VACATION AT NYARU GAME LODGE

Still on vacation.  Last stop before heading for home via the Franschoek mountain pass.  We found this lovely private game reserve 10km outside Mossel Bay in the Eastern Cape.  Was going to stay in Mossel Bay.  Checked in, gave the town a look and I said to my hubby : "GET ME OUT OF HERE!!"  I appologize to those who love this place, but as far as I'm concerned THERE'S NOTHING THERE!!!  So, we ended up at this lovely place, with beautiful accomodations and buck roaming around freely.  The main entertainment area is absolutely stunning!  It was sad to leave this place behind, but alas, all good things must come to an end.  For all the finer details visit http://www.nyarugame.co.za/

Looks relaxing, doesn't it?  Trust me, it is.

Chow for now!

Bobi

VACATION AT THE CROC FARM OUDTSHOORN

Hi All!  Not going to talk much today as I'll be showing you quite a few pics of the croc farm we visited.  You can take a guided tour or wonder off on your own.  There is a curio shop where you can buy anything from various ostrich eggs (painted, sculptured or with chicks still in), croc eggs, ostrich feathers, leathers....

Eateries also available.  Different bird species, snakes, big cats, fish, pigmy hippos......Let the photos do the talking...

You can also visit http://www.cango.co.za/ for more infor and pictures.

Till next time!  Chow! Bobi

MY VACATION (OUDTSHOORN) CAMELS

Well, after our excursion in the Cango Caves, we travelled just a little down the road where you can enjoy a number of activities.  Take a mini boat trip, browse around the curio shop, have something to eat or ride a camel.

The curio shop is something to behold.  Wines, liquors and muscadels from all over.  Puppets of witches, all sorts of wooden carvings, glasses, paintings, you name it, it's there.  You can eat inside or outside.  Outside, you have the pleasurable company of geese, chickens, ducks and peacocks - just watch out for the poop!
My hubby played it safe, but being me, I had to try something new - CROCODILE MEAT!  YUK!  To say the least.  It tastes like fishy-pork and looks like chicken meat.  I guess it's an aquired taste, but not for me.
Then off we went on a camel ride.

Well, hubby did. Remember I told you about the farting camel in one of my previous blogs?  Well, here he is  :

the way to our accomodations.  Huge place with cottages,

tents, caravans and 4 log cabins on stilts.  3 huge

swimming pools and a dam for peddle boats.

one of the beautiful views from our log cabin at the

Cango Resort.

Next time, we'll pay a visit to the croc farm.

Chow,

Bobi

MY VACATION (OUDTSHOORN) - CANGO CAVES

Today I'm going to show you some pic's of our vacation we took 2 years ago.  Firstly we'll visit Oudtshoorn, better known as the Ostrich Capital.  Here you'll also find the infamous Cango Caves.  I'll tell you this much, no matter how big some of the caves are that you visit in the Cango, it's dark and very hot!  You are not permitted to take ANY WATER with you!!!!!  Something to do with the chemical reactions it has.

You move in large groups, one for English and one for German speaking tourists.  There are different routes to take.  We took the simple one where you could walk up-straight!  The others are for the more gutsy people who like forcing their bodies through keyholes, slithering down skinny, dark passages and sloshing around in water and near impossible places on their bellies!    Some people take their toddlers with them.  Ag, please people!  Don't do that!  It is very irretating trying to listen to the guide through the yelling and crying of a child.  Besides that, I honestly don't think that this is the place for a child.

Anyhow, there are arrows indicating the way out, which is what I done in the last 15 minutes of the tour, which takes an hour.  Being astmatic, I just couldn't take it anymore!  So I told hubby, "I'm outta here!  See you where the sun shines!"  And I made a b-line for the exit.  Following the arrows and just hopping and praying I didn't get lost along the way!  Man oh man!  It was HEAVEN when I saw the LIGHT! 

I gulped down water, wiped the sweat off my brow and vowed NEVER to go in there again!  But, that was my experience.  Maybe you'll have a better time.  So give it a go.  You can't take photos' as you please.  Dim lights will be switched on for you to take photos/videos and have a good look.  Still, as you'll see, take an infra-red camera or something fancy to take pics.  We just used a digital camera with a flash.

After the Cango Caves, we paid a visit to the camels and tried some exotic dishes.  But, that's for another time.  For now, here are the pics of the caves.

The "Bridal Bed"  This is where I ran away in search of light at the end of the tunnel.  Here you'll also find small bats.

Okay, tomorrow we'll visit the camels and crocs!

Chow,

Bobi

The red represents "Hell" -  they use a red light...

MARINE & RIVER BOAT TOURS

Today, I feel like I need to be on the Zambezi Safari, because I'm feeling quite sick of these four walls lately!  But, alas, I'm anchored till further notice......

Anyhow, if you can go, go.  The first one is more for the sporty people and those who want a short trip of a few hours to appreciate our marine life and experience the ocean.
The other two accomodate the luxury to budget traveller.  All the same, great adventure and great fun!

1.  http://www.oceanadventures.co.za/
*Provided by the Ocean Blue company in Plettenberg Bay.  Rates include refreshments.  Languages catered for are :  english, afrikaans, french, dutch, german and xhosa.
*A 2hr kayaking excursion will cost you R300 p/p for ages 14 and older.
*Take a boat trip whale watching for R650 p/p  kids under 12, R350 or take a trip to see various marine
life, like seals for R400 p/p, kids under 12, R200. Prices subject to change.
*Ocean Blue concentrates on Eco-Tourism to make people more aware of marine conservation.  You can also "adopt" a friend.

2.  http://www.victoriafalls-zambiatravel-safaris.com/
*Enjoy a river cruise on the Zambezi which lasts 2 1/2 hours.  Take the mid-morning, lunch or sunset tour.
*You'll see elephants, giraffe, hippo, crocs, buffalo and a huge variety of bird species.
*Other activities include white water rafting, bungi jumping, abseiling, gorge swinging, kayaking, elephant & horse riding, helicopter rides and microlight flights all by the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls.
*Or if you like, go fishing, diving, mountain climbing, ballooning and enjoy a cultural tour.
*Accomodations available are hotels, lodges, tented camps, bush homes, cottages and self-catering.
*Do you remember Dr. Livingstone?  Well, this is his spot.  Take a tour.  You might see him around....

3.  http://www.basambilu.com/
*This is the Olifants River Boat Safari in the Kruger National Park.  We used to live about 1km outside the Parks' gate when I was a little girl.  Went to school in Phalaborwa, which is the nearest town.  In those days, there wasn't really much fencing, so the animals roamed around.  One day, the family went for a drive and we saw to giraffe fighting and my eldest sister shouted : "Daddy, look, the 2 ostriches are killing each other!"
The poor child was balling her eyes out and we were hosing ourselves with laughter!
*On this trip you'll get to see the hippo, crocs, elephants, various antelope species and birds.
*At the end of the 3hr trip, you'll enjoy a sundowner and braai (bar-b-q) onboard.
*PLEASE  TAKE YOUR MALARIA MEDS!!!!
*Stay in luxury rondavels (Thatch roofed, round cottages), 8 bed dorms or camping.

Well, that's it for now.  Wish I was there.  So, please pack me in!


Chow,

Bobi

FOOD & WINE TOURS

I'm back with something to tempt your tastebuds and quench your thirst! 
The Franschoek area is a view to behold!  Especially if you take a drive up
the mountain pass.  You can see the whole of Franschoek from up there on a clear day.  Just be careful of the baboons.  There tend to be some
big buggers who come to the road.  Please DON'T feed them!  This town is full of history dating as far back as the French Huguenots' when they first settled there.  The museum is a must-see.

People are inclined to refer to this town as the Rich Peoples Town, because it is so stocked with elegance, culture, cuisine and quaint little shops with star rated restaurants.  Trust me, not just the rich roam there!

1.  http://www.franschoek.org.za/
*As I said, this is a scenic place with 5* cuisine prepared by our top chefs.  Meals enjoyed with top wines.
*Or you can opt for a chocolate tour, horse riding, cycling through the vineyards or have a picnic.
*Shop for antiques.  Visit the arts & crafts studios & galleries. Go trout fishing or have a round of gholf.
*This town is the gourmet capital of South Africa and worthwhile visiting.  You have 36 restaurants to choose from and loads of exceptional lodgings are available.

2.  http://www.larochelletours.com/
*Here you can enjoy a full day wine, chocolate, cheese & olive tour all in one!  Small groups of up to 10 people ensure individual attention from the guides.
*Rates include all tasting and entrance fees.  You'll be collected at your lodgings.
*Also available are 1/2 day tours.  Places you'll be visiting is Paarl, Franschoek and Hermanus.
*Overnight tours from 1 - 5 days along the Garden Route & Whale Route.

3.  http://www.viator.com/
*This is a tour with a difference!  You'll travel the Cape Winelands on a chauffered 750cc sidecar motorbike.
*Stop off at Paarl for wine & cheese tasting.  Enjoy a scenic drive to Franschoek where you'll taste more wines and enjoy a hearty lunch.
*Departure is in Cape Town at 09h00.  The tour last about 7 hours.
*Open 7 days a week and this specific tour is currently USD217.93.  Other tours also available with various prices.

So, check out the websites I've chosen for you.  Drink, eat and be merry!

Chow!
Bobie

BACKPACKERS NAMIBIA & CAPE TOWN

Welcome!  My photo is most appropriate today, 'cause we're going backpacking!  Firstly, I appologize for the republishing of my previous blog = I noticed some spelling errors!  If you find anymore in my blogs, please forgive me.

Down here on the West Coast, it looked like rain this morning.  Pitch black clouds hung over the sky.  Now they are white as snow and damn hot!  For the following tours visas, passports, insurance and for some places malaria meds are essential.

You like my camel?  I think he is so cute!  When on holiday in Oudsthoorn, near the Cango Caves, we went camel riding.  Was that fun!  The one camel was just munching away on leaves and farting all the way!  It was hilarious!

1.  http://www.chameleonbackpackers.com/
*They are situated in WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA.  Enjoy safaris for individuals, families and groups.
*Have a fly-in safari, self-drive, horse safari, 4x4 camping and culture tours.
*Backpackers lodge for USD12 per night.  Close to all amneties.  Insurance a must.  A guest house is also available with more luxuries and obviously, more expensive.
*Price includes breakfast, free coffee and tea. Laundry facilities and internet.

REMEMBER, MOST PLACES IN NAMIBIA ARE ISSOLATED, SO CELL PHONE RECEPTION IS POOR.  TRY NOT TO TRAVEL ALONE.  IF YOU MUST, HAVE A BACK-UP PLAN INCASE YOU TREAD WATER! (Let someone know where you're heading to, dates & time).  TAKE ENOUGH WATER WITH YOU!!

2.  http://www.nomadtours.co.za/
*This is a great site to visit and these tours (in a converted 4x4 truck) are ideal for people with loads of energy, geared up to have many adventures, meet new people and share experiences.
*You'll be escorted by experienced guides who also qualify as first aiders.
*You've got a choice of 6 tours.  The most popular being the 20 day tour from Cape Town to the Victoria Falls.  Camping all the way.  Meals provided.
*Nomad Tours cover 16 countries, from South to East Africa.  Short tours, day tours, tailore made tours and adventure tours are all on the menu.  Visit this site, enjoy the gallery and plan your tour.  Price lists are included.

3.  http://www.sa-venues.com/
*Try the Baz Bus.  This is a great way to travel for vibrant, independant travellers.  Ideal for students & budget travellers.  Meet new people from all over the world and exchange your stories.
*It works like this :  You buy ONE ticket.  You hit the road in a 16 seater combi.  You can stop anywhere enroute to your destination, hop off, check out the scenery, go shopping, then you hop back on and travel further.  YOU CAN DO THIS AS OFTEN AS YOU LIKE TILL YOU REACH YOUR FINAL DESTINATION.
*Over 180 backpacker hostels & lodges in 40 cities, villages or towns to choose from.
*The transport will pick you up at your lodgings
*Routes cover Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Pretoria (Gauteng).  You can get a 7 - 21 day pass costing R1300 - R3100.  Prices subject to change.
*On-line bookings or phone +27 021 439 2323.

See you there!
Bobi

TOURS FOR OVER 50'S

Hello dear readers!  I really don't know what to wear these days, because this weather is weird to say the least.  It's like having all 4 seasons in one day.  So, take my advice, wherever you roam, go prepared.  Raincoat, bikini or mink coat, just pack it in!

Anyhow, today we are focussing on the not-so-young who are looking to take it easy, yet have fun and adventure.  Believe me, these two tours that I've selected are the ideal getaways with lots to do and lots to see.

1.  http://www.eldertrek.com/
*This is a 21 day tour costing anything from $7295.  All meals and accomodation included - hotels/lodges.
*Max of 16 people with our departure in Gauteng (Pretoria) and ending our tour in Cape Town.
*You'll enjoy various cultures and enjoy some adventurous tours along the way.
*We'll be visiting the Kingdoms of South Africa.  The dates are 23 Feb. 2010, 25 Oct. 2010 & 22 Feb. 2011.  So hurry up and make a booking!
*We'll go to MAPUTO IN MOZAMBIQUE, SWAZILAND, LESOTHO, KAROO NATIONAL PARK, TSITSIKAMMA FOREST & DRIVE THE GARDEN ROUTE.  GAME VIEWING IN ZULULAND AND VISIT THE DRAKENSBURG.
*Don't forget to get your passports, visas and medications.

Our next tour is something exquisite!  You'll be taking the Cape to Cairo tour on the Rovos locomotive.
These coaches are typical Victorian style and is ment to give you the feeling of days gone by. So, there is NO t.v., NO radio, No internet, NO newspaper!!!!  Although kids are permitted, we prefer you left them at home in someones care as we are aiming at peace and tranquillity.  If you simply must bring your kiddies with, please excercise strict control.  Bad behaviour and screaming won't be tolerated.

2.  http://www.rovos.com/
*This website offers you a fantastic slide show, so you can see what the train looks like and some of the scenery.  Included is a departure roster and prices, per person sharing (R6 000 - R25 000).  Accomodations vary from Pullman, Deluxe and Royal.  Single travellers get a 50% off.  On this website you can also read up on the history of this wonderful locomotive and full info regarding the  mechanical works.
*Prices inlcude accomodation, all meals, excursions and alcohol (only on the train).  The tour takes 14 days.
*Other tours also available, anything from 1 day upwards.
*Special diets (vegetarian, vegan, diabetes) on request.  Regretably, we don't cater for different religions.
*Due to the trains dimensions, it's unsuitable for the disabled in wheelchairs.
*Onboard gift shop.  Currency is Rands and Credit cards accepted.
*THE USE OF CELLPHONES & LAPTOPS IN PUBLIC, IS FORBIDDEN!!! Use it in your room only!!  Reception, however, is poor.
*You must have a full 10 year passport & Visa.  Insurance is adviceable as well as anti-malarial meds.
*Sorry, not pets.

Well, all said and done, I think you will have a wonderful adventure.  Even if you can't afford these tours, just pay a visit to their galleries.  It will be worth your while and give you something to save for!

Chow,
Bobi