move very fast, I was like no way we are goin over there. I informed the the lady behind the counter that no one was around to inform us that we were to be in a specific line. Someone instructed her to assist go ahead and check us in. I received my first hand written boarding pass. As we proceed through customs we get to the guy who ensures you have paid your money before you exit the country. Well we had not, and thought we could pay him. OH NO! This should have been done before we had gone through the metal detector. So we have to go out and pay our $30. Then go back in and show him our receipt.
We have been flying Nationwide airlines while traveling within Africa. I have never heard of this airline before. However, I do not recommend traveling with them. Every flight we have flown with them has been late. When we flew to Zambia, there seemed to be plenty of people checking people in, but they kept yelling at one another, and running around with their heads cut off. We made it to the front of the line, because if we did not we have missed it. We had 3 people assisting us, and it still took forever. We finally make it to the gate, and the woman taking the tickets was one of the people in the front helping us check in. Then we have to take a bus to get to the plane. When we get there another girl that was helping us to check in was at the plane to greet people. No wonder they were all disorganized. They are all doing several jobs. I was surprised not to see one them as a flight attendant.
We finally got to Cape Town and our hotel around 9pm. We walk into our room, and it is just 1 double bed. This is not what I requested. I had to share a bed w/ Kyle at Zulu and all he did was kick me. Oddly enough I have several bruises up and down my leg, which I have no idea how I got. However, I am just gonna say it is because Kyle kicked me all nite. When we were in Zambia, we had our own bed, and it was so nice to sprawl out and sleep sideways across the bed like I normally do. All I had to deal with was Kyle snoring. Although he will say he does not snore, and I am making the whole thing up. So we went back down and got another room with 2 beds. Everyone is happy now.
Aug 4th – Cape Town
We had a Walk to Freedom tour scheduled for our first day. Our guide was Craig, and he was from Cape Town. His mother was from India, and father was black. Our first stop was the District Six area. He had a lot of insight on the area, because his family lived there, and was moved out when the whites moved the out to the Cape Flats. The whites decided this area should be just for whites. They moved everyone out, and completely demolished everything. This was back in the 1960’s. Since then nothing has been built except for a few homes. Apparently, the land is very expensive, and not very people can afford to build there. What is interesting about apartheid is just wasn’t the whites being prejudice against the blacks, they were prejudiced about anyone against anyone that was not white. Even if whites dated or married outside their race they were discriminated against as well. We then went to the District Six museum, http://www.districtsix.co.za/frames.htm which gives you a history of the area and the people that lived there.
We then went to the Langa township, http://www.capetown.at/heritage/city/langa.htm which is probably about 20 minutes outside of Cape Town. It is the oldest township in the Cape Town area. We visited what would we could call a community center. They teach people certain skills. They were making pottery in the back, and then they sell them at the center. There were various other artist there selling their goods. They get funding from various organizations, but not the government. Steffi Graff funds a dance program for the children of the township, http://www.stefanie-graf.de/sgm-en.html The Gates Foundation has also donated computers and internet access. Our guide then walked us through the neighborhoods, working class and upper class. Most houses were very small, and constructed of cement. Within the last 20 years electricity and indoor plumbing have reached the townships. Everyone now owns their houses. Some were nicer then others. They can add additions to their house if they want, and some people had done that. While other houses looked like no one had done anything to them in 20 years. We then reached the hostels, that just look like cheap apartments. They used to be men hostels because they would not let women or children live in the township. So the men lived there while they worked. Now families are allowed, and these rooms that were designed for 4 or so men, are now packed w/ families. Needless to say the rooms are cramped and do not have many modern conveniences. They are in the process of remodeling the hostels, which is half way done and so far as taken 5 years to complete this.
We then visited a primary school. The children sang and danced for us. No matter where we go where children are and no matter what age they are, they always want their pic taken and then they want to see it. They were all very cute.
At the people back of the township is shanty town. The people that live here cannot affor a house, and do not want to live in the cramped hostels. So they take any scrap of metal, cardboard, plastic. Wood and whatever else they can find and construct a shack of a house. The government finally put in toilets, but before that there was just a hole. We were able to go into 1 house. It was a portioned into 3 rooms, living room, kitchen, and bedroom. It housed a family 5, 3 children and 2 adults. Kyle looked around, but I felt like such an intruder. However, from what we have been told they are not ashames\d of their living conditions. This is their life. The government has built some new apartments in the area, and plan to build more. However, people can not afford to live in them. So they just move back to Shantytown, because it is free to live there. I can’t even imagine.
We drove through the center area of the township which was the shopping district. There were wood shacks all setup along the road with people selling food and goods. They are also chopping the heads off of chickens, plucking and cleaning them right there in the open. They then just sit out in the open waiting for someone to buy them. I guess salmonella is not in the African language? We did not eat lunch here!
August 6th
The weather was pretty crummy today. It poured rain and was really windy. Kyle wanted to go see The Simpsons, so we went to the movies. I wanted some chocolate, so I went to the concession stand. There were not huge bags of chocolate to be found in anywhere. When I asked if she had something like milk duds or m&m's the girl looked puzzeled. She opened up a cabilet and there were 2 boxes of m&m's. I said I would take 2 bags. She then walks over to another woman, and then returns and says she cannot sell them seperatly. I have to buy a kid combo. I had to buy a small popcorn and coke to get chocholate. Can you believe. The popcorn was horrible. Lesson learned, buy your chocolate before you go to a movie in South Africa.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Dreaming in Africa
We are stuck in Africa for another day. We got to Jo'burg and found out our flight was cancelled. The rebooked us 3 hours earlier before we showed up on another flight. However, it would be nice if they called you to let you know!!! Well they at least set us up w/ a hotel that includes dinner and b-fast. So we took full advantage of dinner...well at least Kyle did. I'm sure he will have some colorful commentary on his blog.
Things I learned...
> I despise airlines
> They have no sympathy that you are stuck, and they will not pay for your alchohol
> I hope Cape Town expands their airport before the World Cup 2010, because that place is small and claustorphobic.
> Porters take off on national holidays
> I miss jet ways. I have had to take a shuttle bus to and from the airplane, and they are crowded.
We are stuck in Africa for another day. We got to Jo'burg and found out our flight was cancelled. The rebooked us 3 hours earlier before we showed up on another flight. However, it would be nice if they called you to let you know!!! Well they at least set us up w/ a hotel that includes dinner and b-fast. So we took full advantage of dinner...well at least Kyle did. I'm sure he will have some colorful commentary on his blog.
Things I learned...
> I despise airlines
> They have no sympathy that you are stuck, and they will not pay for your alchohol
> I hope Cape Town expands their airport before the World Cup 2010, because that place is small and claustorphobic.
> Porters take off on national holidays
> I miss jet ways. I have had to take a shuttle bus to and from the airplane, and they are crowded.
It is time to say goodbye to Africa.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Kyle Here:
August 6-7
Jarae and I spent a leisurely morning at breakfast, then decided to walk around the waterfront. It was cold and rainy. I had planned on climbing Table Mountain, as this was our only full free day left, so we thought. I am glad I did not, as on this day, an American tourist died from a fall while climbing the mountain. It was very cold, the mountain was covered in clouds, and it was raining most of the day. The poor idiot fell, and it is only reasonable...the paper claimed he had climbing experience however, not much brains.
Jarae of course, went shopping as usual... and then we went to see "The Simpsons" movie.
After which we ate another huge meal of fried fish.
Went to a meeting, and met my original contact in SA. He can back to the hotel, and we talked for a couple of hours. He shared his experiences at meetings for the last three years... He is very active in getting tourists connected here.
We got up at 6:30 am this morning to go shark diving, but the weather cancelled the trip. I was not going to go since I don't like boats anyway, especially in rough seas.
We then just walked around today, and Jarae bought more trinkets and gifts.
Things I learned today:
You get to pick your seats at the point of purchase for the movies in SA.
Pancakes wrapped around squash are tasty.
I can drink coffee at any hour of the day.
South Africa meetings are loose, ... it is hard to explain. I think not many people have been around long.
I don't want to stop being on vacation.
I want to buy property in South Africa.
August 6-7
Jarae and I spent a leisurely morning at breakfast, then decided to walk around the waterfront. It was cold and rainy. I had planned on climbing Table Mountain, as this was our only full free day left, so we thought. I am glad I did not, as on this day, an American tourist died from a fall while climbing the mountain. It was very cold, the mountain was covered in clouds, and it was raining most of the day. The poor idiot fell, and it is only reasonable...the paper claimed he had climbing experience however, not much brains.
Jarae of course, went shopping as usual... and then we went to see "The Simpsons" movie.
After which we ate another huge meal of fried fish.
Went to a meeting, and met my original contact in SA. He can back to the hotel, and we talked for a couple of hours. He shared his experiences at meetings for the last three years... He is very active in getting tourists connected here.
We got up at 6:30 am this morning to go shark diving, but the weather cancelled the trip. I was not going to go since I don't like boats anyway, especially in rough seas.
We then just walked around today, and Jarae bought more trinkets and gifts.
Things I learned today:
You get to pick your seats at the point of purchase for the movies in SA.
Pancakes wrapped around squash are tasty.
I can drink coffee at any hour of the day.
South Africa meetings are loose, ... it is hard to explain. I think not many people have been around long.
I don't want to stop being on vacation.
I want to buy property in South Africa.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Kyle Here:
August 5,07
So, today was outrageous...we took a 9 hour tour down the Cape Peninsula. It was amazing.
We went to Cape of Good Hope, I however did not feel the need to climb to the lighthouse.
We also went along the coast road, which was somewhat like Malibu, some very expensive homes. Once again, the disparity here seems much more prevelant, possibly since things are so close together, and you can see homes on the cliff over looking the sea, with shacks around them.
We took a boat to see some seals....which really stank. And as some of you are aware, my dislike of boats, which I am not driving is profound, and this boat was up and down, I almost threw up.
Next we drove to the Cape, as I said before. It was really cool. There was a point where I brought the two oceans, the Atlantic and Indian together, as you will be able to see in the photos.
There were two other couples on the tour with us....at lunch the Irish couple just talked really in depth about wine....really, in depth. I believe the phrase ' chocolatey finish' was spoken.
The KirstenBosch gardens were amazing. They are located near the homes of Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela. It was probably the most striking area in the Cape Town area I have seen so far. If I were to come to SA again, I would stay on that side of the Cape, and near Simon Town. The wineland area was very beautiful as well.
Jarae stayed in , and I went to the mall to eat. It was too late for a movie, but maybe tomorrow. Jarae wanted me to bring her some chocolate, and I almost brought back some 'sexy chocolate' but then thought better of it.
Might climb to the top of Table Mountain tomorrow.
Things I learned today:
I care nothing for discussion of wine characteristics.
There are Sunday drivers all over Cape Town.
I want to live on the Coast in Cape Town.
I will stay near Simon Town on my next trip here.
Muslims girls are kinda sexy.
I need fresh fruit daily.
There are many, many more places I want to see before I die.
August 5,07
So, today was outrageous...we took a 9 hour tour down the Cape Peninsula. It was amazing.
We went to Cape of Good Hope, I however did not feel the need to climb to the lighthouse.
We also went along the coast road, which was somewhat like Malibu, some very expensive homes. Once again, the disparity here seems much more prevelant, possibly since things are so close together, and you can see homes on the cliff over looking the sea, with shacks around them.
We took a boat to see some seals....which really stank. And as some of you are aware, my dislike of boats, which I am not driving is profound, and this boat was up and down, I almost threw up.
Next we drove to the Cape, as I said before. It was really cool. There was a point where I brought the two oceans, the Atlantic and Indian together, as you will be able to see in the photos.
There were two other couples on the tour with us....at lunch the Irish couple just talked really in depth about wine....really, in depth. I believe the phrase ' chocolatey finish' was spoken.
The KirstenBosch gardens were amazing. They are located near the homes of Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela. It was probably the most striking area in the Cape Town area I have seen so far. If I were to come to SA again, I would stay on that side of the Cape, and near Simon Town. The wineland area was very beautiful as well.
Jarae stayed in , and I went to the mall to eat. It was too late for a movie, but maybe tomorrow. Jarae wanted me to bring her some chocolate, and I almost brought back some 'sexy chocolate' but then thought better of it.
Might climb to the top of Table Mountain tomorrow.
Things I learned today:
I care nothing for discussion of wine characteristics.
There are Sunday drivers all over Cape Town.
I want to live on the Coast in Cape Town.
I will stay near Simon Town on my next trip here.
Muslims girls are kinda sexy.
I need fresh fruit daily.
There are many, many more places I want to see before I die.
August 1st
The day was pretty lazy. We then went on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. It runs between Zambia and Zimbabwe (which we got to see) We saw crocodiles and hippos on the ride. We met a South African family on the boat. The woman Annie is traveling with her parents. Her mom was pretty crazy. She kept singing. It was pretty amusing. Plus I believe she was quite interested in Kyle. It was nice to talking to Annie. She has traveled all over the world, but was very interested in the US.
August 2nd
Annie, whom I met the day before told of us a local market that we must go to. She said it was a very large market, and it was were the locals shopped. There was nothing touristy about it. So we were able to hire a driver, Eugene. It is kind of amusing that most of the people that work at the hotels their names are all common English names. We also discovered this when we went to the market by the Falls. I met, John, Jacob, George, William, and Lucky.
We arrive at the market which was just a little ways out of Livingstone. http://www.backpackzambia.com/pages/falls.htm This is not a tourist market. The market is big. The vendors are all crammed in together. It is constructed, and I might say not that well with wood and plastic. The front of the market was like some of the markets we had been to prior. Selling local craft items, etc. As we got farther back we started to see more of the local items, which ranged from clothing, blankets, nail polish, etc. The conditions got to be worse the further back we got. Kyle said this was nothing compared to Mexico, but I have never seen anything quite like this. Everyone was very nice that we encountered. Some just looked at us with a sort of puzzled look on their face. I don’t think they get a lot of tourists. We found the items that we wanted, and were going to start heading to the front. We then stumbled across the food section of the market. Which was just absolutely disgusting. All the food is laying out in the open, and there are flies over the food. Just about 50 feet away is a big dump with who knows what is in there, and I didn’t want to know. Still no matter where you go, if a kid sees you with a camera they want their picture taken, and then they want to see themselves.
Our driver then took us to another local market to get some copper bracelets. Copper is the main resources that is mined in Zambia. He then took us to a local store were they designed and sewn clothes. Zambians wear very bright colored fabrics. Everything was very beautiful. We met the designer and saw the shop where they made the clothes.
We headed back to the hotel, and decided to walk the falls. We were making fun of the tourists that were rain coats to walk the along the falls. So we trekked off without raincoats. Well by the end of the walk we were soaked, but it was well worth it, I can’t imagine that it is only running half of it’s normal capacity. If it was, I don’t think you could see anything, but mist. At least this way we could see the bottom.
I then went to the other hotel on the property, The Royal Livingstone. This is a 5 star hotel and as a British colonial theme to it. I got a massage and a pedicure. The massage was outside in a tent next to the Zambezi River. The tent just happen to be surrounded by zebras. Not something I normally see at the Aveda salon. The massage was just was what I needed. I then went to go get my pedicure. I felt like a whole new person. I walked out to the back to see the property, and there was a beautiful sunset. I didn’t need to go on the cruise the night before, I could have just sat on one of the swinging benches and watched it.
One last buffet dinner, and then I had to go back early so I could get everything back in the suitcase.
The day was pretty lazy. We then went on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. It runs between Zambia and Zimbabwe (which we got to see) We saw crocodiles and hippos on the ride. We met a South African family on the boat. The woman Annie is traveling with her parents. Her mom was pretty crazy. She kept singing. It was pretty amusing. Plus I believe she was quite interested in Kyle. It was nice to talking to Annie. She has traveled all over the world, but was very interested in the US.
August 2nd
Annie, whom I met the day before told of us a local market that we must go to. She said it was a very large market, and it was were the locals shopped. There was nothing touristy about it. So we were able to hire a driver, Eugene. It is kind of amusing that most of the people that work at the hotels their names are all common English names. We also discovered this when we went to the market by the Falls. I met, John, Jacob, George, William, and Lucky.
We arrive at the market which was just a little ways out of Livingstone. http://www.backpackzambia.com/pages/falls.htm This is not a tourist market. The market is big. The vendors are all crammed in together. It is constructed, and I might say not that well with wood and plastic. The front of the market was like some of the markets we had been to prior. Selling local craft items, etc. As we got farther back we started to see more of the local items, which ranged from clothing, blankets, nail polish, etc. The conditions got to be worse the further back we got. Kyle said this was nothing compared to Mexico, but I have never seen anything quite like this. Everyone was very nice that we encountered. Some just looked at us with a sort of puzzled look on their face. I don’t think they get a lot of tourists. We found the items that we wanted, and were going to start heading to the front. We then stumbled across the food section of the market. Which was just absolutely disgusting. All the food is laying out in the open, and there are flies over the food. Just about 50 feet away is a big dump with who knows what is in there, and I didn’t want to know. Still no matter where you go, if a kid sees you with a camera they want their picture taken, and then they want to see themselves.
Our driver then took us to another local market to get some copper bracelets. Copper is the main resources that is mined in Zambia. He then took us to a local store were they designed and sewn clothes. Zambians wear very bright colored fabrics. Everything was very beautiful. We met the designer and saw the shop where they made the clothes.
We headed back to the hotel, and decided to walk the falls. We were making fun of the tourists that were rain coats to walk the along the falls. So we trekked off without raincoats. Well by the end of the walk we were soaked, but it was well worth it, I can’t imagine that it is only running half of it’s normal capacity. If it was, I don’t think you could see anything, but mist. At least this way we could see the bottom.
I then went to the other hotel on the property, The Royal Livingstone. This is a 5 star hotel and as a British colonial theme to it. I got a massage and a pedicure. The massage was outside in a tent next to the Zambezi River. The tent just happen to be surrounded by zebras. Not something I normally see at the Aveda salon. The massage was just was what I needed. I then went to go get my pedicure. I felt like a whole new person. I walked out to the back to see the property, and there was a beautiful sunset. I didn’t need to go on the cruise the night before, I could have just sat on one of the swinging benches and watched it.
One last buffet dinner, and then I had to go back early so I could get everything back in the suitcase.
Today we went on a Cape Peninsula tour. We really lucked out because it turned out to be a beautiful day. One of our stops was the Cape of Good Hope. This is the most South-Western point of the African continent. Around this point is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Indian Ocean. We saw some spectacular scenery. Above is a video from the lighthouse at Cape at Good Hope. http://www.capepoint.co.za/
We then drove to Simonstown http://www.go2africa.com/south-africa/western-cape/simons-town/ (if you scroll down there is a list of western Cape Town suburbs which most of these we drove through today) and had lunch at a great seafood restaurant which was right on the water. We then walked down to Boulders beach to see the African penguins. There are quite a few of them, and they are about as entertaining as the monkeys.
As we drove along the coast today, the scenery reminded me somewhat of coastal California and Italy. Houses down on the beach and then run up the mountainside. I can say I have seen the low of the low (Shanty Town) and the high of the high. There are some pretty magnificent homes along the Western Cape.
We finished up the tour of Kirstenbosch Gardens. I had hear you needed about a day to see the entire garden. Now I see why. This place is huge!! There are so many different plants, flowers and trees. It is absolutely stunning. I can just imagine what it looks like in the summer time.
On the way home we say the front gate of Nelson Mandela's house.
It is hard to believe that our trip is about to come to and end. We have had so many experiences, and the opportunity to see all walks of life.
Saturday, August 04, 2007
August 4th
Kyle Here: Jarae and I went to the City Bowl today, not a bowling alley but the center area of town. We first went to the Muslim museum, which was small but had really cool art. Then we went to the market, where Jarae proceeded to spend all her money. Not unusual really.
We then walked through the Gardens and also visited the National Gallery. There was some awesome art, and many South African artists.
We then walked alot, around down town....alot of walking. Had alot of coffee, while Jarae tried to get money from her credit card, without a PIN number. Very exciting to watch.
I had a recurrence of the flu symptoms from last night....I think I have the malaria.
Then I walked around the Mall, which was packed as it is Saturday night.
Things I learned today:
I like Aussie rule football.
I am learning how to play rugby.
I may need to cut down on my coffee consumption.
I do not look Euro, everyone can always tell I am from America.
I want to come back to SA sometime in the future, maybe for the World Cup in 2010.
Jarae has so many things on her mind, it is hard to think straight.
Kyle Here: Jarae and I went to the City Bowl today, not a bowling alley but the center area of town. We first went to the Muslim museum, which was small but had really cool art. Then we went to the market, where Jarae proceeded to spend all her money. Not unusual really.
We then walked through the Gardens and also visited the National Gallery. There was some awesome art, and many South African artists.
We then walked alot, around down town....alot of walking. Had alot of coffee, while Jarae tried to get money from her credit card, without a PIN number. Very exciting to watch.
I had a recurrence of the flu symptoms from last night....I think I have the malaria.
Then I walked around the Mall, which was packed as it is Saturday night.
Things I learned today:
I like Aussie rule football.
I am learning how to play rugby.
I may need to cut down on my coffee consumption.
I do not look Euro, everyone can always tell I am from America.
I want to come back to SA sometime in the future, maybe for the World Cup in 2010.
Jarae has so many things on her mind, it is hard to think straight.
Well I am slowly catching up on my blogs...
July 27th -- 4th day
Today we took about an hour and half drive to St Lucia Estuary. I still can’t get over the amount of people that walk along the highway. Then add onto that it is legal to drive on the shoulder of the road. If someone wants to pass you, you pull over and drive on the shoulder of the road. Here I was afraid of lions, when I should have been afraid of driving in South Africa. I think they just hand out licenses at the grocery store. I am fairly certain \they are not required to take a test.
When we got to St. Lucia, I took a boat ride on a small portion of the estuary. There are all type of birds and animals that inhabit the area. I did not see many birds, but did see several cfocidiles, and finally saw quite a few hippos out of the water. Up to this point, they have all been in the water. These guys are not afraid to attack if they are thrertened. More people are killed by hippos than any other animal. There are several pods of hippos that live in the area. There is one hippo that is around 3 years old that the town has named Sandy. Sandy has quite a few scars on her, and they believe she got in a fight with her pod, and basically got kicked out. She has comes out of the water late in the afternoon, and roams the town. They have been unable to get her back in the water because they think she is scared. We didn’t see Sandy roaming the streets, but what an unusual sight if you did just see a hippo walking down the street.
After lunch, we drove to Cape Vital. We got lounge on the beach of the Indian Ocean. It was just amazing. I love the beach and the water, and this ranked up there w/ the beaches in Hawaii. The water was a pretty blueish/greenish color. As I walked up the beach there were several sand dunes which were of pretty good size. You could get a pretty good work out trying to climb these. We stayed for a little over an hour. We all wanted to stay longer, but unfortunately we still had a drive in front of us.
It is amazing the appetite you work up just sitting in a car looking at animals or just going from one point to another. And it is only several hours between meals. We have become spoiled with the meals at the Zulu Nyala. Every meal is a wonderful buffet. There is some yummy grub here. There is always at least 3 desserts to choose from. Needless to say we all make several trips. Here I thought I was going to loose weight. Well that is not going to happen at this rate.
July 28th – 5th day
Today we went to a craft market. It was not quite what I expected. It was more touristy than I wanted it to be, but still managed to buy a lot of stuff. Fortunately, we were able to ship stuff. There is no way I could have got all of that stuff in my bag. We then went to Hluluwe market where the locals shop, but there really was nothing there. It is just for the locals. I walked down the street a little ways, but did not get very far. It was quite quite crowded and a little intimidating. And being too that our guide didn’t really like it that we were there. I think he was a little concerned about our safety although he never came out and said it.
We then went out on our afternoon ride, and got to see another beautiful sunset. This time Sandile brought a cooler and cheese and crackers. So we had a couple of drinks, snacks, and watched the sunset. We then went on a night drive. Sandile had a spotlight and we used that to find the animals. It was cool because you could see the animals eyes glow in the dark. We also heard the elephants make noise. Which is a little disturbing at night since you are not sure where they are at.
July 30th – last day
Today was a relaxing day. The week had been at packed with activities. It was nice to sleep in, just lay around by the pool, and enjoy the sunshine.
After lunch, I went to go set on the deck of the dining hall. This sits up high and as sweeping views of the rolling hills. While sitting there, I saw a mama warthog and her kids. These things are so ugly they are cute, They kneel down to get closer to their food. So they just scoot along on their front knees eating. It is pretty funny to watch. Then just a little later, several monkeys were running up on the roof. One looked like he had a cigarette in his mouth. You could tell they were up to something. I walked inside and was talking to some people then we glanced over to the front and there was a monkey in the doorway. The coffee bar just happens to be by the door. The monkey looks both ways to ensure no one s close by, and then hops up on the table and grabs a handful of sugars and then jets out the door and up the pole. We run to the front, and he just looks down at us like HAHAHA!!!! The monkeys love the sugar!!
One last drive, and we finally got to see mama and baby elephant up close and personal. Up until now, they have been blocked by trees and brush. It was bigger than the on we saw Hulwlue. At one point mom just stood right in front of the truck and stared us down for a minute. They are know to charge if they feel the baby is threatened, but then she just moved on to the other side of the road.
The last supper. I never knew I would eat so good on this trip. I am going to miss not having a buffet for every meal. The food was just great.
We were very fortunate to have a great guide, and our group really got along with one another, and we had a really good time. Which made things even better. Because some of the other groups looked pretty boring!
July 31st – Off to Zambia
Well another all day flying. We had to leave at 5am, which I was not a happy camper. The place we are staying at is great, and I finally have mine own bed!! No more getting kicked by Kyle. I thought the buffet at Zulu Nyala was good, well it is even better here. And they have okra. One thing I have noticed about food in Zambia, is they eat somewhat like the people in South. Well more like the people in the South eat like in Zambia. They had this one dish, which was kind of what I thought was like a polenta. I don’t remember what they called it, but the cook said this is what the Zambian people eat. Then the other chef it was similar to grits in the states.
August 1st
The day was pretty lazy. We then went on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. It runs between Zambia and Zimbabwe (which we got to see) We saw crocodiles and hippos on the ride. We met a South African family on the boat. The woman Annie is traveling with her parents. Her mom was pretty crazy. She kept singing. It was pretty amusing. Plus I believe she was quite interested in Kyle. It was nice to talking to Annie. She has traveled all over the world, but was very interested in the US.
July 27th -- 4th day
Today we took about an hour and half drive to St Lucia Estuary. I still can’t get over the amount of people that walk along the highway. Then add onto that it is legal to drive on the shoulder of the road. If someone wants to pass you, you pull over and drive on the shoulder of the road. Here I was afraid of lions, when I should have been afraid of driving in South Africa. I think they just hand out licenses at the grocery store. I am fairly certain \they are not required to take a test.
When we got to St. Lucia, I took a boat ride on a small portion of the estuary. There are all type of birds and animals that inhabit the area. I did not see many birds, but did see several cfocidiles, and finally saw quite a few hippos out of the water. Up to this point, they have all been in the water. These guys are not afraid to attack if they are thrertened. More people are killed by hippos than any other animal. There are several pods of hippos that live in the area. There is one hippo that is around 3 years old that the town has named Sandy. Sandy has quite a few scars on her, and they believe she got in a fight with her pod, and basically got kicked out. She has comes out of the water late in the afternoon, and roams the town. They have been unable to get her back in the water because they think she is scared. We didn’t see Sandy roaming the streets, but what an unusual sight if you did just see a hippo walking down the street.
After lunch, we drove to Cape Vital. We got lounge on the beach of the Indian Ocean. It was just amazing. I love the beach and the water, and this ranked up there w/ the beaches in Hawaii. The water was a pretty blueish/greenish color. As I walked up the beach there were several sand dunes which were of pretty good size. You could get a pretty good work out trying to climb these. We stayed for a little over an hour. We all wanted to stay longer, but unfortunately we still had a drive in front of us.
It is amazing the appetite you work up just sitting in a car looking at animals or just going from one point to another. And it is only several hours between meals. We have become spoiled with the meals at the Zulu Nyala. Every meal is a wonderful buffet. There is some yummy grub here. There is always at least 3 desserts to choose from. Needless to say we all make several trips. Here I thought I was going to loose weight. Well that is not going to happen at this rate.
July 28th – 5th day
Today we went to a craft market. It was not quite what I expected. It was more touristy than I wanted it to be, but still managed to buy a lot of stuff. Fortunately, we were able to ship stuff. There is no way I could have got all of that stuff in my bag. We then went to Hluluwe market where the locals shop, but there really was nothing there. It is just for the locals. I walked down the street a little ways, but did not get very far. It was quite quite crowded and a little intimidating. And being too that our guide didn’t really like it that we were there. I think he was a little concerned about our safety although he never came out and said it.
We then went out on our afternoon ride, and got to see another beautiful sunset. This time Sandile brought a cooler and cheese and crackers. So we had a couple of drinks, snacks, and watched the sunset. We then went on a night drive. Sandile had a spotlight and we used that to find the animals. It was cool because you could see the animals eyes glow in the dark. We also heard the elephants make noise. Which is a little disturbing at night since you are not sure where they are at.
July 30th – last day
Today was a relaxing day. The week had been at packed with activities. It was nice to sleep in, just lay around by the pool, and enjoy the sunshine.
After lunch, I went to go set on the deck of the dining hall. This sits up high and as sweeping views of the rolling hills. While sitting there, I saw a mama warthog and her kids. These things are so ugly they are cute, They kneel down to get closer to their food. So they just scoot along on their front knees eating. It is pretty funny to watch. Then just a little later, several monkeys were running up on the roof. One looked like he had a cigarette in his mouth. You could tell they were up to something. I walked inside and was talking to some people then we glanced over to the front and there was a monkey in the doorway. The coffee bar just happens to be by the door. The monkey looks both ways to ensure no one s close by, and then hops up on the table and grabs a handful of sugars and then jets out the door and up the pole. We run to the front, and he just looks down at us like HAHAHA!!!! The monkeys love the sugar!!
One last drive, and we finally got to see mama and baby elephant up close and personal. Up until now, they have been blocked by trees and brush. It was bigger than the on we saw Hulwlue. At one point mom just stood right in front of the truck and stared us down for a minute. They are know to charge if they feel the baby is threatened, but then she just moved on to the other side of the road.
The last supper. I never knew I would eat so good on this trip. I am going to miss not having a buffet for every meal. The food was just great.
We were very fortunate to have a great guide, and our group really got along with one another, and we had a really good time. Which made things even better. Because some of the other groups looked pretty boring!
July 31st – Off to Zambia
Well another all day flying. We had to leave at 5am, which I was not a happy camper. The place we are staying at is great, and I finally have mine own bed!! No more getting kicked by Kyle. I thought the buffet at Zulu Nyala was good, well it is even better here. And they have okra. One thing I have noticed about food in Zambia, is they eat somewhat like the people in South. Well more like the people in the South eat like in Zambia. They had this one dish, which was kind of what I thought was like a polenta. I don’t remember what they called it, but the cook said this is what the Zambian people eat. Then the other chef it was similar to grits in the states.
August 1st
The day was pretty lazy. We then went on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. It runs between Zambia and Zimbabwe (which we got to see) We saw crocodiles and hippos on the ride. We met a South African family on the boat. The woman Annie is traveling with her parents. Her mom was pretty crazy. She kept singing. It was pretty amusing. Plus I believe she was quite interested in Kyle. It was nice to talking to Annie. She has traveled all over the world, but was very interested in the US.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Kyle Here:
Spent most of the day yesterday traveling from Zambia to Cape Town, to which I realized that I love to travel, but not so much my fellow travelers in the airport. I long for the orderliness of American airports.
We went on a tour of a township today, as well as visiting the District Six museum and actual area. Truly amazing to try to grasp the destruction and racism here in South Africa. The township tour went to a school, tenement, and a shanty. Hard to understand the poverty of these places, even with the photos.
Our boat trip to Robben Island was cancelled due to rough seas. Not really a loss for me, but I would have liked to have seen the island, and learned about what Mandela went through. We briefly viewed some of the Mandela museum. Walked around the wharf, and had some good sea food. Found a big market, and might buy some more items, I guess.
Went to a meeting, and met some nice folks. Someone is going to pick me up on Sunday for the 5 o'clock. Has been some time since my last one.
Not feeling too well tonight, somewhat like flu symptoms....I hope it passes quickly.
Things I learned today:
Always get good directions.
Take pictures when ever you see a good shot.
Carry ointment when necessary.
Have small bills on hand.
Don't hug the dirty street urchins.
Need to find an importer for Grenadillas in the States.
Spent most of the day yesterday traveling from Zambia to Cape Town, to which I realized that I love to travel, but not so much my fellow travelers in the airport. I long for the orderliness of American airports.
We went on a tour of a township today, as well as visiting the District Six museum and actual area. Truly amazing to try to grasp the destruction and racism here in South Africa. The township tour went to a school, tenement, and a shanty. Hard to understand the poverty of these places, even with the photos.
Our boat trip to Robben Island was cancelled due to rough seas. Not really a loss for me, but I would have liked to have seen the island, and learned about what Mandela went through. We briefly viewed some of the Mandela museum. Walked around the wharf, and had some good sea food. Found a big market, and might buy some more items, I guess.
Went to a meeting, and met some nice folks. Someone is going to pick me up on Sunday for the 5 o'clock. Has been some time since my last one.
Not feeling too well tonight, somewhat like flu symptoms....I hope it passes quickly.
Things I learned today:
Always get good directions.
Take pictures when ever you see a good shot.
Carry ointment when necessary.
Have small bills on hand.
Don't hug the dirty street urchins.
Need to find an importer for Grenadillas in the States.
Finally...fast internet connection. I am in the process of uploading pics to http://picasaweb.google.com/jaraeho. We have alot of them, sdo it may take a little time to get everything posted.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Welcome to Zambia
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Our time in Zambia is coming to an end. We will be heading to the airport soon to go to Cape Town. Zambia is a great place and was way more interesting than I imangined. By far the best thing are the people. They are all so kind. I am a little behind on my posts, but will try to catch up here soon, and share more of my experiences.
Here are things that I have learned:
> No matter what country you are in car alarms are still annoying
> I can't pack in a rush or the bag won't shut
> The reason i have a pink cover on my passport is I can spot it from far away when the guy at the airport takes it from me
> If I want okra, I need to come to Zambia
> Monkeys are pretty darn entertaining
Here are things that I have learned:
> No matter what country you are in car alarms are still annoying
> I can't pack in a rush or the bag won't shut
> The reason i have a pink cover on my passport is I can spot it from far away when the guy at the airport takes it from me
> If I want okra, I need to come to Zambia
> Monkeys are pretty darn entertaining
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
July 31, 2007
Kyle Here:
Relaxed today, spent some time sending emails and a long shower.
We then went to the market close to the hotel. I bought a few trinkets, but for the most part it was the same thing over and over in every shop. Maybe saw something I would like, might go back tomorrow. Jarae and I then went on a Sunset river cruise which was cool.
Saw some crocs and hippos, and several birds on the river. Floated for two hours, and even got to see the other side of the Zambezi, which is the country of Zimbabwe….at least I got to see it, even if I won’t be able to step foot on it.
We met a nice older couple and their daughter from South Africa. They are driving in a ‘caravan’ across most of Africa. They were very talkative and also very interested in learning about some things about the US. The 70 year old woman keep hugging me and kissing my neck, Seems all of the free all you can drink booze made her a little frisky. She also grabbed my butt, finally some action while on vacation.
They did tell us about a local market, which should be very big, that Jarae and I are going to visit tomorrow, to get some more traditional goods.
If I had known I would have brought many of my old tshirts, cheap sunglasses and some ball point pens…seems I could buy the whole market with those things.
Things I learned today:
Every vendor has a grandfather who made all the items they are selling.
I am always the first customer of the day.
Everyone around the world knows a song from “Oklahoma” the musical, and is more than happy to sing it.
Zimbabwe looks just like Zambia, except for the evil dictator.
I could be King of my own tribe, if I just had a crate full of old Nike t-shirts.
Irish girls think you look ‘smart’ if you are writing emails on a laptop at the pool.
Africans in the days of old used wooden ‘pillow’ pedestals similar to the Japanese in days of old.
No one knows how to say my name, so I am going to go by the name ‘Omfungobi’ or ‘Dennis’…then everyone would be able to say my name when I tell them what it is.
No matter what country people are from, not one of them likes attorneys.
August 1, 2007
Kyle Here:
We went to the Marimba market today, which is the typical Zambian market in Livingston. This is where everyone in town shops. The market was huge, and we only spent an hour walking in a very small portion of it. It was broken up into sections, such as blankets, shoes, food, and tobacco. I took some great pictures there. Jarae was appalled by the condition of the market, but it was very clean compared to some I have been to in Mexico. There was no open sewage and the flys were not too bad actually.
One vender asked if Jarae is my ‘madam’….I thought he said mother first. I told him I was looking for a Zambian girlfriend.
The taxi driver, Eugine, (that is how he spells it) also took us to another market where we bought some copper jewelry, as we are close to the copper mines, and to a clothing shop. Jarae and I bought some typical African clothing as gifts. The people in all of these places were very excited to see tourists, as I think very few ever visit the town of Livingston. We also drove by the High Court, and the Police station. The police station had many windows broken out, and it looks as if they just decided to leave them that way.
The taxi driver told us there was a recent campaign to clean up the city, and he has noticed a considerable difference in the amount of trash around. It looks pretty clean around here, other than the fine layer of dust over everything.
We still have not seen any giraffe on the hotel grounds, but maybe before we leave.
We walked to view the Falls today as well. It was breathtaking. I was told it is only running at half rate, since it is the dry season. I can imagine that it would be covered by mist if it was at full capacity. The height of the falls is incredible, and I am also struck by the fact that there is very few barriers or safety precautions….I like it, since it is readily apparent that the Falls is huge and falling would be deadly. There is also no rangers or anyone making sure you don’t get too close. Once again, getting close would be deadly so the Africans believe you know this or learn very quickly.
We leave tomorrow for Cape Town, South Africa. I am looking forward to seeing Table Mountain and checking out all the things other travelers have told us about.
Things I learned today:
People want money to take their picture.
Most Africans want to come to the US.
Everyone knows how to convert Kwacha (Zambian money) to US dollars or Euros, or they all have cell phones and can check the internet for the exchange rate.
The Zambezi Sun hotel is outstanding.
Spanish Machiattos are excellent.
I find myself speaking broken English, or asking very simple questions…despite most Africans seeming to have a firm grasp of the English language.
All the clothing in the market smells like chemicals.
Kyle Here:
Relaxed today, spent some time sending emails and a long shower.
We then went to the market close to the hotel. I bought a few trinkets, but for the most part it was the same thing over and over in every shop. Maybe saw something I would like, might go back tomorrow. Jarae and I then went on a Sunset river cruise which was cool.
Saw some crocs and hippos, and several birds on the river. Floated for two hours, and even got to see the other side of the Zambezi, which is the country of Zimbabwe….at least I got to see it, even if I won’t be able to step foot on it.
We met a nice older couple and their daughter from South Africa. They are driving in a ‘caravan’ across most of Africa. They were very talkative and also very interested in learning about some things about the US. The 70 year old woman keep hugging me and kissing my neck, Seems all of the free all you can drink booze made her a little frisky. She also grabbed my butt, finally some action while on vacation.
They did tell us about a local market, which should be very big, that Jarae and I are going to visit tomorrow, to get some more traditional goods.
If I had known I would have brought many of my old tshirts, cheap sunglasses and some ball point pens…seems I could buy the whole market with those things.
Things I learned today:
Every vendor has a grandfather who made all the items they are selling.
I am always the first customer of the day.
Everyone around the world knows a song from “Oklahoma” the musical, and is more than happy to sing it.
Zimbabwe looks just like Zambia, except for the evil dictator.
I could be King of my own tribe, if I just had a crate full of old Nike t-shirts.
Irish girls think you look ‘smart’ if you are writing emails on a laptop at the pool.
Africans in the days of old used wooden ‘pillow’ pedestals similar to the Japanese in days of old.
No one knows how to say my name, so I am going to go by the name ‘Omfungobi’ or ‘Dennis’…then everyone would be able to say my name when I tell them what it is.
No matter what country people are from, not one of them likes attorneys.
August 1, 2007
Kyle Here:
We went to the Marimba market today, which is the typical Zambian market in Livingston. This is where everyone in town shops. The market was huge, and we only spent an hour walking in a very small portion of it. It was broken up into sections, such as blankets, shoes, food, and tobacco. I took some great pictures there. Jarae was appalled by the condition of the market, but it was very clean compared to some I have been to in Mexico. There was no open sewage and the flys were not too bad actually.
One vender asked if Jarae is my ‘madam’….I thought he said mother first. I told him I was looking for a Zambian girlfriend.
The taxi driver, Eugine, (that is how he spells it) also took us to another market where we bought some copper jewelry, as we are close to the copper mines, and to a clothing shop. Jarae and I bought some typical African clothing as gifts. The people in all of these places were very excited to see tourists, as I think very few ever visit the town of Livingston. We also drove by the High Court, and the Police station. The police station had many windows broken out, and it looks as if they just decided to leave them that way.
The taxi driver told us there was a recent campaign to clean up the city, and he has noticed a considerable difference in the amount of trash around. It looks pretty clean around here, other than the fine layer of dust over everything.
We still have not seen any giraffe on the hotel grounds, but maybe before we leave.
We walked to view the Falls today as well. It was breathtaking. I was told it is only running at half rate, since it is the dry season. I can imagine that it would be covered by mist if it was at full capacity. The height of the falls is incredible, and I am also struck by the fact that there is very few barriers or safety precautions….I like it, since it is readily apparent that the Falls is huge and falling would be deadly. There is also no rangers or anyone making sure you don’t get too close. Once again, getting close would be deadly so the Africans believe you know this or learn very quickly.
We leave tomorrow for Cape Town, South Africa. I am looking forward to seeing Table Mountain and checking out all the things other travelers have told us about.
Things I learned today:
People want money to take their picture.
Most Africans want to come to the US.
Everyone knows how to convert Kwacha (Zambian money) to US dollars or Euros, or they all have cell phones and can check the internet for the exchange rate.
The Zambezi Sun hotel is outstanding.
Spanish Machiattos are excellent.
I find myself speaking broken English, or asking very simple questions…despite most Africans seeming to have a firm grasp of the English language.
All the clothing in the market smells like chemicals.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Kyle Here:
I am 'all safaried out' today...wearing all my outdoor gear, it seems that is all the rage here at the 5 star hotel. Most of the others look like they are hiking in the bush for weeks, but are only walking around the swimming pool on their way to the lunch buffett. This place is outstanding. The food is great, and you know how I love a buffett. I may have to brave the wilds in order to get a soft drink at the bar.
Slept like a rock, I think the super dark room had something to do with it, and getting up at 4:30 am yesterday certainly helped.
Everyone seems to be hurrying around the hotel today, I don't know about them, but I am on vacation. I took about 2 hours for breakfast this morning, drinking coffee, reading and talking with Jarae.
The temperature here is mild, probably 24 degrees Celsius, like I know that that means....probably about 70 or 75. Winter in Africa is great. It is so dusty here though, I could hardly breath last night before bed.
I have run into some other visitors who saw lions on their safaris, so I may have to go on a ride in the National Park here, to give myself another opportunity for a lion sighting.
Did see some babboons run by, as I am writing this blog....Seems the 'monkeys will destroy your items' if they smell food, or want to eat some sugar from the coffee service.
Sitting around has allowed me time to reflect on how important some people in my life are, and how much time I spend trying to distract myself, rather than living. Not sure if that will change when I return but possibly.
Things I have learned:
Africans love American songs, but only instrumentally.
Zambian women are beautiful, all of them.
I may not make it to Zimbabwe.
People assume you are working, or can't relax if you are on the laptop on vacation.
Most of the Zambian men have English names, appears the English have had a profound effect on everything in the area.
I need pineapple in my life everyday.
I am 'all safaried out' today...wearing all my outdoor gear, it seems that is all the rage here at the 5 star hotel. Most of the others look like they are hiking in the bush for weeks, but are only walking around the swimming pool on their way to the lunch buffett. This place is outstanding. The food is great, and you know how I love a buffett. I may have to brave the wilds in order to get a soft drink at the bar.
Slept like a rock, I think the super dark room had something to do with it, and getting up at 4:30 am yesterday certainly helped.
Everyone seems to be hurrying around the hotel today, I don't know about them, but I am on vacation. I took about 2 hours for breakfast this morning, drinking coffee, reading and talking with Jarae.
The temperature here is mild, probably 24 degrees Celsius, like I know that that means....probably about 70 or 75. Winter in Africa is great. It is so dusty here though, I could hardly breath last night before bed.
I have run into some other visitors who saw lions on their safaris, so I may have to go on a ride in the National Park here, to give myself another opportunity for a lion sighting.
Did see some babboons run by, as I am writing this blog....Seems the 'monkeys will destroy your items' if they smell food, or want to eat some sugar from the coffee service.
Sitting around has allowed me time to reflect on how important some people in my life are, and how much time I spend trying to distract myself, rather than living. Not sure if that will change when I return but possibly.
Things I have learned:
Africans love American songs, but only instrumentally.
Zambian women are beautiful, all of them.
I may not make it to Zimbabwe.
People assume you are working, or can't relax if you are on the laptop on vacation.
Most of the Zambian men have English names, appears the English have had a profound effect on everything in the area.
I need pineapple in my life everyday.
We are trying to post pics, but we have so many pics and such a slow Internet access. So bare with us.
We arrived in Zambia yesterday. The terrain is much different than that of South Africa. Kyle informed me that is the dustiest place. They have this red clay sandy dirt, and sparsely scattered trees. We are located just outside Livingston. http://www.go2africa.com/zambia/victoria-falls-livingstone/livingstone/
This is the biggest town we have been to so far in Africa. 120, 000 people live here, and they are all very nice. The town center is quaint. It kind of reminds me of old time little town that would drive through in the states. We might go there tomorrow, so I will try to get pics.
The place we are staying at is the Zambizi Sun. http://www.go2africa.com/zambia/hotel-lodge.asp?accommodation=Zambezi-Sun--&ServiceNo=2742 This place is awesome. It is all open. They zebras, giraffes, monkeys, and baboons roaming the property. We had a monkey jump on our table yesterday. They love to grab the sugar packs, then run up to the roof. We did not have sugar so they were highly disappointed. We saw zebras on our walk to the falls. This AM a baboon just walked up to our table. It just so bizarre.
We walked to Victoria Falls, which is just a 4 minute walk from the hotel. We only had 20 minutes before the gate closed, so we just walked down real quick and snapped some pics. It quite a sight. Just the force of the falls is magnificent.
We arrived in Zambia yesterday. The terrain is much different than that of South Africa. Kyle informed me that is the dustiest place. They have this red clay sandy dirt, and sparsely scattered trees. We are located just outside Livingston. http://www.go2africa.com/zambia/victoria-falls-livingstone/livingstone/
This is the biggest town we have been to so far in Africa. 120, 000 people live here, and they are all very nice. The town center is quaint. It kind of reminds me of old time little town that would drive through in the states. We might go there tomorrow, so I will try to get pics.
The place we are staying at is the Zambizi Sun. http://www.go2africa.com/zambia/hotel-lodge.asp?accommodation=Zambezi-Sun--&ServiceNo=2742 This place is awesome. It is all open. They zebras, giraffes, monkeys, and baboons roaming the property. We had a monkey jump on our table yesterday. They love to grab the sugar packs, then run up to the roof. We did not have sugar so they were highly disappointed. We saw zebras on our walk to the falls. This AM a baboon just walked up to our table. It just so bizarre.
We walked to Victoria Falls, which is just a 4 minute walk from the hotel. We only had 20 minutes before the gate closed, so we just walked down real quick and snapped some pics. It quite a sight. Just the force of the falls is magnificent.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Jarae here....here are my enteries from the last couple days. I still have have a couple of more days to write about, but here is what I have so far.
July 24th,
My first 24hours in South Africa:
As I write this it has been 24 hours since we touched ground in Johannesburg. I have a mixture of experiences and emotions so far. Some expected some are not. Here is my past 24 hours.
After a little over a 10hour flight, which included crossing over and seeing a little of the Alps, and crossing over the Equator, we landed in South Africa. I’m not sure which country is easier to get into Holland or South Africa. I did have to fill out a form for SA, but no questions were asked when we entered, and I have a 3 month temporary residence pass in my passport. So if I wished to stay longer, I guess I could.
Once we, or I guess that would be Kyle (I like traveling w/ a guy…I will add this to my pro marriage list) retrieved the luggage, we went to go seek out the shuttle to the hotel. I was informed we would meet the shuttle in the arrival hall. So no one was standing around w/ a sign so I assumed they were outside. That is when a guy asked if we needed a shuttle. I pulled out my voucher w/ the info, and he said follow me. So w/ a little hesitation we did. He led us outside the hotel, and then in a very quite voice pointed to the other side and said we needed to go over there. We con’t to follow, and then he grabbed a guy in a suit, who I assumed was a shuttle driver. This suited guy took over driving the trolley, and raced across the street. Once he gets to other side of the airport, he continues to go on up the street. Kyle walks w/ the luggage and the suited guy, I stroll behind w/ my new friend Shay. At this point I have no idea where I am going, and unsure if the men we are following know where we are going, but we already goin with it. Too late to turn back now. We finally turn a corner, where we see a bunch of vans w/ little uhauls behind them. They find the shuttle guy for our hotel, and then proceed to ask for a big tip. I have no SA Rand, just Euros and $$$. I hadn’t really expected for this and not quite prepared. The only thing I had for the dynamic duo was 5 bucks. So I gave it to one of them and told them to split. I assumed they had some operation going on. They went on to say, that I needed to give more to the other guy. I said that is all I have, and then they looked at Kyle. Kyle literally had no money, so they got nothing from him. Finally I was whisked into the van by the driver. He grabbed my arm tightly and would not let go until I was in the van.
Whether you are at the airport or hotel, there is always someone to carry your bag…of course for a price. The next AM, I rounded up all the $1 bills I had and gave a few to Kyle to hand out as needed for tipping. This way I didn’t have to pull out my wallet. We get a porter at the airport he takes us all the way to the checkin counter, Kyle gives him 1 dollar. Kyle made the mistake of asking him where we can exchange $$$. Once he gets the $ he gives it back to him and says that he can’t do anything w/ that. He then gives him another $ and he says ok. We then head downstairs to the exchange office where he the same porter comes up to Kyle, and gives back his $2 and says give me something once you exchange, After about half an hour we head back upstairs w/ Rands in wallet. The same porter comes up to Kyle and asks for something. Kyle informs him he has no small Rand, he just has the $2, they guy accepts it again.
The ride to Hluhhluwe:
Jo-burg is more industrious then I would imagine. However, it didn’t get very far from the airport. They are big into nuclear power. One plenty was less than 5 miles from the airport, and we saw at least 2 more flying to Richards Bay. When we reach Richards Bay, we are greeted by Wilson, our driver. He is very sweet, bit a low talker. Could not understand him. I was just nod when he spoke, and then followed him wherever he went. It took a little over an hour to get to our destination. During this drive, I have never seen more people sitting, lying, or walking down the side of a freeway. By the crazy way I see people drive in this country, not sure I would want to be doing anything by the freeway. I saw small little houses w/ walled fences and barb wired above the fence, to what I guess you would call Shanty Towns. Some people that were sitting on the side of the road were trying to sell things, but there would be 5 in a row, and they were all selling the same thing. Apparently, they do not watch The Apprentice or know anything about entrepreneurship. I saw some men either tending to or lying next to Brahma bulls/cows.
Finally we arrive at Zula Nyla….Yeah!! We are greeted w/ a glass of guava juice. This stuff is good. We are then are escorted to our room. Which is facing the pool, and has this great view of the park. It has rolling hills covered w/ green trees. It absolutely breath taking. So we did not end up in the pseudo tents like I expected, but I am perfectly fine w/ where we are at.
We go for a stroll around the property, and we are greeted by monkeys. Quite a few are just up to no good. One was trying to get into the laundry room. Then later there was wart hog. Every time I tried to take his pic, he would move, and I would end up getting a pic of his butt.
At 3:30 we met or tour guide for the trip, Sandile. It means “many” in the Zulu language. He has 7 brothers and 1 sister. He is a very cool guy, He is funny, and likes to joke around. His motto is what happens in the jeep, stays in the jeep. They are not supposed to go off-roading! LOL!! I have seen more bushes been ran over then road. It’s cool.
There are 6 other people in our group. 4 are from CA, and 2 from TX. The woman from TX is a trip. She is never happy w/ anything. Her husband hardly speaks. Everyone else in the group says that he is too scared to talk.
The first animal we see is a Nyala (pronounced nee-ya-la). From what understand it is local to this area. This is why the resort is called Zulu (we are in Zulu land) Nyala. We then stumble across about 5 or 6 giraffes. They were so close, and so tall. You can tell the male by the hair on his horns, and he also the tallest. He was also making his moves on one the lady giraffes in the area. Men are no different no matter what species.
We then moved on and saw a crocodile (apparently showed up one day after the heavy rains) hippos (they were in the water) zebras, and rhinos to mention a few. Sandile located the largest rhino in the mark. He was in the process of marking his territory, by peeing and pooping all over the place. Which I have to say is not a pleasant smell. I had the great fortune of sitting up front next to Sandile. I was an honorary trekker. So as we are slowly approaching this humongous animal, Sandile states if he charges the truck do not yell. I thought he was kidding, so paid no attention. He starts teasing him by starting the truck and heading toward him, and the stopping. He did this several times. So the last time he shuts off the engine and is slightly angled so that he is just about face to face w/ me, and less than a couple of feet. This pisses him off, and he starts charging towards the jeep. I scream HOLY CR@P!!! Then Sandile says don’t yell. The rhino stops about a foot from the truck, and then turns away and starts marking his territory again. Then Sandile laughs at me, and says that was my tracker. OOPS!!
At night after dinner there is not much to do. No TV in the room, so we just sit out by the pool, and listen the noises and hope nothing is coming towards us.
July 25th – 2nd day
We went on 2 rides today, morning ride from 8:30 – noon, and then an afternoon ride 3:30 – 6. Today we saw the 3 elephants. One set is a mother and her baby. They were munchin on trees. You could hear the snap crackle of the tree limbs. They were kind of hidden in the brush, so it was a little difficult to see them. They were slowly making there way to the watering hole. So we drove around the hole and quite a few of the animals were making there way there too for an afternoon drink. As the day gets warmer the animals tend to lie low, and don’t do much. My charging rhino friend was quite docile today when we found him. He was just laying around without a care in the world. At one point he put his 2 front feet in front of him, kind of like a puppy dog. He looked rather cute at that point.
We also saw George the Giraffe. I find this a little ironic since today would have been grandpa’s 86th birthday, and his name is George. J George is the oldest giraffe at the park, and only has 1 horn. Apparently, George is quite the lady’s man. He is always hitten on the ladies, and hit on the wrong one nite. A brawl occurred between George and the ladies companion at the moment, and George lost his horn!!! I hear that has not stopped him from still hitting on the ladies.
July 26th – 3rd Day
We drove to a local village/town today. We drove about 30 minutes from Zulu Nyala to the village in the open safari truck. It is quite an adventure in itself to drive in this down the freeway going about 60km and semi trucks passing you by.
It is possible to visit these villages due to a project that was put together to work w/ the local resorts in the area to allow visitors to come into their village and experience their culture. We first learned a few Zulu words on how to greet people. To greet someone you say “Say-bone” and they would reply back and say “E-book” We walk to towards what I guess would the town center which really consisted of two stores and small building where the kids could hang out listen to music and play pool. There are 8,000 people that live in this town, but it was hard to believe. All the houses are spread out amongst the hills. Most everyone spoke English, so we would greet them in Zulu and they would just say Hello back. So there went all our practicing. There are tons of kids that live here. I think I only saws 3 adults and the rest were kids or teenagers.
We walked into both stores. Neither one had any lights on in them. We had a guide, and as we were walking he was giving us info about the town, but it was a little difficult to here him at times, so I am unclear why they did not have lights. However, I do think it is to conserve it so that they can use it at night, but not positive about that. Both stress had a variety of items from food, blankets, finger nail polish, to sweets. I felt kind of weird walking into them. I felt like a voyeur or an intruder. By now there were probably about 20 kids standing outside the store. Then loud music started out coming out of the little building attached to the store. A few members of our group started dancing w/ the kids. Everyone was having a good time. We then moved up to the school. The school holds K-7th grade. There are 2 building with about 5 or 6 classrooms in each building. There are 500 students, 13 teachers, and 1 computer. We got to go into 2 of the classes of some of the younger students. One class sang us a song, which I could not understand, but it was nice. The younger class, probably 5 or 6, sand the ABC song. They are still few kinks with the song, but I am sure they will have it down soon. They all very exited and interested in us. We were able to introduce ourselves in front of the class, and when we did, they would reply, ‘Nice to meet you”. It was so cute. I was at the end of the line by the entrance and there were about 7 or 8 kids sharing what looked to be 2 big desks. They would keep staring and smiling at us. Then one of they boys told me he wanted hi picture taken. So I did. They then wanted to see their picture on the screen. They loved to look at themselves. Every kid I took a pic of, I then had to show them the picture. As we walked outside the building next to the classrooms the kids would stick their arms out so that you would hake their hands. Some if gave high 5’s. As we walked to the back of the school, there was this wooden shack . This was the kitchen. There were 2 woman in the kitchen and a small camp fire cooking beans and rice. It was quite disturbing. They fix the students one meal, and this in the morning when they arrive at school. She pointed to the houses that lined the hills that stretched miles away, and said the kids walk from these houses to the school on empty stomach, because there families cannot afford to feed them. However depressing the situation seemed the kids seemed very happy, and excited to learn. I guess they do not know any different. We were able to donate money to the school. Our guide told us later that since this project started and people have been giving donations, that there have been a lot of improvements, which was nice to hear.
July 24th,
My first 24hours in South Africa:
As I write this it has been 24 hours since we touched ground in Johannesburg. I have a mixture of experiences and emotions so far. Some expected some are not. Here is my past 24 hours.
After a little over a 10hour flight, which included crossing over and seeing a little of the Alps, and crossing over the Equator, we landed in South Africa. I’m not sure which country is easier to get into Holland or South Africa. I did have to fill out a form for SA, but no questions were asked when we entered, and I have a 3 month temporary residence pass in my passport. So if I wished to stay longer, I guess I could.
Once we, or I guess that would be Kyle (I like traveling w/ a guy…I will add this to my pro marriage list) retrieved the luggage, we went to go seek out the shuttle to the hotel. I was informed we would meet the shuttle in the arrival hall. So no one was standing around w/ a sign so I assumed they were outside. That is when a guy asked if we needed a shuttle. I pulled out my voucher w/ the info, and he said follow me. So w/ a little hesitation we did. He led us outside the hotel, and then in a very quite voice pointed to the other side and said we needed to go over there. We con’t to follow, and then he grabbed a guy in a suit, who I assumed was a shuttle driver. This suited guy took over driving the trolley, and raced across the street. Once he gets to other side of the airport, he continues to go on up the street. Kyle walks w/ the luggage and the suited guy, I stroll behind w/ my new friend Shay. At this point I have no idea where I am going, and unsure if the men we are following know where we are going, but we already goin with it. Too late to turn back now. We finally turn a corner, where we see a bunch of vans w/ little uhauls behind them. They find the shuttle guy for our hotel, and then proceed to ask for a big tip. I have no SA Rand, just Euros and $$$. I hadn’t really expected for this and not quite prepared. The only thing I had for the dynamic duo was 5 bucks. So I gave it to one of them and told them to split. I assumed they had some operation going on. They went on to say, that I needed to give more to the other guy. I said that is all I have, and then they looked at Kyle. Kyle literally had no money, so they got nothing from him. Finally I was whisked into the van by the driver. He grabbed my arm tightly and would not let go until I was in the van.
Whether you are at the airport or hotel, there is always someone to carry your bag…of course for a price. The next AM, I rounded up all the $1 bills I had and gave a few to Kyle to hand out as needed for tipping. This way I didn’t have to pull out my wallet. We get a porter at the airport he takes us all the way to the checkin counter, Kyle gives him 1 dollar. Kyle made the mistake of asking him where we can exchange $$$. Once he gets the $ he gives it back to him and says that he can’t do anything w/ that. He then gives him another $ and he says ok. We then head downstairs to the exchange office where he the same porter comes up to Kyle, and gives back his $2 and says give me something once you exchange, After about half an hour we head back upstairs w/ Rands in wallet. The same porter comes up to Kyle and asks for something. Kyle informs him he has no small Rand, he just has the $2, they guy accepts it again.
The ride to Hluhhluwe:
Jo-burg is more industrious then I would imagine. However, it didn’t get very far from the airport. They are big into nuclear power. One plenty was less than 5 miles from the airport, and we saw at least 2 more flying to Richards Bay. When we reach Richards Bay, we are greeted by Wilson, our driver. He is very sweet, bit a low talker. Could not understand him. I was just nod when he spoke, and then followed him wherever he went. It took a little over an hour to get to our destination. During this drive, I have never seen more people sitting, lying, or walking down the side of a freeway. By the crazy way I see people drive in this country, not sure I would want to be doing anything by the freeway. I saw small little houses w/ walled fences and barb wired above the fence, to what I guess you would call Shanty Towns. Some people that were sitting on the side of the road were trying to sell things, but there would be 5 in a row, and they were all selling the same thing. Apparently, they do not watch The Apprentice or know anything about entrepreneurship. I saw some men either tending to or lying next to Brahma bulls/cows.
Finally we arrive at Zula Nyla….Yeah!! We are greeted w/ a glass of guava juice. This stuff is good. We are then are escorted to our room. Which is facing the pool, and has this great view of the park. It has rolling hills covered w/ green trees. It absolutely breath taking. So we did not end up in the pseudo tents like I expected, but I am perfectly fine w/ where we are at.
We go for a stroll around the property, and we are greeted by monkeys. Quite a few are just up to no good. One was trying to get into the laundry room. Then later there was wart hog. Every time I tried to take his pic, he would move, and I would end up getting a pic of his butt.
At 3:30 we met or tour guide for the trip, Sandile. It means “many” in the Zulu language. He has 7 brothers and 1 sister. He is a very cool guy, He is funny, and likes to joke around. His motto is what happens in the jeep, stays in the jeep. They are not supposed to go off-roading! LOL!! I have seen more bushes been ran over then road. It’s cool.
There are 6 other people in our group. 4 are from CA, and 2 from TX. The woman from TX is a trip. She is never happy w/ anything. Her husband hardly speaks. Everyone else in the group says that he is too scared to talk.
The first animal we see is a Nyala (pronounced nee-ya-la). From what understand it is local to this area. This is why the resort is called Zulu (we are in Zulu land) Nyala. We then stumble across about 5 or 6 giraffes. They were so close, and so tall. You can tell the male by the hair on his horns, and he also the tallest. He was also making his moves on one the lady giraffes in the area. Men are no different no matter what species.
We then moved on and saw a crocodile (apparently showed up one day after the heavy rains) hippos (they were in the water) zebras, and rhinos to mention a few. Sandile located the largest rhino in the mark. He was in the process of marking his territory, by peeing and pooping all over the place. Which I have to say is not a pleasant smell. I had the great fortune of sitting up front next to Sandile. I was an honorary trekker. So as we are slowly approaching this humongous animal, Sandile states if he charges the truck do not yell. I thought he was kidding, so paid no attention. He starts teasing him by starting the truck and heading toward him, and the stopping. He did this several times. So the last time he shuts off the engine and is slightly angled so that he is just about face to face w/ me, and less than a couple of feet. This pisses him off, and he starts charging towards the jeep. I scream HOLY CR@P!!! Then Sandile says don’t yell. The rhino stops about a foot from the truck, and then turns away and starts marking his territory again. Then Sandile laughs at me, and says that was my tracker. OOPS!!
At night after dinner there is not much to do. No TV in the room, so we just sit out by the pool, and listen the noises and hope nothing is coming towards us.
July 25th – 2nd day
We went on 2 rides today, morning ride from 8:30 – noon, and then an afternoon ride 3:30 – 6. Today we saw the 3 elephants. One set is a mother and her baby. They were munchin on trees. You could hear the snap crackle of the tree limbs. They were kind of hidden in the brush, so it was a little difficult to see them. They were slowly making there way to the watering hole. So we drove around the hole and quite a few of the animals were making there way there too for an afternoon drink. As the day gets warmer the animals tend to lie low, and don’t do much. My charging rhino friend was quite docile today when we found him. He was just laying around without a care in the world. At one point he put his 2 front feet in front of him, kind of like a puppy dog. He looked rather cute at that point.
We also saw George the Giraffe. I find this a little ironic since today would have been grandpa’s 86th birthday, and his name is George. J George is the oldest giraffe at the park, and only has 1 horn. Apparently, George is quite the lady’s man. He is always hitten on the ladies, and hit on the wrong one nite. A brawl occurred between George and the ladies companion at the moment, and George lost his horn!!! I hear that has not stopped him from still hitting on the ladies.
July 26th – 3rd Day
We drove to a local village/town today. We drove about 30 minutes from Zulu Nyala to the village in the open safari truck. It is quite an adventure in itself to drive in this down the freeway going about 60km and semi trucks passing you by.
It is possible to visit these villages due to a project that was put together to work w/ the local resorts in the area to allow visitors to come into their village and experience their culture. We first learned a few Zulu words on how to greet people. To greet someone you say “Say-bone” and they would reply back and say “E-book” We walk to towards what I guess would the town center which really consisted of two stores and small building where the kids could hang out listen to music and play pool. There are 8,000 people that live in this town, but it was hard to believe. All the houses are spread out amongst the hills. Most everyone spoke English, so we would greet them in Zulu and they would just say Hello back. So there went all our practicing. There are tons of kids that live here. I think I only saws 3 adults and the rest were kids or teenagers.
We walked into both stores. Neither one had any lights on in them. We had a guide, and as we were walking he was giving us info about the town, but it was a little difficult to here him at times, so I am unclear why they did not have lights. However, I do think it is to conserve it so that they can use it at night, but not positive about that. Both stress had a variety of items from food, blankets, finger nail polish, to sweets. I felt kind of weird walking into them. I felt like a voyeur or an intruder. By now there were probably about 20 kids standing outside the store. Then loud music started out coming out of the little building attached to the store. A few members of our group started dancing w/ the kids. Everyone was having a good time. We then moved up to the school. The school holds K-7th grade. There are 2 building with about 5 or 6 classrooms in each building. There are 500 students, 13 teachers, and 1 computer. We got to go into 2 of the classes of some of the younger students. One class sang us a song, which I could not understand, but it was nice. The younger class, probably 5 or 6, sand the ABC song. They are still few kinks with the song, but I am sure they will have it down soon. They all very exited and interested in us. We were able to introduce ourselves in front of the class, and when we did, they would reply, ‘Nice to meet you”. It was so cute. I was at the end of the line by the entrance and there were about 7 or 8 kids sharing what looked to be 2 big desks. They would keep staring and smiling at us. Then one of they boys told me he wanted hi picture taken. So I did. They then wanted to see their picture on the screen. They loved to look at themselves. Every kid I took a pic of, I then had to show them the picture. As we walked outside the building next to the classrooms the kids would stick their arms out so that you would hake their hands. Some if gave high 5’s. As we walked to the back of the school, there was this wooden shack . This was the kitchen. There were 2 woman in the kitchen and a small camp fire cooking beans and rice. It was quite disturbing. They fix the students one meal, and this in the morning when they arrive at school. She pointed to the houses that lined the hills that stretched miles away, and said the kids walk from these houses to the school on empty stomach, because there families cannot afford to feed them. However depressing the situation seemed the kids seemed very happy, and excited to learn. I guess they do not know any different. We were able to donate money to the school. Our guide told us later that since this project started and people have been giving donations, that there have been a lot of improvements, which was nice to hear.
Kyle Here: July 30, 2007....after several day absence I am back on line....you can read my daily thoughts from the last week below.
I know Jarae has been blogging from her phone...but I refuse to do that, partly due to a physical thumb injury some of you know about...and for the other reason that I just flat refuse to be so technological.
We arrived in Zambia today, which may be the dustiest country on Earth, but we are at a nice hotel, and very close to Victoria Falls which I shall view in a few minutes.
It is somewhat humorous that everyone here seems more into Safari clothing than the people did on the actual safari.
Picture posting is slow here, but they are coming.
July 23, 2007
Forgot to write about crossing the equator like the sailors of old, toiling away with rope and sail, gliding across the tumultuous ocean blue till they cross the middle of the earth… I did it while seated at 35,000 feet, in an air-conditioned plane, eating packaged Indian food, and watching a bad movie, but other than that it was strikingly similar to what I envisioned Dutch traders experiencing centuries ago.
Flew over the Alps, the island of Sicily, as well as the Kalahari desert today. All of which I was able to view out of the window.
The Jo’burg International airport customs is practically non existent…I could have smuggled weapons in for the freedom fighters in support of the revolution.
July 24, 2007
We arrived at the game preserve today, after a short flight and a drive which was about as long as well. We saw a lot of eucalyptus groves, which are harvested for paper production.
There were many men and women working, wearing either blue, or yellow, or red uniforms, not exactly sure what they were doing. Also there were many people hanging out on the side of the road selling fruit and rugs. Also, saw a monkey eating something on the shoulder of the highway.
Upon entering the Nature Preserve, saw giraffe, zebra, Nyala, impalas, warthogs, hippos, crocodiles and rhinos. I feel like a wuss, since I jumped when the rhino motioned as if the charge, but to my credit he is a couple thousand pounds, with a huge horn and he was ten feet away from the rover, on my side. But I won’t attempt to rationalize it anymore.
I would recommend this resort to anyone interested in coming to Africa, it is truly beautiful here. I am eager to see what is in store for us next. There are monkeys, snakes, lizards and warthogs in the courtyard of the hotel.
The people continued to speak very softly today.
Also, note to self… when asking a question, be very specific because “not very long” seems to be the standard answer in Africa, which has a wide range of meanings.
We got hooked up with our guide today, whose name Sandile means ‘many’ since he is the eighth boy in his family. We are also linked with a 40 something couple from Houston, and four people from Palm Springs, who will be joining us for all the outside excursions. As well at two girls from CA.
I took a ton of photos during out three hour outing, and I am sure some of them will turn out amazing.
Things I learned today:
Stewardesses are always smiling.
There are no billboards on the highways in Africa, at least on N2.
Airport porters will wait forever for a tip, and they prefer two rather than one American dollar.
Always bring stuff you might want, because you could end up about thirty miles from a store.
Allah provides for those who have faith. ( I needed a book and they have a lending library) – see above learned item.
I don’t know how to divide in my head. I had one hundred and fifty dollars, and got 960 rand….whatever.
I don’t often like polite interactions with people, and other times I love small talk and bullshitting. Hmmmm.
I have many jokes going on in my head, but am not able to say them in front of ‘polite’ acquaintances.
I don’t like to play snooker, unless with it is with the African guide and two young ladies from California.
People all over the world are just alike in so many ways.
South Africa has a lot of nuclear power plants, I counted at least 14 cooling towers when we flew out of Jo’burg alone.
July 25, 2007
Once again we went on a ride around the park. Actually, twice- once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Who knew that riding around could make you so tired and hungry. That is all we did today, but I am worn out.
We saw three elephants today, one being a cute little baby elephant. We also saw Cape Buffalo, more rhino’s, giraffes, impalas, monkeys, Wildebeest and hippos. Pretty exciting really. We also saw some Rhinos about to fight. I was disappointed they did not. I wanted to see some epic battle between a Rhino and a crocodile, or Wildebeest and a gang of monkeys. All we saw was one dead Zebra carcass.
The food here at the lodge is the lodge is terrific, and the fruit is wonderful. I also need to find a supplier for this Dutch Feta cheese, it is soft, creamy, and less tart…oh, so good.
I have come to the conclusion that I want a Rover. It is a great vehicle, and I will not be content with my driving experience until I own one.
We took a lot of photos again today, and also some videos which I hope turn out good, but I know that they cannot capture the true sense of our experience here. It is so beautiful. It reminds me of the Permian Basin in West Texas and Northern Mexico, however there is more vegetation and grass. But many of the cactus and succulent species are similar.
I think we have the best guide in the park. He is very knowledgeable and drives ‘off road’ despite there being a rule that this is not allowed. He also seems to have taken a liking to me, by giving me the ‘homeboy’ handshake whenever we see each other. He spoke of wanting to come to America to visit, in California and Washington state, not so much to Oklahoma.
I got to know some of the other people in our group, and they all seem to be pretty nice folks. All of them.
The sunset was great, so picturesque…. It was hard to believe it is the same sun, but it must be the same.
Something I learned today:
Despite their tough appearance, the Cape Buffalo are called “lesbians.” This is due to the fact that the males hang out together and foreplay when no females are around. They seem more like the ‘leather guys’ of the African animal kingdom to me.
July 26, 2007
Had a great day today, despite the cold Rover ride. We went to a school and ‘homestead’ this morning. We had a guide take us to a small village today, which reminded me of the border towns in Mexico in Big Bend National Park. Very poor, and trash littered. But the kids were very nice and either excited or totally disinterested to see us. We toured the school, which had about five hundred students, thirteen teachers, about five rooms, and a corrugated tin kitchen. It was nice since the kids were so excited to see us and have their picture taken, but sad since about 65 percent of the kids were orphans, since their parents had died from AIDS.
We learned about some traditions still in effect such as having a ‘homestead’ building for each family which contains the souls of all the dead ancestors as well as the requirement of having to give the future father in law eleven cows in order to marry his daughter.
We went to another game reserve which was one hundred times larger than the one we are staying in. We saw about 50 elephants, and several baby elephants. It was so cool, since supposedly there are times that in such a large park there may be days that no animals are seen. We did not see any cats however, which I really want to see either a leopard or lion.
However, we did see some Zebra’s doing it….get some Zebra lovin’.
We then returned in the dark, in an open Rover…which everyone complained about the cold, but I was thinking how great it was since when is the last time I rode down the highway in South Africa at night in an open air vehicle….NEVER. It is strange to see a landscape with sporadic houses, but entirely no lights…also, Venus is visible, but not too many other stars since it has been fairly overcast recently.
The group I am with seems to be becoming more comfortable together, everyone is pretty cool…and much younger than a majority of the other guests at the lodge, fortunately. Also the other guests in their vehicles look so sour, poor bastards. Our guide once again is proving himself to be excited, adventurous and very knowledgeable regarding what times to be where in the park, for the best sunsets and animal sightings.
My snooker game is getting a bit better, but I still think that the table is far too large.
We plan on going to St. Lucia on the Indian Ocean tomorrow, which I am excited to see the ocean, and eat some good seafood.
We are getting up at around 6:30 am every morning, which does not seem like much of a vacation, but it is well worth it as breakfast is always so good. I need to have someone slice and prepare fresh papaya, pears and mandarin oranges, squeeze some mango juice, fry up some curry potatoes, and prepare a fresh omelet every morning, that would change my whole life for the better I believe. Maybe I will adopt an orphaned African girl, and she can do these things for me, sounds like an idea.
Things I learned:
I need a heated tile floor in my bathroom at home.
I need an orphaned African girl to cook for me- as mentioned previously.
Everyone else is a wimp about riding in an open vehicle at night.
There are many vegetarian options in Africa.
I don’t need to smoke three cigars in a week, as this leads to a nasty cough.
July 27, 2007
I will attempt to refrain from appearing like Dean Martin performing a variety routine in my future writing, for all concerned.
Today we went to the St. Lucia Estuary, to view hippos and have a great lunch. Some of you know that I am not a fan of some watercraft, so I did not go on the cruise today, so did not get to see the hippos in action. Turns out the hippos in the area produce 60 tons of poop a day, which fertilizes the entire place. It was very, very lush. But I can see the photos, so it is almost the same. Liz and I instead went shopping in the little resort/surfing town. Found a really cool piece of pottery, so it was much better than a boat ride.
There were monkeys running around the restaurant and a cute little cross eyed kitty, but I could not hand out free pettin’s for fear of rabies. I certainly do not want to have to get shots when I come back ‘State side’. We then went to the beach in Cape Videl. This was in the World Heritage Site of the St. Lucia estuary. An amazing place, where the whales from Antarctica come to have their babies, and the ecosystem works to keep everything running smoothly. It formerly had had attempts to be developed by the government, after they kicked out all the people from their ancestral homelands, and planted pine trees….they then decided to add it to the World Heritage sites. It was a very beautiful place. It was one of the nicest beaches I had ever visited. There was a lot of titanium in the sand, so there were collections of ‘black sand.’ We were all trying to figure out ways to take some sand home but decided not too since it was a protected place, that is all of us except Jarae who stole some shells.
I don’t know what it is, but have been so tired lately. All we do it drive around, walk very little and then look at stuff…oh and eat huge meals three times a day, and drink a lot of coffee. No reason I should be this worn out.
Our group has decide we should all get jobs at the hotel, so we can stay forever. It is such an amazing place, and the people are very nice. I just would not like to deal with all the drunk European and South African tourists on a daily basis.
We drove a long way on the highway today, which seems to be death defying each time. There are also random people walking everywhere, and also in the middle of no where. They all are either waiting, or attempting to hale anyone to stop and pick them up.
Everyone wants to get somewhere, but has no set transport to accomplish this. Very uncertain it seems.
Saw a huge field of eucalyptus being cleared today, to be mashed into paper pulp. The guys were stripping the trees of bark, by hand, with machetes. I guess this is the best way, with so many people unemployed, it gives them a job, but seems like such hard work everyday.
Tomorrow, the craft market awaits, with all its treasures and jewels of the Dark Continent, … the Heart of Darkness.
I am very excited to see Victoria Falls as well, in a few days.
Things I learned today…
Even after seeing monkeys regularly, the Africans still laugh at them.
Crocodile tastes like chicken.
I still don’t like some sizes of boats.
The beach in St. Lucia on the Elephant Coast, is rich with titanium.
Winter in South Africa is excellent.
Dung beatles really do live in dung.
July 28, 2007
First we went to a craft place, and bought some typical African items, Jarae went a little crazy, and bought and shipped almost the entire store. In fact, most of the people bought a lot of stuff there. They had some very nice pieces, but they were way too expensive for me, but I did get a couple of things for some people.
Send me your addresses and I will send post cards.
The landscape here is so beautiful… the eucalyptus trees groves, pineapple fields, and so many bright orange and purple and fushia flowers. The sun setting over the mountains, truly breathtaking.
Had a nice conversation with one of our group today….but had planned to read my book, so that was much better than reading alone.
Watched a few Nyala off the balcony today, for quite a while. Just listened to the sounds, it is so peaceful here.
Went to the regular market as well, since it is Saturday…many people were getting food, there was not much else except cell phones and cheap Chinese clothing. One store was so full of plastic crap I had to leave since the chemical smell was so offensive.
We went on a night drive, after watching the sunset. Everyone was drinking, and laughing… having a good time. Right before and right after sun down we saw many African birds, it was so cool. So many different birds I can’t recall, I need to get a bird book for SA. It was very cold, but we saw a lot of animals, with the spot light…giraffes lying around, wildebeests, and elephants. We even finally got to hear an elephant call. The first real noise from any of the animals so far. Well there was the zebras, kind of barking at each other when the were jumping around.
We also saw a mongoose, and a spotted something which had a big raccoon tail, but was also mixed with some sort of cat, (cannot remember the name of it).
Might get a chance to go to the staff party for the employees of the lodge, hopefully, it should be a lot of fun. ( 11:45 pm.----no party, at least not for me- damn it)
Things I learned today.
All animals have a distinctive eye color when glowing in the dark.
African babies are so cute.
Only fifteen years out from Apartheid, leaves an eerie feeling in the air.
It can be very cold at night down by the river.
Some people ask the same questions over and over.
Inside jokes can develop in a matter of minutes.
Some people live in a whole other world, and have no concept of my reality.
I miss my friends., not so much that I want to come home early though.
July 29, 2007
We got to sleep in today, well, everyone else did at least, I was up at 7 am. Had a nice breakfast by myself, then just hung out taking pictures, and talking to the other people in the group. It was cool getting to know the people I spent the week with, and how similar the two girls from CA were to my way of thinking, and how some of the others lived in a totally different world.
We gorged ourselves at lunch, then went on another evening night drive. It was great. An elephant came head on to the truck, about ten feet in front of us. We also got to see another baby elephant.
Then we had a flat tire, so everyone got out, and the women started drinking, while the men helped Sandile change the tire.
All in all the photo safari has been outstanding. The place, the food, the guide, the people….all made for a great experience. We hung out late into the evening laughing and joking, then had to get to bed for the 4:30 am wake up drive to the airport.
Things I learned today:
I like people who have the same sense of humor as me.
I want to bring a monkey home.
I could have stayed on Safari for another month or more.
I could stay on vacation for much- much longer.
I have a strong dislike for British/ or Dutch people- at least how they raise their kids.
(I prefer a little more rigidity in childrearing)
I also have a strong dislike for people who wear desert flap hats, cargo pants, and hiking boots because they are on ‘safari’.
I am also realizing that some people no matter where they go cannot appreciate the culture because they need ‘all the comforts of home’ in a whole other country.
The Apartheid attitude is alive and well in South Africa.
Sometimes I can tell others the jokes in my head to maximum effect.
I have also noted that what I am learning seems more reflective and a bit mean....but oh well.
I know Jarae has been blogging from her phone...but I refuse to do that, partly due to a physical thumb injury some of you know about...and for the other reason that I just flat refuse to be so technological.
We arrived in Zambia today, which may be the dustiest country on Earth, but we are at a nice hotel, and very close to Victoria Falls which I shall view in a few minutes.
It is somewhat humorous that everyone here seems more into Safari clothing than the people did on the actual safari.
Picture posting is slow here, but they are coming.
July 23, 2007
Forgot to write about crossing the equator like the sailors of old, toiling away with rope and sail, gliding across the tumultuous ocean blue till they cross the middle of the earth… I did it while seated at 35,000 feet, in an air-conditioned plane, eating packaged Indian food, and watching a bad movie, but other than that it was strikingly similar to what I envisioned Dutch traders experiencing centuries ago.
Flew over the Alps, the island of Sicily, as well as the Kalahari desert today. All of which I was able to view out of the window.
The Jo’burg International airport customs is practically non existent…I could have smuggled weapons in for the freedom fighters in support of the revolution.
July 24, 2007
We arrived at the game preserve today, after a short flight and a drive which was about as long as well. We saw a lot of eucalyptus groves, which are harvested for paper production.
There were many men and women working, wearing either blue, or yellow, or red uniforms, not exactly sure what they were doing. Also there were many people hanging out on the side of the road selling fruit and rugs. Also, saw a monkey eating something on the shoulder of the highway.
Upon entering the Nature Preserve, saw giraffe, zebra, Nyala, impalas, warthogs, hippos, crocodiles and rhinos. I feel like a wuss, since I jumped when the rhino motioned as if the charge, but to my credit he is a couple thousand pounds, with a huge horn and he was ten feet away from the rover, on my side. But I won’t attempt to rationalize it anymore.
I would recommend this resort to anyone interested in coming to Africa, it is truly beautiful here. I am eager to see what is in store for us next. There are monkeys, snakes, lizards and warthogs in the courtyard of the hotel.
The people continued to speak very softly today.
Also, note to self… when asking a question, be very specific because “not very long” seems to be the standard answer in Africa, which has a wide range of meanings.
We got hooked up with our guide today, whose name Sandile means ‘many’ since he is the eighth boy in his family. We are also linked with a 40 something couple from Houston, and four people from Palm Springs, who will be joining us for all the outside excursions. As well at two girls from CA.
I took a ton of photos during out three hour outing, and I am sure some of them will turn out amazing.
Things I learned today:
Stewardesses are always smiling.
There are no billboards on the highways in Africa, at least on N2.
Airport porters will wait forever for a tip, and they prefer two rather than one American dollar.
Always bring stuff you might want, because you could end up about thirty miles from a store.
Allah provides for those who have faith. ( I needed a book and they have a lending library) – see above learned item.
I don’t know how to divide in my head. I had one hundred and fifty dollars, and got 960 rand….whatever.
I don’t often like polite interactions with people, and other times I love small talk and bullshitting. Hmmmm.
I have many jokes going on in my head, but am not able to say them in front of ‘polite’ acquaintances.
I don’t like to play snooker, unless with it is with the African guide and two young ladies from California.
People all over the world are just alike in so many ways.
South Africa has a lot of nuclear power plants, I counted at least 14 cooling towers when we flew out of Jo’burg alone.
July 25, 2007
Once again we went on a ride around the park. Actually, twice- once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Who knew that riding around could make you so tired and hungry. That is all we did today, but I am worn out.
We saw three elephants today, one being a cute little baby elephant. We also saw Cape Buffalo, more rhino’s, giraffes, impalas, monkeys, Wildebeest and hippos. Pretty exciting really. We also saw some Rhinos about to fight. I was disappointed they did not. I wanted to see some epic battle between a Rhino and a crocodile, or Wildebeest and a gang of monkeys. All we saw was one dead Zebra carcass.
The food here at the lodge is the lodge is terrific, and the fruit is wonderful. I also need to find a supplier for this Dutch Feta cheese, it is soft, creamy, and less tart…oh, so good.
I have come to the conclusion that I want a Rover. It is a great vehicle, and I will not be content with my driving experience until I own one.
We took a lot of photos again today, and also some videos which I hope turn out good, but I know that they cannot capture the true sense of our experience here. It is so beautiful. It reminds me of the Permian Basin in West Texas and Northern Mexico, however there is more vegetation and grass. But many of the cactus and succulent species are similar.
I think we have the best guide in the park. He is very knowledgeable and drives ‘off road’ despite there being a rule that this is not allowed. He also seems to have taken a liking to me, by giving me the ‘homeboy’ handshake whenever we see each other. He spoke of wanting to come to America to visit, in California and Washington state, not so much to Oklahoma.
I got to know some of the other people in our group, and they all seem to be pretty nice folks. All of them.
The sunset was great, so picturesque…. It was hard to believe it is the same sun, but it must be the same.
Something I learned today:
Despite their tough appearance, the Cape Buffalo are called “lesbians.” This is due to the fact that the males hang out together and foreplay when no females are around. They seem more like the ‘leather guys’ of the African animal kingdom to me.
July 26, 2007
Had a great day today, despite the cold Rover ride. We went to a school and ‘homestead’ this morning. We had a guide take us to a small village today, which reminded me of the border towns in Mexico in Big Bend National Park. Very poor, and trash littered. But the kids were very nice and either excited or totally disinterested to see us. We toured the school, which had about five hundred students, thirteen teachers, about five rooms, and a corrugated tin kitchen. It was nice since the kids were so excited to see us and have their picture taken, but sad since about 65 percent of the kids were orphans, since their parents had died from AIDS.
We learned about some traditions still in effect such as having a ‘homestead’ building for each family which contains the souls of all the dead ancestors as well as the requirement of having to give the future father in law eleven cows in order to marry his daughter.
We went to another game reserve which was one hundred times larger than the one we are staying in. We saw about 50 elephants, and several baby elephants. It was so cool, since supposedly there are times that in such a large park there may be days that no animals are seen. We did not see any cats however, which I really want to see either a leopard or lion.
However, we did see some Zebra’s doing it….get some Zebra lovin’.
We then returned in the dark, in an open Rover…which everyone complained about the cold, but I was thinking how great it was since when is the last time I rode down the highway in South Africa at night in an open air vehicle….NEVER. It is strange to see a landscape with sporadic houses, but entirely no lights…also, Venus is visible, but not too many other stars since it has been fairly overcast recently.
The group I am with seems to be becoming more comfortable together, everyone is pretty cool…and much younger than a majority of the other guests at the lodge, fortunately. Also the other guests in their vehicles look so sour, poor bastards. Our guide once again is proving himself to be excited, adventurous and very knowledgeable regarding what times to be where in the park, for the best sunsets and animal sightings.
My snooker game is getting a bit better, but I still think that the table is far too large.
We plan on going to St. Lucia on the Indian Ocean tomorrow, which I am excited to see the ocean, and eat some good seafood.
We are getting up at around 6:30 am every morning, which does not seem like much of a vacation, but it is well worth it as breakfast is always so good. I need to have someone slice and prepare fresh papaya, pears and mandarin oranges, squeeze some mango juice, fry up some curry potatoes, and prepare a fresh omelet every morning, that would change my whole life for the better I believe. Maybe I will adopt an orphaned African girl, and she can do these things for me, sounds like an idea.
Things I learned:
I need a heated tile floor in my bathroom at home.
I need an orphaned African girl to cook for me- as mentioned previously.
Everyone else is a wimp about riding in an open vehicle at night.
There are many vegetarian options in Africa.
I don’t need to smoke three cigars in a week, as this leads to a nasty cough.
July 27, 2007
I will attempt to refrain from appearing like Dean Martin performing a variety routine in my future writing, for all concerned.
Today we went to the St. Lucia Estuary, to view hippos and have a great lunch. Some of you know that I am not a fan of some watercraft, so I did not go on the cruise today, so did not get to see the hippos in action. Turns out the hippos in the area produce 60 tons of poop a day, which fertilizes the entire place. It was very, very lush. But I can see the photos, so it is almost the same. Liz and I instead went shopping in the little resort/surfing town. Found a really cool piece of pottery, so it was much better than a boat ride.
There were monkeys running around the restaurant and a cute little cross eyed kitty, but I could not hand out free pettin’s for fear of rabies. I certainly do not want to have to get shots when I come back ‘State side’. We then went to the beach in Cape Videl. This was in the World Heritage Site of the St. Lucia estuary. An amazing place, where the whales from Antarctica come to have their babies, and the ecosystem works to keep everything running smoothly. It formerly had had attempts to be developed by the government, after they kicked out all the people from their ancestral homelands, and planted pine trees….they then decided to add it to the World Heritage sites. It was a very beautiful place. It was one of the nicest beaches I had ever visited. There was a lot of titanium in the sand, so there were collections of ‘black sand.’ We were all trying to figure out ways to take some sand home but decided not too since it was a protected place, that is all of us except Jarae who stole some shells.
I don’t know what it is, but have been so tired lately. All we do it drive around, walk very little and then look at stuff…oh and eat huge meals three times a day, and drink a lot of coffee. No reason I should be this worn out.
Our group has decide we should all get jobs at the hotel, so we can stay forever. It is such an amazing place, and the people are very nice. I just would not like to deal with all the drunk European and South African tourists on a daily basis.
We drove a long way on the highway today, which seems to be death defying each time. There are also random people walking everywhere, and also in the middle of no where. They all are either waiting, or attempting to hale anyone to stop and pick them up.
Everyone wants to get somewhere, but has no set transport to accomplish this. Very uncertain it seems.
Saw a huge field of eucalyptus being cleared today, to be mashed into paper pulp. The guys were stripping the trees of bark, by hand, with machetes. I guess this is the best way, with so many people unemployed, it gives them a job, but seems like such hard work everyday.
Tomorrow, the craft market awaits, with all its treasures and jewels of the Dark Continent, … the Heart of Darkness.
I am very excited to see Victoria Falls as well, in a few days.
Things I learned today…
Even after seeing monkeys regularly, the Africans still laugh at them.
Crocodile tastes like chicken.
I still don’t like some sizes of boats.
The beach in St. Lucia on the Elephant Coast, is rich with titanium.
Winter in South Africa is excellent.
Dung beatles really do live in dung.
July 28, 2007
First we went to a craft place, and bought some typical African items, Jarae went a little crazy, and bought and shipped almost the entire store. In fact, most of the people bought a lot of stuff there. They had some very nice pieces, but they were way too expensive for me, but I did get a couple of things for some people.
Send me your addresses and I will send post cards.
The landscape here is so beautiful… the eucalyptus trees groves, pineapple fields, and so many bright orange and purple and fushia flowers. The sun setting over the mountains, truly breathtaking.
Had a nice conversation with one of our group today….but had planned to read my book, so that was much better than reading alone.
Watched a few Nyala off the balcony today, for quite a while. Just listened to the sounds, it is so peaceful here.
Went to the regular market as well, since it is Saturday…many people were getting food, there was not much else except cell phones and cheap Chinese clothing. One store was so full of plastic crap I had to leave since the chemical smell was so offensive.
We went on a night drive, after watching the sunset. Everyone was drinking, and laughing… having a good time. Right before and right after sun down we saw many African birds, it was so cool. So many different birds I can’t recall, I need to get a bird book for SA. It was very cold, but we saw a lot of animals, with the spot light…giraffes lying around, wildebeests, and elephants. We even finally got to hear an elephant call. The first real noise from any of the animals so far. Well there was the zebras, kind of barking at each other when the were jumping around.
We also saw a mongoose, and a spotted something which had a big raccoon tail, but was also mixed with some sort of cat, (cannot remember the name of it).
Might get a chance to go to the staff party for the employees of the lodge, hopefully, it should be a lot of fun. ( 11:45 pm.----no party, at least not for me- damn it)
Things I learned today.
All animals have a distinctive eye color when glowing in the dark.
African babies are so cute.
Only fifteen years out from Apartheid, leaves an eerie feeling in the air.
It can be very cold at night down by the river.
Some people ask the same questions over and over.
Inside jokes can develop in a matter of minutes.
Some people live in a whole other world, and have no concept of my reality.
I miss my friends., not so much that I want to come home early though.
July 29, 2007
We got to sleep in today, well, everyone else did at least, I was up at 7 am. Had a nice breakfast by myself, then just hung out taking pictures, and talking to the other people in the group. It was cool getting to know the people I spent the week with, and how similar the two girls from CA were to my way of thinking, and how some of the others lived in a totally different world.
We gorged ourselves at lunch, then went on another evening night drive. It was great. An elephant came head on to the truck, about ten feet in front of us. We also got to see another baby elephant.
Then we had a flat tire, so everyone got out, and the women started drinking, while the men helped Sandile change the tire.
All in all the photo safari has been outstanding. The place, the food, the guide, the people….all made for a great experience. We hung out late into the evening laughing and joking, then had to get to bed for the 4:30 am wake up drive to the airport.
Things I learned today:
I like people who have the same sense of humor as me.
I want to bring a monkey home.
I could have stayed on Safari for another month or more.
I could stay on vacation for much- much longer.
I have a strong dislike for British/ or Dutch people- at least how they raise their kids.
(I prefer a little more rigidity in childrearing)
I also have a strong dislike for people who wear desert flap hats, cargo pants, and hiking boots because they are on ‘safari’.
I am also realizing that some people no matter where they go cannot appreciate the culture because they need ‘all the comforts of home’ in a whole other country.
The Apartheid attitude is alive and well in South Africa.
Sometimes I can tell others the jokes in my head to maximum effect.
I have also noted that what I am learning seems more reflective and a bit mean....but oh well.
Last day
We went on one last ride. A little adventure on this one, a flat tire. So why the boys changed the tire the girls sat in the middle of the road and drank wine. I'm sure that how the natives would have done it. Got back on the road. We got to see the elephants up close and personal to the elephants. The baby was tryin to knock down this bush but was not successful. So he just as happy to pull the branches off.
We now are @ Richards Bay waiting for our flight. We had to get up @ 430. That was not fun. I will be ready for a nap soon. Write more in Zambia.
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Saturday, July 28, 2007
Shopping
We went on a sunset drive. Our hide knows where the best locations to watch the sunset. So he brought the cooler and we got to get out the truck and watch the sunset. There is also a full moon. We continued our drive in the dark with a spotlight. That was cooll. The animals are quite fiesty @ nite. We also heard an elephant trumpet.
It is our last day tomorrow. I can't believe this portion is over. We will then be heading off to Zambia.
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Friday, July 27, 2007
Day 4
We then went to the Indian ocean. I did not want to leave. The beach is lined with sand dunes that are coverd with trees. It looked very lush. The sea was a turquoise blue and not too cold. Discovered that by accident. We all just hung out @ the beach for a little while. On the way we stopped @ the liquor store. Our guide brougt an ice chest. So we loaded it up and took it to the beach.
Tomorrow we are going to a local market.
Kyle wants everyone to know he is jotting down his daily experiences and will post them when he has access to the internet. Due to his delicate thumb he is unable to post on the blackberry. What a wuss. ;)
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Thursday, July 26, 2007
African village
We also went to another reserve and saw so many elephants. We even saw a baby elephant that was 2 months old. He was adorable. Its mother was very protective. We have so many pics. Can't wait until we can post.
Tomorrow we go to St Lucia. I will be seeing the India ocean for the first time.
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Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Day 2
We had our 2nd day of safari. Our tour guide is so cool. He will drive about anywhere or thru anything to see something. He drove through several big bushes to see elephants, mamma and baby. Tomorrow we are going to local village and another reserve. They have lions there.
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Tuesday, July 24, 2007
SAFARI
We have made it. This place is so cool. The scenery is amazing. We do not have access to the internet, unless we pay to use the their pc's. So no pics for several days. We might buy some time on the internet so we can post what we are experiencing. It definitly has been quite fascinating. I will leave you with this. .. I was charged by a rhino today on my first safari.
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Monday, July 23, 2007
Jo'burg
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Kyle Here:
Was unable to write yesterday as Jarae went to bed early, and packed up the computer.
So, yesterday was a typical day in Amsterdam possibly. We slept late, then I went for coffee and rolls, but there was no rolls, just coffee and a huge language barrier. Jarae and I decided to take a boat ride in the canals, to visit some museums. We went to the Rembrandt house, which inspired me to be a better painter when I have time to paint again. It was very exciting to me to be in the actual space that he lived in many years ago. His collection of etchings was truly amazing.
We then rode to boat to the Anne Frank house, which had a huge line, so we decided not to go.
We ate a typical danish meal, or at least Jarae did, which included raw beef sausage. I am sure it was tasty. I had asparagus soup and grilled cheese, and of course a third coffee of the day. I love espresso.
I then walked around the Jordan neighborhood, while Jarae went to the Tulip Museum. The neighborhood reminded me of some places in NYC. Crazy record shops, restaurants, galleries and funky shops.
I then of course did my nightly meeting, and walk around the city while GM Jarae went back to the hotel to rest since we had to get up early for our long flight.
I went to the Hanky Panky tattoo shop, and talked to the guys. Then walked around to the graffiti/art/tshirt shop of my new friend Abner and hung out with him and some of his friends.
Also went on a culinary tour in the evening: ate some fries, belguim waffles and the best strawberries ever.
I wish I could have stayed longer in Amsterdam, but know that I will be back sometime in the future.
Now about today, got up way early which turned out good since the airport took forever. There really was not sort of structure at all. I saw just how different European 'crowd' culture is than the US. I never realized how much personal space I need to feel like I don't want to punch a Dutch boy in the face.
The flight was the longest one I have ever taken-- Ten and a half hours but we are finally in Jo'burg South Africa. It is night so can't tell much, and tomorrow we get back on a plan for a bit to go to the safari.
Things I learned today and yesterday:
Dutch people do not know how to give proper directions.
Dutch people think the Southern US is 'backwards' and 'racist'.
People really do wear wooden shoes, or at least the construction workers do.
Dutch customer service is more service less customer.
Dutch parents do not discipline their kids, at all.
Contrary to my opinion, you cannot cut into any line, even though it appears ok for everyone else.
African people speak very, very softly. But you can be sure that their last question is for a tip of some sort.
Not all Amsterdam asian 'women' are men.
Airport security outside the US is practically non existent.
Always order a special vegetarian meal on a flight, to get excellent food, and before everyone else as well.
I got to read a book for pleasure on the flight today for the first time in three years, it was very nice. I look forward to doing it again while I am here.
That is all.
Was unable to write yesterday as Jarae went to bed early, and packed up the computer.
So, yesterday was a typical day in Amsterdam possibly. We slept late, then I went for coffee and rolls, but there was no rolls, just coffee and a huge language barrier. Jarae and I decided to take a boat ride in the canals, to visit some museums. We went to the Rembrandt house, which inspired me to be a better painter when I have time to paint again. It was very exciting to me to be in the actual space that he lived in many years ago. His collection of etchings was truly amazing.
We then rode to boat to the Anne Frank house, which had a huge line, so we decided not to go.
We ate a typical danish meal, or at least Jarae did, which included raw beef sausage. I am sure it was tasty. I had asparagus soup and grilled cheese, and of course a third coffee of the day. I love espresso.
I then walked around the Jordan neighborhood, while Jarae went to the Tulip Museum. The neighborhood reminded me of some places in NYC. Crazy record shops, restaurants, galleries and funky shops.
I then of course did my nightly meeting, and walk around the city while GM Jarae went back to the hotel to rest since we had to get up early for our long flight.
I went to the Hanky Panky tattoo shop, and talked to the guys. Then walked around to the graffiti/art/tshirt shop of my new friend Abner and hung out with him and some of his friends.
Also went on a culinary tour in the evening: ate some fries, belguim waffles and the best strawberries ever.
I wish I could have stayed longer in Amsterdam, but know that I will be back sometime in the future.
Now about today, got up way early which turned out good since the airport took forever. There really was not sort of structure at all. I saw just how different European 'crowd' culture is than the US. I never realized how much personal space I need to feel like I don't want to punch a Dutch boy in the face.
The flight was the longest one I have ever taken-- Ten and a half hours but we are finally in Jo'burg South Africa. It is night so can't tell much, and tomorrow we get back on a plan for a bit to go to the safari.
Things I learned today and yesterday:
Dutch people do not know how to give proper directions.
Dutch people think the Southern US is 'backwards' and 'racist'.
People really do wear wooden shoes, or at least the construction workers do.
Dutch customer service is more service less customer.
Dutch parents do not discipline their kids, at all.
Contrary to my opinion, you cannot cut into any line, even though it appears ok for everyone else.
African people speak very, very softly. But you can be sure that their last question is for a tip of some sort.
Not all Amsterdam asian 'women' are men.
Airport security outside the US is practically non existent.
Always order a special vegetarian meal on a flight, to get excellent food, and before everyone else as well.
I got to read a book for pleasure on the flight today for the first time in three years, it was very nice. I look forward to doing it again while I am here.
That is all.
On our way
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Sunday, July 22, 2007
Enjoying the last day
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Saturday, July 21, 2007
Kyle Here: So once again we walked alot today. I am not sure, but I think I walked around a majority of the city twice today. I just got in, it is midnight, and I have been walking since about 8 o'clock. There is so much to see, and it helps that I got lost in the dark.
Today here are some things I learned--
Jarae does not know how to read a map. We were wondering if her sense of direction will improve in the Southern Hemisphere, we shall have to wait and see.
About three or four espressos a day, and a cuban cigar make for a very bad taste in my mouth.
Asian men with the right hair cut and sexy lingerie really can look like women.
The Red Light District really is for the whole family, as evidenced by alot of couples and kids walking around tonight.
Seize the moment, at the right moment.
When you walk for miles, Amsterdam starts to look the same three streets over and over, especially in the dark.
Pumpkin mush with feta cheese and peas is tasty, but only with the right amount of sliced jalapenos.
I love walnut tarts and I am eager to eat another one in the morning.
The Russian monarchy stole alot of art from alot of cultures in the Europe and the Middle East, but that just makes it easier to view it in a museum today.
Europeans wear anything they damn well please.
If I got high, this trip would be alot different, not better just very different.
Amsterdam meeting coffee is better than US meeting coffee by far.
Australian and English men like to have group sing alongs when drunk.
And I could make a killing if I sold my pearlsnap shirt collection in Amsterdam, but that will never happen.
Just a few of the things that happened today.
Today here are some things I learned--
Jarae does not know how to read a map. We were wondering if her sense of direction will improve in the Southern Hemisphere, we shall have to wait and see.
About three or four espressos a day, and a cuban cigar make for a very bad taste in my mouth.
Asian men with the right hair cut and sexy lingerie really can look like women.
The Red Light District really is for the whole family, as evidenced by alot of couples and kids walking around tonight.
Seize the moment, at the right moment.
When you walk for miles, Amsterdam starts to look the same three streets over and over, especially in the dark.
Pumpkin mush with feta cheese and peas is tasty, but only with the right amount of sliced jalapenos.
I love walnut tarts and I am eager to eat another one in the morning.
The Russian monarchy stole alot of art from alot of cultures in the Europe and the Middle East, but that just makes it easier to view it in a museum today.
Europeans wear anything they damn well please.
If I got high, this trip would be alot different, not better just very different.
Amsterdam meeting coffee is better than US meeting coffee by far.
Australian and English men like to have group sing alongs when drunk.
And I could make a killing if I sold my pearlsnap shirt collection in Amsterdam, but that will never happen.
Just a few of the things that happened today.
Well by the end of this trip I can say I have walked all over Amsterdam and then some. Man, do my legs feel it. I did finally get Kyle on public transportation today. He prefers to walk, but where we wanted to go was too far to walk, and we had some time constraints. So I am going to beat him to the punch on this one. We did start off a little rough on the tram. We either got on the wrong one or missed the one we were supposed to be on . So here I thought I was going to be saving time, but we wasted about an hour trying to figure things out. However, once get on the right one, and he saw how far it was, he did eventually admit it was too far to walk. I'm sure he will not admit to this. :)
Since the last time we blogged we have visited the following places:
· Rembrandtplein This is where the Night Watch statues are located, and Rembrandt’s house is located. We have not made it there yet.
· The Red Light District…and no I did nothing there other than walk up the street. If I was twenty-something I perhaps might have thought it was cool, but we all know I am well past that, so it was just kind of annoying. There were so many people there. Mostly drunk, annoying guys.
· The Dutch Resistance Museum - http://www.dutchresistancemuseum.nl/museum/en/museum
It explains what happened to Holland during WW II and how Germany was able to occupy the country. The Germans were pretending to be nice at the beginning, and then slowly gathered the info they needed on the Jews living in the country, and then slowly started taking their rights away, and eventually deporting them.
· The Heritage Museum –
http://www.hermitage.nl/en/index.htm
This is the first satellite museum of the original Hermitage in St. Petersburg Russia http://www.hermitage.nl/en/content.htm. I have been to this one as well, and hands down it is the most amazing art museum I have ever been to. The one in Amsterdam, is much, much smaller. However, The Hermitage has such an extensive collection that they are unable to display it all, and have it stored away. Now they are able to use the Netherlands site to display these items.
· Waterlooplein http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterlooplein
There is a really big flea market here. Though, I was not very impressed. It was all sort of the same stuff, and nothing really good.
· Dam Square http://www.holland.com/amsterdam/gb/
This is the older section of the city. We saw the Palace, National Monument, and then the Old Church.
We also did see our first Windmill (pics on the site), and Amstel River. I have not had an Amstel beer yet, but I did have a Heineken last nite. I don’t normally drink this so not sure if it tasted any better or not, but it was good. We then and went and had dinner at a Peruvian restaurant tonight which was right on the canal. Today was just a beautiful day. The weather is just like Seattle. It doesn’t get hot here at all. It rained pretty good yesterday. Hopefully we will have one more day of nice weather.
Sunday we hope to go to the house that Anne Frank hid out in for 2 years, Rembrandt’s House, and do a canal cruise.
Since the last time we blogged we have visited the following places:
· Rembrandtplein This is where the Night Watch statues are located, and Rembrandt’s house is located. We have not made it there yet.
· The Red Light District…and no I did nothing there other than walk up the street. If I was twenty-something I perhaps might have thought it was cool, but we all know I am well past that, so it was just kind of annoying. There were so many people there. Mostly drunk, annoying guys.
· The Dutch Resistance Museum - http://www.dutchresistancemuseum.nl/museum/en/museum
It explains what happened to Holland during WW II and how Germany was able to occupy the country. The Germans were pretending to be nice at the beginning, and then slowly gathered the info they needed on the Jews living in the country, and then slowly started taking their rights away, and eventually deporting them.
· The Heritage Museum –
http://www.hermitage.nl/en/index.htm
This is the first satellite museum of the original Hermitage in St. Petersburg Russia http://www.hermitage.nl/en/content.htm. I have been to this one as well, and hands down it is the most amazing art museum I have ever been to. The one in Amsterdam, is much, much smaller. However, The Hermitage has such an extensive collection that they are unable to display it all, and have it stored away. Now they are able to use the Netherlands site to display these items.
· Waterlooplein http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterlooplein
There is a really big flea market here. Though, I was not very impressed. It was all sort of the same stuff, and nothing really good.
· Dam Square http://www.holland.com/amsterdam/gb/
This is the older section of the city. We saw the Palace, National Monument, and then the Old Church.
We also did see our first Windmill (pics on the site), and Amstel River. I have not had an Amstel beer yet, but I did have a Heineken last nite. I don’t normally drink this so not sure if it tasted any better or not, but it was good. We then and went and had dinner at a Peruvian restaurant tonight which was right on the canal. Today was just a beautiful day. The weather is just like Seattle. It doesn’t get hot here at all. It rained pretty good yesterday. Hopefully we will have one more day of nice weather.
Sunday we hope to go to the house that Anne Frank hid out in for 2 years, Rembrandt’s House, and do a canal cruise.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Kyle Here: So, we went to the Rijkmuseum today, and saw some very impressive Dutch paintings, silverwork and stuff. "The NightWatch" painting is there, and is fairly overwhelming. Also, we went to the Van Gogh museum, which was impressive as well, somewhat small but very manageable. I was fond of the temporary Max Beckman exhibit which was about as large as the permanent exhibit. I was struck by his triptychs, very symbolic paintings.
We did alot of walking today. My feet hurt, and I didn't even have crazy Euro shoes on while walking around. It was a day to eat cheese, since that is about all I ate today, and bread. It seems the Danish love meat, like big Argentinian grilled meat. And of course weed. Not that they eat it, but if they could I imagine they would.
I learned a few things today--- Dutch motorcycle police are polite (translation- wimps)even when trying to arrest someone, the Reality Bar is not about reality at all, and the Dutch sure know how to make waffle cones and waffle cookies, and possibly even Belgian waffles, but not so sure yet. Also, that Jarae does not like taking pictures, at least not of me. I also realized I will never have enough money to buy all of the things I want, but I have more than I need.
Also, I have attended two 'meetings' here, and they are rather 'touchy-feely' in a weird psycho babble sort of way. But after having coffee with some guys afterwards, it seems that the same stuff goes on here too, with all the same personality before principles issues as at home.
We did alot of walking today. My feet hurt, and I didn't even have crazy Euro shoes on while walking around. It was a day to eat cheese, since that is about all I ate today, and bread. It seems the Danish love meat, like big Argentinian grilled meat. And of course weed. Not that they eat it, but if they could I imagine they would.
I learned a few things today--- Dutch motorcycle police are polite (translation- wimps)even when trying to arrest someone, the Reality Bar is not about reality at all, and the Dutch sure know how to make waffle cones and waffle cookies, and possibly even Belgian waffles, but not so sure yet. Also, that Jarae does not like taking pictures, at least not of me. I also realized I will never have enough money to buy all of the things I want, but I have more than I need.
Also, I have attended two 'meetings' here, and they are rather 'touchy-feely' in a weird psycho babble sort of way. But after having coffee with some guys afterwards, it seems that the same stuff goes on here too, with all the same personality before principles issues as at home.
I believe if there are 2 words that do not exist in the Dutch language, privacy and washcloths. Let me explain:
Privacy—I arrived a couple of hours before Kyle. I get in the room unpack, take a shower, and plan to take a little nap prior to his arrival. So once I do fall asleep, I hear a knock at the door. A little dazed and confused, I assume it is Kyle. Well before my feet can touch the floor, the door opens, and it is some guy who works for the hotel. He says he is sorry, and that he knocked several times (doubtful). I lay back down, just as I am about to fall asleep, there is another knock at the door. I think this has to be Kyle. Once again, before I can get out of bed the door opens. I don’t see anyone, but I say Hello. Then I hear a women say Sorry! Geez what is up with the place. I lay back down. Five minutes later there is another knock at this door. Now I am about to go postal. If that isn‘t Kyle then someone is going to get hurt. This time I literally jump from the bed. I open the door, and it is Kyle. Then early evening, I am in the room while Kyle is out exploring, and I am trying to get some sleep. There is a knock at the door. Now what do these people want. Well at least this guy waited for me to get to the door before barging in. He wants to check the contents of the mini bar. I inform him that we just arrived today, and nothing has been removed. He says he still needs to check. Alright then. So he does his inventory, and then asks if he can come back later to restock. I tell him I am trying to sleep and if he can just do this tomorrow. He replies, Oh I am sorry, I will inform the front desk of this and we will not disturb you. I wish someone would had done this 8 hours earlier.
Washcloths—There were no washcloths when I arrived. I assumed it was just something that was missed. So when Kyle returned from his explorations, he was going to run down to the front desk for something, so I asked him to see if he could ask them for some. When he returns, he said they would place some at our door in the AM. OK then. So in the AM there was nothing in front of the door. Kyle calls the front desk and asks for washcloths. The response on the other line was..What?? So we were trying to think of other words for washcloths or give them a better description. However, that didn’t seem to work, but they said they would bring some up. A few minutes later the phone rings, and they I inform us that the towels are outside our door. They didn’t knock, because we had the Do Not Disturb sign on the door. However, you will call us?? So what did we get?? No washcloths…just hand towels. Note to self: Next time in Holland bring loofa.
Privacy—I arrived a couple of hours before Kyle. I get in the room unpack, take a shower, and plan to take a little nap prior to his arrival. So once I do fall asleep, I hear a knock at the door. A little dazed and confused, I assume it is Kyle. Well before my feet can touch the floor, the door opens, and it is some guy who works for the hotel. He says he is sorry, and that he knocked several times (doubtful). I lay back down, just as I am about to fall asleep, there is another knock at the door. I think this has to be Kyle. Once again, before I can get out of bed the door opens. I don’t see anyone, but I say Hello. Then I hear a women say Sorry! Geez what is up with the place. I lay back down. Five minutes later there is another knock at this door. Now I am about to go postal. If that isn‘t Kyle then someone is going to get hurt. This time I literally jump from the bed. I open the door, and it is Kyle. Then early evening, I am in the room while Kyle is out exploring, and I am trying to get some sleep. There is a knock at the door. Now what do these people want. Well at least this guy waited for me to get to the door before barging in. He wants to check the contents of the mini bar. I inform him that we just arrived today, and nothing has been removed. He says he still needs to check. Alright then. So he does his inventory, and then asks if he can come back later to restock. I tell him I am trying to sleep and if he can just do this tomorrow. He replies, Oh I am sorry, I will inform the front desk of this and we will not disturb you. I wish someone would had done this 8 hours earlier.
Washcloths—There were no washcloths when I arrived. I assumed it was just something that was missed. So when Kyle returned from his explorations, he was going to run down to the front desk for something, so I asked him to see if he could ask them for some. When he returns, he said they would place some at our door in the AM. OK then. So in the AM there was nothing in front of the door. Kyle calls the front desk and asks for washcloths. The response on the other line was..What?? So we were trying to think of other words for washcloths or give them a better description. However, that didn’t seem to work, but they said they would bring some up. A few minutes later the phone rings, and they I inform us that the towels are outside our door. They didn’t knock, because we had the Do Not Disturb sign on the door. However, you will call us?? So what did we get?? No washcloths…just hand towels. Note to self: Next time in Holland bring loofa.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Kyle here: I wanted to update on my flight experience. I would recommend flying KLM airlines, however, if it could be arranged that no East Indian are present, or even children in general, it would make the flight superb. Maybe just not having a small reddish brown child kicking the back of my chair the entire nine hour flight would have made for a more pleasurable experience.
However, the movies and music are a nice touch, and the vegetarian meals are good too.
Amsterdam is beautiful and there are many people out and about, riding bikes, and little smart cars.
I am looking forward to going to some museums tomorrow, and maybe taking a boat on the canals.
I will try to take more and more comphrensive photos tomorrow as to better illustrate what we are experiencing.
I have been up like 36 hours now, but don't really seemed to be phased by it, but will be sleeping soon after writing this. I think the excitement of a new place is overwhelming sometimes. It really is beautiful here, ... and watching all the Euro trash fashion victims is fun as well.
However, the movies and music are a nice touch, and the vegetarian meals are good too.
Amsterdam is beautiful and there are many people out and about, riding bikes, and little smart cars.
I am looking forward to going to some museums tomorrow, and maybe taking a boat on the canals.
I will try to take more and more comphrensive photos tomorrow as to better illustrate what we are experiencing.
I have been up like 36 hours now, but don't really seemed to be phased by it, but will be sleeping soon after writing this. I think the excitement of a new place is overwhelming sometimes. It really is beautiful here, ... and watching all the Euro trash fashion victims is fun as well.
Amsterdam
Well we both made. Everything went very smooth for both of us! Yeah! When Kyle arrived we walking down to the City Center. All sorts of shops and outdoor eating along the canals. I ran across a Camper shoe store that was having a sale. Yikes!! Kyle was trying to talk me into buying some. Bad Kyle. A fabulous looking cheese shop, and the flower market. They have a bulb for every known tulip known to man and then some. Then we headed back. I have been up for more than 24 hours. So I am back in the room chillen. Hoping I can fall asleep soon. Kyle went to go do a little more exploring. I will be posting some pics on picasa today. Now I am going to go drink my tea and read my magazine. (Bickel:guess who is on the cover of my magazine?? That's right...Bond...James Bond)
So PS...I went to the blogger site and it is in Dutch, so I went with it. I pretty much know where to click. I then went to spellcheck, and majority of the words show that they are misspelled. Well it is because they are not Dutch. I thought I totally had lost my ability to write in English.
Well we both made. Everything went very smooth for both of us! Yeah! When Kyle arrived we walking down to the City Center. All sorts of shops and outdoor eating along the canals. I ran across a Camper shoe store that was having a sale. Yikes!! Kyle was trying to talk me into buying some. Bad Kyle. A fabulous looking cheese shop, and the flower market. They have a bulb for every known tulip known to man and then some. Then we headed back. I have been up for more than 24 hours. So I am back in the room chillen. Hoping I can fall asleep soon. Kyle went to go do a little more exploring. I will be posting some pics on picasa today. Now I am going to go drink my tea and read my magazine. (Bickel:guess who is on the cover of my magazine?? That's right...Bond...James Bond)
So PS...I went to the blogger site and it is in Dutch, so I went with it. I pretty much know where to click. I then went to spellcheck, and majority of the words show that they are misspelled. Well it is because they are not Dutch. I thought I totally had lost my ability to write in English.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Sunset
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Just a week and a half before we leave, and I am getting alot of questions of where exactly I am going. So here is our itinerary.
Leave July 18th and fly to Amsterdam. This is where I will be meeting up with Kyle. We will be staying at Hotel Vondel. http://www.hotelvondel.nl/site.html
July 23rd we will be flying to Johannesburg. We will spend the night and fly to Richards Bay on July 24th. http://www.go2africa.com/south-africa/kwazulu-natal/
July 24th - July 30th we will be staying at http://www.zulunyala.com/tented-safari.php. This is north of Richards Bay in the Kwazulu-Natal region.
We leave July 30th and fly to Livingstone, Zambia. This is next to Victoria Falls. http://www.sun-city-south-africa.go2africa.com/sun-international-group/zambezi-sun.asp
The last stop is Cape Town. We arrive there on August 2nd. We will be staying near the Victoria and Albert Waterfront. http://www.go2africa.com/south-africa/western-cape/victoria-and-alfred-waterfront/.
We then head back home on August 8th, and will finally arrive back in Seattle on August 9th.
Leave July 18th and fly to Amsterdam. This is where I will be meeting up with Kyle. We will be staying at Hotel Vondel. http://www.hotelvondel.nl/site.html
July 23rd we will be flying to Johannesburg. We will spend the night and fly to Richards Bay on July 24th. http://www.go2africa.com/south-africa/kwazulu-natal/
July 24th - July 30th we will be staying at http://www.zulunyala.com/tented-safari.php. This is north of Richards Bay in the Kwazulu-Natal region.
We leave July 30th and fly to Livingstone, Zambia. This is next to Victoria Falls. http://www.sun-city-south-africa.go2africa.com/sun-international-group/zambezi-sun.asp
The last stop is Cape Town. We arrive there on August 2nd. We will be staying near the Victoria and Albert Waterfront. http://www.go2africa.com/south-africa/western-cape/victoria-and-alfred-waterfront/.
We then head back home on August 8th, and will finally arrive back in Seattle on August 9th.
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