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!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
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.
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