Today we started by sitting around the park enjoying the view and the beautiful weather, finally. Carroll, as the typical social butterfly was speaking with the neighbours and they mentioned that they had a 10 AM appointment at Storms River, 4 KM away, to go on a Zip line exsecution. Since we intended to visit Storms River anyway, we decided to check out the Zip Line while we were there. We arr at 11:30 and they had an opening for 2 persons on the 12:00 group. There is only 8 people to a group. So we paid the R900 for two and the next thing we knew , we were in the group. Unbeknown to us until we got the intinal briefing was that lunch and a drink ( non alcohol ) was included. It was quite warm in the forest so on our return to have lunch, my drink was a cold beer as you would expect.
The Zip Line had 10 sections or "runs " and the group leader was fabulous. Althought we have never been on a Zip Line before we felt real safe. Besides the pulleys that carry you there are 2 more safety lines to ensure your safety. For you folks who have never done, get off your rear and do it. If you are travelling to fast on the line they have a safety brake at the landing controlled by the "Catcher" so you will always have a "soft landing ". It was a great experience.
Well, that little experience did "while" away most of the day but our cell ran out of " airtime " so we checked on were we could get another airtime card. Your not going to believe this; of course, at the Liquor store, where else. Not being Cell phone people, we were not sure if we loaded it properly, so the clerk heard us musing about that , so she said this young guy here will check it for you and he did. It was loaded correctly.
I thought we were going back to the camp until carroll spotted a craft shop, which really means a "hawker" who happens to have a small bldg for his junk. Carroll was intersted in a carved Hippo so she " Bow Beat " the guy until she finally go it at a reduced price, but not nec a cheap price. It is made of Mahogana wood and weighs about 20 lbs, so it will cost another 50.00 for overweight on the flight home.
By this time I needed another beer so back to the camp site we go. Since we are still sweaty and hot from the Zip line we jumped into " dam cold " pool to cool off. We top off the day with a supper at the local resturaunt and the evening was cool enought to wear a sweater.
Tuesday, 29 November 2011
28 Nov Monday Addo Park to Storms River
We left Addo Nat park and traveled 350 Km to Storms River-Tsitsikamma National Park. This is one gorgerous camp site, right on the Indian Ocean within the National Park area. Every camp site has an ocean view.
Now back to the trip. Upon leaving Addo we decided to to take the long route thru the entire park which covered about 30 KM of park road which is mostly gravel, but I must say, very good gravel, actually hard pan. The speed limit in all animal parks is only 40 KMH but you have to go much slower if you intend to spot any animals so this trip probably took us 1 1/2 to 2 hours and you will find out why as this story unfolds. We had hoped to see a few Elephants since there is suppose to be 350 Elephants whom call this park as their home. There are also 9 Lions who are somewhere in the park.
During the first 10 Km we seen the usual "wild " animals such as Zebras, Warthogs, Kudus and even 3 foxes so we pretty well figured that would be it for the day. Then, as we hit the brow of a hill there were 3 or 4 cars stopped which usually means a sighting of something, even a bird or two. Then we seen the reason for the traffic tie-up, which was one huge Elephantstanding across the road , having breakfast from the roadside trees and she was in no hurry to move. Bear in mind, the roads are 16 to 18 ft wide with no shoulders and shrubs and trees right up to the roadway. So there was no way that anyone could get by. As per normal we all started snapping pics and hoped that she would move off the road. Not likely; she stood there eating for about 20 mins. and none of us had the nerve to ask her to move. Finally she move at a slight angle and one small car snug by. Then the Elephant turned and started to walk up the road, but directly in the middle so we could not get past. By this time a few more cars joined the parade and there we were all in single file, inching our way up the road behind the Elephant for about another 15 mins. Finally, she found a path off the road and took it allowing us to motor on our way.
After another 20 mins or so and just as we came over another hill we seen 7 or 8 vehicles blocking the road both ways. We could not see the problem so we got as close as possible and Carroll ask a girl, who was hanging out the window of her car snapping pics, what the holdup was. She said there are 2 male Lions right on the road Suninng themselves with no intention of moving. Now, this got our interest as Lion sightings are rare so we inched closer and started snapping a few pics. Well, maybe we snapped more than a few pics but certainly not more than a hundred. The car in front of us moved fwd which allowed us full view of the Lions. Then a few more cars joined the charades so being our MH blocks out the small cars, I moved ahead to allow others the priviledge of getting some pics. Finally the car in front of me moved on so I coasted fwd so as not to frighten the Lions. Since I have a Diesel I did not want to start it. Once I got directly in front of the Lions I wanted that last perfect shot, out the window of course. Just as i snapped the last pics the one Lion raised it's head as if to stare at me. Well, I don't want to say i was too close but I can tell you that the Lion had bad Breath.
Well, enough of this Elephant and Lion hunting, we had another 350 KM of road to cover so off we go to our next destination.
Our plan was to stop at Oster Bay for the night,; a place we selected from our trusty camping book. In the early afternoon about 30 or 40 KM from our destination we were going thru a small city/town and decided we need groceries so we stopped and did some shopping. Then we decided we were hungry and spotted a Fish and Chip takeout. Since we were close to the ocean we thought the fish would be good and it was. On our way back to the MH we spotted a pie shop so we dropped in and bought 2 pies for supper.
Now we are heading for Oster Bay and the sign says turn right but our GPS says to turn left. so we trusted our GPS for about 4 KM then we did not like the road so we stopped and called the resort. The directions sound kind of convoluted but the 25 KM of gravel road was making me nervous but he assured us it was a good road. After a few KM I realized the resort owner and I had a different definiton of Good so we did an about turn and picked out another camp ground , down the road about 50 KM which was Tsitsikamma National park and as it turns out it was the perfect choice. The park is located 4 KM from the quaint tourist town of Storms River.
We arr at the park and the receptionist ask if we wanted a view lot. Of course Carroll said yes so it cost an extra R50. The clerk gave us 5 choice and said pick one and let me know right away. We drove down to these "breath taking" sites right on the ocean, picked out a site and then drove back to the office and paid for a 2 nd night. We find it hard to believe you can get a 5 star camping spot for 25.00 cdn per night. These RV parks makes ours in Canada look like a dump.
Anyway it is now " Miller Time " for me and our neighbours have already say hello so I'm sure they will be talking to us shortly. MH are rare in ZA so naturally we do command attention.
Now back to the trip. Upon leaving Addo we decided to to take the long route thru the entire park which covered about 30 KM of park road which is mostly gravel, but I must say, very good gravel, actually hard pan. The speed limit in all animal parks is only 40 KMH but you have to go much slower if you intend to spot any animals so this trip probably took us 1 1/2 to 2 hours and you will find out why as this story unfolds. We had hoped to see a few Elephants since there is suppose to be 350 Elephants whom call this park as their home. There are also 9 Lions who are somewhere in the park.
During the first 10 Km we seen the usual "wild " animals such as Zebras, Warthogs, Kudus and even 3 foxes so we pretty well figured that would be it for the day. Then, as we hit the brow of a hill there were 3 or 4 cars stopped which usually means a sighting of something, even a bird or two. Then we seen the reason for the traffic tie-up, which was one huge Elephantstanding across the road , having breakfast from the roadside trees and she was in no hurry to move. Bear in mind, the roads are 16 to 18 ft wide with no shoulders and shrubs and trees right up to the roadway. So there was no way that anyone could get by. As per normal we all started snapping pics and hoped that she would move off the road. Not likely; she stood there eating for about 20 mins. and none of us had the nerve to ask her to move. Finally she move at a slight angle and one small car snug by. Then the Elephant turned and started to walk up the road, but directly in the middle so we could not get past. By this time a few more cars joined the parade and there we were all in single file, inching our way up the road behind the Elephant for about another 15 mins. Finally, she found a path off the road and took it allowing us to motor on our way.
After another 20 mins or so and just as we came over another hill we seen 7 or 8 vehicles blocking the road both ways. We could not see the problem so we got as close as possible and Carroll ask a girl, who was hanging out the window of her car snapping pics, what the holdup was. She said there are 2 male Lions right on the road Suninng themselves with no intention of moving. Now, this got our interest as Lion sightings are rare so we inched closer and started snapping a few pics. Well, maybe we snapped more than a few pics but certainly not more than a hundred. The car in front of us moved fwd which allowed us full view of the Lions. Then a few more cars joined the charades so being our MH blocks out the small cars, I moved ahead to allow others the priviledge of getting some pics. Finally the car in front of me moved on so I coasted fwd so as not to frighten the Lions. Since I have a Diesel I did not want to start it. Once I got directly in front of the Lions I wanted that last perfect shot, out the window of course. Just as i snapped the last pics the one Lion raised it's head as if to stare at me. Well, I don't want to say i was too close but I can tell you that the Lion had bad Breath.
Well, enough of this Elephant and Lion hunting, we had another 350 KM of road to cover so off we go to our next destination.
Our plan was to stop at Oster Bay for the night,; a place we selected from our trusty camping book. In the early afternoon about 30 or 40 KM from our destination we were going thru a small city/town and decided we need groceries so we stopped and did some shopping. Then we decided we were hungry and spotted a Fish and Chip takeout. Since we were close to the ocean we thought the fish would be good and it was. On our way back to the MH we spotted a pie shop so we dropped in and bought 2 pies for supper.
Now we are heading for Oster Bay and the sign says turn right but our GPS says to turn left. so we trusted our GPS for about 4 KM then we did not like the road so we stopped and called the resort. The directions sound kind of convoluted but the 25 KM of gravel road was making me nervous but he assured us it was a good road. After a few KM I realized the resort owner and I had a different definiton of Good so we did an about turn and picked out another camp ground , down the road about 50 KM which was Tsitsikamma National park and as it turns out it was the perfect choice. The park is located 4 KM from the quaint tourist town of Storms River.
We arr at the park and the receptionist ask if we wanted a view lot. Of course Carroll said yes so it cost an extra R50. The clerk gave us 5 choice and said pick one and let me know right away. We drove down to these "breath taking" sites right on the ocean, picked out a site and then drove back to the office and paid for a 2 nd night. We find it hard to believe you can get a 5 star camping spot for 25.00 cdn per night. These RV parks makes ours in Canada look like a dump.
Anyway it is now " Miller Time " for me and our neighbours have already say hello so I'm sure they will be talking to us shortly. MH are rare in ZA so naturally we do command attention.
27 Nov Port Elizabeth to ADDO Elephant NationalPark
Althought the Willows camp site was beantiful, Port Elizabeth ( PE ) was just anothe big city, which we did not need to stay any longer. So we decided to go to Addo Elephant park, which was about 150 KM away and not really in our path but it sounded interesting. When we awoke Sunday the day appeared to be great weather but the guy at the Filling station, where we stopped on the way out of PE said the Weather report was all wrong and with the wind blowing off the Ocean we wuld get rain and lots of it. Before we got out of the city it started to pour rain and with the exception of a few brief interludes it rained all day and most of the night.
Anyway, we motored on the National park , which we called earlier to verify a Camp site and of course the directions. ( Good road maps are not ZA strong point and there are NO mileages marked on the Maps ) . By the time arrived at the national Park ( about 1:30 ) the rain had been reduced to a drizzle so after we got our Camp site, of which there were many we ventured over to see about a Game Drive, (mostly the cost ) and there was one leaving at 5 PM for the cost of 50.00 Cdn per person. Since the vehicles are open sides , they provide rain slickers. We thought , yeh, we are going elephant hunting in the rain , freezing our ass off for 2 hours and paying 100.00 cdn. I know i was born at night, but not last night, so we declined.
Since the rain had abated somewhat, we decided to do a self drive ourself and search out the Wild Animals. We did see an Elephant, Zebras, Kudu ( antelope ) and Warthog, however, we don't really classify them as Wild animals but none the less, they are interesting to see in the wild. after our 2 to 3 hour Self Drive, we returned to camp to listen to it rain most of the evening and during the night.
However, I did have a good signal on my computer SIM card so I decided to complete the Monday to Friday Blogs that were waiting on me to get a signal.
That concludes sunday but stay tuned for Monday. We hit the Mother Lode.
Anyway, we motored on the National park , which we called earlier to verify a Camp site and of course the directions. ( Good road maps are not ZA strong point and there are NO mileages marked on the Maps ) . By the time arrived at the national Park ( about 1:30 ) the rain had been reduced to a drizzle so after we got our Camp site, of which there were many we ventured over to see about a Game Drive, (mostly the cost ) and there was one leaving at 5 PM for the cost of 50.00 Cdn per person. Since the vehicles are open sides , they provide rain slickers. We thought , yeh, we are going elephant hunting in the rain , freezing our ass off for 2 hours and paying 100.00 cdn. I know i was born at night, but not last night, so we declined.
Since the rain had abated somewhat, we decided to do a self drive ourself and search out the Wild Animals. We did see an Elephant, Zebras, Kudu ( antelope ) and Warthog, however, we don't really classify them as Wild animals but none the less, they are interesting to see in the wild. after our 2 to 3 hour Self Drive, we returned to camp to listen to it rain most of the evening and during the night.
However, I did have a good signal on my computer SIM card so I decided to complete the Monday to Friday Blogs that were waiting on me to get a signal.
That concludes sunday but stay tuned for Monday. We hit the Mother Lode.
Sunday, 27 November 2011
26 Nov Saturday Gonube to Port Elizabeth
I noticed that I said the 25 was Thurs but I'm sure you all know it is Friday
On Saturday we left Areena ( Gonube ) at 7 AM as we had a 350 Km trip to Port Elizabeth and we wanted to get there in good time to take advance of the nice weather and the beach that we knew was right on the camp site. This was one of our better trips because it was all on N2 which was partly freeway and then real good two lanes with some 8 foot should, which as I mentioned previously, becomes a 4 lane for all intent and purpose. It also allows us to average 90 KMH instead of the usual 50 or 60 KMH.
Everything went along nicely until we got close to Port Elizabeth and Carroll punched in the co-ordinates for the Willows camp site .. no match found, so she punched in the name.... no match found, so she punched in " camp sites in P. E..... no match found. Now what.. well maybe; just maybe there will be a sign. No such luck. So we do know that the camp ground is on the water, the Indian ocean to be exact, so drive thru the city to the Ocean. On a Saturday afternoon, this was not the best decision we have ever made, so we decide to find an information ( i ) booth and with luck we did, unfortenately they were closed. But we did spot a "Filling" station so I pulled in to ask direction. As I got out of the MH I spotted 4 Black attendance who I thought might help; and then I got a Flash back to 1 Nov when I ask 4 Black guys at a Filling station the best way to get out of Johannasburg and after a committee meeting they gave me the wrong directions. So I just gave they a quick wave " Hello " and went inside to the " white" clerk who gave very specific direction which lead is directly to our camp site some 30 mins away.
The camp site was not full so the clerk gave us a site with a great view of the Ocean and all the plots were grass and treed. the entire camp site is beautiful. It would make most sites in Canada look like a pig pen. The clerk original said the cost per night was R185 and then ask if I was a"Pensioner " ( they don't have Seniors in ZA ) and I said yes so she said the price is only R98.
After parking the camper we headed for the ocean for our first taste of the Indian ocean and it was great. Too bad we can't stay here longer than a day but we have to get further south to the Garden route where everyone raves about its' beauty.
After our swim and a beer, we headed back to P.E. for a look at there waterfront, which is very nice with lots of beach area.
Since it was now 7 PM we decide to stay in town for supper and we found a nice resturaunt called De Kelner. After perusing the menu we decide on ChateauBriand for two. The chef actually cook our meal right at our table which attracted the attention of most of the people in the whole place. The bill came to R400 ( 50.00 cdn ) and that included a Starter of Mushrooms and a beer for the driver. It was a good job I had a beer because I had to drive home in the dark on a narrow road.
On Saturday we left Areena ( Gonube ) at 7 AM as we had a 350 Km trip to Port Elizabeth and we wanted to get there in good time to take advance of the nice weather and the beach that we knew was right on the camp site. This was one of our better trips because it was all on N2 which was partly freeway and then real good two lanes with some 8 foot should, which as I mentioned previously, becomes a 4 lane for all intent and purpose. It also allows us to average 90 KMH instead of the usual 50 or 60 KMH.
Everything went along nicely until we got close to Port Elizabeth and Carroll punched in the co-ordinates for the Willows camp site .. no match found, so she punched in the name.... no match found, so she punched in " camp sites in P. E..... no match found. Now what.. well maybe; just maybe there will be a sign. No such luck. So we do know that the camp ground is on the water, the Indian ocean to be exact, so drive thru the city to the Ocean. On a Saturday afternoon, this was not the best decision we have ever made, so we decide to find an information ( i ) booth and with luck we did, unfortenately they were closed. But we did spot a "Filling" station so I pulled in to ask direction. As I got out of the MH I spotted 4 Black attendance who I thought might help; and then I got a Flash back to 1 Nov when I ask 4 Black guys at a Filling station the best way to get out of Johannasburg and after a committee meeting they gave me the wrong directions. So I just gave they a quick wave " Hello " and went inside to the " white" clerk who gave very specific direction which lead is directly to our camp site some 30 mins away.
The camp site was not full so the clerk gave us a site with a great view of the Ocean and all the plots were grass and treed. the entire camp site is beautiful. It would make most sites in Canada look like a pig pen. The clerk original said the cost per night was R185 and then ask if I was a"Pensioner " ( they don't have Seniors in ZA ) and I said yes so she said the price is only R98.
After parking the camper we headed for the ocean for our first taste of the Indian ocean and it was great. Too bad we can't stay here longer than a day but we have to get further south to the Garden route where everyone raves about its' beauty.
After our swim and a beer, we headed back to P.E. for a look at there waterfront, which is very nice with lots of beach area.
Since it was now 7 PM we decide to stay in town for supper and we found a nice resturaunt called De Kelner. After perusing the menu we decide on ChateauBriand for two. The chef actually cook our meal right at our table which attracted the attention of most of the people in the whole place. The bill came to R400 ( 50.00 cdn ) and that included a Starter of Mushrooms and a beer for the driver. It was a good job I had a beer because I had to drive home in the dark on a narrow road.
25 Nov Thursday Gonube & East London
Our Cdn friends left before we had a chance to say goodbye but they had another long day of travel ahead of them , as they were heading for the Cape. We inturn decide to visit the quaint little town of Gonube, which appears to a bedroom community for East London. None of the cities and towns have a sign to say the population but my guess for East London would be around 200,000.
We did a quick trip around Gonube which took about 20 min and said to ourselves; is that it. It has a beautiful beach and a few hotels and a new shopping Mall not yet full of stores but that is it. So we ventured down the road to East London and it was a zoo of traffic. We did the waterfront and they are begin to all look alike. We also looked for a Bus tour of the city but they don't have one. Then we seen something about the gigantic Mall so we found it on the outshirts of the city as per usual. However, we encountered the same parking problem, which is the entrance all have a height restriction of 2.6M ( 7 Feet) and we need at least 3 M clearance. But,Carroll, with her eagle eyes noticed that cube vans and other delivery trucks could park just inside the lot and just before the restriction gate so we followed those trucks and just parked where they did. This gate had a chain that was on the ground, so as long as it stayed there we could also get out. If not, I'll let Carroll deal with Security.
So we walked the Mall picking up a few items and I was also looking for an Apple store as my iPad2 can not send msg. I checked with the Vodafone store and to my surprise, there is only 2 Apple stores in ZA. One is in Capetown and the other is in Johannesburg. Can you believe, 53 million people and only 2 Apple stores. I was told this is Blackberry Country.
This mall also has a Casino, so Carroll had to check it out as usual and make a small donation. I think she only lost 2 dollars. Then we stopped for a late lunch in the Mall and decide to check out the only camp site in the small town of Gonube and possibly hit their gorgerous beach.
Oh, I should mention getting out of the parking area wasn't too bad. As we walked to the MH I noticed that the chain that was on the ground when we entered was now, up and locked. So I'm thinking this is where I start kissing Butt to get out; I even checked to make sure I had some change if I had to buy my way out. Then I seen a guy looking at me as we walked to the MH, so I walked over and said , can you let me out and he did. Problem solved.
Now, to find the camp site. Carroll punched the co-ordinates into the GPS and off we go to Gonube and we had to wind our way thru the town and down towards the water to the camp site. I check thru security who direct me to reception; she in turn say, go grab a site and return and pay for it. That was easy.... until I got into the camp site. The people we seen and their campers or reasonable facimally may have been of a slightly less quality than the Eslers are use too. Any nobody was " White" which did not give me a warm fuzzy feeling. Carroll says. I don't even want to see the bathroom, just get me out here. Nuff said.
So we return to Areena camp ground, which was the one we spent last night in. I think they were surprised to see us back .
Tomorrow we head for Port Elizabeth which is on the Indian Ocean and the camp site at P.E.was recommended by our Host, so we know it will be a nice one.
We did a quick trip around Gonube which took about 20 min and said to ourselves; is that it. It has a beautiful beach and a few hotels and a new shopping Mall not yet full of stores but that is it. So we ventured down the road to East London and it was a zoo of traffic. We did the waterfront and they are begin to all look alike. We also looked for a Bus tour of the city but they don't have one. Then we seen something about the gigantic Mall so we found it on the outshirts of the city as per usual. However, we encountered the same parking problem, which is the entrance all have a height restriction of 2.6M ( 7 Feet) and we need at least 3 M clearance. But,Carroll, with her eagle eyes noticed that cube vans and other delivery trucks could park just inside the lot and just before the restriction gate so we followed those trucks and just parked where they did. This gate had a chain that was on the ground, so as long as it stayed there we could also get out. If not, I'll let Carroll deal with Security.
So we walked the Mall picking up a few items and I was also looking for an Apple store as my iPad2 can not send msg. I checked with the Vodafone store and to my surprise, there is only 2 Apple stores in ZA. One is in Capetown and the other is in Johannesburg. Can you believe, 53 million people and only 2 Apple stores. I was told this is Blackberry Country.
This mall also has a Casino, so Carroll had to check it out as usual and make a small donation. I think she only lost 2 dollars. Then we stopped for a late lunch in the Mall and decide to check out the only camp site in the small town of Gonube and possibly hit their gorgerous beach.
Oh, I should mention getting out of the parking area wasn't too bad. As we walked to the MH I noticed that the chain that was on the ground when we entered was now, up and locked. So I'm thinking this is where I start kissing Butt to get out; I even checked to make sure I had some change if I had to buy my way out. Then I seen a guy looking at me as we walked to the MH, so I walked over and said , can you let me out and he did. Problem solved.
Now, to find the camp site. Carroll punched the co-ordinates into the GPS and off we go to Gonube and we had to wind our way thru the town and down towards the water to the camp site. I check thru security who direct me to reception; she in turn say, go grab a site and return and pay for it. That was easy.... until I got into the camp site. The people we seen and their campers or reasonable facimally may have been of a slightly less quality than the Eslers are use too. Any nobody was " White" which did not give me a warm fuzzy feeling. Carroll says. I don't even want to see the bathroom, just get me out here. Nuff said.
So we return to Areena camp ground, which was the one we spent last night in. I think they were surprised to see us back .
Tomorrow we head for Port Elizabeth which is on the Indian Ocean and the camp site at P.E.was recommended by our Host, so we know it will be a nice one.
24 Nov Eland to Gonube
This was out longest day so far as we covered 550 KM, most of thru a down pour. Our first stop was at Kolstad for fuel, 140 KM from Eland, where we spent the night before. As we pulled into the Truck stop to refuel the vehicle ahead of us, beening refuel was a Maui Motor Home which indicated it would be an "out of country" traveller. Carroll ask the attendant where they were from and he said Canada. So Carroll held " court " with them until I refuelled. Then we, meaning all 4 of had to visit the washroom and then we ( all 4 ) went into Wimpy's ( the ZA version of Macdonald's ) for a coffee. The couple where actually a father and daughter ( Jim and cassie )The daugther has been here for 6 months doing some research ( at your expense ) paid for but your tax dollars. She has a Masters degree in Political science and she is doing research on Social Health in ZA. Give me a break. The father has a Air conditioning/ refrigeration business in Armstrong , BC. He said ( jokingly) he came over to take her home. Anyhow, they said they were going to a Camp site called Areen and we were going to Gonube, so off we go, never thinking we would meet again as they had a 15 min head start. As we travelled down the road we actually caught them several time but never past due to weather and traffic. .
We had to go thru several small town/cities and the people and the traffic was unreal. It seems that everyone was shopping, double parked, trucks unloading in the middle of the street, etc etc. It was chaos in the small towns but we managed to get thru safely.
Passing 18 wheelers on these winding mountain roads, was another story because if you don't take a chance on a solid line you will be following them all day. So I just put on my ZA driving Hat and did as they do; pull out and flash your lights and the guy coming at you will move over.
I did have one little incident I must tell about. I was following an 18 wheeler , for what seemed forever and finally we crested a hill ( in a rain storm ) and I seen an opening so I nailed her down. What I did not see was an intersection at the bottom of the hill, nor did i see the " Painted" no passing Bulavard" , nor did I see the cop standing in the far lane with his hand in the air. By the time I got to the cop I was probably doing 100 KMH, the truck was up my ass and i assumed the cop was waving at someone other than me so I kept going. However , about 2 KM down the road is another cop standing at the side of the road and I think; shit, the other cop must have radio ahead to stop me, but he did not wave me over; so another disaster averted.
This 550 KM trip was very tirering but the rain finally about 100 KM from Gonube where we intended to stop for the night. As we got closer to our intended destination I was getting tired so i said to Carroll, just take the closes camp site on the GPS; I'm tired and I need a beer. She punched in the closes one and it happen to be the same one that Jim and Cassie were going to so we headed there. As it turns out they arrive at the gate just ahead of us.
One we got set up they joined us for a beer ( I think it was 3 beer ) and to swap stories. We then had supper at the camp resturaunt Jim and Cassie and then called it a day. Gonube can wait until tomorrow
We had to go thru several small town/cities and the people and the traffic was unreal. It seems that everyone was shopping, double parked, trucks unloading in the middle of the street, etc etc. It was chaos in the small towns but we managed to get thru safely.
Passing 18 wheelers on these winding mountain roads, was another story because if you don't take a chance on a solid line you will be following them all day. So I just put on my ZA driving Hat and did as they do; pull out and flash your lights and the guy coming at you will move over.
I did have one little incident I must tell about. I was following an 18 wheeler , for what seemed forever and finally we crested a hill ( in a rain storm ) and I seen an opening so I nailed her down. What I did not see was an intersection at the bottom of the hill, nor did i see the " Painted" no passing Bulavard" , nor did I see the cop standing in the far lane with his hand in the air. By the time I got to the cop I was probably doing 100 KMH, the truck was up my ass and i assumed the cop was waving at someone other than me so I kept going. However , about 2 KM down the road is another cop standing at the side of the road and I think; shit, the other cop must have radio ahead to stop me, but he did not wave me over; so another disaster averted.
This 550 KM trip was very tirering but the rain finally about 100 KM from Gonube where we intended to stop for the night. As we got closer to our intended destination I was getting tired so i said to Carroll, just take the closes camp site on the GPS; I'm tired and I need a beer. She punched in the closes one and it happen to be the same one that Jim and Cassie were going to so we headed there. As it turns out they arrive at the gate just ahead of us.
One we got set up they joined us for a beer ( I think it was 3 beer ) and to swap stories. We then had supper at the camp resturaunt Jim and Cassie and then called it a day. Gonube can wait until tomorrow
23 Nov Wednesday Margate to Eland
It was still rainning when we left Margate and our next stop , would be Gonube area; which would have been over 650 KM away which in the country is not abtainable in one day due to the road conditions and the small towns that had to be navagated and I use that word loosely. The small towns are more like an obstacle course with the traffic and the people.
So we ( mostly Carroll ) decided to go to a Nature reserve and then launch real early the next day for Gonube, a place also mention by another camper. As we were motoring along , in the middle of nowhere , we passed two huge mines. One mfg Cement and the other was mining Limestone.
Shortly , thereafter we happen to see a sign that read " Coffe Shop Now Open ", at Leopard's Rock. This caught our interest and since it was only 10 AM, we could use a coffee so we did an about turn and drove about a 1/4 of a KM up a tree lined lane until we reached the coffee shop which was more like a resturaunt. We seen two other cars in the lot so we figured we would not be alone. Surprise... they were just leaving but what the heck; we decide to check the place out. Too our surprise this " Coffee Shop " is built on the edge and high above a beautiful Gorge. The owners, retired from the Two mines I mentioned, also built several beautiful Chalets overlooking this Gorge. The owners gave us and another couple who happened to drop in out of curiosity,a tour of the chalets and they are gorgous. We were surprised to hear that the chalets are about 90 % booked on the weekends. We also got the " picture tour " of the area and the story behind the name of Leopard's Rock. I makes this story brief so bear with me; many years ago a man came to this area and lived near the gorge. Apparently, and the picture bear the truth, he domesticated a Leopard and it became his pet. A picture shows him laying on a Rock , suppositly 1000's of feet above the Gorge, but only 10 feet, with the pet Leopard laying on him, hence Leopard's Rock.
To futher our story , we decide to order breakfast, Carroll a small breakfast and me a large English breakfast. The other couple had a coffee and a muffin and low and behold two more couples come in and I'm thinking this place is 30 KM off the road and already, in the middle of the week, 8 couple have showed up. They don't even advertize the place as a coffee shop.
OK, we got to get going so travel another 30 KM thru , what is mostly sugar Cane area or wild game reserves and then we see a sign we did not want to see. It said " Only 4 more KM of gravel road" and you will be at the Eland Game reserve. I'm thinking this better be good.
It looked pretty dam good as we drove in ( as if we had a chose now the morning was shot ) so we waked in to the reception area and met with man, who I think, wrote "History Book" on the area. I really expect to write test when he finished explaining everything. All as I said or think i said was " so what have got for me to see here".
Anyhow, we stayed the night, althought we were the only campers, there were others in the chalets; we did a self-drive to see the animals but I'm not convinced a Zebra, antelpoe and Warthogs qualify as a Wild animal. We then went to a suspension bridge above the Gorge and too pics of the gorge from the bridge. They also have 3.3 Km of Zip line but it was closed as a result of the rain and foggy weather. I may have tried the Zip line if it was open.
Later, I went back to see " Mr. History Book " about my travel plans for tomorrow as we had to go about 550 KM to Gonube, our next "Planned" stop. I also said I needed one fuel stop. So he gave me very specific details because we were travelling , for the most part, thru any area that was not; to coin a phase " White freindly " It was OK during the day but not to stay overnight.
So we decided to leave at 7 AM the next day and to heed his directions.
So we ( mostly Carroll ) decided to go to a Nature reserve and then launch real early the next day for Gonube, a place also mention by another camper. As we were motoring along , in the middle of nowhere , we passed two huge mines. One mfg Cement and the other was mining Limestone.
Shortly , thereafter we happen to see a sign that read " Coffe Shop Now Open ", at Leopard's Rock. This caught our interest and since it was only 10 AM, we could use a coffee so we did an about turn and drove about a 1/4 of a KM up a tree lined lane until we reached the coffee shop which was more like a resturaunt. We seen two other cars in the lot so we figured we would not be alone. Surprise... they were just leaving but what the heck; we decide to check the place out. Too our surprise this " Coffee Shop " is built on the edge and high above a beautiful Gorge. The owners, retired from the Two mines I mentioned, also built several beautiful Chalets overlooking this Gorge. The owners gave us and another couple who happened to drop in out of curiosity,a tour of the chalets and they are gorgous. We were surprised to hear that the chalets are about 90 % booked on the weekends. We also got the " picture tour " of the area and the story behind the name of Leopard's Rock. I makes this story brief so bear with me; many years ago a man came to this area and lived near the gorge. Apparently, and the picture bear the truth, he domesticated a Leopard and it became his pet. A picture shows him laying on a Rock , suppositly 1000's of feet above the Gorge, but only 10 feet, with the pet Leopard laying on him, hence Leopard's Rock.
To futher our story , we decide to order breakfast, Carroll a small breakfast and me a large English breakfast. The other couple had a coffee and a muffin and low and behold two more couples come in and I'm thinking this place is 30 KM off the road and already, in the middle of the week, 8 couple have showed up. They don't even advertize the place as a coffee shop.
OK, we got to get going so travel another 30 KM thru , what is mostly sugar Cane area or wild game reserves and then we see a sign we did not want to see. It said " Only 4 more KM of gravel road" and you will be at the Eland Game reserve. I'm thinking this better be good.
It looked pretty dam good as we drove in ( as if we had a chose now the morning was shot ) so we waked in to the reception area and met with man, who I think, wrote "History Book" on the area. I really expect to write test when he finished explaining everything. All as I said or think i said was " so what have got for me to see here".
Anyhow, we stayed the night, althought we were the only campers, there were others in the chalets; we did a self-drive to see the animals but I'm not convinced a Zebra, antelpoe and Warthogs qualify as a Wild animal. We then went to a suspension bridge above the Gorge and too pics of the gorge from the bridge. They also have 3.3 Km of Zip line but it was closed as a result of the rain and foggy weather. I may have tried the Zip line if it was open.
Later, I went back to see " Mr. History Book " about my travel plans for tomorrow as we had to go about 550 KM to Gonube, our next "Planned" stop. I also said I needed one fuel stop. So he gave me very specific details because we were travelling , for the most part, thru any area that was not; to coin a phase " White freindly " It was OK during the day but not to stay overnight.
So we decided to leave at 7 AM the next day and to heed his directions.
22 Nov Tuesday Leaving Durban for Margate
We left the Durban area ( actually Natilia) and travel about 100 KM along the coast to Margate, which was a place suggested by another well travelled camper we had met earlier at BadPlass. As we left Natilia it was threatening rain again but clear up as we got to Margate. Therefore we took the opportunity to drive around the area to see the sites and to see again how much beautiful Beach Front this country has available. We are glad to see that the Hotels, in general , are build off the beach proper and the beaches are for the people, not wealthy hotel patrons.
Then we decided, that since we are now on the water we should try a fish plate for lunch and we were not disappointed with the fish nor the price.
While eating lunch on the deck, Carroll spotted a Unisex hair salon where I could get a much needed trim for R50 ( less than $7.00 cdn ) so in we went. I didn't realize how badly i needed a haircut until the lady said; do you want a Perm or a Trim. ha ha. Then we headed for the beach but the water was too cool to swim as a result of 5 days of continuous rain. So, Carroll ,just had to check out the Hawkers Wares again, as she just can not walk by them. I ask what she needed or wanted and she said Nothing so I know that means... get out my wallet because she is buying but not before she beats the guy down to 1/2 price. After carroll picked out some much needed Place Mats, we decide to drive around the area and then find a camp site for the night.
There were only 2 camp sites in our "Camping Book" so we chose one and plugged it into the "trusty" GPS which took us directly to the site. The camp looked OK and the price was right ( R120 ) so we took it for the night. I will say in hind-site it only met our Minium Standard but it was clean and very friendly. We ask the owner for the best place in town for a fish supper and he directed us to another town some 5 or 6 KM away to a John Dory's which a large chain but with excellent food. Once we read the menu we "kind of change our minds. " We ordered dinner for two which included , Ribs along with Muscles, Prawns, Calamari, squid with rice. We also had a Greek salad and of course a beer for the driver. The supper cost us R208 or $26.00 cdn. I don't know how the can make a meal like that for so little money.
We then returned to the camp site and listened to it rain all dam night and it did not get any better the next day.
Then we decided, that since we are now on the water we should try a fish plate for lunch and we were not disappointed with the fish nor the price.
While eating lunch on the deck, Carroll spotted a Unisex hair salon where I could get a much needed trim for R50 ( less than $7.00 cdn ) so in we went. I didn't realize how badly i needed a haircut until the lady said; do you want a Perm or a Trim. ha ha. Then we headed for the beach but the water was too cool to swim as a result of 5 days of continuous rain. So, Carroll ,just had to check out the Hawkers Wares again, as she just can not walk by them. I ask what she needed or wanted and she said Nothing so I know that means... get out my wallet because she is buying but not before she beats the guy down to 1/2 price. After carroll picked out some much needed Place Mats, we decide to drive around the area and then find a camp site for the night.
There were only 2 camp sites in our "Camping Book" so we chose one and plugged it into the "trusty" GPS which took us directly to the site. The camp looked OK and the price was right ( R120 ) so we took it for the night. I will say in hind-site it only met our Minium Standard but it was clean and very friendly. We ask the owner for the best place in town for a fish supper and he directed us to another town some 5 or 6 KM away to a John Dory's which a large chain but with excellent food. Once we read the menu we "kind of change our minds. " We ordered dinner for two which included , Ribs along with Muscles, Prawns, Calamari, squid with rice. We also had a Greek salad and of course a beer for the driver. The supper cost us R208 or $26.00 cdn. I don't know how the can make a meal like that for so little money.
We then returned to the camp site and listened to it rain all dam night and it did not get any better the next day.
Tuesday, 22 November 2011
21 Nov Monday
Did I mention in my Sunday blog that we would be headed south. Well, our planning is never cast in concrete as you know by now. When we got up this morning the sun was shinning; it was warm with a nice 30 KM breeze and the ocean was beckoning for the swimmer to join in.
Since we dearly wanted to ride the SkyCar at the famous soccer stadium we decide to stay another day and go back to Durban. On sunday we were advised by the Ticket agent that Monday was " Booked " for Schools but what she did not apparently say was that after the schools were done we could ride the skyCar. So , Carroll decide to Call the Skycar office on Momday and they said, for sure the ride was open and available as we would not get there until near noon anyhow.
So back to Durban we go , some 45 KM away and for a city of 3.5 Million people it is very easy to get around. also we were heading for the Malacon, ( my word for the waterfront and beach ) which of course is on the ocean and the stadium is only 3 blocks away.
You may recall, the minor parking problem i had on Sunday. Well " Mr who thinks he Owns the parking Lot " was on duty again and again he said No way...you are too big and you are a Bus, which not allowed. . But I am now in the entrance way blocking any traffic so he comes close enough for Carroll to discuss the situation. She explained that this our passager vehicle, not a Bus, etc etc etc. He finally gives in and allows us to park. besides the parking lot is half empty anyway.
So we get to ride the SkyCar to the top of the soccer stadium and the view of the stadium and the city are fabualous. I think we are 300 M off the ground so you can see forever. The stadium holds 56,000 for a soccer game and will hold 85,000 . ZA dearly wants to host the Summer Olympic as the world cup did so much to help bring this country to the world stage. I think it help bring the people together also.
After the SkyCar ride we decided to have lunch at the stadium as there are several resturaunts, cafe's and other boutiques around the perimeter that will gladly take the tourist money.
As we were eating lunch we mused about walking the Malacon and do some people watching , just to top of the day. However, the weather turned from beautiful to down right nasty as the winds increase and the rain returned. therefore we decided enough was enought we headed back to our camp. Carroll, the navagator decided, and rightly so the we could stay on M2 ( M stands for Motorway ) as we would eventually need that road to exit the city. what she did not know was the M2 took us right by the Convention centre and there was an Enviromment Conference hosted by the United Nations. Hence the security was tight and the 4 lanes of traffic became one. Which means i had to pilot our Motor Home into the traffic jam and of course I'm probably one of the few with Insurance and i beieve most of the drivers are 'training " for the Indy 500.
With Carroll help and her brave words such as " Cut in Now" we managed to get to the freeway called N2 ( I have no idea what N stands for ) then stopped at the grocery store to pick up a ready made supper. It now appears the the windis increasing and for sure rain will not stop tonight.
Since we dearly wanted to ride the SkyCar at the famous soccer stadium we decide to stay another day and go back to Durban. On sunday we were advised by the Ticket agent that Monday was " Booked " for Schools but what she did not apparently say was that after the schools were done we could ride the skyCar. So , Carroll decide to Call the Skycar office on Momday and they said, for sure the ride was open and available as we would not get there until near noon anyhow.
So back to Durban we go , some 45 KM away and for a city of 3.5 Million people it is very easy to get around. also we were heading for the Malacon, ( my word for the waterfront and beach ) which of course is on the ocean and the stadium is only 3 blocks away.
You may recall, the minor parking problem i had on Sunday. Well " Mr who thinks he Owns the parking Lot " was on duty again and again he said No way...you are too big and you are a Bus, which not allowed. . But I am now in the entrance way blocking any traffic so he comes close enough for Carroll to discuss the situation. She explained that this our passager vehicle, not a Bus, etc etc etc. He finally gives in and allows us to park. besides the parking lot is half empty anyway.
So we get to ride the SkyCar to the top of the soccer stadium and the view of the stadium and the city are fabualous. I think we are 300 M off the ground so you can see forever. The stadium holds 56,000 for a soccer game and will hold 85,000 . ZA dearly wants to host the Summer Olympic as the world cup did so much to help bring this country to the world stage. I think it help bring the people together also.
After the SkyCar ride we decided to have lunch at the stadium as there are several resturaunts, cafe's and other boutiques around the perimeter that will gladly take the tourist money.
As we were eating lunch we mused about walking the Malacon and do some people watching , just to top of the day. However, the weather turned from beautiful to down right nasty as the winds increase and the rain returned. therefore we decided enough was enought we headed back to our camp. Carroll, the navagator decided, and rightly so the we could stay on M2 ( M stands for Motorway ) as we would eventually need that road to exit the city. what she did not know was the M2 took us right by the Convention centre and there was an Enviromment Conference hosted by the United Nations. Hence the security was tight and the 4 lanes of traffic became one. Which means i had to pilot our Motor Home into the traffic jam and of course I'm probably one of the few with Insurance and i beieve most of the drivers are 'training " for the Indy 500.
With Carroll help and her brave words such as " Cut in Now" we managed to get to the freeway called N2 ( I have no idea what N stands for ) then stopped at the grocery store to pick up a ready made supper. It now appears the the windis increasing and for sure rain will not stop tonight.
Sunday, 20 November 2011
20 Nov Sunday Tour of Durban
Today the rain has final stopped and we have a nice soft breeze, with the Sun threatening to burn thru the clouds, so we are off to Durban about 45 KM away. Since Durban is a city of 3.5 million people we are a little apprehehensive but the young guy at the Tourist office assured us with his map and his directions , it would be a breeze and he was right. He sent us to the Ocean front, called the Malacon. The Malacon is several KM long and has a width of 100 M right along the ocean where everyone, runs,walks, roller baldes, cycles, etc. The Hawkers also have stalls at street level so they do not bother you on the Malacon. This whole area is beautiful and i assume it was done so for the World cup held here in ZA last year. I was advised by my niehbour that anything done for the World Cup was paid by " Tax payers ", which did not surprize me.
It also surprized us that there was ample free parking along the entire Malacon area . The hotels all have there own underground secured parking.
After walking the Malacon for an hour or so and checking out the hawkers wares, we decided to find the new " Soccer" stadium that was built for the World cup, as it is only a few blocks away and can be seen for miles. The most direct route had a detour, of course, so we had to make 2 or 3 runs at it to get on the correct street. Then as we approched the stadium to park, they had a Marathon so the police redirected us causing to our confusion. We did find a parking area but the attendant said I was not allowed in as it was only for the Patrons going to the soccer game so he kick me out. So I parked across the street and a policewoman said I could not park there but I should go into the stadium parking. When i said I was kicked out, she don't move, I'll talk to the attendant, which she did and we were allowed in. His logic was , that i was a Bus and Buses were not allowed in the parking area, but the policewoman changed our " Bus " to a "Van "so then we could park in the area.
The stadium has a "Skywalk " Gondola that takes people to the Top and then you walk around an area and get a view of the city. However, since the soccer games was about to start, so they had to close the Skywalk until tomorrow , ( Monday). Also, we are not allowed on Monday, as only Schools can ride on Mondays and we are not going to wait until Tuesday so hopefully we will get to see the Stadium in Cape town.
We had lunch at the Stadium and then we returned to the Malacom to catch a " Double Decker " tour Bus, for a 3 hour , conducted tour of the Durban. The Sun was now shinning and there was a slight breeze and the tour was great. The tour took us to the Port and I have never seen a Port this huge. I estimated , that there were 100 hundred ships, loading and unloading but I stopped counting at 50. There was 10,000 vehicles being loaded and off-loaded as Toyota has a huge assembly plant here. Incidentally, Toyota also mfg most of their parts in this area. One of the parking areas was full of used cars from other countries but they were being off loaded and held to be re-loaded for another country. These used vehicles can not be sold in ZA.
After the Tour , we went to the Casino so Carroll could donate some money and to have supper. To get into the Casino parking area it cost R1 ( about a 1.30 ) and then if you want to park close to the entrance to the casino you pay again. I took general parking. The casino is a carbon copy of any new casino in Vegas. However, you have to go thru an airport type security to get in and I was told I could not wear my ball cap in the casino. Women are allowed to wear a hat. does that make any sense? Then to play a machine you had to "purchase " a Players Card for R20 which was refunded when you leave. Carroll says she broke even but math was never you "strong subject ".
We left our 45 KM trip back to the camp site until dark and that was not the best move we have ever made but Carroll managed to navagate we thru the traffic; we did miss one turn but with about 3 left turns we did get on the proper " Motorway " and arrived home safely. Monday we will head south along the coast but we are not sure of the destination yet
It also surprized us that there was ample free parking along the entire Malacon area . The hotels all have there own underground secured parking.
After walking the Malacon for an hour or so and checking out the hawkers wares, we decided to find the new " Soccer" stadium that was built for the World cup, as it is only a few blocks away and can be seen for miles. The most direct route had a detour, of course, so we had to make 2 or 3 runs at it to get on the correct street. Then as we approched the stadium to park, they had a Marathon so the police redirected us causing to our confusion. We did find a parking area but the attendant said I was not allowed in as it was only for the Patrons going to the soccer game so he kick me out. So I parked across the street and a policewoman said I could not park there but I should go into the stadium parking. When i said I was kicked out, she don't move, I'll talk to the attendant, which she did and we were allowed in. His logic was , that i was a Bus and Buses were not allowed in the parking area, but the policewoman changed our " Bus " to a "Van "so then we could park in the area.
The stadium has a "Skywalk " Gondola that takes people to the Top and then you walk around an area and get a view of the city. However, since the soccer games was about to start, so they had to close the Skywalk until tomorrow , ( Monday). Also, we are not allowed on Monday, as only Schools can ride on Mondays and we are not going to wait until Tuesday so hopefully we will get to see the Stadium in Cape town.
We had lunch at the Stadium and then we returned to the Malacom to catch a " Double Decker " tour Bus, for a 3 hour , conducted tour of the Durban. The Sun was now shinning and there was a slight breeze and the tour was great. The tour took us to the Port and I have never seen a Port this huge. I estimated , that there were 100 hundred ships, loading and unloading but I stopped counting at 50. There was 10,000 vehicles being loaded and off-loaded as Toyota has a huge assembly plant here. Incidentally, Toyota also mfg most of their parts in this area. One of the parking areas was full of used cars from other countries but they were being off loaded and held to be re-loaded for another country. These used vehicles can not be sold in ZA.
After the Tour , we went to the Casino so Carroll could donate some money and to have supper. To get into the Casino parking area it cost R1 ( about a 1.30 ) and then if you want to park close to the entrance to the casino you pay again. I took general parking. The casino is a carbon copy of any new casino in Vegas. However, you have to go thru an airport type security to get in and I was told I could not wear my ball cap in the casino. Women are allowed to wear a hat. does that make any sense? Then to play a machine you had to "purchase " a Players Card for R20 which was refunded when you leave. Carroll says she broke even but math was never you "strong subject ".
We left our 45 KM trip back to the camp site until dark and that was not the best move we have ever made but Carroll managed to navagate we thru the traffic; we did miss one turn but with about 3 left turns we did get on the proper " Motorway " and arrived home safely. Monday we will head south along the coast but we are not sure of the destination yet
19 Nov Saturday. Rained all day
Today was a terrible day as we had to travel thru the rain to our next location which was somewhere near Durban. Our exact plans are never made until we get close to out destination , just in case we change our mines. By the time we had travel a few hours we began to think that fighting the traffic in a rains storm wasn't worth the fight so we chose a camp site called Natalia as it was only 40 KM from downtown Durban.
After we found our camp site and got set up we decided to ask direction to a Shopping mall since there wasn't much you can do in the rain. The gate keeper, an older gentleman gave us very specfic direction and we were sure we could not get lost or miss the Mall. Well, we made 3 runs at getting to the Mall from the Freeway but finally found the entrance. First I must say that this is a Huge Mall with 5 or 6 entrances. However, every entrance had a height restrictionof 2.2 M ( we are 12 feet high so you do the math ) and they have an overhead bar to make sure you don't excede the height . On the last entrance we just turned in anyways as it also said Bus and Taxi parking and Deliveries only. Once I got in the entrance lane I realized there was no turning back due to the line of cars behind me. I had no choice but to pull into the "Delivery Vehicles " only lane, thinking I could somehow get turned around. However there is always a "catch " and this looked serious. They had a security gate and I assumed you would need a pass code so I rung the intercom and got ready to plead " temporary Insanity " hoping they would let me thru to turn around. All of a sudden the gate open and I drove thru, all the time thinking some security cop would stop me and boot me out. We decide to keep driving around the entire Mall until someone stopped us but they never did. We just drove out the other end and went home since we could not get parked.
When we arrived back at the camp site the rain had abated to a mist so we donned our rain gear and join a few other brave sole, who were also bored and went for a short walk on the beach. To be honest, we mostly talked to the others on the beach, in lieu of wlaking very far, until the rain drove us back indoors.
Since the train tracks ran close to our camp i ask one guy about the train system since it is only run by electricity. His advise was , don't every ride the train in ZA , becuase, without a doubt you will be robbed. He says, it is not safe for Whites.
All in all; it was a lousy day. Hopefully the rain will stop tomorrow so we can visit Durban
After we found our camp site and got set up we decided to ask direction to a Shopping mall since there wasn't much you can do in the rain. The gate keeper, an older gentleman gave us very specfic direction and we were sure we could not get lost or miss the Mall. Well, we made 3 runs at getting to the Mall from the Freeway but finally found the entrance. First I must say that this is a Huge Mall with 5 or 6 entrances. However, every entrance had a height restrictionof 2.2 M ( we are 12 feet high so you do the math ) and they have an overhead bar to make sure you don't excede the height . On the last entrance we just turned in anyways as it also said Bus and Taxi parking and Deliveries only. Once I got in the entrance lane I realized there was no turning back due to the line of cars behind me. I had no choice but to pull into the "Delivery Vehicles " only lane, thinking I could somehow get turned around. However there is always a "catch " and this looked serious. They had a security gate and I assumed you would need a pass code so I rung the intercom and got ready to plead " temporary Insanity " hoping they would let me thru to turn around. All of a sudden the gate open and I drove thru, all the time thinking some security cop would stop me and boot me out. We decide to keep driving around the entire Mall until someone stopped us but they never did. We just drove out the other end and went home since we could not get parked.
When we arrived back at the camp site the rain had abated to a mist so we donned our rain gear and join a few other brave sole, who were also bored and went for a short walk on the beach. To be honest, we mostly talked to the others on the beach, in lieu of wlaking very far, until the rain drove us back indoors.
Since the train tracks ran close to our camp i ask one guy about the train system since it is only run by electricity. His advise was , don't every ride the train in ZA , becuase, without a doubt you will be robbed. He says, it is not safe for Whites.
All in all; it was a lousy day. Hopefully the rain will stop tomorrow so we can visit Durban
Saturday, 19 November 2011
18 Nov Friday; Battila
We spent thursday night in Richard's Bay at a camp site on the Indian ocean, however, it started to rain hard about 1/2 an hour after we got set up so there wasn't much we could do except have supper and listen to the rain , which continued thru the night. To make matters worst, I could not get a connection on the computer, probably partly because of the weather and also we were located in a heavily treed area. On Friday morning we decided to tour the city/town and found a Macdonald's and they usually have WiFi so we decide to have breakfast and use there WiFi. Like most hotels, WiFi is only free for 15 Min and then you have to pay.
We then checked out their beach area and with the rainny weather , the beaches were not crowded. Only the arden surfers were out in the ocean.
This placed did not tickle our fancy so we moved down the road about 200 KM to Battilo. This city/town is definitley a tourist area but also is a sugar cane growing area. We found a camp site on the Ocean for about 20.00. In fact the guy at the gate charged me R180 but told me to officially sign in after 2 PM when the owner would be in the office. When I went to sign in she refunded me R15 because I was a " Pensioner" . They don't use the word " Senior " and we were also advise to ask for pensioners rates.
After signing in we headed for the city as I still could not get a connection on my Vodafone SIM card and i was sure they would have a Vodafone shop in town. We stubble over a HUGE mall and I went to the Vodafone shop. They young lady checked my SIM card and verify it was good but said the weather was causing some connection problems. I put the SIM back in the computer and it worked so the young lady told me to use a desk provide and check my emails which I did while Carroll shopped
After Carroll finished shopping we went to the grocery store to buy supper. These store, much like a Safeway, and have an array of already cooked foods such as meat pies,chicken pieces, shikobs, stew, fish, rice any and all veggies, and salads. so for about 5.00 we had supper cooked and just had to warm it up in the Mirc.
Unforetunately, as we arrive back at the camp site it started to pour rain and never stopped all night. When we left Sat morning it was still rainning so hard the wipers would hardly keep the windshield clear. As if I need another distraction while driving. We are now on our way to some where near Durban about 100 KM south.
We then checked out their beach area and with the rainny weather , the beaches were not crowded. Only the arden surfers were out in the ocean.
This placed did not tickle our fancy so we moved down the road about 200 KM to Battilo. This city/town is definitley a tourist area but also is a sugar cane growing area. We found a camp site on the Ocean for about 20.00. In fact the guy at the gate charged me R180 but told me to officially sign in after 2 PM when the owner would be in the office. When I went to sign in she refunded me R15 because I was a " Pensioner" . They don't use the word " Senior " and we were also advise to ask for pensioners rates.
After signing in we headed for the city as I still could not get a connection on my Vodafone SIM card and i was sure they would have a Vodafone shop in town. We stubble over a HUGE mall and I went to the Vodafone shop. They young lady checked my SIM card and verify it was good but said the weather was causing some connection problems. I put the SIM back in the computer and it worked so the young lady told me to use a desk provide and check my emails which I did while Carroll shopped
After Carroll finished shopping we went to the grocery store to buy supper. These store, much like a Safeway, and have an array of already cooked foods such as meat pies,chicken pieces, shikobs, stew, fish, rice any and all veggies, and salads. so for about 5.00 we had supper cooked and just had to warm it up in the Mirc.
Unforetunately, as we arrive back at the camp site it started to pour rain and never stopped all night. When we left Sat morning it was still rainning so hard the wipers would hardly keep the windshield clear. As if I need another distraction while driving. We are now on our way to some where near Durban about 100 KM south.
Friday, 18 November 2011
17 Nov. Headed for Richards Bay
Man , this was a hard day driving. All the roads were secondary ( meaning 2 lanes) and only some had shoulders. I should add, that any two lane road with 8 ft shoulder turns into a 4 lane Freeway and you better move to the shoulder if you are not doing 120KMH because they will be blinking light as they come up behind you.
Also, there were many miles of construction. First, you should know that the maps do not have the miles between towns and the road signs are only approxi, give or take 20 %. Also, the gov't has changed the name of some cities/towns to Black names but the maps have not been changed yet nor has the GPS been revised. To add to the confusion, some roads are R33 and R44 but R44 will turn west after a few miles while R33 continues north. The sign do not nec indicate this so you end up driving several mile before you notice the error. We ask one guy who seemed like a traveller , according to his stories, how far from Badplaas to Richards Bay and he said about 323 Km so I figure about 5ard Hours drive. The acual distance was over 500 KM and there was no end to the road constuction which held us up for about 1 1/2 hours. I was beat by the time I got to Richards Bay. We got to Richards bay and booked into a Camp site hoping to do a Bar-B-Q but the rain started and contiued on thru the night. To make matters worst, we were located in a heavily Treed area and I could not get a connection on my Vodafone airtime Sim card so i could even do the Blog. I spent the evening reading. Tomorrow we head south towards Durban
Also, there were many miles of construction. First, you should know that the maps do not have the miles between towns and the road signs are only approxi, give or take 20 %. Also, the gov't has changed the name of some cities/towns to Black names but the maps have not been changed yet nor has the GPS been revised. To add to the confusion, some roads are R33 and R44 but R44 will turn west after a few miles while R33 continues north. The sign do not nec indicate this so you end up driving several mile before you notice the error. We ask one guy who seemed like a traveller , according to his stories, how far from Badplaas to Richards Bay and he said about 323 Km so I figure about 5ard Hours drive. The acual distance was over 500 KM and there was no end to the road constuction which held us up for about 1 1/2 hours. I was beat by the time I got to Richards Bay. We got to Richards bay and booked into a Camp site hoping to do a Bar-B-Q but the rain started and contiued on thru the night. To make matters worst, we were located in a heavily Treed area and I could not get a connection on my Vodafone airtime Sim card so i could even do the Blog. I spent the evening reading. Tomorrow we head south towards Durban
16 Nov Headed for Badplaas
OK; we are now finally and officially touring ZA. After leaving Kruger park we headed for a Place called Badplaas. it is not a Town or city but an area and it is a Theme park complete with a 100 or so Chalets and 75 camping sites, along with a host of shops and resturaunts to take your money. it's main attraction is a lagre ontdoor hotpool, 2 outdoor cool pools , several slides and one indoor Hydro pool. they cost to camp and to use all the facilities ( with the exception of the Hydro pool ) is R125 X .13 cents will give you the Cdn equivalent. The bathrooms are at least as good as any 5 star hotel in N. A. and there is a bathtub in the bathrooms, which you will not see in Canada or the USA. or MX.
We met a third generation ZA couple at the pool and as usual, I pried into there knowledge of the country since the Blacks' took power and, too say the least, it is interesting. Also, the newspapers are full of Gov't scandals.
Everyone we have talked to have given us advise on where to visit so that has been a big help since we left our " Lonely Planet " book at home. The people are extremely friendly. However, we have noticed that the "Blacks' " only answer the question you ask and do not offer addition information. As an example, I ask which way to the pools and they said turn right at the tee junction but the fact that i can not get our MH in the lot never occurred to him. Also, I paid for our camping with a R120 but cost was R115 and the reception did not have the R5 change because the " Finance " people had gone for lunch. I said, they don't even trust with change for R100. Tomorrow we will head south towards Durban.
We met a third generation ZA couple at the pool and as usual, I pried into there knowledge of the country since the Blacks' took power and, too say the least, it is interesting. Also, the newspapers are full of Gov't scandals.
Everyone we have talked to have given us advise on where to visit so that has been a big help since we left our " Lonely Planet " book at home. The people are extremely friendly. However, we have noticed that the "Blacks' " only answer the question you ask and do not offer addition information. As an example, I ask which way to the pools and they said turn right at the tee junction but the fact that i can not get our MH in the lot never occurred to him. Also, I paid for our camping with a R120 but cost was R115 and the reception did not have the R5 change because the " Finance " people had gone for lunch. I said, they don't even trust with change for R100. Tomorrow we will head south towards Durban.
15 Nov Tuesday.Our last search for the Leopard
We decide to give the early morning a try to find that "Dam " Leopard that has been avoiding us for the passed week. We got up at 6 AM , made a coffee and headed our for another self Drive. We looked every place a Leopard has been spotted lately; even up several trees but NO luck. So we only seen the Big 4, because tomorrow we must leave Kruger to see the rest of ZA. During our 3 hour drive we seen many more Elephants. One such herd crossed in front of us so we stopped, as if we had a choice, enjoyed the view of watch two young ones wrestle over a small tree. Once they cleared the road way, or I thought they did I moved fwd. What I did not see immediately was a Mother and baby who were also heading across the road but I was now in their path. Since they were real close Carroll handed me the iPad and said " here , snap a pic of them real close ". I'm not sure how close they were but I tell you that the mother had "bad breath" . I already had the MH in low gear so when I seen the " white " in the Mother's eye I hit the throttle. Foretunately we both headed in the opposite direction so nobody got hurt and I got to change my underwear we we got home. We also seen a few Giraffes, they are so causual; a Rhino, who totally ingnores everyone, Willobees and a Wild Dog, which was our first.
We return to camp around 10 AM and decide to have Brunch and to rest awhile. In the afternoon we left the Park proper to visit , what we thought was a small town ( called Malelane ) about 10 KM from the park. We should have know better because this is a huge Sugar Cane and Agricultural area. Once we entered the town/city in was obvious that it was a Booming Centre, with a large shopping area.
I should mention that there is a huge Sugar Cane processing plant near town which probably employs a large majourity of the population. We could also see a steady stream of 18 wheelers loaded with cane heading for the plant. However , I was surprised that the Cane was not harvested by a machine, as it is in Texas. It seems to be cut by " Manual Labour" and loaded by a Bobcat, using a "Clam Shell". I assume that by using manual labour, it puts many people to work.
As one ZA ( White ) said to me, we not a 3rd World country but our gov't is working on it. Tongue in cheek of course.
After returning back to camp we hit the pool for a quick dip. Carroll took a picture for a couple of visiting British girls while I mused over what little clothes they were wearing. ha ha.
Then we took in a "free " movie put on by the park about the Park animals, had supper at the resturaunt and called it a day. tomorrow we are heading south to explore more of ZA.
We return to camp around 10 AM and decide to have Brunch and to rest awhile. In the afternoon we left the Park proper to visit , what we thought was a small town ( called Malelane ) about 10 KM from the park. We should have know better because this is a huge Sugar Cane and Agricultural area. Once we entered the town/city in was obvious that it was a Booming Centre, with a large shopping area.
I should mention that there is a huge Sugar Cane processing plant near town which probably employs a large majourity of the population. We could also see a steady stream of 18 wheelers loaded with cane heading for the plant. However , I was surprised that the Cane was not harvested by a machine, as it is in Texas. It seems to be cut by " Manual Labour" and loaded by a Bobcat, using a "Clam Shell". I assume that by using manual labour, it puts many people to work.
As one ZA ( White ) said to me, we not a 3rd World country but our gov't is working on it. Tongue in cheek of course.
After returning back to camp we hit the pool for a quick dip. Carroll took a picture for a couple of visiting British girls while I mused over what little clothes they were wearing. ha ha.
Then we took in a "free " movie put on by the park about the Park animals, had supper at the resturaunt and called it a day. tomorrow we are heading south to explore more of ZA.
Monday, 14 November 2011
14 Nov Monday Moved to Berg-en-Dal
I was playing around with my ipad last evening and apparently left it turned on. So my friend Les ( from NS but spending the winter in TX ) called me on Skype, thinking I was on line. However, we are 9 hours ahead of TX and he called at 5:40 AM , my time ,and as you may have guessed I was sound asleep. Once I figured out where the ringing noise was coming from I grab the ipad but without my glasses I could not see who was calling so i Decline the call assume that someone had called the wrong number. Anyhow, I sent him a Skype msg to tell Les what had happen.
Around 8:30 AM we headed for our new Camp site , called Berg-en-Dal which was about a 75 Km drive, again at 50 KMH. We did a short detour hoping to see a Leopard , but it was not so. On the way we did see a Rhino and a herd of Elephant that crossed the road in front of us. We arrive here around 3 PM and headed straight for the pool as it was about 37 C.
In the pool we met a couple from Sweden and he and I talk about the Political problems around the world. Then we decide to take a1 hour drive around the aera as there is a town nearby. The town seems to function a a Sugar Cane factory but it started to rain real hard so we return to our Camp site.
At 6: 30 we took in a move (Free ) about the park animals and then had supper at the resturaunt, again for the amazing price of 30.00 Cdn and that included my wine.
Around 8:30 AM we headed for our new Camp site , called Berg-en-Dal which was about a 75 Km drive, again at 50 KMH. We did a short detour hoping to see a Leopard , but it was not so. On the way we did see a Rhino and a herd of Elephant that crossed the road in front of us. We arrive here around 3 PM and headed straight for the pool as it was about 37 C.
In the pool we met a couple from Sweden and he and I talk about the Political problems around the world. Then we decide to take a1 hour drive around the aera as there is a town nearby. The town seems to function a a Sugar Cane factory but it started to rain real hard so we return to our Camp site.
At 6: 30 we took in a move (Free ) about the park animals and then had supper at the resturaunt, again for the amazing price of 30.00 Cdn and that included my wine.
13 Sunday Nov Hot as Hell
As you can see this "Blog " thing is now working for me, but I'm not a Techy so it is what it is.
Today we did another Self Drive which probably covered 100 KM. We went to another Camp site ,called Lower Sabine, which was on our travel plan and recommended by other folks. unfortunately , we missed seeing the every elusive Leopard , as he crossed the road about 20 mins ahead of us. However, we did encounter several Elephants, as it seems we always do, a few Giraffes. and a herd of about 200 Water Buffalo. Man it was very hot again today but apparently only reached 37 C. We stopped at another picnic/restaurant area for lunch but those Monkeys did not stand a chance this time as I was ready for them and protected my Sausage Dog. On our return trip home we did see a huge Rhino but he was too far away to take a Pic and when I called him, he pretty much just ignored me.
When we encountered the Water Buffalo, we were about 100 M away. Since they seemed to be taking their own sweet time, I tooted the horn hoping they would get the msg and hurry across the road. Well; this one big Bull stopped in his tracks and turned and stared at me. I immediately backed up another 200 M as the guide said they will charge a vehicle. If I can read the Bull's mind I believe he was saying " As a matter of fact, I do own the road ".
Soon after we got back to the Camp we hit the pool. Shortly after that about a dozen young american College girls also jumped the pool so we drummed up a conversation. They are here for 3 months doing research on the wild animals. and there activities.
Tonight we cooked supper on the Bar-B-Q , therefore I had to use briquettes and that is not my strong suite. Oh! too have a Gas Bar-B-Q with us. Tomorrow we move to anther Park .
Today we did another Self Drive which probably covered 100 KM. We went to another Camp site ,called Lower Sabine, which was on our travel plan and recommended by other folks. unfortunately , we missed seeing the every elusive Leopard , as he crossed the road about 20 mins ahead of us. However, we did encounter several Elephants, as it seems we always do, a few Giraffes. and a herd of about 200 Water Buffalo. Man it was very hot again today but apparently only reached 37 C. We stopped at another picnic/restaurant area for lunch but those Monkeys did not stand a chance this time as I was ready for them and protected my Sausage Dog. On our return trip home we did see a huge Rhino but he was too far away to take a Pic and when I called him, he pretty much just ignored me.
When we encountered the Water Buffalo, we were about 100 M away. Since they seemed to be taking their own sweet time, I tooted the horn hoping they would get the msg and hurry across the road. Well; this one big Bull stopped in his tracks and turned and stared at me. I immediately backed up another 200 M as the guide said they will charge a vehicle. If I can read the Bull's mind I believe he was saying " As a matter of fact, I do own the road ".
Soon after we got back to the Camp we hit the pool. Shortly after that about a dozen young american College girls also jumped the pool so we drummed up a conversation. They are here for 3 months doing research on the wild animals. and there activities.
Tonight we cooked supper on the Bar-B-Q , therefore I had to use briquettes and that is not my strong suite. Oh! too have a Gas Bar-B-Q with us. Tomorrow we move to anther Park .
Sunday, 13 November 2011
12 Nov Saturday Satara to Skuzuka
Today we left Satara for our next stay which is Skuzuka but still in Kruger Nat park. The distance is 92 KM, althought I have noted that milages are approxi, give or take 20 %. anyhow, the Max speed is only 50 KMH so no body is in a hurray . Beside you do not want to hit an Elephant or a Water Buffalo so you better be prepared to stop if they are on the road.
So around 8 AM we took off and kept our eyes peeled for animals and we were not disappoint. Again we seen everything but the illusive Leopard. We seen a family of Elephants have a mud bath in a shallow water hole near the road. That attracted our attention for 15 mins or so , not mention taken at least ten pics. You can never take enought pics and you can always delete them. Then, we came upon 5 or so Giraffes who decide to cross the road and or stand on the road eating the leaves of the nearest tree. after 10 or 15 mins they decided to move an let us thru, which was kind of them.
About 50 KM from our start point , stopped at a picnic area, which comes complete with a store, large sitting area if you buy from the resturaunt, gas Bar-b-Q, picnic table by the river and of course Rest Rooms. they also have a dozen Monkey perched in a nearby tree ready to steal any of your lunch that you don't have cover or under lock and key. We decide to have a coffee and to munch on some of the package of cookies we brought with our coffee. We each had two cookies with our coffee and i closed the rest of the cookies and set them between Carroll and I on the table. that dam unsuspected Monkey came out the tree, across our table and took the whole package of cookies before I could gab them.
After leaving the picnic area we head south to our destination but along the way there were at least a dozen cars stopped along the road that meant there was probably a lion or leopard sighting. As it turns out , it was 3 Lions and everyone was jockeying for a position for a Pic. After Playing " chicken " with few of the cars, I finally got into posn for the Pic that suited Carroll. The Game Drive driver challenged me but I had the right of way so he finally backed off.
We finally arrive at Skukza and got checked in to our camp site. The it was so hot we headed for the pool and stay for about two hours.
It does stay to cool a little once the Sun goes down at 6:30. We decide to eat out again . the meals are very tastey and very reasonable. We had a greek salad; Carroll had pork riblets and I rump steak, and a beer to wash it down all for 32.00 .
So around 8 AM we took off and kept our eyes peeled for animals and we were not disappoint. Again we seen everything but the illusive Leopard. We seen a family of Elephants have a mud bath in a shallow water hole near the road. That attracted our attention for 15 mins or so , not mention taken at least ten pics. You can never take enought pics and you can always delete them. Then, we came upon 5 or so Giraffes who decide to cross the road and or stand on the road eating the leaves of the nearest tree. after 10 or 15 mins they decided to move an let us thru, which was kind of them.
About 50 KM from our start point , stopped at a picnic area, which comes complete with a store, large sitting area if you buy from the resturaunt, gas Bar-b-Q, picnic table by the river and of course Rest Rooms. they also have a dozen Monkey perched in a nearby tree ready to steal any of your lunch that you don't have cover or under lock and key. We decide to have a coffee and to munch on some of the package of cookies we brought with our coffee. We each had two cookies with our coffee and i closed the rest of the cookies and set them between Carroll and I on the table. that dam unsuspected Monkey came out the tree, across our table and took the whole package of cookies before I could gab them.
After leaving the picnic area we head south to our destination but along the way there were at least a dozen cars stopped along the road that meant there was probably a lion or leopard sighting. As it turns out , it was 3 Lions and everyone was jockeying for a position for a Pic. After Playing " chicken " with few of the cars, I finally got into posn for the Pic that suited Carroll. The Game Drive driver challenged me but I had the right of way so he finally backed off.
We finally arrive at Skukza and got checked in to our camp site. The it was so hot we headed for the pool and stay for about two hours.
It does stay to cool a little once the Sun goes down at 6:30. We decide to eat out again . the meals are very tastey and very reasonable. We had a greek salad; Carroll had pork riblets and I rump steak, and a beer to wash it down all for 32.00 .
Saturday, 12 November 2011
11 Nov Game Drive
Today we did another self Game Drive in the morning but to a different area. again we seen the usually Elephant , Buffalo Giraffe and s few Lions. We never mention the antelope because there must be a Million of them and they come in about 8 or 10 different species. We finished our trip around noon so we had a lunch and headed for the pool ,like everyone else as the Temp was in the 40 C range. I met too young guys from Colorando who were on a 3 month backpacking around Africa. The public Transportation system in ZA is terrible and they were finding it had to get from point A to point B.
This evening around 5:30 we went to a local Watering hole for the animals ( to see them come for a drink), however they fools this evening because only seen Hipos ( mostly under water )Warthog, and some antalope. As point of interest, everyone must be inside the Fenced camp site by 6:30 and they mean it. We got back at 6:15 and there was a parade of car racing to get back on time. time for supper and a few cool ones.
This evening around 5:30 we went to a local Watering hole for the animals ( to see them come for a drink), however they fools this evening because only seen Hipos ( mostly under water )Warthog, and some antalope. As point of interest, everyone must be inside the Fenced camp site by 6:30 and they mean it. We got back at 6:15 and there was a parade of car racing to get back on time. time for supper and a few cool ones.
10 Nov Game Drive
Today we decided to get up early and do a Self Game Drive , like many others in the camp. Most folks take a picnic lunch and stop along the way. I should mention that early to most folks is between 4 and 5 AM. Early to us is 6 to 7 AM. Some where around 7;30 or 8 we took off on what ended up being a 3 hour Game Drive and we seen lots of animals. One particular Giraffe was blocking the road eating from a tree, of course, so we took a few pics and admired it until it was ready to let us pass. We also spotted an elephant, a few Lions and a Rhino but they were too far away for a good pic. After our picnic lunch we complete the trip but not before a huge Elephant decide to walk down the road towards us so I put the RV in reverse, just in case, I was in his way. Finally he walked into the trees and we headed home, much delighted to see all these animals. The temp was around 43 to 44C so we headed to the pool and stayed there until 3:30. Since we had schedule a 3 hour Sunset Game Drive We had to be ready to go at 4:30 PM. It gets dark around 6:30 so the last hour we have Hand held spot lights to fine the animals and at that time of night they are usually laying down. We were amazed at how adapted the ZA people on our trip were at finding these animals at night. Anyhow it was a great Game Drive, and we arr home around 8 PM which was longer than expected but with so many animals to see, and the guide giving us the details, our ride was extented. We then made supper and TURN on the A/C so it would be cool for sleeping. We went to bed at 10 PM and as i looked around I believe we were the only one up.
Friday, 11 November 2011
9 Nov Sabie to Satara
Today we left the town of Sabie and our very nice camp site at Merry Peoples and headed for Kruger nat Park to a site called Satara. Although we only had to travel 250 KM, we were advised by other campers that we must stop to view some of the sites along the way. Our first stop was a the "Pinnacle" which was a canyon where the river eroded away much of the rock, many hundreds of years ago, but this one Plateau, about 50 Feet in diameter, must have been made of a harder rock material as it stood about 100 ft tall in the the middle of the canyon. Also, every stop has several Hawkers selling there wares. Although it only cost R5 to get into the place it cost much more just to get Carroll out of there. Somehow, she owes it to the hawkers to buy something.
The next stop was only several Km down the road but it is " God's Window" so of course, with a name like that , it cost R10 to get into the place. After a short walk and a few senic pictures, we again ran the gauntlet of hawkers but Carroll got away unscathed for a change.
Our next stop was about 1 1/2 hrs down the road, aptly named the Potholes. Since this attraction included a 1/2 km walk and had a resturaunt, not to mention 10 or 12 Hawker "Booth " , this placed cost R5 for each person but and another R5 for the vehicle. The Potholes, as you might imagine, is were the " Rushing River " actually cut any soft material out of the rocks and it now appears little many potholes filled with water running in and out of theses holes. By this time our feet where tired so we,along with many others soak our feet in the cool water. After this Rushing River flowed over the Potholes it continued down the canyon and cut deep into the cayon walls which is now at least 50 or 60 ft deep.
Since it was now around 1 PM we decide to have lunch so Carroll returned to the RV and made a sandwich while I save a table near the reasturaunt and watch some small monkeys steal food right off the plates of unsuspecting patrons. One guy lost a sandwich and a banana. When Carroll returned with our lunch the Monkeys headed for our table. I actually had to cover my sandwich with my hand to stop the theft. Then , Carroll left a window open in the RV as it was close enough for us to see and the dam money jump in the RV looking for food. I ran to kick him out but he heard me holler so he jumped out before I got there.
After lunch Carroll again visited the Hawkers and bought a table cloth and 6 Place mat. Carroll bargined with the lady and she dropped her price by R20 and threw in a pot holder so you just know she got the best of the deal.
Now we had to hit the road running as we had to reach Kruger Park and our camp site by 6:30 as they lock the gates. We finally reached the edge of the park and we thought this was our destination for the night. Much to ur surprise Mr. Security said we had 60 more KM to go. After checking thru we took off only to find out that the Max speed in the park is 50 KMH, mainly so you don't hit any animals because they have the Right of way. Besides you do not way to challenage an Elephant, Rhino or a Buffalo. So we mosied along at 50KM. We did see some animals along the way but getting to the Camp site was more important as were tired and hot. Once we reached the reception area we then found out that we needed a Daily or annual Park Pass. The camping was about 20.00 a day but the Park Passwas was about 25.00. anyway we finally reached our camp site got set up for the night. We decide we were too tired to do a night Game Drive and that could wait until tomorrow.
The next stop was only several Km down the road but it is " God's Window" so of course, with a name like that , it cost R10 to get into the place. After a short walk and a few senic pictures, we again ran the gauntlet of hawkers but Carroll got away unscathed for a change.
Our next stop was about 1 1/2 hrs down the road, aptly named the Potholes. Since this attraction included a 1/2 km walk and had a resturaunt, not to mention 10 or 12 Hawker "Booth " , this placed cost R5 for each person but and another R5 for the vehicle. The Potholes, as you might imagine, is were the " Rushing River " actually cut any soft material out of the rocks and it now appears little many potholes filled with water running in and out of theses holes. By this time our feet where tired so we,along with many others soak our feet in the cool water. After this Rushing River flowed over the Potholes it continued down the canyon and cut deep into the cayon walls which is now at least 50 or 60 ft deep.
Since it was now around 1 PM we decide to have lunch so Carroll returned to the RV and made a sandwich while I save a table near the reasturaunt and watch some small monkeys steal food right off the plates of unsuspecting patrons. One guy lost a sandwich and a banana. When Carroll returned with our lunch the Monkeys headed for our table. I actually had to cover my sandwich with my hand to stop the theft. Then , Carroll left a window open in the RV as it was close enough for us to see and the dam money jump in the RV looking for food. I ran to kick him out but he heard me holler so he jumped out before I got there.
After lunch Carroll again visited the Hawkers and bought a table cloth and 6 Place mat. Carroll bargined with the lady and she dropped her price by R20 and threw in a pot holder so you just know she got the best of the deal.
Now we had to hit the road running as we had to reach Kruger Park and our camp site by 6:30 as they lock the gates. We finally reached the edge of the park and we thought this was our destination for the night. Much to ur surprise Mr. Security said we had 60 more KM to go. After checking thru we took off only to find out that the Max speed in the park is 50 KMH, mainly so you don't hit any animals because they have the Right of way. Besides you do not way to challenage an Elephant, Rhino or a Buffalo. So we mosied along at 50KM. We did see some animals along the way but getting to the Camp site was more important as were tired and hot. Once we reached the reception area we then found out that we needed a Daily or annual Park Pass. The camping was about 20.00 a day but the Park Passwas was about 25.00. anyway we finally reached our camp site got set up for the night. We decide we were too tired to do a night Game Drive and that could wait until tomorrow.
Tuesday, 8 November 2011
8 Nov in Sabine
Today we will tour the area but first we will visit Vodafone for the umpteenth time as the Sim card/Stick on my computer would not connect and I do not know how to reprogram it.. After waiting 15 minutes the "Techy " found time to help me. After he reprogrammed it he walked me thru the procedure so if it happens again I can correct it. For that little bit of help it cost me 20.00.
While I was doing that Carroll visited with the Tourist info booth and got a map and direction. The young lady was most helpful and advised us were not to go or park in two of the small towns we were going to visit.
First we went to "Bridle Falls" ( doesn't every country have one ) . although it was 5 KM down a cobble stone road, we were advised it was a must see. Obviously, these folks have never see Niagra falls. When we got to the gate the Security said the cost was R5 ( about 50 cents ) . He advised me that my vehicle was safe with him. I ask how far to the Falls since it was all up hill and he said about 300 or400 M. About half way up to the Falls I realized the Security guard had skipped way too many "Math " classes. But we made it and it was a good test for Carroll's knees and they servived . From here we were directed to another MUST see Falls located at Lonely Creek. The cost to enter had now doubles to R10 ( little over a dollar ) . However the climb was shorter but the water was still on a downward path as expected. Now that is the end of anymore "Falls " unless we get to Victoria falls. I should mention that all these attraction have 5 or 6 hawkers with all their wares to sell.
Next we headed for an old Gold Mining town called Pilgrim's Rest, which was 30 KM away thru a narrow mountainous road but very picturest. This town is strictly a Tourist trap type town with many hawkers with booths along the only street in town. It actually has an uptown and Downtown but the sneery is all the same. The unemployed of i assume are many stand on the street to wave you in to a parking stall and then want to wash your car for R50. I told the guy who waved me in Not to touch my Vehicle. Little did I know he was deaf ( Ithink ) because , in my absence he did splash some water on my vehicle. But after a argument I did pay him R35 and of course he played his ( my children are starving ) card. anyhow we had lunch at local cafe and read about the History of the town from the menu. Then we walked the main street and Carroll bartered with the Hawkers and she managed to but some ZA junk.
After , we left Pilgrim's Rest and went to another small town but it is a type of town where everyone in the area buys their groceries and Sundry item so it had no significants for tourist. So we returned to our Camp site and jumped into the pool for an hour.
There was a middle age gent ( white of course ) in the pool and he was a wealth of knowledge about . One of the items of conversation we found interesting was about the logging in this area . There is a Huge logging industry in this area , albeit not in concert with the Tree Huggers. All the trees for hundreds of miles have been cut and replaced with a pine tree from MX, aptly named the Mexxican Pine. these trees are planted in rows exacting so far apart and they only take 12 years to mature. Unfortunately they take a large amount of water from the soil and the area hence the water table is sucked down. Also, and I must say amazing to me , is that no animal, bird or insect with go in the forest of the MX pine because it is not their nature habitant. He says the forest are erie quiet and the animals have moved to other areas which is their natural habitant.
While I was doing that Carroll visited with the Tourist info booth and got a map and direction. The young lady was most helpful and advised us were not to go or park in two of the small towns we were going to visit.
First we went to "Bridle Falls" ( doesn't every country have one ) . although it was 5 KM down a cobble stone road, we were advised it was a must see. Obviously, these folks have never see Niagra falls. When we got to the gate the Security said the cost was R5 ( about 50 cents ) . He advised me that my vehicle was safe with him. I ask how far to the Falls since it was all up hill and he said about 300 or400 M. About half way up to the Falls I realized the Security guard had skipped way too many "Math " classes. But we made it and it was a good test for Carroll's knees and they servived . From here we were directed to another MUST see Falls located at Lonely Creek. The cost to enter had now doubles to R10 ( little over a dollar ) . However the climb was shorter but the water was still on a downward path as expected. Now that is the end of anymore "Falls " unless we get to Victoria falls. I should mention that all these attraction have 5 or 6 hawkers with all their wares to sell.
Next we headed for an old Gold Mining town called Pilgrim's Rest, which was 30 KM away thru a narrow mountainous road but very picturest. This town is strictly a Tourist trap type town with many hawkers with booths along the only street in town. It actually has an uptown and Downtown but the sneery is all the same. The unemployed of i assume are many stand on the street to wave you in to a parking stall and then want to wash your car for R50. I told the guy who waved me in Not to touch my Vehicle. Little did I know he was deaf ( Ithink ) because , in my absence he did splash some water on my vehicle. But after a argument I did pay him R35 and of course he played his ( my children are starving ) card. anyhow we had lunch at local cafe and read about the History of the town from the menu. Then we walked the main street and Carroll bartered with the Hawkers and she managed to but some ZA junk.
After , we left Pilgrim's Rest and went to another small town but it is a type of town where everyone in the area buys their groceries and Sundry item so it had no significants for tourist. So we returned to our Camp site and jumped into the pool for an hour.
There was a middle age gent ( white of course ) in the pool and he was a wealth of knowledge about . One of the items of conversation we found interesting was about the logging in this area . There is a Huge logging industry in this area , albeit not in concert with the Tree Huggers. All the trees for hundreds of miles have been cut and replaced with a pine tree from MX, aptly named the Mexxican Pine. these trees are planted in rows exacting so far apart and they only take 12 years to mature. Unfortunately they take a large amount of water from the soil and the area hence the water table is sucked down. Also, and I must say amazing to me , is that no animal, bird or insect with go in the forest of the MX pine because it is not their nature habitant. He says the forest are erie quiet and the animals have moved to other areas which is their natural habitant.
7 Nov Bela Bela to Sabine ( Merry Pebbles)
Bright and early monday morning we head for the Vodafone shop to get this dam ipad SSSIM card issue straighten out. unfortunately, Mrs "congenially" was the only Techy available. First she wanted my Passport, for what I will never know, then she played with her computer punching in my Sim numbers. I noticed she was making faces as if the numbers did not work, so i politely said are you having trouble, she just stared back so I just clamed up after that. Then she wanted my cell phone to install the other SIM to activate it but it did not work so she use her own cell and it did not work. She your SIM card is no good and I said well you sold it to me... as she stared at we again i was wishes i could "delete" my last sentence. I really think she was just advising me that it was faulty and I don't think I was suppose to answer.
She then returned my cell and took my iPad to the "Back " room probably so i could not watch her every move. About 10 or 15 minutes later she reappeared, seemingly in a better mood and said the could activate it but the internet was down and that I should return in 1 hour. an hour late I return and she handed me the iPad it's activated and ready to use. I was going to check it right in the shop but I thought that might be pushing my luck, so i returned to the RV and sent a test msg and it worked.
Now, we can finally get on our way to Merry Pebbles camp gropund in Sabine. This a tourist area and has many thinks to see such as Water Falls, picturest landmarks, a several other old gold mining towns that service on tourist only. They also have lots of Hawkers.
We took the secondary roads against the advise of our friends but you know us " No Guts.. No Glory ". For the 1 st 2 hours all was well and then we hit 40 KM of road construction. We had to share the same lane with gravel trucks and road equipt so 30 KMH was the top speed. After that little interruption we were clean sailing until we were about 1 hour out of Sabine. We were in the mountains at 6000 ft and then a very thick Fog hit us so again we were down to 20 and 30 KMH. In fact I rode on a guys tail light for about an hour until we dropped down in the valley.
As we were coming down a steep hill into Sabine, apparently the speed sign said 60 KMH, and apparently I missed it and apparently the Radar picked me up at 76 KMH in a 60 zone. I think the cops all over the world ask the same question. Do you know how fast you were going... of course not or I would have slowed down. anyway he took my Licence and said to come with him so he could write me a ticket. So he studied my drivers Licence and said it had a wealth of information until his licence which was pactically useless as it lack any real info. So we chatted and he ask me about Canada and what i did for a living so i played the "Air Force' Card. then i noticed myMilitary Retirement card so i took it out and should it to him and he says, OH you were a Captain in the Air Force. Then shortly thereafter he handed me my Licence and said no more speeding. I shook has using the special handshake used by the " Blacks " and which the appreciate and I was Scott Free.
We then proceeded to our camp site and it is beautiful. It covers about 50 acres, it is all treed and mostly grass. The road ways are all interlocking brick.The bathrooms are 5 Star not like the pig pens in Canada. We are paying about 22.00 Cdn but one like this in Canada, if you could find one would be 35.00 to 40.00 a night. They have a resturaunt with the park so Carroll and I ate there. I had lamb chops and Carroll had Snitzch all for 20.00 Cdn and the food was excellent.
She then returned my cell and took my iPad to the "Back " room probably so i could not watch her every move. About 10 or 15 minutes later she reappeared, seemingly in a better mood and said the could activate it but the internet was down and that I should return in 1 hour. an hour late I return and she handed me the iPad it's activated and ready to use. I was going to check it right in the shop but I thought that might be pushing my luck, so i returned to the RV and sent a test msg and it worked.
Now, we can finally get on our way to Merry Pebbles camp gropund in Sabine. This a tourist area and has many thinks to see such as Water Falls, picturest landmarks, a several other old gold mining towns that service on tourist only. They also have lots of Hawkers.
We took the secondary roads against the advise of our friends but you know us " No Guts.. No Glory ". For the 1 st 2 hours all was well and then we hit 40 KM of road construction. We had to share the same lane with gravel trucks and road equipt so 30 KMH was the top speed. After that little interruption we were clean sailing until we were about 1 hour out of Sabine. We were in the mountains at 6000 ft and then a very thick Fog hit us so again we were down to 20 and 30 KMH. In fact I rode on a guys tail light for about an hour until we dropped down in the valley.
As we were coming down a steep hill into Sabine, apparently the speed sign said 60 KMH, and apparently I missed it and apparently the Radar picked me up at 76 KMH in a 60 zone. I think the cops all over the world ask the same question. Do you know how fast you were going... of course not or I would have slowed down. anyway he took my Licence and said to come with him so he could write me a ticket. So he studied my drivers Licence and said it had a wealth of information until his licence which was pactically useless as it lack any real info. So we chatted and he ask me about Canada and what i did for a living so i played the "Air Force' Card. then i noticed myMilitary Retirement card so i took it out and should it to him and he says, OH you were a Captain in the Air Force. Then shortly thereafter he handed me my Licence and said no more speeding. I shook has using the special handshake used by the " Blacks " and which the appreciate and I was Scott Free.
We then proceeded to our camp site and it is beautiful. It covers about 50 acres, it is all treed and mostly grass. The road ways are all interlocking brick.The bathrooms are 5 Star not like the pig pens in Canada. We are paying about 22.00 Cdn but one like this in Canada, if you could find one would be 35.00 to 40.00 a night. They have a resturaunt with the park so Carroll and I ate there. I had lamb chops and Carroll had Snitzch all for 20.00 Cdn and the food was excellent.
6 Nov Back to Bela Bela ( WarmBaths )
Just so you are totally confused, Bela Bela and Warmbath are the same city. Warmbath was the original name of the city due to the Hot Springs right in the town but the " majority " black gov't has decided to change the name of some cities/town to a "Black " name hence the name Bela Bela. This is most confusing to us as our GPS with the ZA chip does not recognize the changes. Yesterday we actually thought we were in the wrong town until we seen the old name on the store front.
OK, enough about the history. On sunday the 6 th we return to Bela Bela because the we had to see the vodafone dealer on Monday morning. On Saturday I had the Vodafone shop install the SIM card in my ipad as it is nearly impossible to find free WiFi. unfortunately i hit the shop at 11:30 and they close at 12 noon and don't open until Monday. The "Techyy " seemed to have a hard time installing the SIM card and if fact went into a back room so i could not see her fumbling with it. About 5 min to 12 she say I need you cell phone to install another SIM which will activate your ipad. When i said it was a few blocks away in my RV, she hands me a sheet with directions with 7 steps to do it myself. She said was easy or maybe she said simple , but those words used around my computer always spell trouble. Carroll and I tried several times but it would not activate the ipad.
Hence the reason we returned to Bela Bela. We spent sunday swimming in the Wave Pool, then a dip in the Hot pool, and took in some sunshine to polish our Tan. We met up with some friends at the camp site and joined then in the evening at the Hydro Pool. I'm still not sure why they call it a Hydro Pool but it is huge, 1/2 indoors and 1/2 outdoors. Now we wait for Vodafone to open Monday morning at 8 AM
OK, enough about the history. On sunday the 6 th we return to Bela Bela because the we had to see the vodafone dealer on Monday morning. On Saturday I had the Vodafone shop install the SIM card in my ipad as it is nearly impossible to find free WiFi. unfortunately i hit the shop at 11:30 and they close at 12 noon and don't open until Monday. The "Techyy " seemed to have a hard time installing the SIM card and if fact went into a back room so i could not see her fumbling with it. About 5 min to 12 she say I need you cell phone to install another SIM which will activate your ipad. When i said it was a few blocks away in my RV, she hands me a sheet with directions with 7 steps to do it myself. She said was easy or maybe she said simple , but those words used around my computer always spell trouble. Carroll and I tried several times but it would not activate the ipad.
Hence the reason we returned to Bela Bela. We spent sunday swimming in the Wave Pool, then a dip in the Hot pool, and took in some sunshine to polish our Tan. We met up with some friends at the camp site and joined then in the evening at the Hydro Pool. I'm still not sure why they call it a Hydro Pool but it is huge, 1/2 indoors and 1/2 outdoors. Now we wait for Vodafone to open Monday morning at 8 AM
Monday, 7 November 2011
4 Nov ? 5 Nov Mabalingwe
We moved from Bela Bela to Mabalingwe which is a Nature Reserve some 28 KM down the road. We did so on the advise of a friend and we did not have a reservation. What an exercise to get a camping spot even thought there we some a valuable.
When we arrived at the gate a security guard ask if we had a reservation and we said no. He say " no can enter". We were told by friends to never take No for an answer and just keep talking. So Carroll took over the conversation and the guard got his supervisor to help. Carroll finally got a phone # from him and call the reservation desk, but only after talking to 3 more people. So , it took us 10 min and 5 people just to get thru the Gate. They allow us to enter and go look for for a site. The girl at the Camp site ( person # 6 ) gave us 5 choice. After we selected a site we were sent to the " Reception " area which was about 5 KM away to sign in and pay. When we arrive at the Reception desk a" White " guys ask if he could help. when we said we wanted to sign in and pay he said he could not help but go to the Cashier. So we did but she sent us to the Reservation desk ( that would be person # 9 ) . This lady took our information and then send us back to the Cashier who finally took our money. We then return the 5 KM to the Camp site and past our receipt to ( person # 10 ) and Lo and Behold we were allowed to stay for 2 days. Does this sound like a Make Work Project????.
We then schedule a 5 PM to 8 PM Game Drive. but I will not born you with that process but suffice say we did not see many animals and about 6:45 we got hit with a rain Storm and had to termination our tour. Did they return our Money? Yeh Is the Pope Catholic. end of day one.
On the 5 th we sat around the Hot and Cool swimming pools talking about life in general and some folks gave us some good tips on where to go for a visit. Since WiFi is almost non-exsistant around here we decided to return to Bela Bela tomorrow ( Sat ) and get Vodafone to load the iPad so we can use . It sounds simple but just wait for the next Blog. We are in ZA... nothing is simple.
When we arrived at the gate a security guard ask if we had a reservation and we said no. He say " no can enter". We were told by friends to never take No for an answer and just keep talking. So Carroll took over the conversation and the guard got his supervisor to help. Carroll finally got a phone # from him and call the reservation desk, but only after talking to 3 more people. So , it took us 10 min and 5 people just to get thru the Gate. They allow us to enter and go look for for a site. The girl at the Camp site ( person # 6 ) gave us 5 choice. After we selected a site we were sent to the " Reception " area which was about 5 KM away to sign in and pay. When we arrive at the Reception desk a" White " guys ask if he could help. when we said we wanted to sign in and pay he said he could not help but go to the Cashier. So we did but she sent us to the Reservation desk ( that would be person # 9 ) . This lady took our information and then send us back to the Cashier who finally took our money. We then return the 5 KM to the Camp site and past our receipt to ( person # 10 ) and Lo and Behold we were allowed to stay for 2 days. Does this sound like a Make Work Project????.
We then schedule a 5 PM to 8 PM Game Drive. but I will not born you with that process but suffice say we did not see many animals and about 6:45 we got hit with a rain Storm and had to termination our tour. Did they return our Money? Yeh Is the Pope Catholic. end of day one.
On the 5 th we sat around the Hot and Cool swimming pools talking about life in general and some folks gave us some good tips on where to go for a visit. Since WiFi is almost non-exsistant around here we decided to return to Bela Bela tomorrow ( Sat ) and get Vodafone to load the iPad so we can use . It sounds simple but just wait for the next Blog. We are in ZA... nothing is simple.
Sunday, 6 November 2011
3 Nov Bela bela
At 5 PM tonight we are going a Game Drive ( not a Safaria as Safaria is an overnight trip or longer) . So today we checked out all the facilities in this park. Besides the Wave pool, and the large Hot pool, they have 2 lge slides, A slide that uses Inner tubes , a Zip line, aGo-Cart Track and a 1 KM long Water Ski Oval where you are pull around the oval on a cable at a speed up to 30 KM an hour unless there are young kids using it , then they slow it down. As it turns out, one of the skiers was the Maintenance man from Germany who actually install the Ski tow in 1993. He was here doing a Semi-annual check and of course has to ski to ensure all is working good. I had a good chat about the operation so I said , what happens if you fall 1/2 way around. He said , Oh, that's when SFSW kicks in. I said , what hell is that. He says Ski; Fall; Swim to shore; Walk back to the start. Then I ask the obvious question , How deep is the water and he said about 1 meter and without thinking I said , that's not very deep. His anwers; What's difference , you only ski on top of it. the cost to is R50 for 1/2 hour R80 for 1 hour. R=.13 cents Cdn.
In the evening we did the game Drive with 8 other people. We seen a few Ostrich, many different bred of Antolope, a herd of Zebras, several Giraffe and a herd of White Rhinos. We thought the Giraffe where the high light of the animals.
We arrive back at the Hotel located on the Camp site ( it also has a convention centre ) and we decided to have supper in the Hotel resturaunt which was highly recommended by the Driver. We ordered their special which was 1/2 a rack of ribs, 3 prawns, Baked potato and something that resembled shedded onion rings all for R80 ( around 10.00 cdn). My beer cost 2.50 cdn.
After supper we headed to the Hydro pool , a huge indoor/outdoor Hot pool for about an hour to swim, soak and talk to others doing the same. Two couples we had met the day before invited us over to their " Caravan " for a drink of Amarula ( much like Bailey's) for a night cap. Amarula is made from a fruit that grows wild on a large tree in the nature Reserves. It is a favorite food of the Elephants . Sometimes the fruit falls to the ground and ferments, then the Elephant eats the fruit and gets Drunk. I actually seen a video on Youtube of this happening. Good Night
In the evening we did the game Drive with 8 other people. We seen a few Ostrich, many different bred of Antolope, a herd of Zebras, several Giraffe and a herd of White Rhinos. We thought the Giraffe where the high light of the animals.
We arrive back at the Hotel located on the Camp site ( it also has a convention centre ) and we decided to have supper in the Hotel resturaunt which was highly recommended by the Driver. We ordered their special which was 1/2 a rack of ribs, 3 prawns, Baked potato and something that resembled shedded onion rings all for R80 ( around 10.00 cdn). My beer cost 2.50 cdn.
After supper we headed to the Hydro pool , a huge indoor/outdoor Hot pool for about an hour to swim, soak and talk to others doing the same. Two couples we had met the day before invited us over to their " Caravan " for a drink of Amarula ( much like Bailey's) for a night cap. Amarula is made from a fruit that grows wild on a large tree in the nature Reserves. It is a favorite food of the Elephants . Sometimes the fruit falls to the ground and ferments, then the Elephant eats the fruit and gets Drunk. I actually seen a video on Youtube of this happening. Good Night
Wednesday, 2 November 2011
Bela Bela 2 Nov
Today we ventured to the stores in town as we needed some stuff from the hardware store and then some more groceries. As I parked I ask a lady how long I could park in this space , and said it doesn't as we have no police in town to enforce the rules. These people ( both white and Black) speak many lauguages and I assume by looking at each other they know the language. I bought 3 items at the hardware store and for the life of me, I could not understand what the hell the lady was asking me. So I just handed her the money shown on the cash register.
Then we went grocery shopping and could not find Sour Cream, mainly because we were looking for our type of container. We ask a White lady ( shopper ) so she went to the Black "shelf packer " but spoke in a different language. I ask if she spoke many different language and she replied that she spoke two but could understand several more.
In the afternoon, we hit the outdoor Hot pools and unbeknown to us all the schools in Pretoria were on a day off so there where Bus Loads of school kids. I started to count them but I stopped when I got to a Zillion. Need you ask the colour of most of the students. Besides the huge Hot pool there is a Wave pool (not hot ) complete with a slide. and there are no rules on the use of the slides which surprised me. You can come down in a train formation, head first , even in an inner tube or air matress. And I must admitt, I did not see anyone get hurt. So much for rules. I did one of the big slides myself, but I made sure it was all clear before I went down.
In the evening we went to the Hydro Pool again . I'm not sure why the name Hydro but it too is huge and it wraps around the hotel and they have a walking bridge over one area. When you swim under the bridge you are now going outside which is nice with the hot water and the cool evening air. In this area we met 2 couples ( White ) who are camping near us. One couple are Africans ( meaning Whites born in ZA) . The other couple are immigrates, he from Holland; she from UK.
After discussing most of the world problems and them giving me a history lesson on their country, they invited us over for a night drink of Amarula (sp ) , much like Bailey's. It is a drink made from a wild fruit tree and the animals eat the friut that has fallen off the tree and fermented and they actually get "Drunk". I have seen the pics of this.
Tomorrow, thursday we are going on a 1 1/2 hour night Safaria.
Then we went grocery shopping and could not find Sour Cream, mainly because we were looking for our type of container. We ask a White lady ( shopper ) so she went to the Black "shelf packer " but spoke in a different language. I ask if she spoke many different language and she replied that she spoke two but could understand several more.
In the afternoon, we hit the outdoor Hot pools and unbeknown to us all the schools in Pretoria were on a day off so there where Bus Loads of school kids. I started to count them but I stopped when I got to a Zillion. Need you ask the colour of most of the students. Besides the huge Hot pool there is a Wave pool (not hot ) complete with a slide. and there are no rules on the use of the slides which surprised me. You can come down in a train formation, head first , even in an inner tube or air matress. And I must admitt, I did not see anyone get hurt. So much for rules. I did one of the big slides myself, but I made sure it was all clear before I went down.
In the evening we went to the Hydro Pool again . I'm not sure why the name Hydro but it too is huge and it wraps around the hotel and they have a walking bridge over one area. When you swim under the bridge you are now going outside which is nice with the hot water and the cool evening air. In this area we met 2 couples ( White ) who are camping near us. One couple are Africans ( meaning Whites born in ZA) . The other couple are immigrates, he from Holland; she from UK.
After discussing most of the world problems and them giving me a history lesson on their country, they invited us over for a night drink of Amarula (sp ) , much like Bailey's. It is a drink made from a wild fruit tree and the animals eat the friut that has fallen off the tree and fermented and they actually get "Drunk". I have seen the pics of this.
Tomorrow, thursday we are going on a 1 1/2 hour night Safaria.
Tuesday, 1 November 2011
1 Nov Bela Bela
I still have not taken the time to provide an update on 30 and 31 Oct but I will find time soon. But for 1 nov here goes.
As you may recall we are picking up the RV today and the RV dealer picked us up at our Hotel at 10 AM. We expected a quick " Sign Here" and we would be on our way. First we had to have a coffee with the manager and then she went over the "contract" and made sure we understood EVERY word. This took about an hour. One item of note was that she gave me 3 days to get use to a "Clutch " If I took out the clutch during first 3 days she would replace it but after the 3rd day i would have to pay for it. Then the manager ( she ) had her Demo guy show us everything about the camper and I must admit there are a few difference from our 5 th wheel. The Camper Van is a Mercedes chassis with a Mistbushe diesel engine and it will cruise at 120KMH.
As a side note; I ask the tour driver if 120Km was the speed limit, he no; that is the "take off speed" ; Cruising speed is somewhat higher and he is right.
Anyway, the next move was for me to drive the Van to the loading area so they could load everything we needed to camp and again the Manager supervised the loading and insisted we extra sheets so we don't have to do a wash. she said camping is for fun not washhing clothes. However, we are the exception because she said that not many people rent a Camper for 2 months. After we loaded the camper, we ask where we could find the nearest grocery store. She said not to worry, my Shuttle driver will take you there and wait for you. The shuttle driver is a retired business man who was bored in retirement so he took this job and loves it. Besides he was a wealth of knowledge. he says the country has changed in every ( good )way since they held the World Soocer Finals.
Finally, around 1:30 we got on the road to Bela Bela which is about 80 KM north of Pretoria and arrived in at our camp site around 3:30 PM.
The Hotel and Camp site is called " Forever Resorts, WarmBath " . The park has a huge hotel , numerous camp sites and many chalets ( cottages ) but the main attraction is the Hot Pools and i mean pools . The "Hydro " pool which is the best attraction is about the size of 2 Olympic pools. We spent about an hour in the Hyrdro pool last night and of course chatted with several people. One tidbit ( I will add these as i get them ) is that South Africa ( ZA) has 53 Million people and there are only 3 Million "Whites". I now feel like I'm the only "White Guy" in a Black band.
As of 9 AM 2 Nov we have not explored the whole park so we must get going. We also have to buy a few more item we need for our camper.
As you may recall we are picking up the RV today and the RV dealer picked us up at our Hotel at 10 AM. We expected a quick " Sign Here" and we would be on our way. First we had to have a coffee with the manager and then she went over the "contract" and made sure we understood EVERY word. This took about an hour. One item of note was that she gave me 3 days to get use to a "Clutch " If I took out the clutch during first 3 days she would replace it but after the 3rd day i would have to pay for it. Then the manager ( she ) had her Demo guy show us everything about the camper and I must admit there are a few difference from our 5 th wheel. The Camper Van is a Mercedes chassis with a Mistbushe diesel engine and it will cruise at 120KMH.
As a side note; I ask the tour driver if 120Km was the speed limit, he no; that is the "take off speed" ; Cruising speed is somewhat higher and he is right.
Anyway, the next move was for me to drive the Van to the loading area so they could load everything we needed to camp and again the Manager supervised the loading and insisted we extra sheets so we don't have to do a wash. she said camping is for fun not washhing clothes. However, we are the exception because she said that not many people rent a Camper for 2 months. After we loaded the camper, we ask where we could find the nearest grocery store. She said not to worry, my Shuttle driver will take you there and wait for you. The shuttle driver is a retired business man who was bored in retirement so he took this job and loves it. Besides he was a wealth of knowledge. he says the country has changed in every ( good )way since they held the World Soocer Finals.
Finally, around 1:30 we got on the road to Bela Bela which is about 80 KM north of Pretoria and arrived in at our camp site around 3:30 PM.
The Hotel and Camp site is called " Forever Resorts, WarmBath " . The park has a huge hotel , numerous camp sites and many chalets ( cottages ) but the main attraction is the Hot Pools and i mean pools . The "Hydro " pool which is the best attraction is about the size of 2 Olympic pools. We spent about an hour in the Hyrdro pool last night and of course chatted with several people. One tidbit ( I will add these as i get them ) is that South Africa ( ZA) has 53 Million people and there are only 3 Million "Whites". I now feel like I'm the only "White Guy" in a Black band.
As of 9 AM 2 Nov we have not explored the whole park so we must get going. We also have to buy a few more item we need for our camper.
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