This was the first extended tour we have participated in. We thoroughly enjoyed it but it was obviously very different than we were used to! Usually when we travel, we make minimal reservations, rent a car, and book as we go. Of course we have some general plans which provide an itinerary but it’s very flexible. With the tour, nearly every minute of the day is scheduled. It was basically follow the leader. The guides told us when to wake up, eat, drink, and use the wash room! I enjoy our usual ability to stay in a location we particularly like a little longer or adjust/ditch a travel plan that proves exhausting. While I enjoyed not having the stress of finding a hotel or figuring out where I am, I almost missed the requirement to think. I would recommend Micato to someone who was interested in touring in the area. I think if I were to do the tour again, I might consider a tour option that was more localized rather than traveling across the continent. We seemed to fly so much that it felt like were never in one area for very long even though some of the flights were really short.
That said, I LOVED this trip and would rate it among the best R&Rs we’ve taken while in Iraq. It gave us the opportunity to experience Africa and meet two wonderful people (our traveling companions) we will definitely keep in touch with. Two thumbs up!
Showing posts with label Africa. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Africa. Show all posts
Kenya: Nairobi - Farewell Micato
We were treated to lunch at the Carnivore in Nairobi for our last day. The restaurant, which was influenced by a similar restaurant in Brazil, offers exotic meats for the tasting. One by one the waiters visited our tables with slabs of meat and recommended sauces for us to try. Ostrich, crocodile, chicken, lamb, and pork were served. Apparently, the restaurant used to also offer the cats, gazelle, zebra, etc. etc. but abuse threatened the wildlife.
The Pintos bid us adieu by inviting us to dinner at their majestic home with other safariers. The Pintos, who founded Micato, have obviously done well. They home was beautiful and the food was excellent. The Pintos met with us as we shared stories with the other travelers and tasted various Indian and Kenyan dishes (the Pintos are actually Indian in descent).
The Pintos bid us adieu by inviting us to dinner at their majestic home with other safariers. The Pintos, who founded Micato, have obviously done well. They home was beautiful and the food was excellent. The Pintos met with us as we shared stories with the other travelers and tasted various Indian and Kenyan dishes (the Pintos are actually Indian in descent).
Kenya: Masa Mara
The trip to Masa Mara from Serengeti was rightfully coined the “Endless Planes” by one of our fellow travelers. What could easily have been a four hour drive, had it not been for the border restrictions, turned into eight legs of flights including three plane changes, in one day. The shortest flight was three minutes, and the longest, nearly an hour. We were quite worn and agitated when we arrived at our last safari destination and had it not been for our lucky find that evening, we would have considered the day a total waste. The driver took us immediately from the airstrip to a tree where we were able to get close up with the leopard. We watched it for nearly an hour as it slowly woke. Once again, our patience paid off as we followed it into a little bushy area, spy and successfully kill its dinner, a dik dik. Amazing.
The accommodation at the Masa Mara was similar to the Serengeti in that it was another tented camp. This time, there was a bath tub located on the patio (nice!). We listened to hippos play in the water below our patio throughout the evening and walked out of our room to greet four hippos staring at us each morning.
At Masa Mara the rules were a little different on the safari in that we were not restricted to roads. When animals of interest were sighted or believed to be in a specific area, through the grass and bush we went. On our full day in the area, we managed to find a couple cheetahs with their cubs. One cub was approximately three months old and the other cubs were just born. They were so cute; I just wanted to take one home with me. We also learned from our guide, that of the cats, the cheetah is the only cat that does not have the wild ‘instinct’. Should a cheetah be raised in captivity, it will never know any different than the behavior taught by its owners, where a lion in comparison, would eventually realize it was meant to hunt and kill. Another interesting fact was that of the cats, the leopards were the most successful hunters. Also in the area, we got close up with lions that appeared to be honeymooning (mating period), partook in our sunrise balloon ride, and visited with the Maasais in one of their villages.
The balloon ride was scheduled bright and early so that we would be in the air as the sun broke across the horizon. Neither Mike nor I had participated in a balloon ride before so it was an experience we were looking forward to. The mornings (and evenings) are pretty brisk so we dressed in layers and packed our winter hats. Of course, with the heat given off by the balloon, we were over prepared. The ride lasted about an hour and a half and took the direction the wind swept us. We crossed over the plains and river while searching for and sometimes spooking, the wildlife. The pilot detailed interesting facts about the animals we saw and spoke to the art of ballooning. We ended with a solid landing on the wrong side of the river so it was quite some time before we were picked up by someone who was able to make it across. The previous night of rain had swelled the river so it was too high to cross in many areas. The balloon ride was followed by a breakfast on the plain. Long tables were set up with a buffet breakfast including made-to-order eggs, mimosas, and bloody mary’s. Can’t be that!
At the Maasai village, our host discussed the roles of men and women in their culture including their traditional dances. We were invited into their homes to see how they lived and encouraged to participate in the dances. The homes were made of dirt, cow dung, and water and are built by the women of the village. Two main rooms provide accommodation for the calves (cattle is very important to the traditional Maasai who believe all cattle, including those raised in the US, belong to them) and for the resident family. The living area consists of a fire pit, bed for the adults, and bed for the children. No electricity means no lights other than that provided by the fire. The building includes only a small window so while the fire smolders, the room becomes very smoky. The people are so used to the smoke that it doesn’t irritate them. I thought it was a very interesting experience. At the end of the tour, we were provided the opportunity to purchase some of the masks and beaded jewelry and bowls. Of course, I couldn’t resist the temptation!
The accommodation at the Masa Mara was similar to the Serengeti in that it was another tented camp. This time, there was a bath tub located on the patio (nice!). We listened to hippos play in the water below our patio throughout the evening and walked out of our room to greet four hippos staring at us each morning.
At Masa Mara the rules were a little different on the safari in that we were not restricted to roads. When animals of interest were sighted or believed to be in a specific area, through the grass and bush we went. On our full day in the area, we managed to find a couple cheetahs with their cubs. One cub was approximately three months old and the other cubs were just born. They were so cute; I just wanted to take one home with me. We also learned from our guide, that of the cats, the cheetah is the only cat that does not have the wild ‘instinct’. Should a cheetah be raised in captivity, it will never know any different than the behavior taught by its owners, where a lion in comparison, would eventually realize it was meant to hunt and kill. Another interesting fact was that of the cats, the leopards were the most successful hunters. Also in the area, we got close up with lions that appeared to be honeymooning (mating period), partook in our sunrise balloon ride, and visited with the Maasais in one of their villages.
The balloon ride was scheduled bright and early so that we would be in the air as the sun broke across the horizon. Neither Mike nor I had participated in a balloon ride before so it was an experience we were looking forward to. The mornings (and evenings) are pretty brisk so we dressed in layers and packed our winter hats. Of course, with the heat given off by the balloon, we were over prepared. The ride lasted about an hour and a half and took the direction the wind swept us. We crossed over the plains and river while searching for and sometimes spooking, the wildlife. The pilot detailed interesting facts about the animals we saw and spoke to the art of ballooning. We ended with a solid landing on the wrong side of the river so it was quite some time before we were picked up by someone who was able to make it across. The previous night of rain had swelled the river so it was too high to cross in many areas. The balloon ride was followed by a breakfast on the plain. Long tables were set up with a buffet breakfast including made-to-order eggs, mimosas, and bloody mary’s. Can’t be that!
At the Maasai village, our host discussed the roles of men and women in their culture including their traditional dances. We were invited into their homes to see how they lived and encouraged to participate in the dances. The homes were made of dirt, cow dung, and water and are built by the women of the village. Two main rooms provide accommodation for the calves (cattle is very important to the traditional Maasai who believe all cattle, including those raised in the US, belong to them) and for the resident family. The living area consists of a fire pit, bed for the adults, and bed for the children. No electricity means no lights other than that provided by the fire. The building includes only a small window so while the fire smolders, the room becomes very smoky. The people are so used to the smoke that it doesn’t irritate them. I thought it was a very interesting experience. At the end of the tour, we were provided the opportunity to purchase some of the masks and beaded jewelry and bowls. Of course, I couldn’t resist the temptation!
Tanzania: Serengeti
The lodging introduced in western Serengeti was called a tented camp. Impressive. I could definitely get used to the luxury provided. The rooms were each individual large canvas tents that were opened with a zipper. Each tent had privacy, its own patio, a wooden floor, a king sized canopy bed, full bathroom (shower – no tub), and excellent view of the Serengeti. PLUS laundry was provided in the package – and trust me, we needed it. We continued the mimosas received as we got off the planes (that transported us from the Ngorongoro/Lake Manyara area to the Serengeti) in the open sitting area which introduced us to the tent. Here they described the rules which included no-unescorted movements after dark. The camp was not enclosed by a fence which meant animals, friends or foe, could wander freely amongst the tents. We ensured our tents were closed well that evening!
The Serengeti provided more of the same but with a different environment. On our second safari in the area, we traveled to central Serengeti so we could view the migration. There were soooo many zebras and wildebeests roaming the ‘Endless Plains’. A bonus to the long drive was that we got to see our first leopard (thereby completing the Big Five) at a distance up in a tree. Oddly enough (since leopards and lions don’t play nice), the tree was situated between two other trees, also occupied by lions trying to escape the heat and bugs. Another goal accomplished on this run was that we were able to find the lilac-breasted roller, which is a b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l bird especially admired by our traveling companion. We left the central area to return to our camp with the impending rains. The driver’s experience in the area proved essential as the rain was so fierce, we could barely see the road in front of us. The driver was able to navigate the roads partially by memory and brought us back to our lodging safely.
The Serengeti provided more of the same but with a different environment. On our second safari in the area, we traveled to central Serengeti so we could view the migration. There were soooo many zebras and wildebeests roaming the ‘Endless Plains’. A bonus to the long drive was that we got to see our first leopard (thereby completing the Big Five) at a distance up in a tree. Oddly enough (since leopards and lions don’t play nice), the tree was situated between two other trees, also occupied by lions trying to escape the heat and bugs. Another goal accomplished on this run was that we were able to find the lilac-breasted roller, which is a b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l bird especially admired by our traveling companion. We left the central area to return to our camp with the impending rains. The driver’s experience in the area proved essential as the rain was so fierce, we could barely see the road in front of us. The driver was able to navigate the roads partially by memory and brought us back to our lodging safely.
Tanzania: Ngorongoro Crater
After our safari at Lake Manyara, we continued to our next destination, Ngorongoro Crater. The drive included a stop at a local market for our first ‘local’ experience shopping. We all browsed the treasure trove of items searching for souvenirs we could not live without. Bartering is key, so none of the items were marked for price. Unfortunately, there was so much to look at that no one could make a decision on what to buy! One of the tenants especially liked the North Face shirt Mike was wearing and even offered to trade shirt for wood carving (not once – but twice!). Mike declined – lol!
The lodge we were booked at was situated along the rim of the crater so our room offered a breathtaking view; especially at sunrise. It was the second Serena lodge (the first at Lake Manyara) we stayed at and both were very impressive. It was nice to have two evenings in the room to look forward to after the string of single night stays we had just been through. We relaxed the evening away taking in the views and talking about the itinerary for the next day. The night included a show by the Maasai as they demonstrated their traditional dances. They were colorfully clothed in bright colors and beads. The men showed off their ability at jumping in order to impress the ladies while the women bounced their neck beads and chanted with the men. I was astonished at how some of the men could jump although I don’t think it would convince me to ask them for marriage! Unfortunately, the superior lodge was spoiled by subpar food. Can’t have everything be perfect!
The full day of safari was very exciting. We nearly got the Big Five in one day! If only we had been able to find a leopard. Our first cat was the Cheetah as we found it dining on its kill. A male lion approached our touring vehicle and used us as a temporary shade before plopping down on the side of the road. Once the lion became bored with our presence, we watched it take a drink out of the small pool of water and continue on its way. Its departure sparked the arrival of three female lions and two little cubs. Later, we spotted another female lion beginning her hunt as a male lion and cub waited for dinner in the distance. Patience paid out in the end as we witnessed her attempt to snag dinner for her family. A swift kick in the side by a zebra fouled her plans as she was unable to take her target down. It was so neat to see these animals so close and in action in the wild. We also saw the black rhino in the middle of a field during a brief afternoon rain and let’s not forget the MANY elephants we saw between our first two safaris.
In addition to the most sought after animals, we saw plenty of topis, elands, ostriches (which are quite tasty by the way), gazelles, African buffalos (aka retired generals), impalas (Africa’s Chevy’s), birds, hyenas, hippos, etc. etc. It was quite the day – a destination we could not have done without!
The dinner entertainment at the lodge was aerobatics this time as locals demonstrated their strength, balance, and flexibility while pulling off incredible stunts. It was an impressive show. Mike and I also took the evening opportunity to pick up a few Maasai souvenirs from a Maasai selling goods outside the restaurant. Mike picked up a club used to kill lions during the Maasai’s passage into adulthood. Another tradition the Maasai’s practice (although they don’t frequently practice the lion one anymore) is the circumcision of men at age 16. The men prove their bravery by receiving the procedure without anesthetic and without a tear in their eye or a cry escaping their lips…..oouuchh.
The lodge we were booked at was situated along the rim of the crater so our room offered a breathtaking view; especially at sunrise. It was the second Serena lodge (the first at Lake Manyara) we stayed at and both were very impressive. It was nice to have two evenings in the room to look forward to after the string of single night stays we had just been through. We relaxed the evening away taking in the views and talking about the itinerary for the next day. The night included a show by the Maasai as they demonstrated their traditional dances. They were colorfully clothed in bright colors and beads. The men showed off their ability at jumping in order to impress the ladies while the women bounced their neck beads and chanted with the men. I was astonished at how some of the men could jump although I don’t think it would convince me to ask them for marriage! Unfortunately, the superior lodge was spoiled by subpar food. Can’t have everything be perfect!
The full day of safari was very exciting. We nearly got the Big Five in one day! If only we had been able to find a leopard. Our first cat was the Cheetah as we found it dining on its kill. A male lion approached our touring vehicle and used us as a temporary shade before plopping down on the side of the road. Once the lion became bored with our presence, we watched it take a drink out of the small pool of water and continue on its way. Its departure sparked the arrival of three female lions and two little cubs. Later, we spotted another female lion beginning her hunt as a male lion and cub waited for dinner in the distance. Patience paid out in the end as we witnessed her attempt to snag dinner for her family. A swift kick in the side by a zebra fouled her plans as she was unable to take her target down. It was so neat to see these animals so close and in action in the wild. We also saw the black rhino in the middle of a field during a brief afternoon rain and let’s not forget the MANY elephants we saw between our first two safaris.
In addition to the most sought after animals, we saw plenty of topis, elands, ostriches (which are quite tasty by the way), gazelles, African buffalos (aka retired generals), impalas (Africa’s Chevy’s), birds, hyenas, hippos, etc. etc. It was quite the day – a destination we could not have done without!
The dinner entertainment at the lodge was aerobatics this time as locals demonstrated their strength, balance, and flexibility while pulling off incredible stunts. It was an impressive show. Mike and I also took the evening opportunity to pick up a few Maasai souvenirs from a Maasai selling goods outside the restaurant. Mike picked up a club used to kill lions during the Maasai’s passage into adulthood. Another tradition the Maasai’s practice (although they don’t frequently practice the lion one anymore) is the circumcision of men at age 16. The men prove their bravery by receiving the procedure without anesthetic and without a tear in their eye or a cry escaping their lips…..oouuchh.
Tanzania: Lake Manyara
Our new guide and driver greeted us upon arrival and with a little coaxing agreed to give us a mini safari shortly after our check in at the lodge. We were able to get a sneak peak of the area just as some of the nocturnal animals were coming out to play. The wooded area was full of birds and monkeys who could have cared less about our presence in their habitat. We spent some time watching them as we slowly wandered towards the hippo pool. On the way we spied our first glimpses of impalas, zebras, and giraffes. The hippo pool was just like in the movies, full of wildlife enjoying the water. As the sun started to set, the hippos were becoming active and we watched them splash in the water. One of our fellow travelers was particularly interested in birds so the guide paid special attention to pointing out the varieties available including calls! I was very impressed with his knowledge of the animals.
The lodge we were booked at was of the Serena family. It was nicely situated at an elevation higher than the lake and surrounding lands. The balcony allowed a view of both and the room was cozy with a rustic feel and sense of privacy. Mosquito netting surrounded the bed at night to keep the bitey bugs at bay..or trap those already through the gates within! I was surprised just as I was dozing off with a grasshopper that confused my shoulders for a trampoline! My white knight in shining armor slayed the evil beast to ensure it never bothered sleeping beauties again. Poor little guy.
The following morning, we ventured back to the wooded area to see how the wildlife had changed with the time of day. The available wildlife was more abundant and as we expanded the covered ground, we were able to add to our list of animals seen. I had traveled with a Safari Journal which included an animal and bird checklist which I started to maintain as we went along. According to our guide, Lake Manyara would serve as our introduction to the animals with our experiences becoming more exciting at each safari destination. We can’t wait!
The lodge we were booked at was of the Serena family. It was nicely situated at an elevation higher than the lake and surrounding lands. The balcony allowed a view of both and the room was cozy with a rustic feel and sense of privacy. Mosquito netting surrounded the bed at night to keep the bitey bugs at bay..or trap those already through the gates within! I was surprised just as I was dozing off with a grasshopper that confused my shoulders for a trampoline! My white knight in shining armor slayed the evil beast to ensure it never bothered sleeping beauties again. Poor little guy.
The following morning, we ventured back to the wooded area to see how the wildlife had changed with the time of day. The available wildlife was more abundant and as we expanded the covered ground, we were able to add to our list of animals seen. I had traveled with a Safari Journal which included an animal and bird checklist which I started to maintain as we went along. According to our guide, Lake Manyara would serve as our introduction to the animals with our experiences becoming more exciting at each safari destination. We can’t wait!
Kenya: Nairobi
Nairobi acted as a transit point for our continued adventure. We arrived fairly late and were driven to the Norfolk Hotel. I was not overly impressed. Supposedly it is one of the nicest hotels in the city. I don’t want to see what the lesser hotels look like! Fortunately, it was a brief stay with only a late dinner and early breakfast to occupy our time. The morning of our onward flights, we were granted a tour of the city and a visit to the Karen Blixen’s house and a giraffe sanctuary. Karen was the author of the book, Out of Africa, which I suppose I should now read and/or watch the movie. We learned a little about her life, especially during her stay in Kenya and then continued on to the giraffes. I particularly enjoyed feeding the giraffes. They were eager to take food out of your hands, and as long as we kept them busy with pellets, we were able to snag a few great photos. I even gave one giraffe a kiss which included positioning a pellet between my pressed lips and allowing the giraffe to steal it away. In the pictures we look like we’re having quite the make out session! (I think we made Mike jealous!)
We accomplished all three activities before lunch which was offered at the airport. We departed from the Nairobi regional airport which may be the smallest regional airport we’ve ever flown out of.
We accomplished all three activities before lunch which was offered at the airport. We departed from the Nairobi regional airport which may be the smallest regional airport we’ve ever flown out of.
Johannesburg
Mike spent our last day in Zambia in bed and missed all the fun activities planned for the day. I also tried to go Bungee jumping off the bridge crossing the gorge but was unable to do so because of the weather and timing. Poo. Regardless, I think we both had an awesome time and definitely want to visit again...
We flew to Johannesburg yesterday as an overnight transit before continuing on to Kenya. We have a few friends that live in the area, one of which I had provided our itinerary to prior to coming to Africa. They surprised us by being at the hotel when we arrived! What a treat. An afternoon which was scheduled for relaxing at the hotel turned into a drive through the countryside to their beautiful home and a nice dinner out with their family. I couldn't believe the views from their home. They were spectactular! Too cool. I really hope we'll be able to visit again.
We flew to Johannesburg yesterday as an overnight transit before continuing on to Kenya. We have a few friends that live in the area, one of which I had provided our itinerary to prior to coming to Africa. They surprised us by being at the hotel when we arrived! What a treat. An afternoon which was scheduled for relaxing at the hotel turned into a drive through the countryside to their beautiful home and a nice dinner out with their family. I couldn't believe the views from their home. They were spectactular! Too cool. I really hope we'll be able to visit again.
Zambia: Victoria Falls
An early morning and two short flights later we were were in Zambia being escorted to our luxury hotel by our new guide and driver. The hotel is situated on the river, just a short walk from the top of the falls. The guide has kept us busy since we arrived. We were checked into our rooms with a hand massage and welcome beverage and then shortly after, driven to a sunset cruise on the river. We dined on light snacks and local wine/beer while watching the wildlife and discussing our experiences to come. Mike stood ready with his camera as the hippos popped their heads above water. Our cruise ended just as the rain began to fall and we ventured back towards our rooms for a late dinner with our new friends.
The following morning started at 0600 with an elephant safari. This elephant ride was much more pleasant than that in Thailand. We rode on a padded saddle together and were on reasonably level land. We spied giraffe, impala, baboons, and water buck(?). They served us ostrich eggs for breakfast at the preserve before leading us back to the hotel to go on our helicopter flight over the falls. The flight circled over the falls and allowed for birdeye views of the river and surrounding area. It was quite an experience flying through the mist caused by the falls - that the locals fondly call the 'smoke that thunders'.
Shortly after the flight, we went by boat to an island on the the falls and then hiked along the edge. The water level had risen to high to allow for swimming in the Devil's pool :(. The very wet trek was concluded with a delicious lunch provided by our host.
Mike unfortunately, woke up with an uneasy stomache which did not get better with the rough transit to the elephant park. He missed both the helicopter flight and the falls hike. :( I hope he gets better soon!
It's not looking good for the bungee jump - not only are we so busy, but I don't see the option offered! yes Dad - I'll ask.
The following morning started at 0600 with an elephant safari. This elephant ride was much more pleasant than that in Thailand. We rode on a padded saddle together and were on reasonably level land. We spied giraffe, impala, baboons, and water buck(?). They served us ostrich eggs for breakfast at the preserve before leading us back to the hotel to go on our helicopter flight over the falls. The flight circled over the falls and allowed for birdeye views of the river and surrounding area. It was quite an experience flying through the mist caused by the falls - that the locals fondly call the 'smoke that thunders'.
Shortly after the flight, we went by boat to an island on the the falls and then hiked along the edge. The water level had risen to high to allow for swimming in the Devil's pool :(. The very wet trek was concluded with a delicious lunch provided by our host.
Mike unfortunately, woke up with an uneasy stomache which did not get better with the rough transit to the elephant park. He missed both the helicopter flight and the falls hike. :( I hope he gets better soon!
It's not looking good for the bungee jump - not only are we so busy, but I don't see the option offered! yes Dad - I'll ask.
Cape Town: Day 2
Day two started bright and early at 0800. We enjoyed a second day of the awesome breakfast buffet before heading off to Table Mountain. Unfortunately, the wind had not subsided so we were unable to take the cable cars to the top but we were escorted to several nice vantage points which allowed some really nice photos of the city. Along the way, the tour director summarized some of the local history. He had grown up in Cape Town and therefore lived through the Apartheid. He had some pretty interesting stories to share and related areas of the city to show us.
Our first official stop of the day was at a local winery. This experience at wine tasting was much more pleasant than that in New Zealand. The winery itself was very impressive with huge archways and a lovely atmosphere. We were able to try nine different wines and three variations of chocolate. Shall we say heaven?
Our original itinerary called for a second wine tasting after lunch, but instead we convinced the tour director to adjust the schedule to include a visit with the cheetahs. At the cheetah sanctuary, we were able to visit with and pet the 9 month old cheetah cubs. They were quite calm... though I don't understand how they couldn't be considering their day was spent being petted by eager animal lovers! The sanctuary was in place to raise money for research and to promote the cheetah's survival. I thought it was a nice addition to the day.
We finished the day on the water front browsing the shops and taking photos of the sea lions that had come to sun on the docks. There were locals singing and dancing in order to take advantage of the tourist's generosity and street merchants selling their goods in addition to the established shops. We stopped in a jeweler in search of some tanzanite but were discouraged by the high costs and wrong ring size. ;) There was a ring that was just stunning that I would have had a hard time walking away from had it fit the finger it was destined for.... good thing - our pocket book would have taken a hit!
It'll be a REALLY early morning for us tomorrow as we head to Zambia for the Victoria Falls...I have to decide real soon whether I have the guts to bungy jump off the falls...... I mentioned the possibility and apparently, it exists...so now...can I follow through?
Our first official stop of the day was at a local winery. This experience at wine tasting was much more pleasant than that in New Zealand. The winery itself was very impressive with huge archways and a lovely atmosphere. We were able to try nine different wines and three variations of chocolate. Shall we say heaven?
Our original itinerary called for a second wine tasting after lunch, but instead we convinced the tour director to adjust the schedule to include a visit with the cheetahs. At the cheetah sanctuary, we were able to visit with and pet the 9 month old cheetah cubs. They were quite calm... though I don't understand how they couldn't be considering their day was spent being petted by eager animal lovers! The sanctuary was in place to raise money for research and to promote the cheetah's survival. I thought it was a nice addition to the day.
We finished the day on the water front browsing the shops and taking photos of the sea lions that had come to sun on the docks. There were locals singing and dancing in order to take advantage of the tourist's generosity and street merchants selling their goods in addition to the established shops. We stopped in a jeweler in search of some tanzanite but were discouraged by the high costs and wrong ring size. ;) There was a ring that was just stunning that I would have had a hard time walking away from had it fit the finger it was destined for.... good thing - our pocket book would have taken a hit!
It'll be a REALLY early morning for us tomorrow as we head to Zambia for the Victoria Falls...I have to decide real soon whether I have the guts to bungy jump off the falls...... I mentioned the possibility and apparently, it exists...so now...can I follow through?
Cape Town, South Africa
We're nearing the end of our first full day in Cape Town. So far, so good!
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We arrived yesterday on schedule, at the Cape Town airport. We sat next to a friendly South African who gave us some valuable pointers on various hotspots throughout the city. A tour director was at the airport awaiting our arrival. We were whisked away to a company van and immediately transported to a grand hotel. The director pointed out sites along the way and highlighted recent/future significant events, historical trivia about visible landmarks, and updated us on what we had to look forward to. The lodging turned out to be a large, old Victorian style hotel. There were beautiful gardens and lovely decorations throughout. We were given a brief tour and were led to our room which included a nice little sitting area, king size bed with down comforters, and a bathtub (bonus!).
Dinner was served a couple hours later at the hotel restaurant. I enjoyed yellow tail while Mike dined on steak. We met our tour mates who turned out to be from Texas. Dinner was complemented by conversation as we all acquainted ourselves with one-another.
The morning started with the buffet breakfast which did not disappoint. Our tour director drove us through the city on our way to the Cape of Good Hope. He too briefed us on city highlights and gave us ample opportunity to snap photos at optimum view points. We ran into some baboons on the way - and these did not have purple butts! :) Our visit to the Cape ended with a visit to the light house. With any luck, Mike managed to get some awesome photos...
After the lighthouse, we ventured off to visit the penguins along the coast and eat lunch. We saw the full circle of life as we witnessed some tending to their eggs, babies shedding their baby coat, adults waddling around the sand, and sea gulls dining on the dead.
Lunch was another delicious meal - tiger shrimp this time, while Mike enjoyed ribs and seafood - before we continued on to the botanical gardens. The gardens were to large to take in in the hour we had to visit. Unfortunately, the flowers were not all in bloom but regardless, there were plenty to see.
Mike and I finished the day by loading up on some anti-Malaria pills (I can't believe how much they cost!) and some cake during the tea break offered by the hotel. We look forward to some more fine dining this evening at what is rumored to be an nice seafood restaurant! :) Yum!
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We arrived yesterday on schedule, at the Cape Town airport. We sat next to a friendly South African who gave us some valuable pointers on various hotspots throughout the city. A tour director was at the airport awaiting our arrival. We were whisked away to a company van and immediately transported to a grand hotel. The director pointed out sites along the way and highlighted recent/future significant events, historical trivia about visible landmarks, and updated us on what we had to look forward to. The lodging turned out to be a large, old Victorian style hotel. There were beautiful gardens and lovely decorations throughout. We were given a brief tour and were led to our room which included a nice little sitting area, king size bed with down comforters, and a bathtub (bonus!).
Dinner was served a couple hours later at the hotel restaurant. I enjoyed yellow tail while Mike dined on steak. We met our tour mates who turned out to be from Texas. Dinner was complemented by conversation as we all acquainted ourselves with one-another.
The morning started with the buffet breakfast which did not disappoint. Our tour director drove us through the city on our way to the Cape of Good Hope. He too briefed us on city highlights and gave us ample opportunity to snap photos at optimum view points. We ran into some baboons on the way - and these did not have purple butts! :) Our visit to the Cape ended with a visit to the light house. With any luck, Mike managed to get some awesome photos...
After the lighthouse, we ventured off to visit the penguins along the coast and eat lunch. We saw the full circle of life as we witnessed some tending to their eggs, babies shedding their baby coat, adults waddling around the sand, and sea gulls dining on the dead.
Lunch was another delicious meal - tiger shrimp this time, while Mike enjoyed ribs and seafood - before we continued on to the botanical gardens. The gardens were to large to take in in the hour we had to visit. Unfortunately, the flowers were not all in bloom but regardless, there were plenty to see.
Mike and I finished the day by loading up on some anti-Malaria pills (I can't believe how much they cost!) and some cake during the tea break offered by the hotel. We look forward to some more fine dining this evening at what is rumored to be an nice seafood restaurant! :) Yum!
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