Sunday, April 11, 2010

AT SEA AND MORE

DAY 33


After a “rocking and rolling “of the ship all night we went to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. Driving there we saw nothing but skinny eucalyptus trees. Timber is a big business here. The city of Richard’s Bay is the major port in the region and it, also, is the gateway to the land of the Zulu. The Zulus are the largest ethnic group in South Africa and Zulu art and handicrafts are must-have souvenirs!

We traveled through the game preserve in open air jeeps. Our sightings included a herd of elephants, adult and baby giraffes, beautiful brown striped zebras and other assorted animals. We saw hippos in the mud but they were a little far away. All the tigers and lions were asleep but we will see them on our safari, especially since we have early morning and late night trips.

The Zulu houses we saw today were interesting. Their houses are made of cinder blocks but they build a round hut next to their house for the :“spirits.” The Zulus do not want the spirits hiding in the corners of their square house. The houses are one room and brightly painted on the outside.

We had a dinner and a show with our friends the Cheevers. We have packed and are ready to go on our safari tomorrow. My blog will continue fom a different place!

3 comments:

  1. Hi John and Gail, We have really enjoyed following with you on your wonderful cruise.It was great hearing about all the places you visited. It was very very interesting. Something you'll never forget. Everything is blooming here on Lakeland Valley Court, and very hot. Take care and keep safe. Nancy and Rich

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  2. Thanks for all your posts. We enjoy reading about your fabulous trip. We are living vicariously through you.

    The Hofbauers

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  3. Hey from San Diego

    Gail, you are the web concertina! It makes me happy to know that us Formans can learn new things.

    You guys ould have loved the ending to the Masters. Phil Mickelson's was extraordinary and a lovely celebration of family.

    Juds came down several days ago. We had a very nice visit, and she is having a good rest before returning to school.

    Chris and Angela now have steers to go along with sheep, pigs, and chickens on their farm. They are quite a sustainable unit, and have their own big game reserve.

    I am glad that the pirates did not join your party. Thanks so much for sharing your journey and friends with us all. The photo safari should be a once in a lifetime experience. Enjoy, and now on to the craps table....love dave and linda

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