Tag Archives: Travel

Camping Etiquette: Essential Tips for a Harmonious Experience

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Introduction from Helen
Camping—what’s not to love? It’s the ultimate escape from the frantic pace of modern life.
But let’s be honest—while most campers are delightful, there’s always the odd one who is thoughtless and does not consider his/her fellow man. That’s where a gentle nudge toward camping etiquette comes in handy. Not rules, exactly—more like friendly reminders that keep the peace and preserve the magic. Perhaps these reminders should appear in brochures, blogs and signs in ablution blogs and reception areas.
Cathy, our guest blogger, has penned a brilliant guide to the unwritten rules of the wild. Her tips are thoughtful, practical, and worth considering.

(Images are AI generated)

Camping Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules of the Wild
There’s a quiet code among campers—an unspoken agreement that we’re all here to enjoy nature, not to intrude on each other’s peace. Whether you’re tucked into a remote corner of the bush or sharing space at a bustling national park, a little courtesy keeps the experience magical for everyone.
These were rules taught to me by my parents—simple, thoughtful guidelines for camping that I’ve lived by through all my years in the bush. They shaped how I move through wild spaces: with care, respect, and a touch of old-school courtesy. But lately I’ve found myself wondering—are these still relevant? Or have we moved on from these quiet codes of conduct?

Remember Your Manners

Respect the Soundscape
Nature has its own rhythm—wind through the trees, the distant call of a nightjar, the soft crackle of a fire. It’s a symphony that doesn’t need a bass boost. Keep conversations gentle, music low, and save the dramatic retelling of your cousin’s wedding for daylight hours. Quiet hours aren’t just campground rules—they’re a kindness to the early risers, the light sleepers, and the wildlife who didn’t sign up for your playlist.

Listen to the sounds of Nature

Stay in Your Lane (and Out of Theirs)
It might seem harmless to cut across someone’s campsite to reach the ablution block or a friend’s site, but it’s a bit like walking through their living room. Campsites are personal spaces, even if they’re just a patch of grass and a folding chair. Stick to paths, respect boundaries, and if you’re unsure—circle wide. A friendly wave from a distance is always better than a surprise appearance next to someone’s kettle.

Teach your kids to respect the space of others

Leave No Trace (and No Toast Crumbs)
The principle is simple: take out what you bring in or dispose of it in the proper place. That includes food scraps, packaging, and the dirty water from your in-van shower. Wildlife doesn’t need our leftovers, and fellow campers shouldn’t have to pick up or clean up after you. Use bins, if provided, or pack your waste out. Bonus points for picking up a stray wrapper that isn’t yours—karma in the wild is real.

Keep your space clean


Share the Space
Campsites aren’t private kingdoms. Be mindful of how your setup affects others—don’t sprawl across paths, block scenic views, or monopolize communal areas like picnic tables or fire pits. If your tent looks like it’s auditioning for a glamping magazine, make sure it’s not encroaching on someone else’s peace. A bit of spatial awareness and a friendly hello go a long way in building a respectful camping community.

A considerate set-up

Nighttime Courtesy: Torch Use and Awareness
Walking at night around the camp demands a little extra mindfulness. A torch isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. It prevents you from tripping over roots or stepping on something far less forgiving, like a snake or a scorpion. But how you use it matters.
It’s too easy to blind other campers with torches that are waved around. The trick is to keep the light low, pointed at the ground, lighting your path without disturbing others. Headlamps are handy, but they require extra mindfulness—tilt them down and resist the urge to look directly at people while chatting.

Use torches thoughtfully

Fire with Care
There’s something primal about gathering around a fire—but it’s also a responsibility. Use designated braai areas, keep flames manageable, and never leave a fire unattended. When the embers die down, make sure they’re truly out. Our Tearful Bokkie may be fictional, but the risk isn’t.

Make sure campfires are properly extinguished

Hygiene Happens
Washing dishes at the tap, brushing teeth next to the water tank, leaving a shower stall swamped, or rinsing muddy boots and ground-sheets in the shower block? Maybe not. Use proper facilities, biodegradable soap, and keep shared spaces clean for the next person. If you don’t want to step in it barefoot, don’t leave it behind. And yes, that includes toothpaste blobs, hair in the shower drain, and rogue spaghetti strands.
Camping is about connection—with nature, with others, and with ourselves. A little etiquette ensures the experience stays wild in all the right ways.

Use the correct facility and leave it spotless for the next camper

Gecko 109 on Safari – Final Episode -Wildlife Encounters at Kruger: Elephants and More by Guest Blogger, Cathy.

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Solar Struggles and Starry Nights: Tsendze and Beyond

As I mentioned in our last post, our departure for Tsendze was delayed by a bit of roadside camaraderie. Waldo and Desiré, fellow campers, had car trouble, and Alec offered to help. After a trip to Phalaborwa and some mechanical magic, the comforting roar of Waldo’s engine signalled success. We packed up, said a warm farewell to our new friends, and finally hit the road.

The drive to Tsendze was lovely—clear skies and a gentle warmth that would later climb to a blistering 37°C. We stopped at Mopani Camp to check in, where the ever-friendly ladies at reception greeted us with their usual friendly faces. Tsendze is one of the few Kruger camps where sites are allocated, so after receiving our spot, we drove the eight or so kilometres back to the entrance.

The gates at Tsendze are a bit of a landmark, and as always, Alec did a quick scan of the bush to ensure I wouldn’t become a widow before opening them. We found campsite #5 and were thrilled to see a large tree offering generous shade—much needed, as the heat had become oppressive and there’s no electricity at Tsendze. Our aircon was out of the question, so we relied solely on our 12V system to keep the fridge and lights going.

Once the van was set up and the solar panels laid out to catch what sun they could, we returned to Mopani for a lazy lunch on the deck overlooking Pioneer Dam. The elephants were having a glorious pool party—splashing, playing, and generally making us wish we could join them.

An Elephant Pool Party at Pioneer dam

Back at camp, the afternoon drifted by as we enjoyed the birds and squirrels in the surrounding bush. As evening fell and the heat softened, we settled in with our customary drinks and opted for a simple sandwich supper, still full from lunch and not quite ready to brave the stove.

As tradition goes, Roger popped by to welcome us. He’s a fixture at Tsendze — knowledgeable, kind, and always ready with a story. He apologized for the foot traffic near our site; a nest of barn owls had drawn curious children from across the camp. Roger’s passion for and knowledge of the birds and animals of the area is encyclopaedic, especially when it comes to owls. It’s always a pleasure chatting with him.

Kruger’s bird life felt like a living field guide. We enjoyed watching them in camp and on our drives. There were many different species but there are a few that are our favourites.

A majestic martial eagle

Marabou Storks were at the end of the line when looks were handed out

A Pale Chanting Goshawk peers out

Mocking Cliff Chat poses beautifully

Ford Tailed Drongos were everywhere

A Kurrichane Thrush looks for supper

Egrets and a Cormorant look for supper

Alec’s favourite Bird – Yellow Billed Hornbill

Burchells Coucal dozes in the sun

Crested Francolin are accomplished beggars

Gorgeous Tawny Eagle

Bennet’s Woodpecker

Southern Ground Hornbills

Beautiful mature Bataleur

White fronted Bee Eater waiting for prey

Busy Magpie Shrike

African Jacana forages in the shallows

After a refreshing shower, we turned in early, eager to explore the area the next day. But morning greeted us with thick cloud cover — a camper’s nemesis when relying on solar power. Our panels, usually reliable in partial sun, couldn’t keep up under the heavy skies. With our battery struggling, we made another trip to Mopani to see if we could swap our booking for a powered site at Letaba. The receptionist worked her magic and found us a place one night, which was better than nothing, especially with school holidays filling up the camps.

We packed up and headed back to Letaba, grateful for the reprieve and already making mental notes about upgrading our electrical setup. Lithium batteries? Better panels? A puzzle for another day.

Letaba welcomed us with a lovely site, and we spent the afternoon revisiting some of our favourite spots—the bridge over the river, Engelhart Dam, and the loops off the Phalaborwa Road. Kruger, as always, delivered. One of my favourite sightings was a line of elephant bulls marching out of the bush to drink at a reservoir—majestic and utterly grounding.

On a blazing day these zebra needed a drink

Buffalo also drinking at the same waterhole

An unusual Kruger sighting – Tsessebe

Five Bulls in a row

Enjoying the freshest water

Hippos ignore the Yellow-billed Storks

Some of the most fearsome jaws in nature

Giraffe necking – some of those hits must have hurt

Waterbuck bulls are more interested in the ladies than us

Just outside camp on our final drive, we had one of those rare sightings that makes you blink twice and wonder if your eyes are playing tricks. We were meandering along the river loops when a flash of white darted across the road in front of us. We stopped immediately, and there it was—perched to the left, a pure white squirrel. I scrambled for my camera, but of course, it chose that moment to focus on the nearest leaves. By the time I’d adjusted, the squirrel had vanished into the undergrowth.

Whether it was a true albino or leucistic, I couldn’t say. But what struck me most was how starkly its snowy coat stood out against the muted tones of the bush—like a tiny beacon in a world of camouflage. It’s a wonder it’s survived to adulthood, given how visible it must be to every predator, feathered or four-legged. We could only hope this little ghost of the veld continues to evade its predators. 

My out of focus pic of the squirrel

Back at camp, we found ourselves surrounded by twelve Maui motor homes, all part of a French tour group. They’d formed a loose circle, and our little Gecko stood out like a lone ranger. The evening was quiet, punctuated by night sounds and snippets of French conversation drifting through the air.

The next morning marked the start of our 2,000-kilometre journey home. As always, leaving Kruger felt like leaving a piece of ourselves behind.

Sunset on our holiday!

Impressions of Kruger

This visit brought a pleasant surprise: signs of real maintenance. Letaba now has a new electrified diamond mesh fence, and the new shop is a welcome upgrade. The debris from the old, burned-down shop has finally been cleared. Though we were a bit unsettled by the sight of a large animal trap near the campsite—what exactly were they hoping to catch?

Across the camps, things looked more cared for. Gardens were tended, paths swept, and for the first time in ages, we didn’t spot toilet paper strewn along the loops near the Letaba River. On our last visit, it had been a real eyesore.

We had a wonderful time—short, but rich with wildlife, quiet moments, and the kind of peace only the bush can offer. There’s nothing quite like sitting under a sky full of stars, drink in hand, the scent of roasting meat in the air. The calls of Scops Owls and nightjars blend with jackal howls, hyena whoops, and every now and then, the deep, primal roar of a lion.

Kruger is more than a destination—it’s a balm for the soul. And it’s a place we’ll keep returning to, again and again.

Gecko 109 on Safari – Episode 3 – Wildlife and Tranquility in Kruger – By Guest Blogger, Cathy

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In my previous blog, I mistakenly referred to our meal stop as the Farmers Market at Alzu. The correct name is the Farmer’s Bistro. I also mentioned we were heading to Mopani, when in fact it was Maroela—clearly, I mixed up my trees! These slip-ups have now been corrected in the earlier posts.

From Kopjies to Riverbeds: A Journey Through Kruger
We left Berg-en-Dal early, eager to explore a new corner of the Park—Maroela, a satellite campsite near Orpen. The drive was, once again, a joy. Kruger never disappoints when it comes to wildlife, and this leg of the trip gifted us one of the Park’s most elusive treasures: a pack of wild dogs lounging in a riverbed. These endangered canines are high on every visitor’s wish list, and although we’d hoped to spot the resident pack near Satara, we were lucky enough to encounter them much earlier.

Not long after, we found a young leopard trying to get comfortable in a tree. Choosing the right, smooth branch for a lazy day is very important.

Young leopard doing its best to get comfortable

Our First Glimpse of the Dogs

Wild Dogs in the river bed

Every river has its crocodiles!
Not long after, we came across a pride of lions—albeit far from the road. It always amazes me how some people can spot the faintest flicker of movement or a subtle shape in the distance. One kind soul pointed out a green mound near a cluster of trees, and sure enough, through binoculars, nine lions lay dozing in the sun. I’ll never stop marvelling at the eyesight of seasoned bush-goers!

Lions Lazing in the sunshine

One young male keeps watch

A Pitstop at Satara
By midday, we reached the Orpen turnoff and decided to pop into Satara for lunch and fuel. A delicious chicken salad at the Cattle Baron hit the spot, and with a full tank, we made our way to Maroela.

Along the way, we were lucky to encounter another rarity at Kruger, the Southern Ground Hornbill. In fact, we saw these magnificent birds a few times. Did you know that these birds are the largest hornbill in the world and one of the heaviest flying birds in South Africa?

A Gorgeous Ground Hornbill

Another prime viewing was watching this young Bataleur play in a puddle! This daft young bird hopped around, sipped a little, and thought about bathing. It fluffed its feathers, dipped down, and then hopped away again.  It went through this performance a few times before tiring of the game and moving off. What a pleasure to see a young animal just enjoying itself.

A young Bataleur playing in a puddle

Maroela: Quiet Charm by the River
After the bustling energy of Satara, Maroela was a breath of fresh air. Small, quiet, and reminiscent of Tsendze, it offered a peaceful retreat. The gate system is self-managed, and many sites overlook the river—dry at the time, but still frequented by elephants and giraffe.
The ablutions, though a bit dated, were spotless. And the showers? Miraculously well-behaved! No rogue spray patterns—just a steady stream of water where it was meant to go. We quickly settled into a lovely site and headed out for our first drive.
The veld around Maroela looked tired, a clear sign of the dry season’s end. Still, the area was alive with elephants, giraffe, impala, kudu, and more. We’ve never been the type to chase only the big cats. There’s so much beauty in the quieter creatures, and we find endless joy in watching them go about their day.

Everyone waiting to drink from the last pool of water

So many beautiful giraffes

A roadblock you don’t argue with

Side-eye from a Hippo

Zebra drink at Nsemani Dam

Rain and Reflection
On our last night at Maroela, the heavens opened. Rain at last! I swear the bush sighed in relief. Thankfully, we’d packed away our awning the night before, so there was no soggy canvas to wrestle with in the morning. After a leisurely breakfast, we set off for Letaba—one of our favourite camps.

Letaba: The Place of Sand
We made good time and arrived late morning, finding a semi-shady site near the fence. Most trees here are Mopani, and at this time of year, they’re bare. It’s a blessing for game viewing—you can see much deeper into the bush, but shade is scarce in the camp.
One of Kruger’s prettiest sights is the Letaba River from the bridge. It’s a haven for waterbuck, hippos, and birds. We spotted African Spoonbills, Three-banded Plovers, Goliath and Grey Herons, Saddle-billed Storks, and the resident Fish Eagle pair.

One of the prettiest views – Letaba River from the bridge

A Waterbuck ram dines on water plant

A pied kingfisher waits for a meal to swim by

Drives and Discoveries
Letaba offers a variety of scenic drives, and we explored most of them during our three-day stay. Elephants were everywhere, and giraffe sightings were particularly lovely. Wildebeest, zebra, and kudu kept us entertained throughout.
On our final afternoon, we stumbled upon a lion kill—perhaps one of the most dramatic sightings we’ve had. Two lionesses were feasting on a buffalo right beside the road. The sound of bones cracking in the silence was a visceral reminder of their power. It’s no wonder the bushveld lives in awe—and fear—of these magnificent creatures.

Lions feast on a buffalo

We could clearly hear the crunching of bones

Elephant Hall – A Must Visit
Of course, no visit to Letaba is complete without once again standing in awe of the tusks of the magnificent tuskers that have lived at Kruger. The Elephant Hall museum is a mine of information about the elephants of the Kruger, and there are many fascinating exhibits to look at, all related to elephants and their life cycles.
There is also a small exhibit of different skulls and skins of other animals in the park. This small museum is well worth a visit if you are in the area.

Life-size statue outside the Elephant Hall

Loads of info about elephants

Each tusker has his own display with his tusks

Selection of skulls and skins from other critters

Stars, Braai, and a Glass of Merlot
That evening, we watched the resident hyena pace along the fence, enjoyed a sundowner, and soaked in the peace of camp life. There’s nothing quite like a star-filled sky, the scent of braai in the air, and a glass of merlot in hand.
Again that night, the heavens opened, and we had a terrific thunderstorm. The wind howled and the rain pelted down. Again, the bush got a good watering so I am sure that the green grass is not far away!
A Morning Mishap and a Friendly Fix
The next morning brought a hiccup—our neighbours’ Toyota battery had died overnight. Even a jumpstart couldn’t revive it. Alec drove Waldo to Phalaborwa for a replacement, which delayed our departure for Tsendze. But in true bush spirit, we made new friends, so it was a win-win.
Now, as we head off to Tsendze—where there’s no 220v—the next chapter of this blog will have to wait. But something tells me it’ll be worth the pause.

Gecko 109 on Safari Episode 2 – Discovering Crocodile Bridge: Warthogs and Wildlife – by Guest Blogger, Cathy

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From Bass Lake to Crocodile Bridge: Surprises, Sightings, and a Mop-Wielding Warthog Wrangler

We left Bass Lake early, slightly anxious about finding our way back to the N4 and bracing ourselves for the inevitable convoy of trucks. Thankfully, we navigated back to the N1 without a hitch and soon merged onto the N4. It was busy, as expected, but the dual lanes made for a smooth enough drive.

With no breakfast in our bellies, we decided to stop at the next promising spot—and that turned out to be Alzu. What a surprise! We expected the usual roadside pit stop: a fuel station, maybe a tired-looking restaurant. Instead, Alzu felt like someone had plucked a strip mall from Joburg and dropped it in the middle of the bush. Multiple restaurants, a shop that could rival a small city, and crowds of people everywhere.

After peeking into Mug & Bean and Spur, we opted for the quieter Farmer’s Bistro. Good call. They served up toasted egg and bacon sandwiches on thick farm bread—hearty, delicious, and paired with the obligatory mountain of chips. Alec and I couldn’t even finish ours.

Back on the road, we made good time until we hit a jaw-dropping queue of trucks near Komatipoort—15 kilometres of slow-moving metal. It made us wonder: where do these drivers eat, sleep, or even find a bathroom? Most of the ore trucks don’t have sleeper cabs, so it must be a rough few days inching forward.

Eventually, we turned off towards Crocodile Bridge and felt that familiar thrill—Kruger time. We’d never stayed at Croc Bridge before, and it turned out to be a gem. Neatly demarcated campsites (a rarity!), a warm welcome from the resident bushbuck, and a shady, safe spot for Lizzie, our caravan.

The camp was spotless, with beautifully tended gardens. We met a man wielding a bright green, slightly moth-eaten mop—his warthog deterrent. Apparently, the warthogs like to sleep under vehicles and have midnight tusk-fueled brawls that wreak havoc on wiring. Mop diplomacy at its finest.

Our game drives were fantastic. A courting pair of lions stole the show, but we also saw herds of impala, elegant kudu, and some lovely birds. Croc Bridge was the perfect start to our holiday.

That said, Monday marked the beginning of SAN Parks’ free access week, and the roads turned chaotic. Sightings always cause traffic jams, but with the surge in daily visitors, it was borderline gridlock.

Our courting couple off to find a room
A cute steenbok stopped to say hello
Our first Ellies – Always a treat
Plenty of beautiful giraffe
The scourge of Crocodile Bridge!

The Long Drive to Berg-en-Dal: Rhinos, Rock Formations, and a Camp That Could Use a Map

After two nights at Croc Bridge, we headed to Berg-en-Dal. We had three options: backtrack to the N4 and brave the trucks again, take the bone-rattling gravel road between Croc Bridge and Malelane, or enjoy a leisurely drive up the tar road via Skukuza. No contest—we chose the tar road and stopped at Lower Sabie for breakfast.

Berg-en-Dal was bustling. Cars, vans, tents—everywhere. It took a while to find a spot, and honestly, I wish SAN Parks would follow Croc Bridge’s lead and demarcate sites. At Berg-en-Dal, it was hard to tell where one site ended and another began. At one point, a tent was completely boxed in by vehicles, and a mini reshuffle was needed just to let the poor campers out.

Still, the sightings were wonderful. The landscape here is stunning—rocky kopjies and dramatic rock formations. It’s prime rhino territory, and we were lucky to spot a cow and her calf. The highlight, though, was a female leopard doing what leopards do best: napping. She was so relaxed, it felt like a privilege just to watch her breathe.

After two lovely days, it was time to pack up and head to Maroela—another first for us.

Such an elegant lady – female Kudu
A stunning lilac-breasted Roller
Buffalo by the dozen
Alec’s favourite bird – yellow-billed hornbill
Grey Heron – head on!
Mama Rhino with her calf

One sleepy leopard
Wonder if the elephant wanted to admire the fig

The Curse of the Smartphone: A Rant from the Riverbank

One thing I just can’t wrap my head around is the obsession with phones. At Lower Sabie’s Mug & Bean, we sat on the veranda overlooking the magnificent Sabie River. Birds flitted across the water, animals moved in the distance—and yet, most people were glued to their screens.

Before even greeting the waiter, phones were out, thumbs scrolling. No eye contact, no conversation, just a sea of faces lit by blue light. And it’s not just teenagers—it’s everyone. Why come to the park if your main interest is a 4×6 inch screen?

Don’t get me wrong—my phone’s a useful tool. But I sincerely hope it never becomes the most important thing in my life.

Visiting the Stanford Chelsea Flower Show

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On Friday, our guest and friend, Nicoline, took The Earl and me, to the quaint village of Stanford, the proud host a full-scale recreation of South Africa’s Gold Award-winning exhibit from the 2025 Royal Horticultural Society, Chelsea Flower Show, in London. Since the original display couldn’t be transported home, it was lovingly rebuilt for the Stanford “In Bloom Festival”, showcasing the Cape Floral Kingdom.

It was designed by Leon Kluge and Tristan Woudberg, and the exhibit featured over 25,000 stems of fynbos, a canyon of amber water, and a sculptural tribute to South Africa’s cultural heritage.

At the Chelsea Show in London, a sleeping wild fox was spotted curled up among the fynbos. The display’s water, tinted with rooibos tea, famous for its herbal virtues, might have tempted him to take a sip. If so, he might wonder if that is why his coat became so glossy.

Those footprints suggest he might just have been heading to the water for a drink!
AI Generated

There were also botanical artworks from the Grootbos Florilegium on display and one could purchase prints in various sizes. They were absolutely stunning, and the Florilegium was a delight to page through. While I was admiring it a man approached me and said he’d get one of the artists to sign me a copy.
“Thank you, but I’m not buying,” I replied.
“Why not?” he asked, “It’s only R 2000 for the full-sized book and R 800 for the smaller one.”
“Sorry, I’m just too poor,” I smiled.
He laughed. “I feel so sorry for you!”
He was, of course, teasing.
Nicoline has been coveting one, and it was with great effort that she stopped herself from indulging her wish.

Some of the prints
The Earl took a photo of this print with his cell phone,

The town was alive with scarecrow-like effigies as part Stanford’s annual ‘In Bloom Spring Festival’. They were displayed in front of shops, in gardens, and in public spaces, each handcrafted by local residents, including schoolchildren, families, businesses, and artists. A prize will be awarded to the best contributors at the end of the festival.

Nicoline shares a moment with one of Stanford’s effigies
The Earl and I having a chat with Oupa.
The Earl waits patiently as we are delayed by another stunning floral display,

On our journey back to Struisbaai, we made a delightful stop in Gansbaai to visit my friend, Belinda, who is curating a captivating art exhibition. Titled Dancing with the Universe, the show features an array of beautiful works—and I was especially taken with Belinda’s own contribution. It’s truly a piece that speaks to the soul. With her permission, I am publishing the video of the opening function.

Dancing with the Universe by Belinda Batt

As we headed home with a new protea tucked safely in the boot and a radiant yellow clivia gifted to us by Nicoline, our hearts felt just as full as our garden will soon be. The Stanford In Bloom Flower Show was a visual feast which left Nicoline, who is passionate about flowers, uplifted with joy and her enthusiasm certainly affected us profoundly.

Spring Awakening: Exploring South Africa’s West Coast

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After three years away, spring lured us back to South Africa’s West Coast—when the land wears its most dazzling colours and the air hums with renewal. Our journey had both heart and purpose: a long-overdue visit to a dear friend in a Langebaan retirement home, and a financial check-in with our adviser based in Dwarskersbos.

Note: To view the group of photographs, click on the first one to enlarge it. Use the arrows to navigate the slideshow. Press ‘escape’ to return to the blog post. On your phone, swipe to view each photo and tap the ‘x’ to return to the blog post. You may also need to tap the information icon to view the captions.

Before settling into our Airbnb in Langebaan on Day One, we made a beeline for the West Coast National Park. The Postberg section, open only in August and September, was in full bloom.

The bird life flitting among the spring blooms was a true delight which stirred a memory from long ago: an Afrikaans liedjie we once sang at school.
Al die veld is vrolik
Al die voeltjies sing
Al die kriekies kriek daar buit
Elke springkaans spring.

Loosely translated – The whole veld is cheerful, the birds sing, the crickets call outside, and each grasshopper hops.

Black-banded Martin
Black-banded Martin
Black-banded Martin
White-throated canary
Levaillant’s Cisticola
Cape Bulbul
White-backed Mousebird
Double collared sunbird and speckled mousebird
Double-collared Sunbird
Karoo Prinia
Cape Robin-Chat
Karoo Scrub Robin

The Cape Francolins certainly enjoyed the fields of flowers

The only mammals we found were these beautiful Cape Mountain Zebra.

Though primarily scavengers, yellow-billed kites also hunt small vertebrates and insects. Flower-rich fields attract pollinators and other insects, which in turn draw insectivorous birds like kites. We were thrilled to witness this in Postberg.

We also explored the other section of the West Coast National Park and the highlight was finding the Grey-Winged Francolin.

The ostrich family was also fascinating to watch. Those babies must be a lot of work!

Day Two led us to Velddrif for a financial meeting, followed by an impromptu river cruise on the Berg River. With no booking in hand, we simply Googled “boat cruises,” followed the directions, and hoped for the best. Luck was on our side. We spotted Nico’s sign, dialed the number, and he cheerfully invited us to join a group departing at 12:30. It was 12:10—we made it just in time.

The Earl, ever at peace on the water, was in his element. The cruise was pure magic. The vessel—a humble West Coast Chuckie—was far from fancy, but with only six of us aboard, it offered the perfect vantage for soaking in the scenery and spotting birds. The river mirrored the sky, and the bird life was a quiet joy.

The sign that attracted us
Nico and his chuckie
Grey Heron
Egret
Guineafowl
Little Grebe
Giant Kingfisher
Water Thick-knee
Black-ctowned NIght Heron
African Darter
Pied Kigfisher
Egyptian Goose
Grey Heron
Spur-winged Geese
Diving Blacksmith Lapwing

As we were driving back to Langebaan we passed a wetland and stopped to observes some teal with their babies. A few stilts were wading in the ponds too,

Black-winged Stilt

Day Three
After packing up for departure from our accommodation, we enjoyed a lovely lunch with our dear friend Hanny, in Langebaan, then drove back to Cape Town, grateful for the springtime beauty, the meaningful connections, and the chance to revisit familiar places with fresh eyes. The West Coast gifted us not only wildflowers and birds, but moments of reflection and renewal.

Share Your World 31 August 2025 – The Changing Seasons

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Here are my answers to this weeks SYW from Di

Is your home heated by radiators, underfloor heating or an open fire?
We have a portable gas heater that can be placed in any room. In our lounge we have a wood-burning stove.


What is a comfortable temperature in the colder months for your home?
Setting a comfortable temperature in our home is not possible – no air-con – no central heating. If it’s too hot, an inadequate fan tries valiantly to cool us, but otherwise it’s down to wearing light clothing, drinking iced drinks and heading to the beach for a swim.
If it’s too cold we light the fire or add layers of clothing.

Our grandchildren keeping cool in Struisbaai!

What is more appealing, a mug of hot coffee or tea, a bowl of warming soup, or stew and dumplings?
Coffee is my beverage of choice, but in the cold weather, I love a warming bowl of soup. Biltong soup is my favourite. I buy it ready-made from a Checkers or OK Foods. It’s made with finely chopped biltong—South Africa’s beloved dried meat—milk, cream, cheddar cheese and beef stock. The spices include coriander, nutmeg, and pepper. It’s like a hug in a bowl, with a bit of a protein punch and a whole lot of local pride.


Would you prefer to share the dawning of a new day or a beautiful sunset?
Early mornings are the best time of the day in the bush, and I am always thrilled to see the sun rise during a game drive. At home, I seldom rise early enough to enjoy a sunrise, but sunsets are stunning.

Sunrise in Kruger National Park

Gratitude:
We’re back in Cape Town for a visit—a city that once held our nine-to-five lives before we swapped it for the slower rhythms of Struisbaai. It’s been a heartwarming reunion tour, catching up with old friends and beloved family, and I’m deeply grateful to each one who carved out time for us. One of the most meaningful moments was celebrating what would have been my father’s 100th birthday with my siblings. We gathered for breakfast at a beautiful restaurant tucked into a golf estate. I remain profoundly thankful for the gift of a father who was always loving and supportive to his children and who adored his grandchildren,

Dad with five of his beloved grandchildren – November 2002

Spring has arrived in the southern hemisphere, and on this first day of September, the skies are clear and the air is soft enough to shed a jacket. Soup will be replaced with salads, and hopefully, sunrise drives will feature in the near future.
During the past cold months, we often entertained our friends in front of log fires and indoor braais, but now we look forward to sunshine, beach walks, outdoor braais, and trips to nature parks.
It is in the laughter of old friends, the legacy of a loving father, and the quiet joy of being exactly where we’re meant to be that gives me joy.

Share Your World 11 August 2025 – Charming Cafés and Breakfast Delights in Small Towns

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Here are my answers to this weeks SYW challenge from Di

Do you prefer bar food, a restaurant, cafe or tea rooms?
I have a soft spot for coffee shops with character. Breakfast is my favorite meal to enjoy when eating out—especially on a road trip. Here in South Africa, our small towns (or ‘dorps’) often surprise us with the most delightfully unique cafés and tearooms. The photos below are from a quaint spot in Britstown, once a working mill, now lovingly transformed into a shabby chic haven filled with memorabilia.


Do you always have the same thing, or try something different from time to time?
“I love the feeling of walking into a place where they know my name. In my hometown, we often visit a coffee shop called Shipwreck, where the owner knows us so well that all I need to say is, ‘My usual, please!’ Her coffees are exceptional—and if you’re in the mood for something sweet, there’s simply no better spot.

The best eggs and bacon in town
The omelettes are to die for
Delicious cheese cakes
Best of all is the chocolate cake


Have you ever had to send something back to the kitchen because it was substandard?
It’s only happened a handful of times, but recently—while visiting a town more than an hour from home—I ordered creamed spinach with my breakfast. It arrived looking like a green dream… until I took a bite. Crunch! Gritty as a beach picnic gone wrong. Thankfully, it was served in a separate bowl, sparing the rest of my delicious breakfast from leafy sabotage. The place was bustling, so I only managed to raise the alarm after polishing off my plate. The owner was wonderfully apologetic and handed me a voucher for a free coffee,

(Image AI generated) Creamed spinach: now with extra gravel for that authentic garden experience


If you have a complaint, do you make it in writing after you have left, or before you settle your bill?
It’s always best to speak up right away—no one should have to pay for food that misses the mark. In my experience, a polite complaint usually leads to a replacement dish or, as in my spinach saga, some form of compensation

(Image AI generated) One bitter remark earns one sweet reward.

Gratitude

I truly appreciate the privilege of dining out as often as I do. Most of the time, the restaurants are exceptional—offering great service and consistently delicious food.

(Image AI generated) Two seasoned souls, one shared table—proof that good food and great company only get better with age.

Share Your World 30 June 2025: A Personal Journey Through Six Months

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Here are my answers to this week’s Share Your World questions from Di.

Half the year is now over.
Have you had any memorable highlights in the past six months?
Time certainly doesn’t dawdle, but I feel incredibly fortunate that each month delivered its own spark of joy. Here’s a peek at the highlights that made the first half of the year feel beautifully full:
January brought a flurry of familiar faces to our doorstep. Hosting dear friends and family at the southern tip of Africa is always a great start to the year.
February welcomed Andrew, whose stay stretched into May—He is an old friend of Hubby and was great company for him.
March swept us off to Cape Town for an “Old Salts” reunion at the Cape Boat and Ski-boat Club—reminiscing with long-lost companions over sea breezes and shared tales. We also stole away to the tranquil Warmwaterberg hot springs with Andrew and his brother, who had brought a group of teenagers from his school in America.
April wrapped us in family bliss with an Easter gathering in Plettenberg Bay—laughter, love, and togetherness. We also waved goodbye to our beloved Gecko caravan, turning a nostalgic page toward new adventures.
May offered another midweek pause at Warmwaterberg—this time with Andrew and his lovely girlfriend—where quiet dips and easy chatter did wonders.
June glowed with the sweet visit of our youngest daughter, filling the house with her sparkle. And to add a touch of flair, we dressed all the bedrooms in beautiful new

Catching up with friends at The Old Salts Reunion

What are you looking forward to in the coming six months?
More of the same! We started July with a visit to our kids in Plett and on Wednesday we celebrated Hubby’s 81st birthday,

Breakfast at Beacon Island with two daughters and a grandson

How do you keep cool on a hot day?
Wear light clothing, stay in the shade, splash in the sea.

Have you ever danced in the rain?
I’m sure I must have but nothing specific comes to mind. I have certainly jumped in puddles and dashed through downpours to get to my car or front door!

Gratitude:
Through all the ups and downs of life I have always been buoyed up by the love and laughter of my family. I am particularly grateful for the shared adventures, quite moments and shared experiences I have had with my amazing husband, who has held my hand through every phase. Life has been good and I don’t regret a single moment of it.

Preferred Vacation Styles – Share Your World 23 June 2024

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Here are my answers to this week’s questions from Di

When you go on vacation, do you like to sample the local cuisine, check out the sights, or laze on the beach?

When travelling I would certainly eat what the locals eat – sixty-one million Italians can’t be wrong. (in Zimbabwe, I even ate a Mopane worm!)

There is also no point going to new places if all you’re going to do is laze on the beach. I can do that at home, so I would definitely explore and experience everything I could about an exotic place.

While on a coach tour with my daughter, we chose to eat Italian in Italy – mozzarella cheese, tomatoes and basil pesto for me – An Italian salad for her.

Have you ever been away on a vacation with friends rather than family?

We have often been on vacation with friends, especially when visiting game reserves. Many of these trips have been organised by us but all expenses have been shared and they have all worked out extremely well. Because we love the bush and have some knowledge of birds and wildlife we enjoy being the ‘guides’ for first-time visitors to the parks.

Australian friends at a stop-over in Windhoek on our way to Etosha National Park,

  Would you prefer a cruise or coach tour holiday?

I have experienced both and at my age, I prefer cruising. It is an awesome way to travel as you blend relaxing with exploring and you can choose how much of each to do. It is amazingly convenient not to have to pack and unpack as you move to each new destination. Your floating hotel effortless takes you there while you enjoy having all your accommodation and catering needs included in your fare. Even the entertainment and most activities are free. You can choose to go on excursions at port stops or to do your own thing. It’s win-win all the way.

Help yourself to breakfast!

Self-catering, or full board where all meals are included/provided?

My other type of vacation is visiting game reserves in South Africa. Although I have enjoyed many different types of travel and vacation, trekking into the bush is my ultimate choice and something my hubby and I have been doing every year since the 1990s. We have explored almost all the parks in South Africa, as well as some in Namibia and Botswana. Our adventures have taken many different forms – rondawels, roof-top tenting, and caravanning. Now that we’ve embraced our golden years and parted ways with the caravan, it’s time to return to the charm of self-catering bungalows.

In most of the South African National Parks, you might find excellent restaurants in the rest camps and picnic sites. So if you are not in the mood to braai, you have the option to eat out!

Self-catering in the bush – Watch out for hyenas and please don’t feed them!

Gratitude:
It is mid-winter in South Africa, but I am most grateful that on Saturday the weather was calm and sunny, if a tad chilly in the early morning, as The NSRI’s was holding a Winter Solstice Swim at Struisbaai’s harbour beach. My friend, Michele, braved the icy waters along with a dozen or so others who all declared that it was ‘warm once you’re in’ and all splashed about for half an hour! Well done to all of them. I was wrapped in my boots and jacket as I took the photos!

Today we have rain, but during a break in the weather, I was thankful that the birds were enjoying the winter flora along the Struisbaai coastal road.

Cape Bulbul
Cape Francolin
Cape Sparrow
Cape Weaver