TravelStream™ news feed for member therhodesies on TravelPod's free travel blogs service http://www.travelpod.com/syndication/rss/therhodesies en-us Copyright ©2009 TravelPod.com Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:46:07 -0400 http://www.travelpod.com http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/2/1253736961/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/2/1253736961/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/2/1253736961/tpod.html Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:46:07 -0400 The trip of parenthood

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Fareham, England, United Kingdom

Hi AllSo sorry if we have not been able to tell you all in person yet, but now we are busting to tell our news.  Clare my gorgeous wife is 'bun in the oven' Pregnant!!!!  Woop woop, hooray!  We are both really pleased and so looking forward to becoming ma and pa.We are now at our 12 1/2 week point.  So today we had to go for our first check up and scan.  We went to a private place who are doing the test on behalf of Queen Alexandra Hospital Portsmouth.  QA is where we are booked in to have the baby around our due date of 3 April 2010.This test includes a blood test to check for risk factors such as Down's Syndrome.  It is called The Nucal fold scan.  At the same time the babies length was measured as 63.5mm!Now finally we can make it common knowledge that we are 'with child'.  Although we both feel like shouting it from the rooftops, we will refrain.  We are both really excited and cant wait for LB to become BB, VBB and then Baby Rhodesie the 1st!!If we havent already spoke to you we will catch up soon, in the meantime we hope you enjoy these pictures and videos.All our loveClare, Alex and LB
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237393140/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237393140/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237393140/tpod.html Thu, 16 Apr 2009 06:23:28 -0400 The Rhodesies round the world gap year!

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arusha, Tanzania

Leaving Party before Nairobbery!<i>Wednesday 18th March - Day 28 Maserani Snake Park, Masai Village Walk in the mud, Arusha shopping, hail storm, Fancy Pants PartyAfter our first lie in for ages (7.30am) and late breakfast we all headed into Arusha for shopping and internet.&nbsp; We stopped at the Clocktower, which is exactly half way between Cairo and Cape Town.&nbsp; After battling with the sub standard internet to do our essential admin we gave up and found a Masai market nearby for some souvenir shopping and got some great gifts enjoying our bartering.&nbsp;After lunch we had some time to prepare for the evening party.&nbsp; Clare came up with the idea of a 'Fancy Pants' party.&nbsp; Yesterday afternoon she bought 16 pairs of knickers at the local Masai market to bemused looks from the locals!&nbsp; We also bought a Masai blanket, it was cool to see all the traditionally dressed Masai there with their blankets, beaded jewelery, and Masai shoes made from old car tyres.&nbsp; So now everyone set to sewing bits on, colouring and altering their pants for their respective recipient.&nbsp; I had pulled Sophie's name out and decided I would dress her as a sniper in preparation for her OTC days at university.&nbsp; Clare had Zak and made some pants for driving with a compass for direction and ear plugs for noisy clients.&nbsp;During this time we were all caught out in the most horrendous downpour during which it also hailed.&nbsp; Fortunatley it had eased by the time of the next activity which was an organised Masai Village tour.&nbsp; Our guide Oli first took us around the Masai museum showing us aspects of their daily life.&nbsp;The Masai are a pastoralist nomadic people who's staple diet consists of milk from their cattle and meat from their goats.&nbsp; The milk is often mixed with cows blood for protein especially after childbirth or circumcision in an attempt to replace the lost blood.&nbsp; Male circumcision is still practiced and is essential part of gaining respect in the transition to adulthood.&nbsp; Female circumcision is banned here as elsewhere in Africa, but Oli admitted there are still areas where it is practiced in secret.&nbsp; He also showed us how they build their wood and mud houses.&nbsp; Each wife, it is common in this polygamous community to have up to 3, must have her own house and the women will help her to do this.&nbsp; In the meantime it is up to the men to look after the cattle and goats whilst grazing and protect them in bomas from animal attack.&nbsp; As the nomadic way of life has pretty much ceased in the modern world it is also up to them to leave the wives and children in search of grazing areas when the rains stop.&nbsp;After the museum tour Oli took us for walk in the mud to the nearby Masai village.&nbsp; On route as we slipped around in the mud the rain started again and we had to scuttle into a random ladies house to shelter.&nbsp; Her two children who were drinking a cup of porridge were bemused at the 14 Mezungas (foreigners) who had descended upon them.&nbsp; After the downpour we continued sliding towards the village.&nbsp; We were met by lots of children and it was interesting seeing the houses that they live in, but it was a shame that none of the villagers actually came to talk to us.&nbsp; As the clouds threatened more rain we hurried back to watch some Masai dancing.&nbsp; Very energetically performed by the men the dancing involved lots of jumping and the mezungu men were invited to take part.&nbsp; Pete, Max and I all had a go and then showed them some mezungu freestyle!&nbsp;Full throttle forward for the party then, we swopped our outfits and got ready.&nbsp; There were lots of great ideas for the fancy pants.&nbsp; 'Princess Rich' was the funniest in his pretty pink pants.&nbsp; We then had a fab braai arranged by the campsite and went to the bar to party with 'Ma' the campsite owner/manager.
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237306200/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237306200/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237306200/tpod.html Thu, 16 Apr 2009 05:57:00 -0400 The Rhodesies round the world gap year!

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Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengetti and Ngorongoro<i>Sunday 15th March - Day 25 Maserani to Serengeti National Park (300km), Afternoon game drive, unfenced camp.&nbsp; Lions. View of Ngorongoro Crater.Our 4x4's arrived on time and we loaded up straight after breakfast.&nbsp; We were taking just our day bags and then loading the vehicles with: tents, sleeping mats (only 1 each), chairs, food, and water and of course us - in our car was Frank (guide), Zak, Jessica P, Nishma, Jess B, Sophie, Clare and I.&nbsp; It was a 6 hour drive to our bush camp at Serengetti.&nbsp; On the way we passed through a number of villages including the town of Mosquito River.&nbsp; Here our driver stopped once again to pick up more food for us.&nbsp; As it is a major tourist town they were waiting for us and as soon as he stopped we were surrounded by people selling Masai artefacts through the Landcruiser windows.&nbsp;As we drove past Ngorongoro Park to get to the Serengetti we climbed up the rim of the crater and stopped for a view of it.&nbsp; From our lofty view point we could see the whole crater below.&nbsp; It is about 20km wide and in fact is a collapsed crater known as a caldera, one of the largest in the world.&nbsp; The area is managed by Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority and includes Olduvai (Oldupai) Gorge and the Crater Highlands; a string of volcanoes, craters and calderas.&nbsp; We could see huge herds of Buffalo, Zebra and Wildebeest and in the distance huge smears of pink on a salt pan lake which we were told were Flamingos.&nbsp; A very African sight was laid out in front of us as far as the eye could see, it was a shear delight.&nbsp;We stopped for a pack lunch shortly after this and watched in horror as Pete lost half of his chicken that he was about to bite into to a swooping Yellow Billed Kite.&nbsp; It was so close that it left mud on his shoulder as it struck out to grab the tasty snack.&nbsp; We soon passed through the gate into the Serengetti and continued on our drive to the overnight bush camp. &nbsp;Although we weren't doing a game drive as such we were still stopping whenever we saw any game.&nbsp; We managed to see: Waterbuck, Giraffe, Zebra, Buffalo, Marabou Stork, Yellow Billed Kite, Elephant, Spotted Hyena, Gazelle, Wildebeest, White Stork, Lappet Faced Vulture, Kori Bustard, Red Hartebeest and our first Lions - a pride of 2 huge male Lions and 4 Lionesses.&nbsp; It is believed that a male can remain in control of his hareem for up to 2 years, but if there are two they can expect to control it for much longer before solitary adolescents throw them from their throne.&nbsp; As we approached one of the females was running closely followed by a male who caught her and relieved her of prey, a young Gazzelle.&nbsp; We watched as he had his fill before leaving it to the females.&nbsp;Tired after a long drive and the constant attention needed to spot the wildlife we were happy to be at the bush camp.&nbsp; The camp was completely unfenced within the park and we were warned not to leave any food around for fear of attracting unwanted guests.&nbsp; It is not unusual for Elephant to wander through the camp.&nbsp; We never saw anything, but as we slept we could hear the Hyenas barking in the distance and at one point early in the morning we could hear the hunting cries of Lion!&nbsp; I was a little nervous as I went for my middle of the night walk to the toilet with Clare!&nbsp; Safety in numbers or a larger target?!&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>Monday 16th March - Day 26 Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater (150km), Serengeti morning game drive, Olduvai Gorge, rim of crater.&nbsp; Lions and a Leopard.&nbsp; Shitty time in camp!Everyone did very well to be up and breakfasted even before the sun had risen.&nbsp; This meant we left at prime big game viewing time.&nbsp; We were not disappointed, less than 1km from our bush camp we came across a pack of Lions.&nbsp; There were no less than seven animals in the pack.&nbsp; It was difficult to count and photograph them at first as the sun was yet to rise, but as it did and the colours came out we realised the young Lions looked around 2 years old.&nbsp; Their was one female who appeared to keep her distance.&nbsp; Mothers leave the pride to raise their cubs until they are old enough to fend off attacks from jealous males.&nbsp; They have to hide them away while they go off and hunt alone to provide for them.&nbsp; We wondered if this female had cubs.&nbsp;It wasn't long until we got our answer.&nbsp; A further kilometre or so along the road we came across two balls of sand coloured fur.&nbsp; As we neared them they started to run away in a bit of a panic.&nbsp; They were two Lion Cubs only a few weeks or a month old.&nbsp; It is possible they belonged to the female we had seen, but after being left in a hollow somewhere had got bored and started to wander off.&nbsp; They scrambled up the steep roadside bank and into the long grass.&nbsp; Hopefully mum found them here not long after we left.&nbsp;This was a great start to our Serengetti, the most famous and largest of Tanzania's national parks at 14,763 sq km.&nbsp; We were a little too late to see the annual migration as many of the thousands of Wildebeest and Zebra had already arrived from the Masai Mara National Park.&nbsp; This did mean however that there was a huge concentration of game here now.&nbsp; Perhaps next time we could time it to see the famous crossing of the Grumeti River, where many are taken by waiting crocodiles.&nbsp; As we continued on the drive we saw and photographed Giraffe very close up, Hippo, Buffalo, Black backed Jackal, and crocodile.&nbsp;Then as the drive was nearing it's end and after passing through a number of Kopjes (pronounced koppies) in search of Lion and Leopard we hit the jackpot.&nbsp; I had always wanted to see wild Leopard in a tree and here it was.&nbsp; A young, but very capable Chui (Swahili) was just standing in a low branch of an Acacia Tree.&nbsp; We were able to approach very close and take some great photos.&nbsp; The experience was amazing, but eventually she got bored of us and climbed down into the thick grass.&nbsp; We thought our time was up as we tried to track her in the grass, but then she surprised us all.&nbsp; She wandered out of the grass and onto the road, then she stopped turned around and headed straight for the vehicles.&nbsp; Reaching us first she&nbsp; rubbed past like a domestic cat would as she wandered by a setee.&nbsp; We snapped away from above and she then moved onto the next Cruiser.&nbsp; She was heading straight for Pete who was sitting out from the roof, he moved back inside as she came to the rear and then rubbed past this vehicle so they could get the same close ups.&nbsp; We followed her along the road and then she disappeared back into the long grass for good this time.&nbsp;It was time to end the drive, but what a day and what a way to finish.&nbsp; We arrived at a large purpose built campsite on the top of the crater.&nbsp; As the sun went down so did the temperature here.&nbsp; We had our dinner and then disaster struck.&nbsp; I had inadvertently gone into the ladies toilet.&nbsp; It was a long drop, a hole in the ground and tank far below.&nbsp; As I removed my trousers in preparation I heard a noise, I looked around on the ground but couldn't see anything.&nbsp; I feared the worst as I directed my headtorch down into the abyss.&nbsp; Sure enough lying proudly on a small pile of lady poop was our camera battery charger and Canon camera battery which of course had detached itself and was lying a bit further downhill!!!!!!&nbsp; How was I going to tell Clare?&nbsp;Clare of course took the news well!&nbsp; For a while I couldn't decide whether to try to recover the said items from their pooey grave or not.&nbsp; We discussed the shitty situation with the rest of the group and after they had stopped rolling around laughing, Zak and I came up with a plan.&nbsp; A long pole (we would use the tent pole) as an encourager and a rope with a bag tied on the end (at least 8 feet long as this is how far the drop was!) into which the items could be encouraged.&nbsp;I went searching for equipment and on route picked up local support in the way of a Masai security guard.&nbsp; He put down his AK47 assault rifle and we set to work crowded around the opening.&nbsp; Another guide had found an old plastic bottle conveniently shaped like a poop scoop.&nbsp; We tied this onto the end of the tent pole and used another pole to push the items into it.&nbsp; The Masai insisted on performing the operation and after scaring me by pushing the battery charger further down the pooh pile he eventually recovered both items.&nbsp; The clean up began and took a while, it was nasty, but saved us over £50!&nbsp;It then became clear why the Masai was so keen to help as he shoved his hand out for money.&nbsp; Now shouldering the AK I was not going to argue and gave him three quids worth of Tanzanian Shillings.&nbsp; Finally we could go to bed our fellow campers amused at the antics of the evening.&nbsp; Sophie was a star as she helped Clare and I clean up after the event whilst all the others were too busy either laughing or gagging!&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>Tuesday 17th March - Day 27 Ngorongoro to Arusha (150km) Ngorongoro morning game driveWaking up early again we were chomping at the bit for another day of safari.&nbsp; Sophie held us up for a while after breakfast as the sun rose over the crater in a most beautiful way.&nbsp; Then we started our descent into the crater.&nbsp; It was steep and we were glad to be in 4x4's and not 'Songwe' the truck.&nbsp; There were amazing views of the salt lake and the Flamingos there.&nbsp;As we began our drive it was a little underwhelming as you could see for miles and we were only seeing Wildebeest and Zebra for a while.&nbsp; However as we drove around within the vast caldera it became clear that the habitat varied and as it did so did the wildlife.&nbsp; We often came across prowling Hyena looking for their next easy kill or to steal someone elses.&nbsp; We also came across a muddy pool.&nbsp; It was full of Hippo that were as usual very inactive.&nbsp; Then we spotted one ashore, as he entered the pool he caused a huge uproar.&nbsp; A fight ensued and we managed to get some great photos of their huge mouths and boisterous behaviour.&nbsp; Seeing their teeth it was clear why their skin needed to be over 5cm deep is some areas.&nbsp;This wasnt all we saw and as the morning unfolded we saw many Wildebeest with their young and a few without!&nbsp; We also saw more Lions who all looked well fed, probably on young Wildebeest.&nbsp; Finally at the end of the morning we again were treated to a rare sight.&nbsp; Over the radio our guide, Frank had been told that a Lioness had been spotted up ahead.&nbsp; After staring at a rock for a few minutes! we then found her.&nbsp; She was in the long grass and clearly in hunting mode, edging herself gradually closer to the nearby Zebra and Wildebeest.&nbsp; There was a problem though, the long grass stopped well before her quarry and if she exposed herself here her prey would escape.&nbsp;Then her luck changed and a long column of Zebra interspersed with the occasional Wildebeest began approaching the long grass.&nbsp; They were upwind and so wouldn't be able to smell her and little did they know they were parading in front of here like a belt of sushi food.&nbsp; All she had to do now was choose carefully and attack with the element of surprise on her side.&nbsp; Why was it taking her so long, we were all waited with baited breath and cameras pointed ready.&nbsp; Then her decision was made and she lunged forward for a fully grown Wildebeest.&nbsp; It was hard for Clare to keep the camera pointed in the right direction as she lurched and spun around to follow the fleeing beast.&nbsp; Although she exploded forward her claws missed on the first attempt and she had to give chase, unfortunately the Wildebeest was neither sick, lame or lazy and won the fight for his life.&nbsp; Perhaps the pressure of 4 vehicles full of hopeful tourists was too much pressure for her.&nbsp;While she may be going hungry today we were now off on our way back to the camp for an easy lunch without a hunt.&nbsp; With full bellies we left for a long drive back to Arusha and the Snake Park.&nbsp; There after unpacking the 4x4's and erecting our tents we helped Amy too cook our last camp meal before most of us collapsed into bed for an early night.
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237045920/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237045920/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237045920/tpod.html Thu, 16 Apr 2009 05:32:27 -0400 The Rhodesies round the world gap year!

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Arusha, Tanzania

Keen to get on Safari<i>Thursday 12th March - Day 22 Zanzibar to Dar es SalaamWe left straight after breakfast on a transfer back to the hustle and bustle of Stone Town.&nbsp; After dropping our bags at the same hotel we had stayed in earlier.&nbsp; I rushed around to the internet to get on with updating blog and catching up on emails.&nbsp; As usual this was easier said than done as slow connections coupled with a power failure meant I couldnt get nearly as much done as I would have like before we met again at the hotel, ready to leave for the 1 o clock ferry to the mainland.&nbsp;After ordering a take away vegetarian lunch we were ready to leave.&nbsp; However 'David' showed up and thing took an unusual turn.&nbsp; David, if that was his name, was a local fisherman in Stone Town.&nbsp; We had met him earlier and Max and I had spoken at length to him about life as a fisherman on Zanzibar.&nbsp; He had said how tough it was fishing every night from 12 am to 7 am.&nbsp; He had also invited us along to see, but we had said that we wouldnt be able to despite being extremely keen.&nbsp; Now he was telling me how we was struggling to pay for medicines for his child.&nbsp; It was clear he was as poor as any other Zanzibarian and so hit with a pang of generosity, despite what was condoning begging, I offered him half of the 10,000 shillings I had in my wallet (about £2.50).&nbsp; Unable to find change I managed to get 1,400 from Clare and offered this.&nbsp; We were about to leave, but he decided that he had been agrieved by Max and I not fishing.&nbsp; Saying that he had carried his engine down last night to meet us!&nbsp; Also that the 5,000 I had promised was actually to cover this and I owed it to him.&nbsp; A commotion now ensued and David appeared overcome with anger.&nbsp; He was clearly not a nice man.&nbsp; The safest and quickest option to allow us to continue to depart was to borrow 4,000 from Pete and see him off.&nbsp; He had basically extorted this money from me, but as always it was just another learning opportunity.&nbsp;Talking to Max I then found that he had been taken by David only an hour or so earlier into the depths of Stone Town.&nbsp; He had said he was helping him to buy a cheap Sarong, but then demanded money.&nbsp; Max gave him 2000 and then brought him to me!&nbsp; Luckily everyone was OK, but Max quite rightly realised how dodgy it could have been to have gone fishing with this man!&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>Friday 13th March - Day 23 Dar es Salaam to Zebra Camp, Usumbara MountainsIt was the usual early start today and my turn to wash up too.&nbsp; We stopped at a shopping centre on route and alongside the road on the way were plenty of men wearing traditional Kikoy cloths and Kofia (embroidered white linen skull caps).&nbsp; It was busy and very dirty for long way and depressing to see huge amounts of rubbish lying in drainage ditches that clearly led to the sea.&nbsp; One day soon there will be huge rains and all of this will be washed away out of sight and mind of the people who dropped it and one its way to the ocean to float around for a few days, months or years.&nbsp; Then it will be blown ashore on one of the beautiful beaches in the area.&nbsp; We hope someone can tackle this soon before it's too late, if it isnt already.&nbsp;Many of the men we saw on the roadside were playing the Bao game.&nbsp; Its easy to make and play just look at www.gamecabinet.com/rules/bao.&nbsp; We were stuck for a campsite as we headed North to the Usumbara Mountains as the usual campsite they had discovered had closed down.&nbsp; Fortunately Zak and Amy found the Zebra Camp and we went in to investigate.&nbsp; It was basic, but they were renovating and the showers were good.&nbsp; Beside the river, containing crocs, it meant the place was swarming in mosquitos the size of small bees.&nbsp; Their bites hurt almost as much too.&nbsp; So after a run and then dinner Clare and I retreated to the tent for protection.&nbsp; This though was after my washing up team, Sophie, Megan and I were nailed by the mossies while washing up.&nbsp; As we were preparing for dinner the campsite lived up to it's name as a wild Zebra wandered in.&nbsp; We also saw two orphaned Kudu babies and another two who were tame and wandering around.&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>Saturday 14th March - Day 24 Zebra Camp to Arusha (650km), Maserani Snake ParkA huge drive today, the main thing of interest was that we were approaching Mt Kilimanjaro.&nbsp; Unfortunately the cloud cover meant we couldnt see it.&nbsp; Clare and I had decided no tto climb the mountain this time around as it would cost around £1000 each to do it on an organised tour.&nbsp; We were happy we had tackled Mt Kinabalu earlier.&nbsp; On the way we passed Sisal plantations.&nbsp; The sisal is used to tie together the thatching on the roofs.&nbsp;Maserani Snake Park when we finally arrived was a really nice place.&nbsp; Of course I was straight in there to see all the deadly snakes and to hold a baby crocodile and tease and watch the older ones.&nbsp;
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237566900/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237566900/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237566900/tpod.html Mon, 23 Mar 2009 12:36:06 -0400 The Rhodesies round the world gap year!

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Nairobi, Kenya

Its over, for now...<i>Friday 20th March - The end is nigh, but keep dreaming...I am sitting here writing the final piece of blog on our 1 year of travelling.&nbsp; We will be flying tonight at 11.30 pm.&nbsp; Back to reality?&nbsp; Back to global downturn, no job for Clare and rising prices with high street shops closed.&nbsp; We have no idea what we will be going back to or when we will be away travelling again.&nbsp; One thing is for sure though as we turn our minds homeward; we will be facing it together as a stronger team for our 365 days 24/7 together.&nbsp; As well as strengthening our relationship we have also learned a huge amount about the world around us and the people who share our home we call Planet Earth.&nbsp;Not everyone has the opportunities that we in the West have, but many of the poorest people we have met were also the happiest and most friendly.&nbsp; We have learned to live from the things we can carry in a bag and apart from decent internet connections, which have become such an essential part of life we have covetted little more than these.&nbsp; We have learned to budget very carefully and give serious thought to what we buy.&nbsp; Clare has maintained meticulous records of how we spent our budget and believe it or not we are coming home with no bad debt.&nbsp; It's been the most amazing year and now we are looking forward to seeing all our lovely family and friends around the country and desperately hoping that it wont be long before we meet up with some of the amazing people we have met from around the World and the UK whilst travelling.&nbsp; See you all soon.&nbsp; Love you all loads.&nbsp; Keep dreaming and keep living your dreams, remember:&nbsp;<i>All men dream: but not equally.&nbsp; Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds awake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act upon their dream with open eyes to make it possible.T.E. Lawrence&nbsp;So was it worth it?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AbsolutelyWould we do it again?&nbsp; DefinitelyCan we afford to?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Maybe not this year!&nbsp;Thanks to everyone for taking the time to check up on our progress on our Blog and for the messages and comments.&nbsp; Until next time....&nbsp;Alex and Clare.&nbsp;xxxxxxxxxxxxx
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237479900/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237479900/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1237479900/tpod.html Mon, 23 Mar 2009 12:28:28 -0400 The Rhodesies round the world gap year!

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Nairobi, Kenya

<i>Thursday 19th March - Day 29 Arusha to Nairobi (350km) Kenya border crossing, Indaba campsite.What a long day!&nbsp; As most of us had had a few drinks at the party last night, we tried to just relax.&nbsp; This was easier said than done as the roads were hot, dusty and heavily potholed.&nbsp; The vibration was constant and even reading was hard.&nbsp; The border crossing was straight forward but took a little while for them to sort out the visas on the Kenyan side.&nbsp; In the newly constructed block that was officially opened only yesterday we handed in our passports and $20.&nbsp; If we had been staying over five days we would have had to pay $50 for a tourist visa instead of the $20 for a transit visa.&nbsp;After being ripped off for a cold drink, we were back on the tough roads.&nbsp; We were surprised how much drier Kenya looked especially as this was the rainy season.&nbsp; After a few hours we were on the busy outskirts of Nairobi.&nbsp; Driving through the city it was clear the British had a large influence here with the architecture and abundance of open spaces and parks in the city.&nbsp; They probably designed the traffic system as well as it was at a crawl everywhere we went!&nbsp; We dropped off Nishma and Jessica at the Boulevard Hotel at 3pm after 7 hours on the road.&nbsp; Typically we then discovered we had a slow puncture and yet again this was on a rear inner wheel, but on the offside this time.&nbsp; We set to straight away changing it to avoid the rush hour.&nbsp; We managed to scrape through before it got to bad and arrived at Indaba EA Campsite at 5pm.&nbsp; This was a well run campsite and the evening meal was very good.&nbsp; We said our goodbyes to Max, Jess, Rich, Sophie and Alexia as they were off at 5.30 am and went to bed in a real bed in a dorm.
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1236757920/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1236757920/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1236757920/tpod.html Mon, 23 Mar 2009 11:50:53 -0400 The Rhodesies round the world gap year!

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Stone Town, Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania

Poa Kichizi Kama Ndizi (Cool as Bananas) on Zanzibar<i>Monday 9th March - Day 19 Dar es Salaam to <i>Zanzibar<i>, <i>Stone<i> <i>Town<i>, Spice Tour, Fish MarketIt had to be an early start again in order to get best time on Zanzibar. &nbsp;That meant at 5am getting a taxi to the ferry which took us back across the harbour to the main ferry terminal&nbsp;&nbsp; We were waned to be very careful against robbery and to wear our backpacs on our fronts.&nbsp; &nbsp;The two hour fast ferry ride took us across to Stone Town and immediately we were captivated with Zanzibar's alluring appeal.&nbsp; It was a busy place with narrow streets only big enough for motorbikes or elephants.&nbsp; As they no longer use elephants the huge knobs on the ornate doorways have become obsolete now, but still look impressive.&nbsp;Arriving at Karibu Inn we were a little dissapointed and it was a bit of a maze.&nbsp; We found our room on the 3rd floor and hoped we didnt have a fire as there was no sign of any fire protection here!&nbsp; The room was OK but hot with a fan, no A/C and no view of the sea.&nbsp; Still it was nice and novel for us to be able to sleep in a bed!&nbsp;We went out and took advantage of the for once relatively fast and reliable internet in the local Post Office.&nbsp; We regrouped for a lunch in the Indian restaurant next door to the hotel after borrowing some money from Erika.&nbsp; The Visa system on the island was down and no one could get any money from the ATM's.&nbsp; I tried a Lassi at the Indian, Mango and then salted, and was surprised how nice they were.&nbsp;After lunch Clare went shopping with Amy and I joined Max for a walk around town.&nbsp; After a huge disappointment in a gem shop we decided to find a local brew house and Max drowned his sorrows at losing $100 (and an Ipod I found later) in 'Bottoms Up'.&nbsp; We were the only Mizunga (foreigners) there, it was great.&nbsp;After meeting up again as a whole group for 'Sundowners' at the Livingstonian we headed to the night fish market.&nbsp; Here they had a wide range of seafood on offer to satisfy everyones hunger.&nbsp; After choosing your fish it is re heated on the bbq.&nbsp; The ambiance was great here.&nbsp; I had some large prawns and Red Snapper.&nbsp; David who I had met earlier was a local fisherman.&nbsp; He warned that you should be careful where you buy as some of the seafood they display can be up to 2 weeks old!&nbsp; He also invited Max and myself to go fishing with him overnight from 12am to 7am.&nbsp; Whilst sorely tempted we declined his kind offer.&nbsp; Clare and I made our way back to our sticky but very welcome bed, passing 'Mercuries' on our way.&nbsp; It was here that Freddie wrote some of his greatest songs.&nbsp;<i>Tuesday 10th March - Day 20 <i>Zanzibar<i>, <i>Stone<i> <i>Town<i> to <i>Lilongwe<i> <i>Beach<i>, Sunset BungalowsBy leaving at 8am the 1h45minute journey meant we arrived with time to spare.&nbsp; The white sandy beach was amazing and whie we waite our oomm ot b redy we had a swim in thte torquoise waters.&nbsp; The room was lovvely and we had a huge double bed to share.&nbsp; Relaxing was the order of the day and Zak and I started to watch 'Sometimes in April' about the Rwandan Genocide.&nbsp; &nbsp;We then went on the most hilarious drive.&nbsp; KB and Pete had hired a car and Zak, Amy, Megan and I piled in with them.&nbsp; We were searching for a more private beach, but before we had to contend with the Police.&nbsp; Pete had inadvertently left his shirt off and a Policeman at a road block wanted to put him in prison for this until court opened tomorrow!&nbsp; It was farcical really and eventually realising he wasnt going to achieve a bribe he let us on our way.&nbsp; We stumbled down some dodgy dirt roads and eventually decided our beach was OK after all.&nbsp; So we returned there for more swimming and snorkelling.&nbsp;After joining up with everyone for dinner we cut away to enjoy an hour or so off luxury in a proper bedroom with a real bed.&nbsp;<i>Wednesday 11th March - Day 21 <i>Zanzibar<i>, Sunset Bungalows7h30 and getting so used to early starts Pete, Clare and I went down to the beach and had a great circuit session there.&nbsp; After breakfast the 6 of us went to a nearby aquarium.&nbsp; The aquarium was a natural tidal pool which mysteriously filled and emptied with the tide from the sea, over 200 meters away.&nbsp; It is likely that the water moves through unseen tunnels and crevices in the ancient coral reef that forms the Island.&nbsp;In the aquarium were 9 turtles, 4 female and 5 male.&nbsp; While everyone paid their $7 to snorkel there with the turtles and fish I stayed back to ask some questions of the operator and his friend Ibrahim.&nbsp; I was concerned how well it was run and with what motivation.&nbsp; It appeared that although little management of the aquarium and the specimens was occuring, some of the people here had honourable, if somewhat ill informed, intentions.&nbsp; But 'This is Africa' and so long as the government is getting it's 30% taxes from the operation they don't complain!&nbsp;Back to the Bungalows for lunch then after which a few of us went snorkelling at the nearby pier.&nbsp; I had recced this with Rich yesterday and everyone loved seeing the huge schools of silverfish, Barracuda, pipe fish and starfish.&nbsp; We even got a play on a nearby pontoon in. &nbsp;After a shower off we were back in dinner mode and a walk on the beach after finished us off for the day.
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1236502200/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1236502200/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1236502200/tpod.html Sun, 22 Mar 2009 05:23:01 -0400 The Rhodesies round the world gap year!

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Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Hakuna Matata from Tanzania<i>Saturday 7th March - Day 17 Chitimba to Iringa, Kisolanza Farmhouse (500km) Crossing into <i>Tanzania<i>We woke up to rain again, but to add variety it was just a constant drizzle this time instead of torrential downpour.&nbsp; It was a long long drive during which we climbed over 1000m.&nbsp; Our campsite was nestled in a cool forested area which made a lovely change.&nbsp; After putting up tents and airing damp stuff, the rain had now stopped, we went for a run with Megan and Max after which we did as session on abs.&nbsp; We were all surprised how hard it was which must have been due to the altitude.&nbsp;Meanwhile Zak, our driver was doing his best to recover from some sort of flu, thankfully not malaria, he thought.&nbsp; It was my turn on cooking so I helped Amy prepare a huge chicken and pasta dish that filled many an empty stomach.&nbsp; Although Clare had already sampled these shortly after arriving, the highlight at this camp is their home made brownies.&nbsp; I had one for pudding and have to admit they are good!&nbsp;As we entered a very welcoming cool evening we made our way to the bar.&nbsp; They had wood burners inside on which they heated water for the other speciality, Amarula Hot Chocolate, delicious.&nbsp; The talk wandered into ghost story territory and we made our excuses.&nbsp; Not long before there had been much talk about what to do when faced with a speeding fine or in the event of a serious accident on Africa's roads.&nbsp; Amy was quick to warn that if you stop the village justice of an eye for an eye can be quickly taken so probably best to drive to next Police station.&nbsp; We had no idea how relevant this was going to be.&nbsp;<i>Sunday 8th March - Day 18 Iringa to <i>Dar es Salaam<i>, <i>Kipepeo<i> <i>Beach<i> <i>Village<i> (550km) <i>Indian Ocean<i> <i>Coast<i>Another long drive and after an early start in the dark, due to losing an hour as we entered Tanzania.&nbsp; It wasan eventful trip to the Indian Ocean Coast.&nbsp; To make a change however it wasnt raining today.&nbsp; We had lunch in a layby, but shortly after things took a turn.&nbsp; Firstly Amy was pulled over by the Tanzanian Police for breaking the speed limit.&nbsp; For her 57kmh in a 50kmh limit, as for those who are caught doing 100kmh in the same area, the punishment is a $30 on the spot bribe, sorry fine!&nbsp;We were soon on our way again though, until we were stopped in our tracks again by the Police.&nbsp; A Police landrover was speeding towards us on the wrong side of the road, the officer in the back gesticulating wildly for us to pull over.&nbsp; On our inside was a cyclist, it wasnt possible to leave the road.&nbsp; The Police didnt comprehend this and kept on coming, Zak had to brake hard and the Police landrover just squeezed through the gap.&nbsp; Moments later there was a loud bang as a beige Landcruiser hit us from behind at speed and left the road slamming headlong into the cyclist!&nbsp;The local villagers who had this started converging on the scene instantly.&nbsp;&nbsp; This didnt look good.&nbsp; The cyclist appeared to be alive, but the occupants of the cruiser probably very wiser left the scene as the crowd stole the cyclists wares!&nbsp; Unable to get any sense from another Police officer who had arrived Zak decided that as the damage to us was minimal we should just leave the scene while we can.&nbsp;We rushed to be in time for a buffet lunch at a road side cafe.&nbsp; As we neared Dar the populus became increasingly Muslim and our food reflected this due to it's Indian style with deep fried fish and Pilau rice.&nbsp;Arriving on the outskirts of Dar it was becomingly very busy and dirty, already it reminded us of India.&nbsp; We had to drive the whole way through the city to come to the ferry ticket office to book our tickets to Zanzibar.&nbsp; As it was taking a while Amy was dropped off and I joined Zak in the cab for the four hour drive around the bay to the campsite.&nbsp; We were both surprised as the traffic was light and it only took us 50 minutes.&nbsp; After a short run and swim and a welcome dinner we all had an early night.&nbsp; We had also had to pack a smaller bag for our trip across to Zanzibar.&nbsp;
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1235983440/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1235983440/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1235983440/tpod.html Sun, 22 Mar 2009 05:06:46 -0400 The Rhodesies round the world gap year!

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Lusaka, Zambia

Zooming through ZambiaLusaka<i>Saturday 28th February - Day 10 Waterfront to Kafue Hook (350km)At last we were now on the road with our new travelling buddies.&nbsp; The music pumping we made our way 350km north east to an area outside Lusaka.&nbsp; There we were greeted by a team of people who ran the '<i>Kafue Queen'.&nbsp; She was a cruise '<i>ship' made from two pontoons with a two storey structure welded on top driven by two outboards that would have been more suited to your toy boat for the bath.&nbsp; Still we loaded up our tents and camping gear and after a lot of revving of the underpowered outboards we were on our way up stream.&nbsp;The cruise was through the Kafue Gorge area and was very peaceful and relaxing despite the speed boats wizzing up and down in search of prime fishing spots angling for a $5000 prize in the local competition.&nbsp; It was made even more entertaining by a quartet of local men who performed for us by singing and playing the African drums.&nbsp; They had a pantomime thing going on as they acted out various events.&nbsp; Our favourite was the officer soldier act when the officer kept asking questions of the soldier then when he replied 'Yes Sir' telling him to 'Shut up!'&nbsp; Very funny act. Before long we arrived at Kafue Hook, a meander in the river and docked.&nbsp; Forming a human chain we unloaded the equipment ashore and settled into our bush camp for the evening.&nbsp;While the performance continued we struggled to cook dinner on an open fire as we had found that the gas burner we brought along was missing a vital piece.&nbsp; Adding to the challenge it was now raining hard too.&nbsp; The performers did a spectacular fire act and then we settled down around the fire.&nbsp; As it was our first night we had an ice breaker session despite the owners son Darryl being a drunken 25 year old arse.&nbsp; I sat talking to Francis (33), the camp security man from the nearby village, and Richard who helped to run the boat.&nbsp; Francis was a from the Tonga Tribe and together they tried to give me some history about the origins of the four main tribes in Zambia.&nbsp; There are a total of 72 tribes here, although in an attempt to unify them the official language is now English.&nbsp; We were to bed early as we were up early again the next day.&nbsp; Darryl kept us awake until around 12 with music and noise until his father, Ian returned.&nbsp; None of us wanted to party so he decided to party on his own.&nbsp; This included getting his rifle out and taking pot shots at crocodiles!&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>Sunday 1st March - Day 11 Kafue to Lusaka, (70km)Fortunately we did get some good sleep and left just after 6.30am to walk to the local village.&nbsp; Francis, despite being up all night on guard, was our guide to his small family area of 10 people.&nbsp; As we arrived we were met by his brother Joseph (53) who took us into an open meeeeting hut where he welcomed us to his village.&nbsp; The main part of the village lies just behind a hill and has around 500 members.&nbsp; Central to the village is the chuch run by an American charity, they also help to fund the local primary school.&nbsp; Joseph confidently tells us all about life in his village, the hardships, traditions and the plans for the future.&nbsp; He recalls how as a boy his mum would cook Hippo meat hunted by the men, in a clay pot that.&nbsp; That of course is no longer acceptable as is most of the ancestor worship now that they have all embraced Christianity.&nbsp;He knows of a man from the village who's talent was to make the fermented maize beer who met Dr Livingstone during his travel in the area.&nbsp; Now they survive hand to mouth on fish, small animals hunted traditionally using snare traps and pumpkins grown in the village and shared unfortunately with opportunistic monkeys.&nbsp; They have however also just formed a farming cooperative which should open up the possibility of government subsidised fertilizer.&nbsp; This would offset the 300,000 Kwocha (US$60) price tag for a 50 kg bag, allowing more crops to be grown and reducing the need to sell charcoal for food.&nbsp; The charcoal comes from large trees felled in an unsustainable manner in the surrounding forests and all over southern Zambia.&nbsp; Bags of it we have seen for on the roadside ever since we entered the country.&nbsp;Life although hard must benefit from lack of stress as Joseph tells us that his father was over 90 when he died from old age.&nbsp; Of course now Malaria, from which Joseph is recovering, is the highest risk, but is often easily treated if the victim can make it across the river to the clinic in good time and with money to buy treatment.&nbsp; Also now they are sleeping in mosquito nets provided free during a recent charity uplift sponsored by the church.&nbsp; A close second is the usual HIV/AIDS, but prevention is starting to work and many like Joseph now only choose one wife which must go some way to reduce cross infection.&nbsp;Interestingly Joseph speaks excellent English and when asked how he learned this he tells us it started at school, but was perfected by this, he pointed to his radio and confessed he is addicted to BBC World Service.&nbsp; We took a walk around the village and I cornered Joseph to air my concerns about his involvement with Ian and Darryl.&nbsp; He assures me that although he is constantly disappointed by Darryl's behaviour (largely due to his foster child background, prison sentence served in the UK and being an ex Heroine addict) the Chief supports the joint venture and they are improving their standard of living with the money they are making.&nbsp; He also said that he had no intention of selling off the traditional land that Ian is using and the Chief supported by the government could move them off at any time.&nbsp; I was relieved as Joseph and I with the rest of the goup walked back to the camping area.&nbsp; We said our farewells and boarded the Kafue Queen to be taken back to <i>Songwe the Devstator to continue our journey.&nbsp; I took the opportunity of expressing my disgust at Darryls behaviour to Ian including the weeing in front of everyone and poor treatment of his staff.&nbsp;Relieved to find our truck still there and untouched we loaded up using our best human chain to date.&nbsp; Some poles fell in the river and Richard expertly dived for them.&nbsp; Waving goodbye we drove off and headed to Lusaka.&nbsp; We stopped for an hour in a shopping centre to use the internet and I bought a map of Southern Africa so I can mark out the route we are taking.&nbsp; Its a very modern town and seemed pretty safe apart from one guy we saw crossing the road on a flyover with a rosary in one hand and pistol in the other!&nbsp; &nbsp;After leaving the centre of Lusaka we pulled in Eureka Camping Ground early enough to have most of the afternoon free.&nbsp; I arranged a circuit session and for 45 minutes Clare, Pete, Rich, Max, Megan and I beasted ourselves silly.&nbsp; Everyone felt much better for it and after a dip in the pool the evening was used to prepare dinner and then get a really early night, ready for a 5am start.&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>Monday 2nd March - Day 12 Lusaka to Chipata (620km)Sure enough the adjacent trucks woke us up at 4.50 am as they prepared to leave, we were not far behind as we piled on board after a quick breakfast ready for a 620km drive today.&nbsp; On route we crossed the Luangwe River where some Police asked us for some of our valuable drinking water.&nbsp; We arrived finally in good time at Mama Rulas campsite where we had a fantastic braai with huge steaks and boerewors sausages after swimming in the pool there.&nbsp;&nbsp;
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1235748120/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1235748120/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/therhodesies/1/1235748120/tpod.html Sun, 22 Mar 2009 04:58:02 -0400 The Rhodesies round the world gap year!

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Livingstone, Zambia

Waterfalls, White Water and Wildlife in Zambia<i>Tuesday 24th February - Day 6 Zambia, Livingstone, Waterfront, Zambezi River (80km)The plan today was to get across the border as quickly as possible to allow as much time in Livingstone as possible to relax and plan our activities.&nbsp; Therefore we all decided to skip breakfast and get on the road at 6am, which we all managed to do.&nbsp; We left Botswana easily and managed to beat the other Acacia truck to the border crossing.&nbsp; There though we had to wait as it was a ferry that takes us across the Chobe River and into Zambia.&nbsp; While waiting for the ferry to come across the river first the other Acacia truck and then a huge coach pushed their way to the front.&nbsp; When the ferry finally arrived we were lucky and Blessed only just squeezed our truck on.&nbsp; We were determined not to be last to the entry point to Zambia after being so wronged so when the rickety ferry docked we all legged it to the visa office.&nbsp; Unfortunately Fiona did not so again the other truck beat us and we had to wait for all of their visas to be issued before ours.&nbsp;After this shenanigans we simply had to drive the 80kms to Livingstone and on route some of the girls prepared breakfast for us.&nbsp; Before we knew it we had passed through Livingstone and stopped to get some money out before pulling up on a huge camping complex on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River.&nbsp; It was a beautiful place to stay and after a short time to settle in we went to our activities briefing.&nbsp; With a DVD the lady wet our appetites for microlighting, helicopter flights, bungee jumping, gorge swinging, and of course our favourite white water rafting which we signed up there and then for.&nbsp; It came with a discounted evening boat cruise.&nbsp;We spent the remainder of the day chatting and relaxing by the pool.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>Wednesday 25th February - Day 7 Waterfront, White Water Rafting &amp; Sunset Cruise on ZambeziThis morning we all gathered in the meeting house for our very comprehensive briefing about the white water rafting.&nbsp; The guide covered what to do if we were tossed from the raft like dolls and found ourselves alone in the rapids as a '<i>long swimmer'.&nbsp; He also covered the worst case scenario of an upturned raft with all 8 occupants in the water.&nbsp; "There are three rules" he said. "Rule 1, Dont Panic, Rule 2 Dont Panic and Rule 3 Dont Panic!"&nbsp; Easier said than done.&nbsp; &nbsp;We were then kitted up with lifejackets, helmets and paddles and loaded into the busses and pick ups.&nbsp; We passed through two traditional villages on the way and could see the steam in the distance from Victoria Falls.&nbsp; Arriving at the entry point we met our guide for the day.&nbsp; Marvyn was the first aid expert and would be looking after the six of us.&nbsp; We were really happy that we were in a boat with our special little gang: Francesca and Chris, Sarah C and Sarah R and the two of us.&nbsp; We had a group photo and made our way down the steep hillside to the river assisted by hand made wooden ladders, it took a while.&nbsp;After being introduced to our raft we all clambered aboard and were greeted by a trainee called Monde who was coming along with Marvyn.&nbsp; Our raft was different to most as it had a spinal board strapped onto the back and it was clear that Marvyn was highly prepared and trained to assist with any medical emergency on the river, we were in safe hands and had picked a good boat.&nbsp; So confidently we left the shore and entered the rapids.&nbsp; We were to do rapids 10 - 25 as 1 - 10 were closed due to dangerously high water levels.&nbsp;Each rapid had its own name and varied from grade 2 to grade 5, grade 6 being a waterfall!&nbsp; The first few warmed us up nicely and the scenery of steep sided gorges was beautiful, very green with the occasional waterfall trickling down.&nbsp; Then we hit rapid 16 the first grade 5, it was immense.&nbsp; We ploughed into a steep rolling wave on our side the boat lurched over to above 90 degrees to the vertical.&nbsp; We were sure it going to be our first capsize, but amazing it flipped back the right way up, less one person.&nbsp; Sarah R was in the water and we were in the middle of tumultuous waters.&nbsp; I rushed across and Marvyn and I dragged her back in by her lifejacket, she looked very pleased to be back in the boat with us.&nbsp;All the way down the rapids I was filming clips with the waterproof camera and Monde and Marvyn were keeping our team spirits up with chants of our team name, <i>Lakke Matakaya, Lovely Tigerfish!&nbsp; At the end of the rapids there was a cable car to take us back up the steep sided gorge, it took 7 minutes to do this.&nbsp; Marvyn and I opted to run up the gorge side on a path carved into it.&nbsp; The record for this is 6 ½ minutes by Marvyn.&nbsp; I set off running behind him and for 2/3 of the route I was just behind although we had slowed to a fast walking pace.&nbsp; Feeling my chest and lungs burning in the midday heat I could only watch as Marvyn pulled away.&nbsp; However as i neared the top I saw that I had beaten the first cable car up.&nbsp; In the old days, before cable car tourists have been known to take over an hour, I was at the top in 7 ½ minutes and greeted the others with a cold beer in hand.&nbsp;The rafting was an expensive activity, but for sure was worth every second we had a great day and cant wait to feel how sore our legs will be tomorrow!&nbsp;In the evening we jumped on a tour boat that took us upstream from the Waterfront with a drink all you can bar on board.&nbsp; We had the most devine evening with great friends, great food and free wine.&nbsp; Life doesnt get much better.&nbsp; As it was Jacinta's birthday we had all chipped in to buy her a birthday cake.&nbsp; After the boat ride we all had a few more drinks in the bar together, wishing that tomorrow we didnt have to part company.&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>Thursday 26th February - Day 8 Waterfront, Admin dayToday was another admin day, until at 6pm we met our new travelling companions for the next 21 days and our new truck, '<i>Songwe' driven by Zack with Amy being our guide.&nbsp; It seems to be nice group and we are relieved that Zack and Amy seem both professional and easy to get on with.&nbsp; We felt for our friends we said goodbye to who may now be on the road with 'Schultz' one of Hitlers generals.&nbsp;&nbsp;<i>Friday 27th February - Day 9 Waterfront, Raining under Victoria FallsAfter a short run I found myself at the microlighting school so watched a few take off and landings.&nbsp; Would have been nice to have flown over the falls, but way above our budget as we are eeking out our remaining funds now.&nbsp; So I ran back to the Waterfront to meet Clare for breakfast.&nbsp; &nbsp;Fed and watered we jumped onto <i>Songwe, also known now as the <i>Devastator by our new group who are convinced it is a Transformer!&nbsp; We were heading for <i>Mosi-oa-Tunya 'The Smoke that Thunders' or more commonly known as Victoria Falls.&nbsp; David Livingstone when he first saw it in 1855 wrote of it 'on sights as beautiful as this, angels in their flight must have gazed'.&nbsp;We were not disappointed, the sheer power of 550,000 cubic metres per minute of Zambezi River pouring over the edge and down between 90 and 107 metres was spectacular.&nbsp; We walked along the path opposite the falls and over a bridge onto Livingstone&nbsp; island.&nbsp; The falls are 1708 metres wide and plunge into Batoka Gorge, which also forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.&nbsp; There were plenty of times when the mist and rain from the huge falls was so strong you could barely see the waterfall and sometimes the updraft was even carrying this water to the sky like upside down rain.&nbsp;After drenching ourselves for about and hour and taking photos with the waterproof camera we went back to the car park to meet the truck.&nbsp; Before leaving we bartered for a wooden bowl from the many stalls there.&nbsp; They are all saying that there is not enough tourists to buy their goods and keep their families fed, but unfortunately we cant buy much as we are the wrong end of the buying scale.&nbsp;After this we headed back to the Waterfront to prep for our departure tomorrow.
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