Well here is the end of 2012 and a new year approaches fast.
I want to take this opportunity to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and Prosperous New year,
to all my Jewish followers happy Chanukah.
Not to worry i have a new date for the first of many adventures for 2013. I meet the group of 21 on 4 January only a base trip but its a start
I want to thank my last group with Grand Circle wow 100% all over WOW THANKS you all rock.
just for those who have been here since i started i have 5300 hits on this blog awesome, i never thought it would get to this, I am still learning and will try make it interesting for all,
take care have a great festive season be safe
Jason Mair
Tracey my Wife
Friday, 21 December 2012
Friday, 30 November 2012
St Lucia to Kruger
Well we woke up to very overcast and drizzle and we set of to the boat trip on the St Lucia estuary,
we got the 3 pods of hippos and a crock and two Fish eagles but sadly due to the wind and rain not much bird life.
The group had a game drive booked to Hlehluwe and some went on drive, I was asked to stay behind to be there if anyone would need attention, I was more than happy to looking at the weather,
when they returned they were frozen and had only seen few animals, but the ones they saw were very close.
During the course of the day I happened to go and check on the bus as there was some activity happening there, there was a mechanic and with this some very bad news the engine of the bus was being held together by 1 last nut the other 15 had snapped of.
this was the beginning of a log night, I then contacted the bus company and the owner told me to wait for there call, i told her well we have to leave the hotel the next morning at 08:00. At 10pm she called me to say they are still looking for a bus. At 1am she called me to say they have found a bus in Stanger, An Indian Village outside Durban, But they cant get hold of driver. 7am the next day<Thursday> I get a call saying the driver has just left and should be there by 10am.
Now the tour leader drops a bomb on my head, so I returned the favour by informing him that he arranged the bad buses not me.
So finally 9am the bus arrived and by 9:15 we were on the road and finally the day went well, we stayed at the Royal Villas, wow what a place, this is where President Zuma Stays when he visits Swaziland.
The boarder went with ease the drive to Kruger was ok just very hot.
Kruger well we saw a load of good things, and a awesome Lion lying in the road, i put a photo on Face book yesterday.
Kruger park game drive, wow we had just entered the park at 05:30 not even 1 minuet we got a leopard with a kill, great shots, we drove about 10 minuets further and another leopard walking in the road, then we got some giraffe and all the other odds just one lion far away but no Buffalo, 15 minuets later bam two more Leopards in a tree.
Then we drove to Skakuza for breakfast, after we left we drove over the Sabi river well 3 more lions but also too far for photos, then we got another leopard under a tree, an hour later another to far for photos but could make out with binos, then on rote to lunch another leopard under a tree hiding in long grass, after lunch another female under a tree, so the guests say this is easy whats the fuss about leopards???? I could only laugh
Tomorrow is another big day we leave the hotel at 6am do the Blyde canyon and have to get to OR Tambo for 5:30pm ouch.
we got the 3 pods of hippos and a crock and two Fish eagles but sadly due to the wind and rain not much bird life.
The group had a game drive booked to Hlehluwe and some went on drive, I was asked to stay behind to be there if anyone would need attention, I was more than happy to looking at the weather,
when they returned they were frozen and had only seen few animals, but the ones they saw were very close.
During the course of the day I happened to go and check on the bus as there was some activity happening there, there was a mechanic and with this some very bad news the engine of the bus was being held together by 1 last nut the other 15 had snapped of.
this was the beginning of a log night, I then contacted the bus company and the owner told me to wait for there call, i told her well we have to leave the hotel the next morning at 08:00. At 10pm she called me to say they are still looking for a bus. At 1am she called me to say they have found a bus in Stanger, An Indian Village outside Durban, But they cant get hold of driver. 7am the next day<Thursday> I get a call saying the driver has just left and should be there by 10am.
Now the tour leader drops a bomb on my head, so I returned the favour by informing him that he arranged the bad buses not me.
So finally 9am the bus arrived and by 9:15 we were on the road and finally the day went well, we stayed at the Royal Villas, wow what a place, this is where President Zuma Stays when he visits Swaziland.
The boarder went with ease the drive to Kruger was ok just very hot.
Kruger well we saw a load of good things, and a awesome Lion lying in the road, i put a photo on Face book yesterday.
Kruger park game drive, wow we had just entered the park at 05:30 not even 1 minuet we got a leopard with a kill, great shots, we drove about 10 minuets further and another leopard walking in the road, then we got some giraffe and all the other odds just one lion far away but no Buffalo, 15 minuets later bam two more Leopards in a tree.
Then we drove to Skakuza for breakfast, after we left we drove over the Sabi river well 3 more lions but also too far for photos, then we got another leopard under a tree, an hour later another to far for photos but could make out with binos, then on rote to lunch another leopard under a tree hiding in long grass, after lunch another female under a tree, so the guests say this is easy whats the fuss about leopards???? I could only laugh
Tomorrow is another big day we leave the hotel at 6am do the Blyde canyon and have to get to OR Tambo for 5:30pm ouch.
Monday, 26 November 2012
Coffee bay to Durban
Wow what a drive, we left the hotel in Coffee bay at 8am and headed to Mtata, this took 2hrs,
I told the tour leader that there are really bad road works if we go via Kockstad, so thankfully we chose to go via Port St Johns, well to say the least he was pissed as we only got to Port Edward at 4pm and still had not had any lunch.
We still had to go to Oribi Gorge, so I phoned them and they said the restaurant will be closed but the access to Leopard rock will be open, not ever been there we left at 4:40pm and got there just after 5pm well it was closed and locked up. OOPS was he mad with me. Now we still have a 2hr drive to Durban.
The next morning we left the hotel at 8 am and did a short city tour with a visit to the spice market at the Victoria market, he then pulled me one side and blasted me for not stopping at the city hall, so I urned around and said if you would tell me what your plans are and speak to me before tour starts as we agreed before we started this would not have happened. So i took him back and said we have a 2 and a half hour trip to get to Shakaland the longer you take hear the less chance we have to make the time. His response was last year we did it, my answer to him was sure but you used a bus company with good buses not a cheap hand me down bus company. with in 8 minuets they were all back on the bus. (the fact that the driver has never been out of Cape Town and i have to tell him his every move)
We made it with 15 minuets to spare and all busting for toilet.
the rest of the day he was as sweet as candy, all guests are upset with him and keep coming to me and thanking me for all i have done for them, even asking me to join them for a drink and not him.
Well tomorrow we all go on the boat cruise and then I offered to stay behind as 12 guests are not going to Hlehluwe, when others heard i was staying they also cancelled.
Such a different trip but what a learning curve ITS STILL GOOD FUN
I told the tour leader that there are really bad road works if we go via Kockstad, so thankfully we chose to go via Port St Johns, well to say the least he was pissed as we only got to Port Edward at 4pm and still had not had any lunch.
We still had to go to Oribi Gorge, so I phoned them and they said the restaurant will be closed but the access to Leopard rock will be open, not ever been there we left at 4:40pm and got there just after 5pm well it was closed and locked up. OOPS was he mad with me. Now we still have a 2hr drive to Durban.
The next morning we left the hotel at 8 am and did a short city tour with a visit to the spice market at the Victoria market, he then pulled me one side and blasted me for not stopping at the city hall, so I urned around and said if you would tell me what your plans are and speak to me before tour starts as we agreed before we started this would not have happened. So i took him back and said we have a 2 and a half hour trip to get to Shakaland the longer you take hear the less chance we have to make the time. His response was last year we did it, my answer to him was sure but you used a bus company with good buses not a cheap hand me down bus company. with in 8 minuets they were all back on the bus. (the fact that the driver has never been out of Cape Town and i have to tell him his every move)
We made it with 15 minuets to spare and all busting for toilet.
the rest of the day he was as sweet as candy, all guests are upset with him and keep coming to me and thanking me for all i have done for them, even asking me to join them for a drink and not him.
Well tomorrow we all go on the boat cruise and then I offered to stay behind as 12 guests are not going to Hlehluwe, when others heard i was staying they also cancelled.
Such a different trip but what a learning curve ITS STILL GOOD FUN
Saturday, 24 November 2012
Coffee Bay
Well we have been on the road now 1 week
and i have finally got to chat to some of the guests
We are having very long bus days and the peeps are not happy but this is the itinerary they have used from Estonia.
the trip from Cape town via Oudsthoorn to Knysna was long we only arrived at hotel after 6pm
then a hell of a day from PE to Coffee Bay arrived at 8:30 pm then the hotel told us they don't have enough rooms for all of us, and I had called two weeks earlier to confirm all was in order
On our way we stopped in East London for lunch and I was able to see Family witch was great.
Here at Coffee Bay we Had a Xhosa village visit, lead by a local guy and was struggling to find things to talk about, all he could say was "this is were Nelson Mandela once walked"
Then we all had a swim in the sea witch was great, (I really wish I had Brought my Diving Gear)
Then some of the guests went to the Hole in the Wall, witch the hotel charged R200 per person!!!!!
Any way so they went and had fun, then the guy who was driving the guests to the hole said it has started to rain the road is to slippery i cant fetch them, I said excuse me you charge them R200 for a 12km Drive and you are scared to drive a land rover to fetch them , let me drive, after a load of uming and areing he gave me the keys and i fetched them all with no hassles.
Tomorrow we head of to Durban via Kockstad also a long day a head
I will do another post from there to let you know how drive was
and i have finally got to chat to some of the guests
We are having very long bus days and the peeps are not happy but this is the itinerary they have used from Estonia.
the trip from Cape town via Oudsthoorn to Knysna was long we only arrived at hotel after 6pm
then a hell of a day from PE to Coffee Bay arrived at 8:30 pm then the hotel told us they don't have enough rooms for all of us, and I had called two weeks earlier to confirm all was in order
On our way we stopped in East London for lunch and I was able to see Family witch was great.
Here at Coffee Bay we Had a Xhosa village visit, lead by a local guy and was struggling to find things to talk about, all he could say was "this is were Nelson Mandela once walked"
Then we all had a swim in the sea witch was great, (I really wish I had Brought my Diving Gear)
Then some of the guests went to the Hole in the Wall, witch the hotel charged R200 per person!!!!!
Any way so they went and had fun, then the guy who was driving the guests to the hole said it has started to rain the road is to slippery i cant fetch them, I said excuse me you charge them R200 for a 12km Drive and you are scared to drive a land rover to fetch them , let me drive, after a load of uming and areing he gave me the keys and i fetched them all with no hassles.
Tomorrow we head of to Durban via Kockstad also a long day a head
I will do another post from there to let you know how drive was
Tuesday, 20 November 2012
New Tour
Well hi there
I was blessed and received a last minuet trip with 35 Estonia's.
Very different as the tour leader does all the talking, not what I am used to.
So far its been good we did Table Mountain on the day of arrival and yesterday we did Cape point,
today we go to a town called Hermanus were the whale watching is very good, (usually) lets hold thumbs.
the day i flew out an Saturday i was able to go for a quick Dive and shot a 8.5kg Mussel Cracker
so the trip started of well.
I was blessed and received a last minuet trip with 35 Estonia's.
Very different as the tour leader does all the talking, not what I am used to.
So far its been good we did Table Mountain on the day of arrival and yesterday we did Cape point,
today we go to a town called Hermanus were the whale watching is very good, (usually) lets hold thumbs.
the day i flew out an Saturday i was able to go for a quick Dive and shot a 8.5kg Mussel Cracker
so the trip started of well.
Friday, 16 November 2012
Grand Circle done for 2012
Well we drove from Knysna to cape town, and on arrival we had great weather and had time to get to the top of Table Mountain. We got to the top and the wind started to pick up and with in 30 min we had to get of due to strong winds, but all enjoyed the views.
There was no one on the post trip so Cape Town was the last touring, we flew to Johannesburg and said are farewells there and all went home.
A few a little worried to what they were going home to with the massive storm that hit the East coast of the US, from hearing from some all was fine with a few trees up rooted and no Electricity.
It was a Great group with a lot of very different walks of life but all seemed to get on.
I feel a great trip all in all
Thanks to all on the trip
There was no one on the post trip so Cape Town was the last touring, we flew to Johannesburg and said are farewells there and all went home.
A few a little worried to what they were going home to with the massive storm that hit the East coast of the US, from hearing from some all was fine with a few trees up rooted and no Electricity.
It was a Great group with a lot of very different walks of life but all seemed to get on.
I feel a great trip all in all
Thanks to all on the trip
Thursday, 25 October 2012
Addo
Well Addo was not much to rave about dint find many Elephants, I think due to all the rain.
We did how ever find a great heard of Eland and Buffalo as well as Red Heartabeast.
This morning at breakfast I had the pleasure to have met Johny Clegg a well known SA musician,
he told me he has 11 shows in the USA next year. So all who want to hear his great African Music look out for his show dates.
Later on this morning we leave to Knysna.
We did how ever find a great heard of Eland and Buffalo as well as Red Heartabeast.
This morning at breakfast I had the pleasure to have met Johny Clegg a well known SA musician,
he told me he has 11 shows in the USA next year. So all who want to hear his great African Music look out for his show dates.
Later on this morning we leave to Knysna.
Tuesday, 23 October 2012
Shakaland
Well the day from Swaziland to Shakaland went as per normal
with only two differences, 1. we stopped and did a learning and discovery with a termite mound
and two we were forced of the road by traffic police as an abnormal truck taking up the whole road passed.
On arrival at Shakaland Mr Kingsley Holgate was there, this guy does lots of African adventures and has the sponsors to go with it, his current mission is to try help African villages combat Malaria.
I have attached a photo of him and I.
Today we flew to Port Elizabeth the landing was pretty hard but a good flight. And THE SUN is out i think and hope we have missed all the rain.
with only two differences, 1. we stopped and did a learning and discovery with a termite mound
and two we were forced of the road by traffic police as an abnormal truck taking up the whole road passed.
On arrival at Shakaland Mr Kingsley Holgate was there, this guy does lots of African adventures and has the sponsors to go with it, his current mission is to try help African villages combat Malaria.
I have attached a photo of him and I.
Today we flew to Port Elizabeth the landing was pretty hard but a good flight. And THE SUN is out i think and hope we have missed all the rain.
Sunday, 21 October 2012
Swaziland school
Well today we visited the Fontain School we bought 4 shopping carts full of fruit and veggies
The Grand Circle Foundation has sent some monies through and some awesome stuff has been done to the schoool, they ripped of the old verander roof sheets and replaced it with new corricated iron ones much stronger, also they added some roll down screens to stop wind from blowing the out side class, also they have built about 10 picnic lunch tables for the kids to sit down and eat instead of the floor, well done to all who have contributed to the foundation to make this happen and a big thanks to the Mountain Inn staff who were involved. It really looks much better.
my last group raised $2020 lets ee what this group can raise.
The Grand Circle Foundation has sent some monies through and some awesome stuff has been done to the schoool, they ripped of the old verander roof sheets and replaced it with new corricated iron ones much stronger, also they added some roll down screens to stop wind from blowing the out side class, also they have built about 10 picnic lunch tables for the kids to sit down and eat instead of the floor, well done to all who have contributed to the foundation to make this happen and a big thanks to the Mountain Inn staff who were involved. It really looks much better.
my last group raised $2020 lets ee what this group can raise.
Saturday, 20 October 2012
Kruger
OOPS almost forgot after we left the leopard sighting we found a Elephant bull right next to the road awesome close shots, then he told us we were in his way and showed us so we backed the bus up and gave him right of way and he crossed the road so we moved forward and then he turned around and all wanted to stop for a photo and I said sorry i need the bus up right.
just had to tell you this
just had to tell you this
Kruger day 1 and 2
Well kruger day one all were up and ready to go, arrival at the park was 0600
all jeep raced of into the distance, by the time the breakfast stop camee we had found Sable antilope, 5 lions, Buffalo, Elephant, Kudu, Giraffe, hyena and 4 pups, and all the rest. but no Leopard.
It was a great day out
Day two only 10 guests went out on the jeeps, and 12 on the bus 10 stayed at hotel,
Wow Wow what a day we had a late start on the bus getting to the park around 9
the morning started slow but just before we got to Skakuza we came across 6-8 puppies wild dogs and the Alfa female who looked like she had been badly mauled by a lion a week or so back with scares to show.
After Skakuza we went along the Sabi river and found a lioness with 3 cubs 2 of which were very newly born.
On the way back towards the gate all were happy with the days sighting then we came across a leopard tortoise and another then there were a few cars parked on the road ahead of us so i said possible Rhino, as we approached BAM Leopard in the tree a little far away but then she climbed down and walked parallel to the road and about 5 minuets later she crossed the road WOW what a sighting.
Picking the rest of the group from the jeeps they were also excited as they had 3 male lions next to the jeep and an awesome sighting of a cheetah
So all in all a great day in the park.
last night we had an electric storm of note 2 power cuts but rain wow, today awesome clear cool weather for travelling to Swaziland.
all jeep raced of into the distance, by the time the breakfast stop camee we had found Sable antilope, 5 lions, Buffalo, Elephant, Kudu, Giraffe, hyena and 4 pups, and all the rest. but no Leopard.
It was a great day out
Day two only 10 guests went out on the jeeps, and 12 on the bus 10 stayed at hotel,
Wow Wow what a day we had a late start on the bus getting to the park around 9
the morning started slow but just before we got to Skakuza we came across 6-8 puppies wild dogs and the Alfa female who looked like she had been badly mauled by a lion a week or so back with scares to show.
After Skakuza we went along the Sabi river and found a lioness with 3 cubs 2 of which were very newly born.
On the way back towards the gate all were happy with the days sighting then we came across a leopard tortoise and another then there were a few cars parked on the road ahead of us so i said possible Rhino, as we approached BAM Leopard in the tree a little far away but then she climbed down and walked parallel to the road and about 5 minuets later she crossed the road WOW what a sighting.
Picking the rest of the group from the jeeps they were also excited as they had 3 male lions next to the jeep and an awesome sighting of a cheetah
So all in all a great day in the park.
last night we had an electric storm of note 2 power cuts but rain wow, today awesome clear cool weather for travelling to Swaziland.
Tuesday, 16 October 2012
Joberg and Pretoria
Well Joberg, Soweto and Pretoria done and dusted.
All the Jacaranda trees are in full bloom it is really pretty, and the Paul Kruger House is open again
Tomorrow we leave towards Kruger Park, a big bus day but its an adventure so it has to happen.
I have loaded a group photo SAF 10/13 if you want to see the group.
we have some very interesting peeps this trip, from a Oceanographer, to Scientists and engineers
as well as a LT kernel.
It looks like we have rain fore casted for tommorow but rather then than in Kruger Park.
All seem excited for the Park.
cheers for now
All the Jacaranda trees are in full bloom it is really pretty, and the Paul Kruger House is open again
Tomorrow we leave towards Kruger Park, a big bus day but its an adventure so it has to happen.
I have loaded a group photo SAF 10/13 if you want to see the group.
we have some very interesting peeps this trip, from a Oceanographer, to Scientists and engineers
as well as a LT kernel.
It looks like we have rain fore casted for tommorow but rather then than in Kruger Park.
All seem excited for the Park.
cheers for now
Saturday, 13 October 2012
Day Two , Entabei
Well yesterday afternoon we were kind of rained out with over 70 mm of rain recorded.
This morning all went out still overcast but driveble,
They went down to the lower escarpment and had a great morning with the big male mom and four cubs , so a great days outing as well as alsorts of other game
This afternoon we are eating out in the bush and at 4 pm the last chance to go down again
This morning all went out still overcast but driveble,
They went down to the lower escarpment and had a great morning with the big male mom and four cubs , so a great days outing as well as alsorts of other game
This afternoon we are eating out in the bush and at 4 pm the last chance to go down again
Friday, 12 October 2012
Day one and two , Entabeni
Well here we are at Entabeni
We had a great welcome with 6 Elephants across the laken.
The evening drive, all enjoyed as they saw Elephants up close and other animals.
This am they went down the hill to the bottom escarpment and found the three females an a freshly killed Wildebeast( Gunu) with the sent of a dead Giraffe near by , so for those who were here with me last month they got the Giraffe in the end.
Sadly there are only 10 seats in the new jeeps so I am reporting back after I have been told About the drive .
I will write again tomorrow and fill you in on the last game dive before heading back to Johannesberg
That's it for now
Oh the weather is cold but no rain yet.
We had a great welcome with 6 Elephants across the laken.
The evening drive, all enjoyed as they saw Elephants up close and other animals.
This am they went down the hill to the bottom escarpment and found the three females an a freshly killed Wildebeast( Gunu) with the sent of a dead Giraffe near by , so for those who were here with me last month they got the Giraffe in the end.
Sadly there are only 10 seats in the new jeeps so I am reporting back after I have been told About the drive .
I will write again tomorrow and fill you in on the last game dive before heading back to Johannesberg
That's it for now
Oh the weather is cold but no rain yet.
Thursday, 11 October 2012
Pre Trip to Entabeni
Well I got the 10 peeps going on pre trip to Entabeni, this time we are staying on top at Riverside,
All seem excited and happy to be here, thanks to those who have writen a review on the GCT website
these guest allready know me and are happy to be with me on tour.
We leave the hotel around 9am CAT, I will do an entry again tomorrow afternoon so as to let you know how tonights and tomorrow mornigs drives went.
stay close
and its great to be back on the road
All seem excited and happy to be here, thanks to those who have writen a review on the GCT website
these guest allready know me and are happy to be with me on tour.
We leave the hotel around 9am CAT, I will do an entry again tomorrow afternoon so as to let you know how tonights and tomorrow mornigs drives went.
stay close
and its great to be back on the road
Tuesday, 2 October 2012
new trip
Well i have been given a new trip.
I start on Tuesday the 09 and meet the pre trip at the airport on the 10th sadly no post but Entabeni here i come lets see if the cats actually can get their lunch this time.
so to all who are following stay close the next adventure is closer than i expected.
I start on Tuesday the 09 and meet the pre trip at the airport on the 10th sadly no post but Entabeni here i come lets see if the cats actually can get their lunch this time.
so to all who are following stay close the next adventure is closer than i expected.
Saturday, 29 September 2012
time to catch up
Wow wow wow
What an amazing trip
Well i will start were my Ipad crashed
The trip to Blyde Canyon went well with a few laughs one i have to share, just after lunch we head to wards Orchastad and there are some man made statues of animals and the whole bus fell for it, stop stop the driver and I were wetting our selves and when they all realised they weren't real they started booing and said i wasn't funny, but all enjoyed the joke,
Kruger park was a great success one of the 4 jeeps got to see wild dog, while the other three saw 2 spotted Hyena,we saw loads of all the animals, but cats were shy.
After lunch we found a lioness with three cubs just a little far, the jeep i was on decided to venture a little further than the other and it was a great idea , the driver kept saying we must turn around I said just to lower Sabie its not far away, and bingo i saw the tip of the tail just sliding in to the bush ,Leopard, we got it.
on the trip back for lunch we came across another lioness lying on the side of the road.
The next morning most went on the jeeps again, only a few on the bus and i decided to go South and the jeep went back to the area of the Leopard and they found it, us well we had some awesome sightings as well, we had two Hippos playing Tag chasing each other across the road almost colliding with a vehicle it was really funny.
The next Morning we made our way towards Swaziland,
We stopped at Malalane Shopping centre and i found some L&D (learnig And Discovery) there which was a great find
a young woman with a baby on her back and she gave a small demonstration how she does it .
then we stopped along side the road with a woman carrying timber on her head.
the following day was the Market visit and school. Wow we got loads of food and 7 chickens.
and we had another L&D for those who where interested, slaughtered and plucked the chickens and prepared food for the kids.
All had fun interacting and helping the kids.
Zululand was also a great experiance.
Sadly we had a bit of rain catch up with us from Swaziland to Durban Airport.
Landing in Port Elizabeth was a welcome,no rain, but PE living up to its name , the windy city, wow it was blowing,
Addo was great we fonud a nice heard of Elephant and othe Buck we havent seen, but in all parks we saw so many Kudu like i havent before.
Knysna , Oudsthoorn and the trip to Cape Town was as normal with the grain being transformed in colour and different landscapes. Cape Towm overcast and didnt get Table Mountain, but all had a great visit, with a 9 am wine tasteing, all were happy.
Farewell dinner was awesome with Kudu steak really good.
Sadly we had to say good bye to 11, and the rest of the 22 had to wake up at three am for the flight to JHB and on to Victoria Falls Zimbabwe, on arrival YES please the temperature was was nice and hot 35 deg C .
The Falls were a little low but it was still awesome, everyone was very tired and some had to rise early again for the Elephant ride, then the Market walk and the $100000000000000 one hundred trillion dollar bill.
Then it was the helicopter flighs and the Sunset Cruise,
Wednesday morning it was Chobe, two groups back found Lions then the group ahead of us had a Leopard kill, so I was Possitive we would get both and with in 20 min we had both cats. a great heard of sable and thousands of Elephants.
The fare well (last Supper) with the group went well with lots of tears and I pulled of a great Suprise Bithday wish and cake and all the staff sang to Barbara, she was very happy,
Many awesome word were said by all
I want to thank everyone who was in volved with this trip it was an amazing adventure,
What an amazing trip
Well i will start were my Ipad crashed
The trip to Blyde Canyon went well with a few laughs one i have to share, just after lunch we head to wards Orchastad and there are some man made statues of animals and the whole bus fell for it, stop stop the driver and I were wetting our selves and when they all realised they weren't real they started booing and said i wasn't funny, but all enjoyed the joke,
Kruger park was a great success one of the 4 jeeps got to see wild dog, while the other three saw 2 spotted Hyena,we saw loads of all the animals, but cats were shy.
After lunch we found a lioness with three cubs just a little far, the jeep i was on decided to venture a little further than the other and it was a great idea , the driver kept saying we must turn around I said just to lower Sabie its not far away, and bingo i saw the tip of the tail just sliding in to the bush ,Leopard, we got it.
on the trip back for lunch we came across another lioness lying on the side of the road.
The next morning most went on the jeeps again, only a few on the bus and i decided to go South and the jeep went back to the area of the Leopard and they found it, us well we had some awesome sightings as well, we had two Hippos playing Tag chasing each other across the road almost colliding with a vehicle it was really funny.
The next Morning we made our way towards Swaziland,
We stopped at Malalane Shopping centre and i found some L&D (learnig And Discovery) there which was a great find
a young woman with a baby on her back and she gave a small demonstration how she does it .
then we stopped along side the road with a woman carrying timber on her head.
the following day was the Market visit and school. Wow we got loads of food and 7 chickens.
and we had another L&D for those who where interested, slaughtered and plucked the chickens and prepared food for the kids.
All had fun interacting and helping the kids.
Zululand was also a great experiance.
Sadly we had a bit of rain catch up with us from Swaziland to Durban Airport.
Landing in Port Elizabeth was a welcome,no rain, but PE living up to its name , the windy city, wow it was blowing,
Addo was great we fonud a nice heard of Elephant and othe Buck we havent seen, but in all parks we saw so many Kudu like i havent before.
Knysna , Oudsthoorn and the trip to Cape Town was as normal with the grain being transformed in colour and different landscapes. Cape Towm overcast and didnt get Table Mountain, but all had a great visit, with a 9 am wine tasteing, all were happy.
Farewell dinner was awesome with Kudu steak really good.
Sadly we had to say good bye to 11, and the rest of the 22 had to wake up at three am for the flight to JHB and on to Victoria Falls Zimbabwe, on arrival YES please the temperature was was nice and hot 35 deg C .
The Falls were a little low but it was still awesome, everyone was very tired and some had to rise early again for the Elephant ride, then the Market walk and the $100000000000000 one hundred trillion dollar bill.
Then it was the helicopter flighs and the Sunset Cruise,
Wednesday morning it was Chobe, two groups back found Lions then the group ahead of us had a Leopard kill, so I was Possitive we would get both and with in 20 min we had both cats. a great heard of sable and thousands of Elephants.
The fare well (last Supper) with the group went well with lots of tears and I pulled of a great Suprise Bithday wish and cake and all the staff sang to Barbara, she was very happy,
Many awesome word were said by all
I want to thank everyone who was in volved with this trip it was an amazing adventure,
Saturday, 8 September 2012
Kruger here we come
Well Joberg and Pretoria done. All seem happy with the trip so far ,
Tomorrow we head to wards Kruger park. We will drive via the Blyde Cannyon down to White river to the Winkler hotel
The weather has got a bit better since the storm we had but still very cool at night
All were happy at the voortrekker monument as the stairs helped with circulation and a bit of excercise well that's all for now not much to fill you all in on just yet I will write again on Monday night after the first game drive in Kruger , I hope we will be lucky as we were at Entabeni.
Tomorrow we head to wards Kruger park. We will drive via the Blyde Cannyon down to White river to the Winkler hotel
The weather has got a bit better since the storm we had but still very cool at night
All were happy at the voortrekker monument as the stairs helped with circulation and a bit of excercise well that's all for now not much to fill you all in on just yet I will write again on Monday night after the first game drive in Kruger , I hope we will be lucky as we were at Entabeni.
Thursday, 6 September 2012
Last day at Entabeni
Well in the night the rain sneaked in but not enough to keep the guests away from their last game drive .
We heard lions rawing around 5:20 am so we went on the search for them , after 2 hours we finally got wind of the one we haven't seen yet , the big male ,
Yes we got him sleeping in the middle of no where .
After breakfast we packed up and departed for Johannesburg, not a bad trip till we got to Pretoria then the weather changed from a blue sky windy day to , wow a monster of a storm ,in the distance I could see Johannesburg was getting hammered by rain but was not expecting what we drove into .
First the rain came then a little hail the more rain , then the wipers of the bus broke , there was loads of water on the road everyone was driving with their emergency lights on , cars were sliding all over the place we passed a truck then a massive bang , the truck had a blowout , then there was snow everywhere .
SPRING my left foot the temperature has dropped and is freezing
So that was our day
Now I am waiting for the rest of the group tarrive
Tomorrow is Soweto and the welcome speech
Stay close
We heard lions rawing around 5:20 am so we went on the search for them , after 2 hours we finally got wind of the one we haven't seen yet , the big male ,
Yes we got him sleeping in the middle of no where .
After breakfast we packed up and departed for Johannesburg, not a bad trip till we got to Pretoria then the weather changed from a blue sky windy day to , wow a monster of a storm ,in the distance I could see Johannesburg was getting hammered by rain but was not expecting what we drove into .
First the rain came then a little hail the more rain , then the wipers of the bus broke , there was loads of water on the road everyone was driving with their emergency lights on , cars were sliding all over the place we passed a truck then a massive bang , the truck had a blowout , then there was snow everywhere .
SPRING my left foot the temperature has dropped and is freezing
So that was our day
Now I am waiting for the rest of the group tarrive
Tomorrow is Soweto and the welcome speech
Stay close
Wednesday, 5 September 2012
Day 3 Entabeni
Wow wow wow , what an awesome morning drive
We left the camp at 6:30 and around 7:15 we had found three female lionesses we followed them around and there were a tower of giraffe watching them as well as a herd of Wildebeast, the one female lioness walked straight Towards the giraffe the giraffe walked towards the lioness, then they turned and split up , the
Inness had her eye on one and the other two laid down waiting as if were planned the first lioness chased the giraffe straight to the other two, one of them took the chase , WOW to watch the acceleration of the lioness was awesome, lucky for the giraffe it got away by kicking the lioness in the face and that was the end of that fun and games .
We left the area and drove around for about half an hour then we came across the mom and 4 cubs we saw on day one, they were playing with a wild bore ,not a warthog, and The two cubs were trying to tackle the bore but the bore kept turning on them we followed them for a while but then had to let others in to see the lions , so I don't know if the bore got away or if mom sorted it out.
But two attempted kills in one morning what a morning , one I won't forget in a while, and I think the guest will remember.
I have a photo of one cub trying with the bore , when I get a card reader I will put the photo on the blog .
Two more drives left the weather is starting to turn so we will see what happens .
We left the camp at 6:30 and around 7:15 we had found three female lionesses we followed them around and there were a tower of giraffe watching them as well as a herd of Wildebeast, the one female lioness walked straight Towards the giraffe the giraffe walked towards the lioness, then they turned and split up , the
Inness had her eye on one and the other two laid down waiting as if were planned the first lioness chased the giraffe straight to the other two, one of them took the chase , WOW to watch the acceleration of the lioness was awesome, lucky for the giraffe it got away by kicking the lioness in the face and that was the end of that fun and games .
We left the area and drove around for about half an hour then we came across the mom and 4 cubs we saw on day one, they were playing with a wild bore ,not a warthog, and The two cubs were trying to tackle the bore but the bore kept turning on them we followed them for a while but then had to let others in to see the lions , so I don't know if the bore got away or if mom sorted it out.
But two attempted kills in one morning what a morning , one I won't forget in a while, and I think the guest will remember.
I have a photo of one cub trying with the bore , when I get a card reader I will put the photo on the blog .
Two more drives left the weather is starting to turn so we will see what happens .
Monday, 3 September 2012
Wild side camp, Entabeni
Well day one at Wild Side , wow ,
The first game drive this eveningwed 3 rd we found a couple of Giraffe , Kudu,Wildebeast,Zebra,one jackel then we heard over the radio that a lion had a kill .
So we set of in the direction and came across two male Cheetah, sadly just too dark and far for photos then we continued for the lions , well no kill but mom and 4 cubs, those of you who were here with me earlier the same cubs that were on the kill , but all grown up. I will put photos on face book when I get a card reader as I don't have one yet.
Dinner the talk was all about the cats and how awes.ome the drive was.
So far so good tomorrow 6 am drive i hope we find the cats in day light for photos
The first game drive this eveningwed 3 rd we found a couple of Giraffe , Kudu,Wildebeast,Zebra,one jackel then we heard over the radio that a lion had a kill .
So we set of in the direction and came across two male Cheetah, sadly just too dark and far for photos then we continued for the lions , well no kill but mom and 4 cubs, those of you who were here with me earlier the same cubs that were on the kill , but all grown up. I will put photos on face book when I get a card reader as I don't have one yet.
Dinner the talk was all about the cats and how awes.ome the drive was.
So far so good tomorrow 6 am drive i hope we find the cats in day light for photos
Thursday, 30 August 2012
Just days to go
Well I am getting ready to leave for the pre trip, to Entabeni, this time we are staying at the Wild Side camp , not at Lake side, there are 17 guests .
So stay close and I will post possibly on Face Book photos and if there is something awesome I will put it on the blog
The group ahead of me had the lions playing , so I hope we get some great shots of something similar, like the last time with the male roaring at sun set was just WOW , mabe this time I might be able to record it
What i like about each trip there is always something that sticks out and makes that trip unique
Something different last month I had over 3000 hits on my blog page thanks everyone pass it on to friends and lets see how many hits we get by end of year
So stay close and I will post possibly on Face Book photos and if there is something awesome I will put it on the blog
The group ahead of me had the lions playing , so I hope we get some great shots of something similar, like the last time with the male roaring at sun set was just WOW , mabe this time I might be able to record it
What i like about each trip there is always something that sticks out and makes that trip unique
Something different last month I had over 3000 hits on my blog page thanks everyone pass it on to friends and lets see how many hits we get by end of year
Thursday, 16 August 2012
New Trip coming up
well folks its all about to start again i will be picking up a group on 2nd Sept
I have heard the base trip has around 33 people so all the blogs and photos will be happening again
sorry its been so quiet but not much happening
Sat 25th Aug i will be skippering a boat for a fishing competition i will post some photos on that
I have heard the base trip has around 33 people so all the blogs and photos will be happening again
sorry its been so quiet but not much happening
Sat 25th Aug i will be skippering a boat for a fishing competition i will post some photos on that
Saturday, 21 July 2012
St lucia to Durban
Well all went well in Swaziland,
We got to St Lucia and Finlay some warm weather, Checking in to the hotel and sitting around the pool with another group who we soon got chatting to, some went out on a evening game drive we stayed and had a few beers, around 6:30pm two monster hippos decided to take a stroll past the hotel pool.
all ran out for photos but just a tad too dark
the next morning we went on a boat trip and saw some hippos and crocks as well as a water monitor lizard, got some great birds as well, this time even some flamingos
The game drive in Hlehluewe was ok we got lots of buffalo and some buck , sadly we came across 3 poached Rhino male , female and calf and the park tried to keep it hush but run away fires exposed all.
We apparently just missed two Young cheetah stalking a duiker, but that's how it works in the wild.
We left the hotel around 9am to Durban and a nice easy drive, stopping in Umdloti and had lunch (my old home town) nobody there that i knew. then we moved on to Durban with a city tour and a drive along the beach and to Umhlanga and checked in to the hotel.
Tomorrow is a day of leisure and then Monday we fly to Port Elizabeth.
We got to St Lucia and Finlay some warm weather, Checking in to the hotel and sitting around the pool with another group who we soon got chatting to, some went out on a evening game drive we stayed and had a few beers, around 6:30pm two monster hippos decided to take a stroll past the hotel pool.
all ran out for photos but just a tad too dark
the next morning we went on a boat trip and saw some hippos and crocks as well as a water monitor lizard, got some great birds as well, this time even some flamingos
The game drive in Hlehluewe was ok we got lots of buffalo and some buck , sadly we came across 3 poached Rhino male , female and calf and the park tried to keep it hush but run away fires exposed all.
We apparently just missed two Young cheetah stalking a duiker, but that's how it works in the wild.
We left the hotel around 9am to Durban and a nice easy drive, stopping in Umdloti and had lunch (my old home town) nobody there that i knew. then we moved on to Durban with a city tour and a drive along the beach and to Umhlanga and checked in to the hotel.
Tomorrow is a day of leisure and then Monday we fly to Port Elizabeth.
Tuesday, 17 July 2012
Whats that
Well today was Kruger National Park, yes I have done it over and over but i love it there.
Due to the cold weather and thick fog we both decided the game viewing truck was not going to be fun, and the fact we are in a mini van we still have the height advantage as well as climate control.
so we had breakfast at the hotel and drove to the park getting to the gate just after 7:45
As we started the game drive i noticed a few tracks of Lion, Leopard and Rhino so i spoke about the tracks and after about hour we had seen Impala, Kudu, Steenbok, Hippos, WaterBuck an Awesome sighting of a Ground Horn bill, then a little later we came across some Elephant and a pair of Buffalo with 4 calf's.
Around 11:00 am we arrived at Skakuza camp , used the rest rooms got some cold drinks and a bite to eat and we were back on the road with in 20 min.
So by now we had seen 3 of the five but no cats, so i decided to take a chance along the Sabi river , hoping to find some cats in the river bed, as we set of we found a heard of Buffalo, must be 200 or more, great the pressure is on we weave in and out of the little river view points then there are 5 cars all parked as we approached way in the distance there were mom and 5 cubs (lions) i quickly gave my binos to Colin (my Client) and he managed to see the last two, then he said " NO that doesn't count so far away" um oh well i said if we don't see any others they will have too you did see them.
We drove for 2 more hours and i found a pair of Kori Bustards, a large croc and a scull, finally we went round a turn a hello 3 Elephant right on the road " YEA" we cross back over the Sabi river close to Lower Sabi Camp and wow 10+ hippos just there out the water really close. Then across the road from Lower Sabi camp there is a water hole filled with Hippos, crocks Maribu stalk's, yellow billed stalks, all chasing frogs.
It is now after 1pm and we have to be out the park at 5:30pm so we make are way back we pass lots of Elephant, buffalo, impala Kudu, Giraffe and get to Skakuza around 2:30pm ish .
Now i decided to make our way to the Paul Kruger gate in case we run out of time well at 3:45 we are at the gate and i said na lets make our way back to Numbi so we went along the sunset road
ten minuets into the road we stop for Elephant and a guy and his wife ask what we've seen they have only had a lion next to their car and now these Elephant, so we told them what we saw and they asked where we suggest they go as they will be back tomorrow, so after we left them we drive through a dry river bed and Colin says calmly "WHATS THAT" so i look and said its a F&*%*#@ Leopard and gone that was that no time for pic but a leopard none the less its now 4:15pm and we still have 43 km of gravel to do, very excited that he saw it first, turned around to me and said " well i guess the lions will count now "
We drove on for about 10 min when we saw 2 cars in front looking at Elephant when the one Eleie turned and gave a mock charge wow that Landy pulled away so fast, any way making are way to the gate following the landy 8kms from Numbi gate we both slammed on anchors he came back and said did you see it we both said yes
Another Leopard
Backwards forwards finally a not so great a shot but there she was, about 20 min later the landy pulled of we moved in and waited to get the shot, with 10 min to spare we got the shot she got up and moved deeper into the bush, now we have 15min to get to the gate tuff I have the photo and Colin the experience
Kruger done and dusted Big 5 and more
Well all that excitement and now we leave for Swaziland tomorrow then on to Hlehluwe and St Lucia,
Due to the cold weather and thick fog we both decided the game viewing truck was not going to be fun, and the fact we are in a mini van we still have the height advantage as well as climate control.
so we had breakfast at the hotel and drove to the park getting to the gate just after 7:45
As we started the game drive i noticed a few tracks of Lion, Leopard and Rhino so i spoke about the tracks and after about hour we had seen Impala, Kudu, Steenbok, Hippos, WaterBuck an Awesome sighting of a Ground Horn bill, then a little later we came across some Elephant and a pair of Buffalo with 4 calf's.
Around 11:00 am we arrived at Skakuza camp , used the rest rooms got some cold drinks and a bite to eat and we were back on the road with in 20 min.
So by now we had seen 3 of the five but no cats, so i decided to take a chance along the Sabi river , hoping to find some cats in the river bed, as we set of we found a heard of Buffalo, must be 200 or more, great the pressure is on we weave in and out of the little river view points then there are 5 cars all parked as we approached way in the distance there were mom and 5 cubs (lions) i quickly gave my binos to Colin (my Client) and he managed to see the last two, then he said " NO that doesn't count so far away" um oh well i said if we don't see any others they will have too you did see them.
We drove for 2 more hours and i found a pair of Kori Bustards, a large croc and a scull, finally we went round a turn a hello 3 Elephant right on the road " YEA" we cross back over the Sabi river close to Lower Sabi Camp and wow 10+ hippos just there out the water really close. Then across the road from Lower Sabi camp there is a water hole filled with Hippos, crocks Maribu stalk's, yellow billed stalks, all chasing frogs.
It is now after 1pm and we have to be out the park at 5:30pm so we make are way back we pass lots of Elephant, buffalo, impala Kudu, Giraffe and get to Skakuza around 2:30pm ish .
Now i decided to make our way to the Paul Kruger gate in case we run out of time well at 3:45 we are at the gate and i said na lets make our way back to Numbi so we went along the sunset road
ten minuets into the road we stop for Elephant and a guy and his wife ask what we've seen they have only had a lion next to their car and now these Elephant, so we told them what we saw and they asked where we suggest they go as they will be back tomorrow, so after we left them we drive through a dry river bed and Colin says calmly "WHATS THAT" so i look and said its a F&*%*#@ Leopard and gone that was that no time for pic but a leopard none the less its now 4:15pm and we still have 43 km of gravel to do, very excited that he saw it first, turned around to me and said " well i guess the lions will count now "
We drove on for about 10 min when we saw 2 cars in front looking at Elephant when the one Eleie turned and gave a mock charge wow that Landy pulled away so fast, any way making are way to the gate following the landy 8kms from Numbi gate we both slammed on anchors he came back and said did you see it we both said yes
Another Leopard
Backwards forwards finally a not so great a shot but there she was, about 20 min later the landy pulled of we moved in and waited to get the shot, with 10 min to spare we got the shot she got up and moved deeper into the bush, now we have 15min to get to the gate tuff I have the photo and Colin the experience
Kruger done and dusted Big 5 and more
Well all that excitement and now we leave for Swaziland tomorrow then on to Hlehluwe and St Lucia,
Monday, 16 July 2012
day 2
Well so far so good
on our way in to Pretoria we saw some Zebra and Giraffe,
today we saw 3 Rhino , a small heard of Buffalo and we haven't even entered the Kruger Park yet, So Colin is very happy
Tomorrow Morning we enter the park, as we are only two and have a mini van we are driving it in the mini van and wont have to freeze in the 3 deg that is for casted, in the open van
So pleeeeeeeze hold thumbs we get to see all.
well thats all for now stay close
on our way in to Pretoria we saw some Zebra and Giraffe,
today we saw 3 Rhino , a small heard of Buffalo and we haven't even entered the Kruger Park yet, So Colin is very happy
Tomorrow Morning we enter the park, as we are only two and have a mini van we are driving it in the mini van and wont have to freeze in the 3 deg that is for casted, in the open van
So pleeeeeeeze hold thumbs we get to see all.
well thats all for now stay close
Saturday, 14 July 2012
Flight To JHB
Well here it goes the start to a new adventure
Wow what a way to start arrived at the East London air port and there stands Arch Bishop TUTU
so what a great opportunity to grab a photo for my blog ( see attached )
flew over the Drakensberg all white with snow
Wow JHB is freezing Brrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!
so this trip i will be driving and guiding got to the depot picked up the vehicle arrived at the Road lodge
tomorrow we start stay close
Wow what a way to start arrived at the East London air port and there stands Arch Bishop TUTU
so what a great opportunity to grab a photo for my blog ( see attached )
flew over the Drakensberg all white with snow
Wow JHB is freezing Brrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!
so this trip i will be driving and guiding got to the depot picked up the vehicle arrived at the Road lodge
tomorrow we start stay close
Tuesday, 10 July 2012
A trip this week end
well folks Ive picked a trip for this weekend till the 28th July, it is a 14 day trip with Private Safaris but only one person, so a whole new adventure will soon start so stay close
Wednesday, 20 June 2012
Of to Cape Town
Well we are of to Cape Town, Chase,my son, has made the Provencal side for Field hockey,which is played by both sexes in South Africa, makes me very happy, it has done him a world of good.
just his own confidence in school and his game.
Yesterday he played a school match against another school and he scored the second of three goals scored, the previous match he scored 2 of 8.
so i will let you all know how he does next week in Cape Town
just his own confidence in school and his game.
Yesterday he played a school match against another school and he scored the second of three goals scored, the previous match he scored 2 of 8.
so i will let you all know how he does next week in Cape Town
Wednesday, 30 May 2012
Home Sweet Home
Well here i am back home and this time it looks like for at least 3 months.
I got home on Saturday morning and gave Chase his new Surf board, but he so full of flu at the moment he can only look at it.
On Sunday Chase went to Kingwilliams town for final Boarder field hockey trials, and he is in, CONGRATULATIONS my boy well done.
Well me all I am going to do is rest and try get some diving in hope fully the sea will play and clean up.
Winter is definitely here very cold in the morning, warmish during the day and freezing at night.
If any thing happens whilst I am home I will post, stay close I am around.
I got home on Saturday morning and gave Chase his new Surf board, but he so full of flu at the moment he can only look at it.
On Sunday Chase went to Kingwilliams town for final Boarder field hockey trials, and he is in, CONGRATULATIONS my boy well done.
Well me all I am going to do is rest and try get some diving in hope fully the sea will play and clean up.
Winter is definitely here very cold in the morning, warmish during the day and freezing at night.
If any thing happens whilst I am home I will post, stay close I am around.
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
Oudtshoorn to Cape town
Well Knysna was a late arrival so not much was seen by guests but we had a good day.
all ate at JJ's those of you who have been will know how awesome it is there,
The Ostriches in Oudsthoorn were out in the cold but sunny weather and the caves well they are caves
wow it got cold i paced my room til around 9pm then decided to have a hot bath and jump straight in to bed, well that was great till the morning when i had to get up wow brrrrrrrrrrrr, We left at 8 got to Barrydale around 10 and pulled into CapeTown at 2pm, sadly the mountain was completely socked in.
Tomorrow cape point , then Friday wine lands and farewell dinner then Saturday I am home.
Now i just need to wait for next Adventure to start, currently only in September.
all ate at JJ's those of you who have been will know how awesome it is there,
The Ostriches in Oudsthoorn were out in the cold but sunny weather and the caves well they are caves
wow it got cold i paced my room til around 9pm then decided to have a hot bath and jump straight in to bed, well that was great till the morning when i had to get up wow brrrrrrrrrrrr, We left at 8 got to Barrydale around 10 and pulled into CapeTown at 2pm, sadly the mountain was completely socked in.
Tomorrow cape point , then Friday wine lands and farewell dinner then Saturday I am home.
Now i just need to wait for next Adventure to start, currently only in September.
Sunday, 20 May 2012
Hlehluwe - Durban
Well the boarder post was easy and no trouble, Its always a concern as I have had problems in the past, St Lucia was a great stay fresh fish, and awesome beaches and people.
the boat cruise was good got close to some hippos and 2 crocks we also got really close to a fish eagle.
Hlehluwe was a little quieter than the last visit in Feb but got some lovely sightings.
the drive down to Durban was awesome I all ways love this stretch as it is like coming home the lovely warm water clean air and this time thanks to the taxi strike the roads were clear driving around the city was so easy.
We went to the Durban botanical gardens and were welcomed with a flock of white Pelicans taking of was really pretty.
Today is a day of rest and I got to walk around the Gateway mall, wow, I am all ways taken with this place.
Tomorrow we leave to fly to PE and on to Knysna, I hear the weather is very cold and wet not looking forward to that but it is that time of the year down there.
the boat cruise was good got close to some hippos and 2 crocks we also got really close to a fish eagle.
Hlehluwe was a little quieter than the last visit in Feb but got some lovely sightings.
the drive down to Durban was awesome I all ways love this stretch as it is like coming home the lovely warm water clean air and this time thanks to the taxi strike the roads were clear driving around the city was so easy.
We went to the Durban botanical gardens and were welcomed with a flock of white Pelicans taking of was really pretty.
Today is a day of rest and I got to walk around the Gateway mall, wow, I am all ways taken with this place.
Tomorrow we leave to fly to PE and on to Knysna, I hear the weather is very cold and wet not looking forward to that but it is that time of the year down there.
Thursday, 17 May 2012
Swaziland over
Well we did the Kruger at 6:00 am and the guests where rewarded with some nice encounters, a white rhino approached the vehicle for some great shots, a smallish heard of Elephant with lots of smallies, Giraffe and Zebra. Due to burning in large areas not many buck and no Cats where seen, we still have Hlehluwe. Swaziland was an easy visit, we had drinks in the bar till they decided to bring in a DJ who only new one volume setting so all had an early dinner which was great. Sadly the Disco attracted all sorts from the area and around 4am drunk people started screaming down the hall ways trying all doors, eventually the security came and that ended up in a struggle.
Arriving back in South Africa was great to be in Northern Natal love this warm weather.
Tomorrow we are on a boat cruise then into Hlehluwe lets hope for some great sightings.
Arriving back in South Africa was great to be in Northern Natal love this warm weather.
Tomorrow we are on a boat cruise then into Hlehluwe lets hope for some great sightings.
Sunday, 13 May 2012
Day one KUONI
Well all went well at the airport this morning no lost bags or complaints
on to Pretoria and surroundings. Had a small group talk and all seem ready to travel.
Only 7 on tour group photo is on. Tonight welcome dinner at Moyo and then tomorrow we are of to Mpumalanga.
on to Pretoria and surroundings. Had a small group talk and all seem ready to travel.
Only 7 on tour group photo is on. Tonight welcome dinner at Moyo and then tomorrow we are of to Mpumalanga.
Saturday, 12 May 2012
New Trip Kuoni
Well well
4 days home and I'm back on the road, I'm not complaining but looks like work might be on the in crease.
I was given this trip on Wednesday morning and flew to Johannesburg this afternoon, I meet the guests at 07h00 at the airport tomorrow 7 peeps.and we will be overnighting in Pretoria, then of to Mpumalanga (Kruger park) for one day slowly making our way down to Cape town a quick 14 day trip.
So stay close see what happens and what we encounter as we will be in Hlehluwe the oldest park in South Africa half way through. hopefully some more good photos to follow.
4 days home and I'm back on the road, I'm not complaining but looks like work might be on the in crease.
I was given this trip on Wednesday morning and flew to Johannesburg this afternoon, I meet the guests at 07h00 at the airport tomorrow 7 peeps.and we will be overnighting in Pretoria, then of to Mpumalanga (Kruger park) for one day slowly making our way down to Cape town a quick 14 day trip.
So stay close see what happens and what we encounter as we will be in Hlehluwe the oldest park in South Africa half way through. hopefully some more good photos to follow.
Friday, 4 May 2012
Victoria falls
Wow am i happy to be here out of Cape town cold and wet into this wonderful 30+ deg weather
yesterday we did the falls and wow there is loads of water all got soaked again but enjoyed it
to day was market day hot and confusing but all had fun.
tomorrow the group go to Chobe and Sunday we fly home.
hope you all have enjoyed following i will enter blogs from time to time till the next adventure comes along
yesterday we did the falls and wow there is loads of water all got soaked again but enjoyed it
to day was market day hot and confusing but all had fun.
tomorrow the group go to Chobe and Sunday we fly home.
hope you all have enjoyed following i will enter blogs from time to time till the next adventure comes along
Sunday, 29 April 2012
Knysna- Oudtshoorn to Cape town
Well we had a good drive down to Knysna via J-Bay
the trip to Oudtshoorn was the usual until we got to the ostrich farm and a German couple approached me and said "Jason" so i looked at my name badge and said "yes that's me" so the son said "yes , we know we were on tour with you 12 years ago" GULP then they told their guide, that they were with me on a half day Cape point and wine tour with Springbok Atlas 12 years ago
Wow i was shocked then they said that I haven't changed a bit just my hair is shorter.
so i took a photo and have posted it on the blog.
Then we met in Knysna at the Feather bed reserve.
Today was the trip to Cape Town but did not make the mountain, so I hope we can get it soon.
the trip to Oudtshoorn was the usual until we got to the ostrich farm and a German couple approached me and said "Jason" so i looked at my name badge and said "yes that's me" so the son said "yes , we know we were on tour with you 12 years ago" GULP then they told their guide, that they were with me on a half day Cape point and wine tour with Springbok Atlas 12 years ago
Wow i was shocked then they said that I haven't changed a bit just my hair is shorter.
so i took a photo and have posted it on the blog.
Then we met in Knysna at the Feather bed reserve.
Today was the trip to Cape Town but did not make the mountain, so I hope we can get it soon.
Wednesday, 25 April 2012
Addo
Well what a day
we started the safari and drove down to Harpoor and saw nothing but a dead Zebra then along the gravel road to Rooi dam saw a few Elephant but far away, most started to get despondent, then i suggested to head back to Harpoor Dam and Oh yes 15 Elephant, thank you, then we turned the bus around and just before we got to the gate across the train line on the other side of the road, still Addo, but not were we can go there were two heard of Elephant of over 30 in each, wow it was great.
I could not believe how many Kudu we saw today loads.
We also found a large Leopard tortoise,and 4 Secretary birds, ans well as a Bat eared fox.
i think in total we must have seen more than 100 Elephant and two right along side the bus.
Tomorrow we head to Knysna passing J-bay
we started the safari and drove down to Harpoor and saw nothing but a dead Zebra then along the gravel road to Rooi dam saw a few Elephant but far away, most started to get despondent, then i suggested to head back to Harpoor Dam and Oh yes 15 Elephant, thank you, then we turned the bus around and just before we got to the gate across the train line on the other side of the road, still Addo, but not were we can go there were two heard of Elephant of over 30 in each, wow it was great.
I could not believe how many Kudu we saw today loads.
We also found a large Leopard tortoise,and 4 Secretary birds, ans well as a Bat eared fox.
i think in total we must have seen more than 100 Elephant and two right along side the bus.
Tomorrow we head to Knysna passing J-bay
Tuesday, 24 April 2012
Arrived in PE
Well Swaziland and Zululand are done and dusted and all seem to have enjoyed the scenery, weather was cold and rainy, but the zulu dancing warmed all up.
Tomorrow we are of to Addo Elephant park, I hope to find a big heard of Elephant so it will be worth while, then we are of to J-bay and on to Knysna. I have one guy From Honoloulo Hawaii, so i hope he will enjoy J-bay.
Tomorrow we are of to Addo Elephant park, I hope to find a big heard of Elephant so it will be worth while, then we are of to J-bay and on to Knysna. I have one guy From Honoloulo Hawaii, so i hope he will enjoy J-bay.
Thursday, 19 April 2012
Day 4 done and wow
Well JHB and Pretoria is behind us and the long drive via the panoramic route took for ever for some reason we only checked in just after 7pm and we were all tired.
We sat down to dinner at 7;30 and all knew we had an early start the next day,
05:00 we were all up ready to go for Kruger Park, we were welcomed with the moon rising, and an awesome sunrise.
We got to the Numbi gate and were welcomed by the Hylton Ross rangers, we were barely off and a call came through of lion just round the corner, we quickly stopped to see a water buck and then sped of to the location of the lions and gone, no wait there they are mom and two cubs playing with a fire hose, who knows were that came from, then we turned around and drove for about 20 minuets and HELLO a male Leopard walking down the street 4 game drive vehicles following it an d it was not concerned at all WOW WOW WOW I cant tell you how awesome it was to be this close and for so long next to this amazing cat, I had to take all the photos on my phone as the camera died , but still wow, then we drove for half an hour and HELLO a ale lion also on the street.
down to breakfast and restarted the drive about an hour in to the drive an awesome Giraffe walked right passed the van to show us how tall he really is WOW it was great, sadly no close elephant no Buffalo or for the first time no Rhino (i hate poachers)
but all in all what a first day
We sat down to dinner at 7;30 and all knew we had an early start the next day,
05:00 we were all up ready to go for Kruger Park, we were welcomed with the moon rising, and an awesome sunrise.
We got to the Numbi gate and were welcomed by the Hylton Ross rangers, we were barely off and a call came through of lion just round the corner, we quickly stopped to see a water buck and then sped of to the location of the lions and gone, no wait there they are mom and two cubs playing with a fire hose, who knows were that came from, then we turned around and drove for about 20 minuets and HELLO a male Leopard walking down the street 4 game drive vehicles following it an d it was not concerned at all WOW WOW WOW I cant tell you how awesome it was to be this close and for so long next to this amazing cat, I had to take all the photos on my phone as the camera died , but still wow, then we drove for half an hour and HELLO a ale lion also on the street.
down to breakfast and restarted the drive about an hour in to the drive an awesome Giraffe walked right passed the van to show us how tall he really is WOW it was great, sadly no close elephant no Buffalo or for the first time no Rhino (i hate poachers)
but all in all what a first day
Tuesday, 17 April 2012
Day one over
Well got all in and have done Soweto
with one or two slight gremlins along the way all seems good.
this trip a little different as all the men are from the Class of 58 Princeton.
and their wives and some widows.
today we do the Apartheid museum and Pretoria.
Will be back after first Kruger day.
with one or two slight gremlins along the way all seems good.
this trip a little different as all the men are from the Class of 58 Princeton.
and their wives and some widows.
today we do the Apartheid museum and Pretoria.
Will be back after first Kruger day.
Tuesday, 10 April 2012
Thanks
Hi there all
WOW thanks everyone who sent in their evaluations it has pushed me right to the top
it is always great to hear that people enjoyed them selves.
thanks to all i have a new date and start on April 15th, so to all who follow my adventures stay close its about to start again.
this time i will add more photos
WOW thanks everyone who sent in their evaluations it has pushed me right to the top
it is always great to hear that people enjoyed them selves.
thanks to all i have a new date and start on April 15th, so to all who follow my adventures stay close its about to start again.
this time i will add more photos
Friday, 23 March 2012
Jason Mair's African Adventures: Victoria falls
Jason Mair's African Adventures: Victoria falls: Well we are in Zimbabwe and a few suit cases have been broken into The falls are really full and awesome everyone got soaked with the mist ...
Victoria falls
Well we are in Zimbabwe and a few suit cases have been broken into
The falls are really full and awesome everyone got soaked with the mist
today we visited the market, and some vntured on Elephant ride, some on Helicopter flips
and some on sunset cruise, all were happy a few even went for high tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel and were happy. so a good day had by all
tomorrow we head to Chobe cant wait really enjoy that park.
The falls are really full and awesome everyone got soaked with the mist
today we visited the market, and some vntured on Elephant ride, some on Helicopter flips
and some on sunset cruise, all were happy a few even went for high tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel and were happy. so a good day had by all
tomorrow we head to Chobe cant wait really enjoy that park.
Monday, 19 March 2012
In Cape Town
Well Addo was great we saw a lot of Elephant and loads of Zebra, all were very happy with the day.
the trip to Knysna went smooth and ended up with lots of rain, we drove to Oudtshoorn it rained all day
the next day we were supposed to go to Feather bed for a hike but more than 86mm of rain fell so we ended up on the paddle cruiser for lunch. A sad substitute but it went well
the drive to Cape Town was a good day we even got to the top of Table mountain and had an awesome sunset,
the next morning we did a city tour and a nice walk as well, the afternoon some embarked on a township tour and saw up close the shanty town
this evening they are all out at the home hosted dinner
then tomorrow we are of to cape point.
I will do another post before Thursday as we are of to Vic falls
Sadly no new photos as i have loaned my camera out.
the trip to Knysna went smooth and ended up with lots of rain, we drove to Oudtshoorn it rained all day
the next day we were supposed to go to Feather bed for a hike but more than 86mm of rain fell so we ended up on the paddle cruiser for lunch. A sad substitute but it went well
the drive to Cape Town was a good day we even got to the top of Table mountain and had an awesome sunset,
the next morning we did a city tour and a nice walk as well, the afternoon some embarked on a township tour and saw up close the shanty town
this evening they are all out at the home hosted dinner
then tomorrow we are of to cape point.
I will do another post before Thursday as we are of to Vic falls
Sadly no new photos as i have loaned my camera out.
Tuesday, 13 March 2012
arrived in Port Elizabeth
well Swaziland was fun we went to a market and purchased a whole load of goodies and took it to a non government support day care centre and everyone got involved with washing fruit chopping veggies and singing with the aids orphans, a day most will remember.
The drive to Swaziland was a good landscape sight seeing trip we stopped in a small town called Vryheid were i was at school 31 years ago, so while all were eating lunch I took a run to visit my old school found my class teacher , who is now the principal and she knew who I was, that was an awesome encounter for me, when all boarded the coach again I told them the story.
Shakaland
well as all ways this place always impresses the guests and yes it did again.
The flight to PE was a little late but smooth flying, unfortunately the driver of the bus did not cool the bus down before and when we got in the bus only started the AC, it was too hot and all were unhappy saddly a bad way to end the day, so i decided to do the city tour on the way out on thursday.
all are of on their own tonight to explore the beach front
Addo Elephant park tomorrow then we are of to Knsyna.
The drive to Swaziland was a good landscape sight seeing trip we stopped in a small town called Vryheid were i was at school 31 years ago, so while all were eating lunch I took a run to visit my old school found my class teacher , who is now the principal and she knew who I was, that was an awesome encounter for me, when all boarded the coach again I told them the story.
Shakaland
well as all ways this place always impresses the guests and yes it did again.
The flight to PE was a little late but smooth flying, unfortunately the driver of the bus did not cool the bus down before and when we got in the bus only started the AC, it was too hot and all were unhappy saddly a bad way to end the day, so i decided to do the city tour on the way out on thursday.
all are of on their own tonight to explore the beach front
Addo Elephant park tomorrow then we are of to Knsyna.
Saturday, 10 March 2012
kruger
Well finally i have found strong signal
Johannesburg, Soweto tour went OK I'm not used to having a guide on the bus with me, all i can say OK.
Welcome speech went of well and the dinner was good
Pretoria was an optional tour and all but 3 went was pretty successfully
The journey to Mpumalanga was great, i am amazed the difference a coach makes compared to a small bus its quicker , uses less fuel and comfortable
We almost had a great L&D we met with the mine workers union that were protesting but also very well oiled, i asked if are group could join them, they said sure as we got to be with them they climbed in their buses and left in a hurry. Bummer it would have been great.
Any way
Kruger park day 1
we got to the gate at 6am and boarded the open safari trucks and of they sped in to the park screams of Cheetah every one racing to find it (photo on blog )only one van saw it before it got upset and walked of into the long grass and nobody else saw it, then the next call was wild dog, wow this Will be my first in 10 years in Kruger, vroooom of we go finally all 4 trucks see the wild dogs 5 of them I stoaked.
We get to Skakuza a rest camp in Kruger for breakfast, then we are of and the hunt is on again, man I have never seen the park this quiet before just before lunch we hear on the radio there are lions close to where we are vrooom there are at least 15 cars on the bridge a woman says they walked passed but she cant see them any more i look through my binoculars and yes mom and 4 cubs but nobody could see them, so we get another call there are lions 15 minuets away on a river bed 50m away from the road, yes vrooom of we go and yeha their they lie all to see. back to lunch at Skakuza and the 3 other vans didn't find any lions. OUCH
after a 2 hr dive we got back to the bus we saw some elephant and a Rhino but all were tired and hot
Kruger day 2
8 chose to go on the open jeeps again the rest on the bus with AC, (now i am talking from the buses viewing and will give the feed back of the jeep after words)
We drove for about 45 min and saw nothing someone said even an impala would be exciting , then we round a corner and a beautiful bull Elephant big, then we saw a herd of Buffalo at least 200 I tell the group normally there are always lions close to a hear this size as it is a good meal, and bang Pat Cox spots a lion the jeep with e eight come in battle to see the lions and they are gone, we stay around and out they come in the open stalking the Buffalo 5 big males wow, just to far for a good photo on my camera, but what a sighting, a little further and a rhino 4 of the five in a short period of time, we go to Skakusa for breakfast and turn the bus around and head to Afsal on the road back we had just crossed the bridge 45min ago 5 more lion 2 males and 3 females awesome very close all got photos.
On the way back to the gate was event full but cant talk about that.
The 8 in the jeep saw 2 lions close and a Hyena and more wild dogs and were very happy with their sightings
Swaziland
well today was a great and easy day to cross the boarder no problems
we had lunch at the Glass factory a bit of a wait for lunch but all got what they ordered and at 1500 we arrived at the hotel the Mountain Inn
That's where we are at the moment
Johannesburg, Soweto tour went OK I'm not used to having a guide on the bus with me, all i can say OK.
Welcome speech went of well and the dinner was good
Pretoria was an optional tour and all but 3 went was pretty successfully
The journey to Mpumalanga was great, i am amazed the difference a coach makes compared to a small bus its quicker , uses less fuel and comfortable
We almost had a great L&D we met with the mine workers union that were protesting but also very well oiled, i asked if are group could join them, they said sure as we got to be with them they climbed in their buses and left in a hurry. Bummer it would have been great.
Any way
Kruger park day 1
we got to the gate at 6am and boarded the open safari trucks and of they sped in to the park screams of Cheetah every one racing to find it (photo on blog )only one van saw it before it got upset and walked of into the long grass and nobody else saw it, then the next call was wild dog, wow this Will be my first in 10 years in Kruger, vroooom of we go finally all 4 trucks see the wild dogs 5 of them I stoaked.
We get to Skakuza a rest camp in Kruger for breakfast, then we are of and the hunt is on again, man I have never seen the park this quiet before just before lunch we hear on the radio there are lions close to where we are vrooom there are at least 15 cars on the bridge a woman says they walked passed but she cant see them any more i look through my binoculars and yes mom and 4 cubs but nobody could see them, so we get another call there are lions 15 minuets away on a river bed 50m away from the road, yes vrooom of we go and yeha their they lie all to see. back to lunch at Skakuza and the 3 other vans didn't find any lions. OUCH
after a 2 hr dive we got back to the bus we saw some elephant and a Rhino but all were tired and hot
Kruger day 2
8 chose to go on the open jeeps again the rest on the bus with AC, (now i am talking from the buses viewing and will give the feed back of the jeep after words)
We drove for about 45 min and saw nothing someone said even an impala would be exciting , then we round a corner and a beautiful bull Elephant big, then we saw a herd of Buffalo at least 200 I tell the group normally there are always lions close to a hear this size as it is a good meal, and bang Pat Cox spots a lion the jeep with e eight come in battle to see the lions and they are gone, we stay around and out they come in the open stalking the Buffalo 5 big males wow, just to far for a good photo on my camera, but what a sighting, a little further and a rhino 4 of the five in a short period of time, we go to Skakusa for breakfast and turn the bus around and head to Afsal on the road back we had just crossed the bridge 45min ago 5 more lion 2 males and 3 females awesome very close all got photos.
On the way back to the gate was event full but cant talk about that.
The 8 in the jeep saw 2 lions close and a Hyena and more wild dogs and were very happy with their sightings
Swaziland
well today was a great and easy day to cross the boarder no problems
we had lunch at the Glass factory a bit of a wait for lunch but all got what they ordered and at 1500 we arrived at the hotel the Mountain Inn
That's where we are at the moment
Sunday, 4 March 2012
Entabeni done
Wow, again what a place
maybe a little to long as we saw most everything by end of day two
but a great way to start a trip.
yesterdays lion encounter was really something, after we found the mom and 4 cubs we started to drive out and i spotted the male, we followed him until we got to a water hole where he drank and then let out a few massive raws echoing of the mountain, you could feel it it was great.
dinner was also nice although we got there a tad late an all were tired some managed to stay up and listen to the drumming and singing.
The trip back to JHB was all good till we hit the out skirts and sat in a traffic jam for one and a half hours.
The Wanderers hotel situated right next door to the cricket field and Wanderers club very nice.
Now just waiting for rest of group to arrive
maybe a little to long as we saw most everything by end of day two
but a great way to start a trip.
yesterdays lion encounter was really something, after we found the mom and 4 cubs we started to drive out and i spotted the male, we followed him until we got to a water hole where he drank and then let out a few massive raws echoing of the mountain, you could feel it it was great.
dinner was also nice although we got there a tad late an all were tired some managed to stay up and listen to the drumming and singing.
The trip back to JHB was all good till we hit the out skirts and sat in a traffic jam for one and a half hours.
The Wanderers hotel situated right next door to the cricket field and Wanderers club very nice.
Now just waiting for rest of group to arrive
Friday, 2 March 2012
Pre trip
Well here we are at Entabeni, wow what a beautiful place
The mountain out crop is just spectacular, photo on blog.
last night game dive we saw loads of different antelope species and white Rhino,
then had a great out in the bush dinner.
This morning we went to a different section of the park saw some great birds and found two awesome lions, the males photo is on the blog.
it is truly beautiful up here in the Waterberg of Limpopo.
The mountain out crop is just spectacular, photo on blog.
last night game dive we saw loads of different antelope species and white Rhino,
then had a great out in the bush dinner.
This morning we went to a different section of the park saw some great birds and found two awesome lions, the males photo is on the blog.
it is truly beautiful up here in the Waterberg of Limpopo.
Thursday, 1 March 2012
Pre trip starts today
well we are of to Limpopo province the northern most province of South Africa
the start of the Grand circle tour Highlights of South Africa
this is a 25 day trip, there are 13 on the pre trip, 34 on the base trip, and 20 on the post going to Victoria Falls, i will be adding blogs and photos as we go along so stay close and see what we see.
the start of the Grand circle tour Highlights of South Africa
this is a 25 day trip, there are 13 on the pre trip, 34 on the base trip, and 20 on the post going to Victoria Falls, i will be adding blogs and photos as we go along so stay close and see what we see.
Wednesday, 29 February 2012
end and start
Well the last days of the Kuoni
PE to Cape Town
Well we were met by the new bus driver and of we set towards Knysna. We got to Storms river mouth and set on a short walk to the suspension bridge, it was a great walk to stretch the legs and see some new scenery, the only thing that spoilt the whole day was the one and half hour wait for lunch, which in turn made the day late, we then visited Monkey land and the birds of Eden, by passed Plettenberg bay and on to Knysna, smooth check in and a great meal had by all at JJ’s.
Oudshoorn
We visited Safari ostrich farm and finally convinced two of the group to sit on a bird, then off to the Cango caves for an hour walk through the great formations, then on to Hlangana, our hotel for the night, all claimed the best accommodation on the trip,
We then ventured along the R62, South Africa’s version of the R66. Stopped in at the well-known Ronnie’s Sex Shop, an area that bikers have started to use, and leave their mark by leaving girls underwear hanging from the bar.
Then we drove on and had lunch in Ashton at the old train station, that is being converted into a wine shop, with a small restaurant and a brick and brack sales area. The chicken salad was really good.
On to Cape Town via the Huguenot tunnel it was raining and very windy around Worcester, so we opted to through instead of over. Cape Town here we are.
Cape Town
This morning we were welcomed with bright sun shine so 8am we left the hotels and raced up Table Mountain all were very happy as we came down the queue was very long and at least an hour and a half wait. Then we went on down to the Cape of Good Hope and on to Simons Town, visiting the Penguin colony and on to the town were we had lunch at the Salty Sea dog , thanks Debbie, as usual the fish was really good. Next morning we went to the wine country and visited Franschoek and Stellenbosch with a final vist to Kannon Kop wine estate, NICE very nice all were happy. Fare well dinner, thanks all hope your travels home were safe and on time
The end of this trip
Good news I have a Grand Circle Trip starts on Wednesday the 29th Feb 25 days with 33 guests thank you. Stay close new places and faces
Saturday, 18 February 2012
St lucia and Hluhluwe and on to Durban
Well we embarked the boat on the estuary of St Lucia and we got nice and close to hippos and lots of them and even got a great shot of a fish eagle. it was great.
In the afternoon after the lunch stop we went to Hluhluwe National Park and wow we were rewarded
with a massive heard of Buffalo then got Elephant right up against the vehicle then found some Zebra with Blue Wilde beast and got some nice close sightings of Rhino.
Durban
well we were blessed with a bit of rain on the way in to Durban and it lifted as we got out the bus visited the spice market and went to Ushaka for a lunch stop, all enjoyed
now at the hotel in Umhlanga what a great few days we've had, the humidity is high.
In the afternoon after the lunch stop we went to Hluhluwe National Park and wow we were rewarded
with a massive heard of Buffalo then got Elephant right up against the vehicle then found some Zebra with Blue Wilde beast and got some nice close sightings of Rhino.
Durban
well we were blessed with a bit of rain on the way in to Durban and it lifted as we got out the bus visited the spice market and went to Ushaka for a lunch stop, all enjoyed
now at the hotel in Umhlanga what a great few days we've had, the humidity is high.
Thursday, 16 February 2012
New company
Well here we are with Kuoni, Private Safaris, and a new venture.
Well day one started of with three different landing times from London,
Finally after starting at 530 am I got the last peeps at 0900 then of to Pretoria we went, and all went well two different hotel check ins but an way, the we had a welcome dinner at Moyo just outside Pretoria, Awesome, really great food the clients got their face painted all was fun.
Day two
a long day we drove from Pretoria via the Blyde canyon all the way to White river, Wow what a long haul, and hot got to the hotel just after 630pm.
Day three Kruger Park
Well the riots are on no access to Numbi gate so we have to drive An hour back so wakeup call 415am, got to the gate just after 500am,fantastic everyone is now very excited and we are of in the jeep. First thing we see is a , No wait for it , a Duiker then yes your rite Impala, we drive for about an hour then the ranger slams on breaks and we have two Leopard not close enough for photos but all can see, YES thank you.
Then a pair of Elephant at a water hole decided it is time to take a bath wow what a great sighting. Now it’s time for breakfast so we go to Skacuza and all sit down and enjoy a light meal, and back on the road we go an hour later one Giraffe then 3, great we are on a roll 2hrs go by and finally an Elephant 15 min later in 33 deg heat a Rhino, lunch stop at Pretorias kop its now 230pm we find another Rhino and just before 4 we get a dazzle o Zebra, not a great viewing day but all enjoyed.
Day four Swaziland
Of to Jeppies reef boarder post to Swaziland a longer trip than coming out of the park but interesting, Check out of South Africa was smooth the a small visit to a Swazi cultural experience, all enjoyed just very hot. Next stop Swazi side boarder entry easy this time fantastic, Nigwe glass factory stop and lunch, very nice stuff but no one bought as worried it might break, I found an invention they have started, I think next time I will buy one, a wine cooler but with a compartment to put the ice in so it does not dilute the wine. Then we made our way to the craft market nice stuff and priced well. Hotel check in smooth just after we all were in three coaches arrive talk about timing.
Day five Swaziland to St Lucia
Wow what a hot day 38degC and 80% humidity and the busses ac decided to go on the blink. So we visited the candle factory in Swaziland not a great stop some pretty candles but expensive, Swazi boarder was easy today smooth sailing other than being uncomfortably hot all went well hotel in St Lucia is nice.
Tomorrow we do a boat trip and visit Hlehluwe I will post that and more when we get to Durban
Wednesday, 1 February 2012
New tour
well well well , I have been given a tour from Private Safaris,Thank you
I fly up on 11 feb and tour starts on 12th ends on 24th feb. i am very excited to get out there with a new company lets hope there is more to come.
finally we got some rain here to cool things down but not enough.
still no diving stay close and follow me on this trip.
I fly up on 11 feb and tour starts on 12th ends on 24th feb. i am very excited to get out there with a new company lets hope there is more to come.
finally we got some rain here to cool things down but not enough.
still no diving stay close and follow me on this trip.
Wednesday, 25 January 2012
well Jan is all most over
Well here we are half way through January, and a lot has happened around the world.
To start of the cruise liner that hit a rock, with 20 people still missing, my condolences if you have any friends or family affected.
South Africa, well where do I start, Cape Town been listed as top Murder city in the world, but that includes the Squatters and gang areas, then my worst is the poaching of Rhinos, SA parks claim more than 343 already in 2012, 2011 448 and in 2010 333, this is a sickening thought, I have posted a few gory links with Rhino poaching on face book.
Then in the southern part of South Africa is experiencing heat waves, and the northern part floods. Again links on face book too see.
Grand Circle Travel South Africa had a little get together in the beginning of the month, it was great to see all the trip leaders and to hear some of their stories, but scary to hear the resection is affecting everything. Next trip only in April but no confirmation!!!!
To all who traveled with me with OAT the last two years, thank you, I enjoyed being a part of your African experience, sharing stories and photos, many new lifelong friends were made, I hope we will stay in touch.
For all who know me and my hobbies the diving has not been good although the weather is great the wind and sea conditions have not, so no fish in fridge yet.
Being at home is great, spending time with family but now all are back at school and work, I miss being out there on the road.
I am having trouble with my bird blog, I think to many photos but hit over 200 species. But will try and play around and sort it out.
Well I have been contacted by another company and they have offered me a job for February 13 days I will keep all in the loop during and after, hold your thumbs and cross your fingers.
Monday, 2 January 2012
2012 is here in full force
Well, Well, Well here we go 2012 is here and nothing is going to stop it.
2011 was a great year for me as I met many a great people on tour and around, making new contacts and friends.
The post trip ended pretty well it was great to have such a great group of people that bonded so well. It was hard to say farewell at the airport but the saying goes “All good things come to an end”
Sadly the weather did not play the game with us but still I think all had fun.
What does 2012 hold well I can only hope equal or better than 2011.
I have been home for new year and the weather has played the game we (my family and I) we invited to friends on the 30th December for a barbecue and volley ball it was great fun, then New year’s eve we had friends around and all was great got in bed just after midnight then we had a new year’s day lunch and then went out for Pizza.
On New year’s eve my son and I were invited to go deep sea fishing we got up at 5:30 and launched at around 7:15 we were out for about 4 hours and Chase put all of us to shame and caught all the fish, Well done big boy.
The pool at home has come in good use using it every day I have finally got my summer tan back and enjoying the break with the family.
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