tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40963850561745301272024-03-13T00:20:56.215-04:00Adventures Of A Global BackpackerExploring the planet, one country at a time until I have seen all of it.DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.comBlogger594125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-50522181038616910992019-06-10T00:36:00.001-04:002019-07-10T17:31:44.884-04:00Cabo Verde, No Stress<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Xs0btroJ-o/XSZZNUxDBCI/AAAAAAAARDM/NUK87go3UbwUOdpzqOPp8U53CboF76CIQCLcBGAs/s1600/Cabo%2BVerde%2BEnroute%2BSunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1053" data-original-width="1600" height="210" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Xs0btroJ-o/XSZZNUxDBCI/AAAAAAAARDM/NUK87go3UbwUOdpzqOPp8U53CboF76CIQCLcBGAs/s320/Cabo%2BVerde%2BEnroute%2BSunset.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Somewhere near the Canary Islands the sunsets as I am cruising at 36,000 feet en-route to Sal, Cabo Verde. This sunset combine with the clouds beneath us is one of the most spectacular ones that I have seen while flying.<br />
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ARRIVING SAL<br />
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Night has fallen as I arrive in Sal but I am still up to exploring Santa Maria after about a twenty minute overpriced (20 Euro) taxi ride to my hotel, Ocean Suite. For less than $65 per night I have an awesome room with a balcony that will be my home for the next two nights with breakfast included.<br />
A short settling into my room then I head down stairs for a delightful fish and chips dinner with a crisp and refreshing local brew. Free popcorn, a local thing, another brew and it's time to enjoy the evening's entertainment which occurs night from around ten to midnight. A duo of local artists are performing and soon enough I am corralled onto the dance for a “Santa Maria” dance lesson. I do my best to keep up with the moves but it's a challenge. Thankfully my instructor is fun and patient.<br />
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DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-87438916548051922702018-12-23T11:29:00.001-05:002019-06-09T00:37:53.420-04:00Somalia, Lamb Biryani<p><br></p><p>The streets are hectic as I take a short walk back to the Oriental Hotel for dinner.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bdcl_cFxpK0/XB-3yNrXG_I/AAAAAAAAQ8M/oyHai7rCQ0YYzyRBEIByXT_PTsZvWtbuwCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20181116_200344%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="167" title="IMG_20181116_200344" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20181116_200344" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wJtEd5nj0qI/XB-3ymXOoxI/AAAAAAAAQ8Q/AK1HWnZqn9Ini3gtx0j1bZt-8qvDQWx9ACHMYCw/IMG_20181116_200344_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> A lamb biryani dish along with freshly squeezed orange juice, a salad and a cup of soup is a tasty delight for about $5.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br>After dinner I arrange my day tour (which includes an armed guard) with the Oriental Hotel to Laas Geel for $135.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UWZIIaTym3E/XB-3yywZHKI/AAAAAAAAQ8U/Umk4Mh7QHO40NAo80RVsK0uQnbhjZxWZACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20181116_193109%255B2%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20181116_193109" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20181116_193109" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-14iSIDJbn7U/XB-3zOdArdI/AAAAAAAAQ8Y/TtXjSwGvGSMCZ8y-wIxirN4su-lge_HfwCHMYCw/IMG_20181116_193109_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><br></p><p>Aware that Somalians like their privacy when it comes to picture taking, I record the evening's sights and the excitement of being here on my internal memory card.</p>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-71840976315870252262018-12-23T11:17:00.001-05:002018-12-23T11:17:20.913-05:00Somalia, A $12 Room<p><br><p>Daylight is fading as we drive the dusty and packed road towards the Oriental Hotel. On a Friday evening, messages from mosques all around the city are echoing through the night air.</p><p>Arriving at the Oriental there is a short disappointment as I am told they are fully booked for the night. However, a quick call by the Front Desk clerk to a nearby hotel and my second mission is accomplished.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0y6EdXCl_Oo/XB-1Dol7CvI/AAAAAAAAQ74/ZLMgali3-RkdJvIKCn40ndAM03ExUJHgwCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20181116_181112%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20181116_181112" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20181116_181112" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U39IN5mkYIg/XB-1DyUjP2I/AAAAAAAAQ78/QmWt3TC9FV8FiCpyeXFvL04yLPjT40tjACHMYCw/IMG_20181116_181112_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>For $12 per night I have a relatively clean, safe and comfortable room without concrete barriers and armed guards. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>With a good Wi-Fi connection I make my plans for tomorrow then it's time for dinner and an evening stroll around the city.</p>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-56269692989621502452018-12-23T11:07:00.001-05:002018-12-23T11:07:35.885-05:00Somalia, Arriving Somaliland<p><br><p>I arrive in Hargeisa without a visa or a hotel reservation but with a passion to visit another part of the planet that's not your typical tourist destination. Fortunately for me while waiting in line I meet two others that are in the same "visa boat". </p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sIPdhD6dvns/XB-yxIWvymI/AAAAAAAAQ7o/KqQKZneaa9c9zANZ1tGVklAV75m6s6KfwCHMYCw/s1600-h/Hargeisa%2BAirport%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="161" title="Hargeisa Airport" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="Hargeisa Airport" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BcfdZB5nOsY/XB-yxtlrZUI/AAAAAAAAQ7s/2mwqNCDV8ZM9g7BZ3kSXEV3nzpy6cs44QCHMYCw/Hargeisa%2BAirport_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Within 30 minutes and $60 later we are officially allowed in the country, one mission accomplished.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br>My second mission finding a hotel is made a little easier now that I have made two new friends who are being picked up by a local driver. Their destination The Ambassador Hotel is a possible option but l am looking for a more local place to stay. My earlier research suggest that The Oriental Hotel maybe the place place to start.</p><p><br>About three checkpoints including a parking lot exit and we are on our way in a beefed up Land Cruiser. As we approach The Ambassador my choice of hotel is confirmed. This is not the place that I want to stay. A car security sweep, multiple arm guards with machine guns and several layers of concrete barriers before we enter the property tells me this place is probably a target hotel. I wait for the others to get checked in then their driver is kind enough to help me continue my search.</p>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-3813205730101709992018-12-23T11:00:00.001-05:002018-12-23T11:00:34.891-05:00Swaziland, It’s Just Lunch<p> <p>I wake up in South Africa but in a few minutes I am looking at towering mountains touching the heavens in “The Kingdom Of Swaziland”. As a country inside of another country it is easy to dismiss a visit to Swaziland and as I would discover that would be a mistake. <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bhhGHlXQCKI/T-nL7jRWWfI/AAAAAAAAASo/38VxJ9n7VkI/s1600-h/IMG_57523.jpg"><img width="244" height="165" title="IMG_5752" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5752" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hpqVnPj5vR8/T-nL9meIKjI/AAAAAAAAASw/zlAO3Ig3gXk/IMG_5752_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Climbing a steep mountain road that takes me through a beautiful countryside pass fields and fields of logging timber, I am headed to the Josefsdal border crossing.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WXIrMBIq5Ug/T-nMARs1kuI/AAAAAAAAAS4/h927jQxDnKo/s1600-h/IMG_57574.jpg"><img width="347" height="244" title="IMG_5757" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5757" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-auU-aYbQ2lY/T-nMCNSqMCI/AAAAAAAAATA/Bx60SbEAY6o/IMG_5757_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p><br></p> <p>Reaching the border post, the scenery almost seems unreal. I feel like I am in a 1950's movie. Yes, there is a fence and official buildings but there is something cute and antique about this border crossing.</p> <p>“Do you mind giving a policeman a ride into town”, I am asked as I approach the smiling Immigration, Customs, Tourist Board, Swaziland Ambassador, Officer. <p>Of course, I don't mind and she places a call to see if he is still down the road waiting for a ride. Unfortunately for me, he has already been picked up. What a shame. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E_ZGNuJCtQ8/T-nMF-Y2_NI/AAAAAAAAATI/HUiQyEVwI2A/s1600-h/IMG_57593.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5759" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5759" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yizMjfoen9g/T-nMHKtePzI/AAAAAAAAATQ/vsmM6b271Do/IMG_5759_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Leaving the smiles at the border, from miles away, my nose determines my first stop in The Kingdom. Nothing is more appealing in the morning than the smell of fresh baked goods permeating the air.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>I come to an almost abrupt stop at a non descriptive white building just at the beginning of a small town. A smiling owner welcomes me to Swaziland and tells me about his famous fresh baked brown bread. </p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Uoayn_J-qR0/T-nMJSaCB9I/AAAAAAAAATY/g8bfARiO9Pg/s1600-h/IMG_57627.jpg"><img width="244" height="178" title="IMG_5762" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5762" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-h0JPEc7skPM/T-nMKhiWCKI/AAAAAAAAATg/Ppi07WCEKc4/IMG_5762_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>I believe every word he says as I watch a smiling regular customer pick up a loaf or two. If his brown bread is that good then his other baked products cannot be to far behind.</p> <p>A purchase and I am not disappointed just sad as I leave that sweet scent behind.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Arh0rmfEhKY/T-nMMwlxVUI/AAAAAAAAATo/JoN6REk5xik/s1600-h/IMG_57679.jpg"><img width="336" height="236" title="IMG_5767" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5767" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QVkMWbEHAWs/T-nMOAuqJ7I/AAAAAAAAATw/rKOuw3EoSNw/IMG_5767_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p> <p> <p>Navigating along a gravel mountain road with no rail guards and potholes that could swallow a small car like mine, I now know why officially I should not be driving a rental car here. However, I have watched enough episodes of “The Dukes Of Hazards” that I feel confident that I will survive the next eighteen miles even as I share the narrow road with cows, sheep and an occasional logging truck. <p>I am happy when my Dunlops begin to roll over black top and a Colonel's smiling face is a welcomed sign even thousands of miles away from Kentucky. Before long, I am on a hill at a souvenir stop watching a local craftsman demonstrate ancient rock carving using what seems like a one sided miniature pick ax. <p>Green towering mountains, a huge lake which I will cross in a few minutes are just some of the landscape I can see from here, all a part of what makes Swaziland a beautiful country. <p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KmG8NvZhHsM/T-nMR6q09MI/AAAAAAAAAT4/dOlussHDWSM/s1600-h/IMG_57707.jpg"><img width="244" height="166" title="IMG_5770" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5770" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Vi3i0fdfAFk/T-nMTWnFxGI/AAAAAAAAAUA/p5PK0Smrd6c/IMG_5770_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Just as I cross to the other side of the lake my eyes are drawn to a pair of small dancing trees along the highway. I am going too fast to make a sudden stop so I pull a u turn to investigate. <p>Stopping, I am greeted by the solo thumping of a drum that is helping to keep these little dancing trees in rhythm. <p> <p> <p>Even though it costs me a few rands, I am glad I stopped especially when I get one of the trees to smile back at me. <p>A few more kilometers and I am nearing my destination as I travel down a dusty road. It is now early afternoon and apparently school has just let out. I pick up a hitchhiker walking the same way I am headed and although our conversation is sparse, I am good at following pointing fingers. <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xteLiMZGKXs/T-nMWCE4IRI/AAAAAAAAAUI/j9UU9G14mAs/s1600-h/IMG_57753.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5775" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5775" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MkghsJ8EHuI/T-nMXDHgZLI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/TV_CCcSWsLo/IMG_5775_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>I come to a stop at the edge of the road with a slopping valley below me. </p> <p>I watch as my hitchhiker disappears with box of cookies my waistline does not need.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--aV21ylco10/T-nMcSuqDmI/AAAAAAAAAUY/YtKSjj-KQnw/s1600-h/IMG_57864.jpg"><img width="322" height="227" title="IMG_5786" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5786" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Co_rC9jbwV4/T-nMd4zu_OI/AAAAAAAAAUg/d7N_5UAAzUE/IMG_5786_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Swaziland Pot Stew <p align="center"> <p align="center"> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O0A5S7mUh3w/T-nMf2fFIbI/AAAAAAAAAUo/5W4k-dbRhFc/s1600-h/IMG_57843.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5784" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5784" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3DRbQwjxPtc/T-nMgyV3daI/AAAAAAAAAUw/MWO3KG8YBa8/IMG_5784_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Less than five minutes later and I am at Hawane Village, a local restaurant and hotel.</p> <p>A pot stew, a cold beer or two and I have not only seen The Kingdom Of Swaziland, I have just had a great taste of it and it has been more than just lunch.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:0c90df92-3159-45bb-82bb-d75380f658d6" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="000a1243-a492-42be-a8c9-f9294f4441cc" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jU0X4u0-2OE&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('000a1243-a492-42be-a8c9-f9294f4441cc'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/jU0X4u0-2OE?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/jU0X4u0-2OE?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tgLb63yTA3s/T-nMhx7QkeI/AAAAAAAAAVA/HjFcM67-AA4/video2aa47298ab4b%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-77328719768094255112018-04-22T14:27:00.001-04:002018-04-22T14:27:12.456-04:003 Days In Liberia Costa Rica<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QcezTxdVPtk" width="480"></iframe>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-3681924027421554362017-12-19T01:39:00.001-05:002018-04-22T14:32:17.473-04:00Cruising, Jewel Of The Seas Back To Back<p> <p>Although we already had one week of cruising planned on the Jewel when the opportunity came up to add a second week for basically the same price we jumped at it. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7LAZmRFRptE/Wjiz_VGwJQI/AAAAAAAAQwo/FbFK7r4twsQBzA8urHzLnzfgot4JVdGZQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171210_1003403"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171210_100340" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171210_100340" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6kQHy2HCwXc/Wjiz_xBvtUI/AAAAAAAAQws/Jzses3zHXTcST7CB2OPe8jyth94mVWa-gCHMYCw/IMG_20171210_100340_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>We had previously sailed on the Jewel Of The Seas last March and really enjoyed the ship and crew so this was a “no-brainer” decision.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>However, we did have a little understandable disappointment as our initial itinerary for both weeks of sailing was changed as some of the ports are still recovering from the 2017 devastating hurricane season. </p> <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0wvPemPq_hk/Wji0ANPuiII/AAAAAAAAQww/oPKR8B8UQKA12_BhXu_qjZohtHcTHxALACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171210_1537393"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171210_153739" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171210_153739" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-khsxeRmkWMY/Wji0Aq5_XaI/AAAAAAAAQw0/RwiVXY47aZ8aCcgkt_0beMYVuO-miCqFgCHMYCw/IMG_20171210_153739_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Even around San Juan trees are still down and traffic lights are without power. A walk to Old San Juan and we sense however that spirits are still high as we see families and friends out and about enjoying festivities around the city. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>Our first port of call Crown Bay is new to us although we have cruised to St Thomas numerous times. We leave the port for a walk to a nearby beach but as luck would have it we are offered a ride by a storm repair utility worker from upstate New York. We do get a bit worried when he tells his co-workers he is off to do his “double tourist murder” routine. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-x_uwX7X_avs/Wji0AxbGRDI/AAAAAAAAQw4/0-cRyFpGdBUPnIgVfaGp1WoYfB0QFK7BgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171204_1414064"><img width="404" height="286" title="IMG_20171204_141406" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171204_141406" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sr-qFg7Y8MU/Wji0BGncbmI/AAAAAAAAQw8/RjGm3HK8oCYF26VE3u3wHe13kJ0YVK7kACHMYCw/IMG_20171204_141406_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Brewers Bay Beach <p align="center"> <p>As it turns out one of the staging areas for the utility trucks is just opposite Brewers Bay Beach. We escape from the mass-murderer and enjoy a few hours at the beach then on his recommendation have lunch at a food truck parked nearby. The salt fish pate for $4 and the fried “Johnny Cake” for $2 are both filling and delicious. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-elic002D_-k/Wji0Bra3nJI/AAAAAAAAQxA/98bpteaUOGELYJ0_2NhaBA-B3cSCBW6cgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171204_1247073"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171204_124707" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171204_124707" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-odUDOcAuamY/Wji0B0sTeVI/AAAAAAAAQxE/VkyIhqottr4XUZlA2rE1oWpYXOqZuFxdwCHMYCw/IMG_20171204_124707_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>A walk back towards Crown Bay and we again witness first hand some of the damage from the last hurricane season as we see some airplanes in pretty bad shape at the nearby airport. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-30vF4u-55qo/Wji0CL8SuvI/AAAAAAAAQxI/ZCW4L88FkAwSz5VxDT6Gz1tcbg7BKRMzQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171204_1355202"><img width="244" height="192" title="IMG_20171204_135520" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171204_135520" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GLT1-hpewuw/Wji0Cd3VXfI/AAAAAAAAQxM/hqZymzPAo5gGpGgArzzP0RYZqqwSWI31wCHMYCw/IMG_20171204_135520_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Later we hop on a local bus for $1 each then it's a short walk to the Crown Bay Marina for a Coney Island Hard Root Beer. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>St Kitts and Nevis our next port of call is visited twice on our 14 days of sailing. Our first visit again has us at an unfamiliar port although we have sailed here before. A free shuttle ride and in less than fifteen minutes we are at the familiar Basseterre Cruise Terminal. The area is nice for walking around and we end up at St George's an interesting place. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l6t34diVWnU/Wji0Ct6dU9I/AAAAAAAAQxQ/dL2dh4OlbbQLvTb0By37vIE9cD_UbzG0gCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171205_1317526"><img width="436" height="287" title="IMG_20171205_131752" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171205_131752" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t20bvZpirzQ/Wji0C9uZLlI/AAAAAAAAQxU/FOChPEe6H1YZvyaWwkA7xYCiiBiowo95wCHMYCw/IMG_20171205_131752_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>St George’s Anglican Church <p> <p>This site was first the home of a Catholic Church, Notre Dame but was destroyed by the British who then built the now Anglican Church. <p>On our second visit we take a walk to what we discover is the now defunct as of ten years ago St Kitts and Nevis Sugar Manufacturing Plant. It still turns out to be a rewarding walk as we do get a treat of hearing a group of students practicing “Silent Night” on steel drums. <p>Antigua is also visited twice and both times it's a trip to one of Antigua's 365 beaches. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wiTRQiD-ciI/Wji0DP1PeUI/AAAAAAAAQxY/mTatq6xZf5cfS1pFGzBfZxOzzLa_OWfjwCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171206_1138467"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171206_113846" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171206_113846" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n1bSdtLc0dM/Wji0DW-6z_I/AAAAAAAAQxc/Y1rpJ3A7c2cqhte8cbpgsVuVqoM35utLACHMYCw/IMG_20171206_113846_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Father Of The Nation. VC Bird. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p>From the West Bay Terminal we take Bus 22 for US$1.50 a person to Darkwood Beach and then spend another $25 for two beach chairs and six small but cold Wadali's, Antigua Lager Beer. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yhD5UsnKbi0/Wji0D-M3N8I/AAAAAAAAQxg/3rY1CFZdpaw2xXDBTHE5vfxT9bXYp4S0wCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171206_1254505"><img width="382" height="278" title="IMG_20171206_125450" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171206_125450" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JkhoSmq5k10/Wji0EKCRAuI/AAAAAAAAQxk/d7aT6_6CnfEw-48GZEU1GxgTx5YXvFpDgCHMYCw/IMG_20171206_125450_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Darkwood Beach <p> <p>At the far end of Darkwood Beach we camp out in the shade for awhile before enjoying the beautiful and crystal clear waters that are continuously crashing on shore. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eOnv15v9m8A/Wji0EeSzEZI/AAAAAAAAQxo/sF4ZxVenv2ki2Y7sCbeac6TD_0A6oJkQgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171212_2313442"><img width="244" height="176" title="IMG_20171212_231344" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171212_231344" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sX-Dhe3rDJc/Wji0EqNCU_I/AAAAAAAAQxs/vPIpPyzcdlwvAUijuEwbbbmi8FDvtDirgCHMYCw/IMG_20171212_231344_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>On our subsequent visit we go a bit further and enjoy Turner Beach with views on Montserrat and its active volcano in the distance. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p>On your return from the Darkwood or Turner Beach find Mystic Bakery located at the West Bay Bus Terminal. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nSdvRVAKoNo/Wji0FN4EzCI/AAAAAAAAQxw/A36ebuWS_bwPnotPg4XlV0Bdd2Gs0lJCgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171212_1601553"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171212_160155" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171212_160155" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kPS78GbS9HA/Wji0FZYkbbI/AAAAAAAAQx0/s8t0fsXEElEdJmicxjE5tbfXvQRwY9AhgCHMYCw/IMG_20171212_160155_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>You won’t regret it! <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p>On our second sailing after visiting Antigua our next port of call is Fort de France, Martinique. A first for us as a cruise destination. A short walk from the ship and we are on a local ferry heading for Pointe du Bout for some more beach time. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P_bDtN_cr5Y/Wji0FocfHlI/AAAAAAAAQx4/OCOorIt1IR4c8Xr4gxAe_TTE_mTELYzywCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171213_1343203"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171213_134320" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171213_134320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YKGeBhDSmlA/Wji0GM46OnI/AAAAAAAAQx8/h4m5AXIkYfAHfGjBOTpoHHCiNhBIBRt0ACHMYCw/IMG_20171213_134320_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Although we had been forewarned that it might be difficult to make purchases because the Euro is the local currency we have no problems using US dollars.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>Prices are steep on Martinique but the views and being able to enjoy Pointe du Bout and the beach there made the $7 a beer worth it. </p> <p> <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_5ZtTODlZCg/Wji0Gf4umBI/AAAAAAAAQyA/zID0LMhNNKkzCYww8lpwfst-1zJn5obzgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171213_1306293"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171213_130629" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171213_130629" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C2jzNEX2dz4/Wji0GuWsqkI/AAAAAAAAQyE/vdTzWqpEw_AvkIivUDBXlZN_PZkJSsGLwCHMYCw/IMG_20171213_130629_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Coco Bar Pointe du Bout <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p>Back in Fort de France we feel like we are in Europe as we walk around the town. Sidewalk cafes and beautiful buildings like Hotel de Ville, Government House, St Louis Cathedral and Schoelcher Library give this island city a very European flavor. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tCZs1_sCSnc/Wji0G2bcDjI/AAAAAAAAQyI/3MXfLY-Sp4oAKPxrRV3VKuzg97DZs5F1ACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171213_2141344"><img width="407" height="232" title="IMG_20171213_214134" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171213_214134" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wYaoqXu3rLU/Wji0HYlwSTI/AAAAAAAAQyM/hGGvCZlv6bcEMkMK7LWTijAGL2cNU6lyACHMYCw/IMG_20171213_214134_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Government House <p> <p>Did you know that the grapefruit originated in Barbados? Or that George Washington sailed here in 1751? Just some of the fun facts we learn on our double visit to this beautiful island nation. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oMb9OeyvCeM/Wji0HifRMuI/AAAAAAAAQyQ/SHm3fMDsCsMvmUqIGrucmEOcrGHgbqbFACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171207_1244383"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171207_124438" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171207_124438" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d6f2MnINI_A/Wji0H0VED_I/AAAAAAAAQyU/4n19CEd62n8bSJD2LzUFyAnAtoVw_QDAwCHMYCw/IMG_20171207_124438_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>On our first visit we have lunch at a local restaurant. I have Stew Marlin and Bajan Rice with a refreshing and cold serving of Golden Apple juice. </p> <p>After lunch its a nice $10 haircut of what hair I have left.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>Even though we have been to Barbados on several occasions we are still drawn to Carlisle Beach. This beach is nice walk from the cruise ship terminal and depending on your pace will take you only about 40 minutes. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TMpndhUik8g/Wji0IFm6IuI/AAAAAAAAQyY/9KkKtruNyxsyFT6ACECmJtIvgpaH0xf2ACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171207_1517405"><img width="384" height="258" title="IMG_20171207_151740" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171207_151740" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D7IO8AElU8Q/Wji0Ifn5jtI/AAAAAAAAQyc/yeCMromrQZM_m7ncOy3gK9pJADiKrQAVQCHMYCw/IMG_20171207_151740_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Carlisle Beach Home Of The Boatyard</p> <p><br></p> <p>The walk is easy and you will have the opportunity to stop in town and take in some of the local happenings. For an affordable local meal check out Chefette. They also have a nice hard ice cream selection. Maple Almond is delicious. </p> <p>Barbados Wildlife Reserve is about 40 minutes away by car and is offered as a stop on many tours. If you want to do it on your own like we did on our second outing Courtesy Rent A Car is available right at the cruise terminal. For US$110.00 per day with everything included we set off on a road trip with our first stop at Chefette then Barbados Wildlife Reserve. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-co8bw9CY8gY/Wji0IlfvKFI/AAAAAAAAQyg/yxRa6RmUYfUhFX9D4y8b4CLf2hMoXdATQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171214_1345283"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171214_134528" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171214_134528" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CkZ67a5k9B0/Wji0JCspJtI/AAAAAAAAQyk/I0JxiWOC1i44M0z6U2BdBSaNV2GnHThywCHMYCw/IMG_20171214_134528_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Our US$15 per person admission fee is well worth it and we regret not being able to spend more time there.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yPAinVGYjMg/Wji0JqDN3HI/AAAAAAAAQyo/wfPNq8VSqkIIugb2Tp8I5T_dFftvaq25gCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171214_1404253"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171214_140425" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171214_140425" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UFvgRF4asm4/Wji0J_5NhuI/AAAAAAAAQys/54TmcRvQexUubyGMrjP053vjdS9EPy5_gCHMYCw/IMG_20171214_140425_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>If you go be sure to be there in time for one of the scheduled animal feedings. From monkeys to birds, deer and even tortoises everyone is welcomed.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>Our drive back is through sugarcane fields then across a mountainous landscape with amazing scenic views. A brief stop at Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill home of the Caribbean's largest and only working windmill then we cruise along Barbados Northeast Coastline. <p>We cannot leave Barbados without another swim at Carlisle Beach even if it has getting back to the Jewel as one of the last passengers to board. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fP8NRWqWmAk/Wji0KCTIRpI/AAAAAAAAQyw/HpGHu4i6xUM7YEvi2rQIf3bGRcdbhj-zgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171214_1445124"><img width="452" height="200" title="IMG_20171214_144512" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171214_144512" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bY0l3gR83bI/Wji0KX0o7SI/AAAAAAAAQy0/QmhZ-gzc3_EmqUNq87Uvt3ahvfmMNu7KgCHMYCw/IMG_20171214_144512_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Barbados Northeast Coastline <p> <p> <p>The sun is setting as we leave Bridgetown for St George, Grenada the final port on both of our seven day sailings. Our first visit involves an island tour with Stanley for US$10 per person. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jP-118waL8M/Wji0LTJc6MI/AAAAAAAAQy4/SOsGsSR5OLUvr0JrXdzT50EZr5rRTkKGgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171208_1257353"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171208_125735" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171208_125735" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Dzj_0B2nW8U/Wji0L-Cpr4I/AAAAAAAAQy8/eJaju4wcUlEf1ub8_-ccR2YfiI-Fnbb1ACHMYCw/IMG_20171208_125735_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>We make a stop at a local shop for an introduction to the various spices grown on the island and I opt for a Rum Punch sampling that is topped with fresh nutmeg. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>At Annandale Falls we are in time to see one of the “Fall Divers” in action. Although you can swim at Annandale we all take a pass. As we head to our next stop an afternoon tropical storm is brewing and although it is short lived we cut out our planned beach visit. </p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--09yiMY3F0I/Wji0MHUOcyI/AAAAAAAAQzA/Z-1Zu8Kg5gUPC05Hu-RbWWUY1TsfPWFNQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171208_1450187"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171208_145018" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171208_145018" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5FxyDOo5H_k/Wji0MlZAi8I/AAAAAAAAQzE/JRfiDpyLlzYmupD-fvtdCrG6D8uXAZ7iQCHMYCw/IMG_20171208_145018_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>We leave Stanley and venture back to the ship on our own but not before meeting a “Woodman”. <p>If you get the same opportunity make sure he has his friend Lemon Bitters along unless you want to grow some hair on your chest. <p> <p> <p>Our final visit to Grenada and again we are on a local bus this time headed to Grand Anse Beach. Loud but comfortable music is playing as we ride along making multiple stop along the way. By chance we exit the bus right next to what turns out to be a great place for lunch. <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-grdyA1dpwus/Wji0M29kLNI/AAAAAAAAQzI/kr5oS4zVO1AkqU_xuw24Sd-TzfUhY-TtgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171215_1230473"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171215_123047" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171215_123047" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f8SMcMVfiMs/Wji0NCXTWLI/AAAAAAAAQzM/Q6wZFpDuetgAWINs5eZN2YUfzELkHJN0ACHMYCw/IMG_20171215_123047_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>At Grill Master I enjoy a fish roti and Carib as we are entertained by a steel drum player. Lunch for two, US$15. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p>From Grill Master it is less than a ten minute walk and we are on one of the nicest beaches in the Caribbean. We end up away from the popular tourist spot and find beach chairs for US$5 each in the shade of a huge what I grew up knowing as an almond tree. Interestingly at this spot we are told there is free Wi-Fi available. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r5O_ofVNn0Y/Wji0NWM2YPI/AAAAAAAAQzQ/5tr_cd8FmfAPdukMwsI3GgQwNBfFpQcGwCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171215_1418205"><img width="390" height="262" title="IMG_20171215_141820" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171215_141820" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lFZodVVikH8/Wji0NvUv9WI/AAAAAAAAQzU/aB6PeGaserojM4fOxXAFWapV82VRmJLnwCHMYCw/IMG_20171215_141820_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Grand Anse Beach <p> <p>As we are relaxing on the beach we hear in the distance a somewhat familiar tune. A Princess cruise ship is about to leave port and I think it is under the command of Captain Stubing. <p>“Love, exciting and new. Come aboard. We're expecting you.” <p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--aFDYqFzUvI/Wji0Nyej2mI/AAAAAAAAQzY/YNjFarq0mZwBNA5EKTjfgk4-Qa13exe_ACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20171215_1538063"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20171215_153806" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20171215_153806" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YyGHG7wObqs/Wji0OFNzxGI/AAAAAAAAQzc/Nqz4eztWFUsxpntr7njFNK2XKJelp6VVQCHMYCw/IMG_20171215_153806_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>No “Love Boat” for us as we board the Water Taxi back to port but the scenery is lovely as we say goodbye to Grand Anse until next time.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>In about 20 minutes we have a close up view of Jewel Of The Seas and our balcony cabin. In less than an hour we will be sailing North to San Juan with a “Quest” ahead and a full day at sea. </p>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-59762521529073458172017-12-19T00:23:00.001-05:002017-12-19T00:23:45.118-05:00Jewel Of The Seas Destinations From San Juan<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LaA4UryP4QM" width="480"></iframe>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-25261429913306975262017-09-28T13:36:00.001-04:002018-01-29T07:43:22.338-05:00Kazakhstan, The Old Capital<p><br><p>Our original plan to travel to Almaty is scrapped as 12-15 hrs in a second class upper bunk of a non air conditioned train just does not seem like much fun. <p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NBUiCgxu-p4/Wc0yUE1teVI/AAAAAAAAQso/9TlhOlYsmRkVHc1WdLpbUs4ctV6YQKARQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_0004%255B7%255D"><img width="244" height="166" title="IMG_0004" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_0004" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZE5bxZ9F4Eg/Wc0yU2RrhlI/AAAAAAAAQss/OHfRh6mDokkWx0LeTG-GFRn8WiCH2--dgCHMYCw/IMG_0004_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>However, I know I will have some regrets as I have been told the scenery is much better than from 37,000 feet.<p><br><p><br><p><br><p><br><p>Besides taking in the local scenery there are three reasons we are in Almaty, to see Lake Almaty, to hike Charyn Canyon NP and finally to get to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Although gently warned about driving in Kazakhstan and the possibility of encountering difficult traffic police we still opt for the adventure of a car rental.<p><br><p><br><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eTY3CEtMBZc/Wc0yYrXmXPI/AAAAAAAAQsw/eV23KGUuGRgEXxajhKnFW4U6pF87dZwIQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_0002%255B4%255D"><img width="316" height="238" title="IMG_0002" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_0002" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YDQWPkC8PS0/Wc0yaF2Il_I/AAAAAAAAQs0/YRt0x3Fxa00RRvbH8VG3W2F_PiOepz_MgCHMYCw/IMG_0002_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Roadside Scenery<p align="center"><br><p><br><p>Equipped with small currency notes we set out early in the morning for about a 4 hour drive to Charyn Canyon NP. Carefully monitoring my speed and road signs along the way, we make it to our destination without having to unwilling part with any of our dinero. <p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EAeBm-06n5Q/Wc0yb2yeTJI/AAAAAAAAQs4/xAYSrscMJVwhiNLniM53rEkaVVKxvNFDwCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_0006%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_0006" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_0006" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mznsv9A1m8o/Wc0ydRYjykI/AAAAAAAAQs8/M_X2PD6qdnQ-Xp-gC2x4q628SZgog-sgACHMYCw/IMG_0006_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>A small entrance fee and we park among some of the first cars to arrive at Charyn Canyon. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Descending a steep set of stairs we begin our hike in what some consider “The Baby Grand Canyon”. The morning sun is already blazing and stops to be awed by mother nature are welcomed. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j43XRBftjZI/Wc0ye0Ic1VI/AAAAAAAAQtA/nnYu872ydvkOCLYu4Kbj_uSx5uELJBq5gCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170830_124509%255B4%255D"><img width="365" height="275" title="IMG_20170830_124509" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170830_124509" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wDM9sIUgauU/Wc0ygNbF99I/AAAAAAAAQtE/NUJZ6oVg8V8p9_MYTGLsE9CwvqIsmhcOACHMYCw/IMG_20170830_124509_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Charyn Canyon National Park</p><p align="center"><br></p><p><br></p><p>Our turn around point is at an Eco-Tourism Resort along the banks of a shaded and refreshingly cold river. From here you can take a taxi for your return trip although we decided to walk back and are still amazed by the scenery.</p><p><br></p><p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aoRIDpJW5G0/Wc0yjIy6btI/AAAAAAAAQtI/Lz4kxtAG6C8FGrCsWwzMqXJ1_3pSikcUgCHMYCw/s1600-h/Dried%2BCold%2BSliced%2BHorsemeat%255B2%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="Dried Cold Sliced Horsemeat" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="Dried Cold Sliced Horsemeat" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WF6ltkrl3k8/Wc0yui53okI/AAAAAAAAQtM/_wjy6Q10Zw8PQwwMN23GEmEiUN9TQyoaQCHMYCw/Dried%2BCold%2BSliced%2BHorsemeat_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Back in Almaty we end up by accident at the very cool and almost “chic” Line Brew for dinner.</p><p>A plate of “Dried Cold Sliced Horse” and I am having a sampling of local cuisine.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p> After dinner we stroll a few blocks and join a lengthy queue for a 24 hour Almaty favorite. Since this is our second time to enjoy this cool delight we are going to try the competition for a taste test comparison. Earlier we were told that the two vendors use two different formula with one producing a more watery product. I guess I am going to need a third or fourth tasting to really tell the difference.</p><p><br><p><br><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c3NckxHKE4c/Wc0y6u05HsI/AAAAAAAAQtQ/yHRgXwh9020PeVjl5tdzxPbOtbD_TA47ACHMYCw/s1600-h/Almaty%2BCool%2BTreat%255B4%255D"><img width="338" height="222" title="Almaty Cool Treat" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Almaty Cool Treat" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K89Ra45pSJs/Wc0y8Ik6feI/AAAAAAAAQtU/AvoVDCInsqYztBLmV3960c-dCUccMCyAACHMYCw/Almaty%2BCool%2BTreat_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Almaty Cool And Colorful Treat<p><br><p>It's a little later start to Lake Almaty as it is much closer to the city than Charyn Canton. <p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Km-nIU8TwDM/Wc0y9OgHaVI/AAAAAAAAQtY/OI6PwpadERkOhDfgtOeQV8O72DeiLkMLACHMYCw/s1600-h/Street%2BCorn%2BOn%2BThe%2BCob%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="Street Corn On The Cob" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="Street Corn On The Cob" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MOfNW1ek-cI/Wc0y-KV8dsI/AAAAAAAAQtc/5xDYH6BprPEkjcAAISBDRmCLNyw3kwnEACHMYCw/Street%2BCorn%2BOn%2BThe%2BCob_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>However, we make a stop at the “Green Bazaar” for souvenirs and a giant sweet corn on the cob before we head up the mountains. <p><br><p><br><p><br><p><br><p><br><p>About 30 minutes outside of the city we pay a small toll to enjoy a landscape with jagged and majesty mountains as we drive a curving road to Lake Almaty. At a split in the road we come to an abrupt stop as the road is closed by local police due to construction. Our delay is only about 25 minutes and the scenery continues to be amazing. <p><br><p><br><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z5-4KRNO0qc/Wc0y_lVd_tI/AAAAAAAAQtg/GJC1eMR2jCUqM5WIPIcAh0rV8sKr1in4gCHMYCw/s1600-h/Lake%2BAlmaty%2BAwesome%255B4%255D"><img width="361" height="272" title="Lake Almaty Awesome" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Lake Almaty Awesome" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZIKsHtoUJNU/Wc0zAryOjGI/AAAAAAAAQtk/MZRE8cF79QcsBr0zSsiVdvkPZ6LUUTKQgCHMYCw/Lake%2BAlmaty%2BAwesome_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Lake Almaty<p align="center"><br><p>Lake Almaty with it's powder blue waters surrounded by mountains still capped with winter snow and perfectly planted dark green pine trees is as mesmerizing and as beautiful as I imagined. <p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QHCOyUPRrEw/Wc0zBs3wBDI/AAAAAAAAQto/aI3sZgtvJCA6czFdGBN4OhhfZeji9D3xwCHMYCw/s1600-h/Lake%2BAlmaty%2BHillside%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="187" title="Lake Almaty Hillside" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="Lake Almaty Hillside" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HVoRxEg3aGA/Wc0zChZyMwI/AAAAAAAAQts/5QkyrFuwMEQJCWlx6dW_69W8SoTvPSLDwCHMYCw/Lake%2BAlmaty%2BHillside_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>A drive around the area and brightly colored wildflowers can still be seen decorating the slopping hillsides.</p><p> I'm sure in winter and spring the area take on another form of beauty that is all its own.</p>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-54994897771925384142017-09-28T11:32:00.001-04:002017-09-28T11:32:28.341-04:00Kazakhstan, An Afternoon At Expo 2017<p><br><p>Besides it's main focus on “Future Energy”, Expo 2017 in Astana provided a lot of opportunities to learn about other countries and their cultures along with a full venue of entertainment.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eguRmcgPjAA/Wc0VzkYLWYI/AAAAAAAAQrs/hPQJa-8YfHIJqj_64KtVJDyS7yuTZ_QTgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170827_194013%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20170827_194013" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170827_194013" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wAd_MulXAqk/Wc0V0kGXUtI/AAAAAAAAQrw/uorOAzKQY20wc7yBoQ1ZnXWWE6Q1FmTzgCHMYCw/IMG_20170827_194013_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>From an exhibition standpoint touching a block of ice from the very “top” of the world courtesy of the Russians and checking out some virtual reality gear from Serbia are highlights for me. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4w-tnkQ_wiE/Wc0V2NZ5NnI/AAAAAAAAQr0/CX5DG3F_XBcDKwKJ4gBB3T6DwYQFeIc5gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P8270061%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="186" title="P8270061" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P8270061" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z9PT0DenDs8/Wc0V27I6QlI/AAAAAAAAQr4/PR6b3HUWCskMkPQaz2rRbFMt1HBkJaJnwCHMYCw/P8270061_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>However, if after dressing like a Saudi Arabian Sheikh I could have rolled with his bank account that would have been nice too.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oW8oLsnHEdc/Wc0V4JSm6gI/AAAAAAAAQr8/JuDJ9wTRjOcR6I-6lKtrfDpnwQ7vHS6wgCHMYCw/s1600-h/Expo%2B2017%2BParade%255B4%255D"><img width="382" height="270" title="Expo 2017 Parade" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Expo 2017 Parade" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1W9Z5PV7hRo/Wc0V5tbWMwI/AAAAAAAAQsA/6EGaQ80scAczoC6TslsTYU2fv3fc7Fj8ACHMYCw/Expo%2B2017%2BParade_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Electric Light Parade</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Although unable to get a relatively inexpensive (less than US$10.00) Cirque Du Soleil ticket an Electric Light Parade of sorts followed by a free amazing concert is a decent compromise. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kbJ-ZI5q_-s/Wc0V64KQFLI/AAAAAAAAQsE/57dxk4UyTJsMycqPg4-gUI-ZV7pnrCjzQCHMYCw/s1600-h/Expo%2BOchestra%255B4%255D"><img width="353" height="266" title="Expo Ochestra" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Expo Ochestra" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r_AdFLyVyVk/Wc0V8NXURbI/AAAAAAAAQsI/amiLrttsbqgmSTtLUIm1zqJ45SFmgjDVgCHMYCw/Expo%2BOchestra_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p align="left">Next it is a laser light and fire show which turns out to be an enjoyable way to end our Expo 2017 experience.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NWLRtM7RB9E/Wc0V9VU0odI/AAAAAAAAQsM/trRWmCqfMYIytRoI2vqjCaCfIIgiXEA1wCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_0027%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_0027" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_0027" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4DgwGLo-T8Y/Wc0V-QgSjAI/AAAAAAAAQsQ/xT2F7Wp7G64q9ZfeDbwQsXcd5_vg680KwCHMYCw/IMG_0027_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Show Performers</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KREo6dzR_Q4/Wc0WA7MPpnI/AAAAAAAAQsU/N5T6njLO4jcgF7QzbKIyJcXZfz47nRIrACHMYCw/s1600-h/Laser%2BShow%255B4%255D"><img width="367" height="291" title="Laser Show" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Laser Show" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7T94-1wVYCI/Wc0WCsO5nsI/AAAAAAAAQsY/vGBrwarY57QBaQY6mh4XTbsm68sVJ38FwCHMYCw/Laser%2BShow_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Laser Light And Fire Show</p><p><br></p><p align="left">Thanks, Astana!</p>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-55316426998903993672017-09-28T10:59:00.001-04:002017-09-28T10:59:12.586-04:00Sightseeing Around Astana And Almaty Kazakhstan<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/giVjebBv634" width="480"></iframe>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-5646295516751711142017-09-02T22:48:00.001-04:002018-03-20T15:05:16.385-04:00Kazakhstan, Astana Sightseeing<p><br><p>It is already blistering hot as we leave our hotel at 11am for a walk around Astana. Under a clear blue sky even the occasionally breeze is warm and gives us no relief from the blazing sun. Along dry and dusty streets we find some comfort among trees that show signs of having been thirsty for a long time.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dZyvWMD5Z60/Watkj4N8fSI/AAAAAAAAQqE/LOj3_ZtywxgRFQJzEwikT5RLj5LgYL2gwCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170827_134207%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20170827_134207" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170827_134207" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-glaAb2HfdTQ/Watkkxwp7jI/AAAAAAAAQqI/vDkRnlOku3kwwLlfutoRzLnZBEt9kDDlACHMYCw/IMG_20170827_134207_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Our initial destination is Bayterek Tower and our route there basically retraces our taxi cab drive from the airport to our hotel. Although we now have time to smell the flowers along the way, what we did miss under last night’s darkness was the huge U.A.E embassy along the way. </p><p><br></p><p>Crossing an extended bridge we watch a river tour boat pass belong us and then descend a set of staircase. Our ears take us on a path towards music as we hike through one of the many parks around the city.</p><p>In the main square of the park there is a festival of sorts going on with children enjoying toy rides and bounce houses.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OGCYVbjG66M/Watkmlh3bBI/AAAAAAAAQqM/JgNq-GX4cSEonZO4IGgKBElajU_0o1nCACHMYCw/s1600-h/Park%2BDancers%255B4%255D"><img width="329" height="202" title="Park Dancers" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Park Dancers" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LegMCKCikU0/WattNDCP2PI/AAAAAAAAQqc/nfD5nQGseq059oYa6ULbgWbMyN3ZpyTMwCHMYCw/Park-Dancers_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a70Z93zfOr4/WattOVeadDI/AAAAAAAAQqg/Oh2pT-8PRL8o9b26WMODuWFC5VzFUdc-wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P82700093"><br></a></p><p>With laughter and happiness all around, we stand in front of a stage and spend a few minutes enjoying a free show of entertaining musicians, singers and dancers.</p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-09Tdz8WM7_U/WattQBEWc6I/AAAAAAAAQqk/kjtRnn4c7z4HfGl6_sUK24wvHF0gYX7jwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P8270009%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="P8270009" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P8270009" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M9e73dd9ixQ/WattQ_ch2wI/AAAAAAAAQqo/G6I-Mhv7VjI_utQoL9U9B8nAl8ZX4WHIACHMYCw/P8270009_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>What would a festival be without ice cream? With a few vendors around I gladly depart with 200 KZT, about 0.60 US, for a sampling.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br><p>Exiting the park our destination is in sight. Although it is only 700 KZT for a visit to Bayterek Tower the entrance line although in the shade is too long for our comfort and we take a bypass for now. <p><br><p><br><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oIOuFImyQig/WattSWBGUaI/AAAAAAAAQqs/mvNRIrKNwWsQwSxvop0Kk3h-rxNZ79JRgCHMYCw/s1600-h/Bayterek%2BTower%255B4%255D"><img width="345" height="260" title="Bayterek Tower" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Bayterek Tower" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C3aZz8g21LI/WattTNjus9I/AAAAAAAAQqw/pUIiyP65WSoMMhsUd1qG7kSP1fLiJkXXQCHMYCw/Bayterek%2BTower_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Bayterek Tower<p><br><p>Not too far away there is an egg I am interested in and we head that way. As it turns out this huge gray egg shaped building is not accessible and we don't get to unscramble the mystery of what it is. Sacrebleu!<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A5_PrkedafY/WattUQx8VEI/AAAAAAAAQq0/iudu4U2_GEQgigLdJkcDuTKm7-TZ8FwEwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P8270023%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="169" title="P8270023" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P8270023" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mBF6rvazTVE/WattU3BqLBI/AAAAAAAAQq4/7ZsP6nIOE5AQyOyQh1WQTa4UuJ8bltYcACHMYCw/P8270023_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Lunch at a nearby food court in a mall is inexpensive and delicious although I sure could use another scoop or two of ice cream to top off my slice of cake that is drizzled with honey. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H0aBo7316HI/WattWVeqrKI/AAAAAAAAQq8/ta4_vVK4FgcGiWH4iHoh_JTjgAiIi2XAwCHMYCw/s1600-h/Futuristic%2BSkyline%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="177" title="Futuristic Skyline" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="Futuristic Skyline" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--VCRMsJZcmo/WattXBcEMKI/AAAAAAAAQrA/9JfDn2hnOZkV_2maj8bfWAX58P0-UsxGACHMYCw/Futuristic%2BSkyline_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Recharged we continue our stroll around Astana while taking in a sometimes futuristic skyline before a brief stop at Nur Astana.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A8G0j3foOR8/WattYfDCshI/AAAAAAAAQrE/90bO8bsjgI4wcMwwBibhWCrN_w3PJLR8QCHMYCw/s1600-h/Fountain%2BView%2BNur%2BAstana%255B5%255D"><img width="398" height="300" title="Fountain View Nur Astana" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Fountain View Nur Astana" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ApxUsFcVwds/WattZJsWKWI/AAAAAAAAQrI/ccZRCRlQTOcREYsRm7TT66zkEfWuZK1MQCHMYCw/Fountain%2BView%2BNur%2BAstana_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Nur Astana</p><p><br></p><p>Some more criss-crossing the city and we end up at Khan Shatyr another interesting structure around the city which from the distance looks like a big Hershey's Kiss. </p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E6h4bwumHww/Watta5oKY4I/AAAAAAAAQrM/LjSK6FV9fBIU5IgJOnSd4oXDQ0UXf8BGQCHMYCw/s1600-h/Inside%2BKhan%2BShatyr%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="Inside Khan Shatyr" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="Inside Khan Shatyr" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vMvFCI8if7A/WattcnBBWyI/AAAAAAAAQrQ/Pw8PA7JTrwo2GJiETelPNDpIyMpdi2MggCHMYCw/Inside%2BKhan%2BShatyr_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Turns out that Khan Shatyr is a giant transparent tent that is a high-end mall with a small amusement park inside. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Our next stop is too far a walk away so it time to take a 2000 KZT cab to Expo 2017.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_um6JM_ikAM/Wattd5V42lI/AAAAAAAAQrU/1YoDPwkl4qg9iDqwKQ85dR1kwUwoPQ5dACHMYCw/s1600-h/Khan%2BShatyr%255B4%255D"><img width="346" height="265" title="Khan Shatyr" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Khan Shatyr" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-soz3pJegxZU/Wattecq9GII/AAAAAAAAQrY/kT9l7kHpdsUsjcyIERHmSLISuHWcDl6pgCHMYCw/Khan%2BShatyr_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Khan Shatyr</p>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-50385471488601497192017-09-01T00:04:00.001-04:002017-09-01T00:04:05.667-04:00Landlocked In Kazakhstan, Expo 2017 And More...<p><br><p>We arrive in Astana around 11pm and it is an efficient process through Immigration and Customs with English speaking guides readily available to help. At an currency booth inside of the baggage claim area we exchange $100 US for about $33300 KZT. Once outside of Customs ATM's are available to your left.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-17waUlJVmEg/WajcMLyuHpI/AAAAAAAAQpw/FndDHlFIfIk02KtEaPg72wk0tQ9uf_DJwCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170828_225127%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20170828_225127" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170828_225127" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NfX0bkNeU94/WajcM6BlVuI/AAAAAAAAQp0/PbMps0Eu9bIf8TYHDnrbJvTkKwvqyEQRgCHMYCw/IMG_20170828_225127_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Since it is pass 10pm public transportation is not available to the city center and are only option is a taxi. Fares to the city range from 2500-3000 KZT.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p> Not wanting to do much bargaining after a long day of travel we settled on 3000KZT with a “Uber Like Driver” who initially wanted 4000 KZT. It is about a 30 minute drive to Orion Hotel but along the way we get to see the impressive lights of the city and some of the displays from Expo 2017.</p>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-84522752673975060652017-08-13T23:30:00.001-04:002017-08-13T23:59:57.089-04:00North Korea, A Victory Day Tour<p><br><p>At 14:10 on a nice afternoon in Beijing, I take a leisurely walk towards the Zhong Gu Hotel where I will be meeting with fellow travelers for my trip to the DPRK. With political tensions rising between the United States and North Korea I have had some concerns but those are easily suppressed as the beginning of my trip is actually happening.<p>At our pre-trip meeting we learn that our group is actually smaller than originally planned as there has been some last minutes cancellations.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xtfDNW_C7xU/WZEZNW9zUkI/AAAAAAAAQnE/vNwAwePNk9cD7JVlxIX_hAsTV_HlGAqTgCHMYCw/s1600-h/Beijing%2BRailroad%2BStation%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="Beijing Railroad Station" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="Beijing Railroad Station" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C1t8NA8LG4k/WZEZN7uv-xI/AAAAAAAAQnI/T6yxcLQfhUwXu5gKA-LCkXHXkB-w0siJACHMYCw/Beijing%2BRailroad%2BStation_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>However, there are six of us who will be boarding a 17:35 train for Dandong, China the border crossing city for North Korea.</p><p> It is a about a 14 hour journey that after great conversations with new friends and maybe too many warm beers, passes too quickly.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>It's just pass 07:00 when we arrive in Dandong after enjoying an afternoon, a night and watching the sunrise across a Chinese landscape. Did you know that there is only one time zone in all of China?<p><br><p><br><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VcV7S5UgsCY/WZEZOG1Z8HI/AAAAAAAAQnM/8OTi1hLneA8fRcQPq-CLfN_jSKpa2xF2ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P7250009%255B4%255D"><img width="330" height="248" title="P7250009" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="P7250009" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fxKG-mvWq7E/WZEZOeG4AiI/AAAAAAAAQnQ/BePi-G_NU18goVGFABgn3GYsDWFD8BtRgCHMYCw/P7250009_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Dandong Train Station<p><br><p>Outside of Dandong Train Station we hurdle in a group like lost children as we are not met by our tour guide as expected. However, we soon take comfort as others with similar concerns and backpacks start to approach us. Soon enough our guide, Rowan from YPT (Young Pioneers Tour) shows up and gives us our border crossing plan and more importantly our DPRK Tourist Visa. <p><br><p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W6g9FtD91QM/WZEZOv5mdEI/AAAAAAAAQnU/KF279VrHLHIJYqG9Z0tI78t-yHSzg5DnACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170726_075302%255B4%255D"><img width="225" height="170" title="IMG_20170726_075302" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170726_075302" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Jtnkk9Blfjw/WZEZPP1cI4I/AAAAAAAAQnY/ixHp4VCv6uMg8ifqRjzvrgcSWkmXLgnKQCHMYCw/IMG_20170726_075302_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Unfortunately, we will not get to keep them and begin snapping away.<p><br><p><br><p><br><p><br><p><br><p>With hundreds of Chinese nationals crossing the border today by train Rowan has come up with a new plan for us. It involves a little walking but we will cross the border by bus and at a check point that is not normally available to Western tourists. <p>Crossing the Yalu River we get good views of the Dandong skyline and what a contrast compared to our initial destination just a mile or so away. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ecSoxMxYHzc/WZEZPKB6htI/AAAAAAAAQnc/AI_UOzWsWnwPWn3j2DGhk9adkw_rD4D5wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P7250016%255B7%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="P7250016" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P7250016" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Bw_RarUqMBo/WZEZPfVvahI/AAAAAAAAQng/ufdtovgkB14nBVTg4lq6wMsLgIMnOiH_wCHMYCw/P7250016_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Almost within touching distance is “The Broken Bridge” a bridge bombed by the United States during the Korean War. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Although China has restored their side of it we are told the North Koreans refuse to do the same as they want to keep the destruction as a memento of the war.</p><p>After some stop and go from other commercial only traffic on the bridge we begin our so far unofficial entry into North Korea and we are told we cannot take pictures of broader area. However, on our left side are also abandoned buildings which were planned mainly Chinese day visitors but has not lived up to their potential. This area was intended to have Yalu River boat crossing access which apparently the North Koreans did not become to fond of the idea. <p>On our right side a faded 1950's “Ferris Wheel” and another amusement park ride stands lifeless. In the background kids are having fun at a water park where green seems to be the color of the day for the pool water. In a few minutes we are gathering our belongings and exiting the bus for our official entry into The Democratic People's Republic of Korea.<p>A bit to my surprise we are greeted by smiling officials while we lined up and pass through an airport type security screening. Our books (no religious material, pornography or tour books allowed) and all of our electronics are screened separately while our passports and visas are reviewed. We patiently wait back on our bus about 30 minutes for this process to be completed. A final part of this process happens when we are required to give more detail information about our cellphones including brand name and color. <p>Overall, the process is much simpler and easier than I expected and soon enough we are heading on a train for Pyongyang.<p>This time it is about a 5 hour journey but all in daylight. Our route is mainly along lush green farmland with occasional villages scattered in the distance. Every now and then we pass close enough to one of them to get a glimpse of North Korean life at 60 miles per hour. <p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pZoHPS1y72E/WZEZPnYZDhI/AAAAAAAAQnk/DnVx-K22yKw4ydd75CMl41kUUjj36sj8QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P7260021%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="P7260021" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P7260021" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wba1d_ejERI/WZEZP__5oKI/AAAAAAAAQno/OsNYEIegU0gseQammZklR-8R5BU9FbxNACHMYCw/P7260021_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>A Korean style lunch is served along the way but minus warm beers. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>The scenery does not change much until the outline of Pyongyang comes into sight with one of it's more prominent if not infamous landmarks comes into view. The 105-story, almost 1000 feet tall unfinished pyramid-shaped Ryugyong Hotel is a cool futuristic skyscraper to behold.</p><p><br><p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1Nd99RDyWMc/WZEZQJ0XeUI/AAAAAAAAQns/ifYC6AXAJfoE07HEmFyXkJnyppajzxUvwCHMYCw/s1600-h/Ryugyong%2BHotel%255B5%255D"><img width="391" height="295" title="Ryugyong Hotel" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Ryugyong Hotel" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Wo3SoEOd_H8/WZEZQXQiyeI/AAAAAAAAQnw/CL36qMdKKLUKt8KlC4vn8f168m5Z6DdRQCHMYCw/Ryugyong%2BHotel_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><p><br><p>The Pyongyang Train Station soon welcomes us and our almost epic train journey is about to end. Our final destination is just minutes away and another dream of mine is about to be fulfilled.<p>Leaving the train station we board a comfortable bus and our tour of Pyongyang begins under the relax guidance of Rowan along with two local guides, “Back” and “Mrs. Kim”.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HB0b2r2_PXo/WZEZQjg0-NI/AAAAAAAAQn0/5QsGpvi2zSooisSi-51ZFleig3BOS18xQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P7260037%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="190" title="P7260037" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P7260037" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NhIIJhC5zDk/WZEZQwW4w1I/AAAAAAAAQn4/jrKsGp1x-5YPxoTH1ZPAaMhNqz05YXfjACHMYCw/P7260037_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>A short bus ride and we are dropped off to begin a walk to the famous Kim ll-sung Square and Juche Tower.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>It is a surreal experience to be standing where at certain times thousands of North Koreans and their leaders showcase their “Military Might” to the rest of the world. However, today is just a normal day in the city and I get to take it all in for what it is worth. The area is not busy with the sidewalks and streets being impressively clean.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bBWssd7LOgY/WZEZRDR81zI/AAAAAAAAQn8/2wXcy-7ZAjMo7tMvWmwepaKPMNa3cX-IACHMYCw/s1600-h/Juche%2BTower%255B5%255D"><img width="374" height="282" title="Juche Tower" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Juche Tower" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-srapZjTIyvg/WZEZRURt7qI/AAAAAAAAQoA/dkXzFRo2B_ApjN8p78SvbTLJ7Xf7l_PUgCHMYCw/Juche%2BTower_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Juche Tower</p><p align="center"><br></p><p align="left">At a park nearby serious games of volleyball are going on as local music fills the air. Our next stop is at a bookstore that offers a lot of material on North Korea and more importantly lots of reading material about it's Supreme Leader in many languages. Watching a traffic officer outside of the bookstore turns out to be very entertaining and interesting. She is very serious and animated in doing her job almost to the point of being militant about it.</p><p>Next we take a drive across town for dinner and see some impressive new apartment buildings that were built just for members of the scientific community. Along the way Mrs. Kim entertains us with some “Tour Bus Karaoke”. Our dinner which is included in the price of our YPT package is at a restaurant owned by the North Korean bus tour company. The service and food which included a lot of variety and a local beer was very good. While eating we did experience a minor power outage which lasted only about 2-3 minutes.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_iIIevTnz5g/WZEZRqm1mvI/AAAAAAAAQoE/YY4BnCEIU9MKmGUiAV_7YrcKS_eeM2iXQCHMYCw/s1600-h/Youth%2BHotel%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="Youth Hotel" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="Youth Hotel" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5NSaFBYqgG8/WZEZR_kEYMI/AAAAAAAAQoI/Crhk2lk8htwNx49a4ehk7oPLNIoLRZhegCHMYCw/Youth%2BHotel_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>What seemed like a long day ends at the Youth Hotel which we are not allowed to leave. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Although it would have been nice to be able to freely walk around I came here knowing that there would be such travel restrictions. However, the hotel does have a couple of bars, a game room and a pool to pass the time. By Western standards the hotel is maybe a “3 Star” at best but the accommodation is adequate and the staff was pleasant.</p><p>Around 5am I wake up to the “Sound of Music” but it is not Julie Andrews instead it is a large group of soldiers marching twenty nine stories below me. An interesting site along a major highway that has been practically empty ever since I checked in except for a local bus or tram.<p>Breakfast then we are off for our “Victory Day” of sightseeing. Unfortunately, the weather forecast calls for rain during most of the day. Our first stop is at the Mansudae Grand Monument where North Koreans come to pay respect to their leaders. <p><br><p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-48Np6hwPjcs/WZEZSLdx2kI/AAAAAAAAQoM/29O067bYcp0k0-jvYvk2iEW9CBkns2K9ACHMYCw/s1600-h/The%2BSupreme%2BLeaders%255B9%255D"><img width="362" height="272" title="The Supreme Leaders" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="The Supreme Leaders" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fQcNRR1RRrM/WZEZSThi15I/AAAAAAAAQoQ/UN6TIv0VjUotf7fRW4AXP71pgbnNpPvqACHMYCw/The%2BSupreme%2BLeaders_thumb%255B3%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><p align="center">The Supreme Leaders<p><br><p>Here there is a certain protocol to be followed if you want to experience this sight. We are given the option to remain on the bus if we would not be comfortable with the required protocol. I give up the equivalent of a few euros to purchase some flowers then with others we proceed to the “Ten Thousand Times” bigger than life statues of the father and son leaders of North Korea. With others I place my flowers and then we all step back in a line and take the required bow with utterances under our breath. A few “proper” pictures and I have experienced the Mansudae Grand Monument like a North Korean.<p><br><p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HCKBxXcEJ54/WZEZS6E2UhI/AAAAAAAAQoU/zg-a6wsgXX0XiJvdoF1vnCpJRrpiXgBHACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170727_093831%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20170727_093831" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170727_093831" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-erlPPrWtu6w/WZEZS2YIIzI/AAAAAAAAQoY/3Vt_zP5HFgQbQ8ac3xGeSntxLFcYVQ5qACHMYCw/IMG_20170727_093831_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Next it is the Pyongyang Metro which lies about 300 feet underground and is one of the deepest metro in the world. </p><p>What is also interesting about this metro is that many of the stations have murals that tell the history of the nation.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>At the Arch of Triumph we learn a little more about North Korea and as the forecast rain begins to fall we get a bird's-eye view of Pyongyang with dark clouds hanging over it. However, the gray skies still provide a nice contrast to the colorful buildings around the city. </p><p><br></p><p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mJcXWKKKj_s/WZEZTXX6HMI/AAAAAAAAQoc/7CZONbd3N-42KZVS0Kw7aVoUx92tpxInACHMYCw/s1600-h/Arch%2BOf%2BTriumph%255B4%255D"><img width="354" height="266" title="Arch Of Triumph" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="Arch Of Triumph" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eEYR_STYJY0/WZEZTa_oL3I/AAAAAAAAQog/EgMrmQLUylwpGSM45ScrtnRwcmW7a1WegCHMYCw/Arch%2BOf%2BTriumph_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><p><br><p><br><p>From the Arch of Triumph we head over to the new and impressive War Museum which houses United States sovereign property the still commissioned USS Pueblo.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YtGAcDcnOH8/WZEZT6BayaI/AAAAAAAAQok/caCJK_0QaN0D2YQbMW-ZG_pMC3wn7IpdgCHMYCw/s1600-h/USS%2BPueblo%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="USS Pueblo" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="USS Pueblo" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0H-2xxDtYHM/WZEZUMraTqI/AAAAAAAAQoo/jUtPTF_EVGMEGRYLY7makxmxvD7f3j2RACHMYCw/USS%2BPueblo_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Did you know the Korean War is the only war in US history that ended with a cease-fire agreement?</p><p>It happened on July 27<sup>th</sup>, 1953 which the North Korean maybe rightly so celebrate as “Victory Day”.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-StMDuS5Milw/WZEZUdk765I/AAAAAAAAQos/RaIs51OD71sHdT_a1kiW39b08CspXwV1QCHMYCw/s1600-h/War%2BMuseum%255B4%255D"><img width="369" height="278" title="War Museum" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="War Museum" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6b80Ph5ak8g/WZEZUo_RswI/AAAAAAAAQow/HCVaIYgv69AeGMFXLABj8bOVvQ3jccI2QCHMYCw/War%2BMuseum_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>The War Museum</p><p><br></p><p>It soon lunch time but when we arrive at the restaurant to eat I am more interested in ping-pong than I am food. Fortunately, I get to experience both but I do much better handling my food than my gracious ping-pong opponent. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JHzzsjoe2no/WZEZVLjjgXI/AAAAAAAAQo0/fPQxRo6hvpksmBpc6rlAJRGC8svTsCJRQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P7270072%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="P7270072" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P7270072" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dG_h5dK1I-M/WZEZVZAD-bI/AAAAAAAAQo4/OISwaMk9uOAehRxXFZCTDaxWquUvhJT4wCHMYCw/P7270072_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>I think I did manage to score one point or maybe she just let me.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Our afternoon touring starts off with an enjoyable performance at the circus for about 20 Euros. Very cool acts to a full house that have us all amazed and entertained. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wwC35aRWuug/WZEZVvrg3MI/AAAAAAAAQo8/cLiJlk7O4KoT-U7qKnMwuynIgGPS2PZSQCHMYCw/s1600-h/The%2BChildren%2BOf%2BPyongyang%255B5%255D"><img width="356" height="268" title="The Children Of Pyongyang" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="The Children Of Pyongyang" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wVhcKPZ_0CI/WZEZVyQOEAI/AAAAAAAAQpA/QFh3MGmLvNYGx0b-9fYIie70qSDtqUMOwCHMYCw/The%2BChildren%2BOf%2BPyongyang_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><br></p><p>However, for me the highlight of the show comes afterwards with the smiles and waves from a young group of North Koreans who interact with us.</p><p>A stop at a local department store and we get a chance to exchange our money for local currency which we are prohibited from taking out of the country. A browse around the multi-story store and I get to see the products and goods available to most locals. Not surprisingly the selections are limited to what I am use to and most products seem to be of questionable quality. <p>I was disappointed in the fruits available and the expensive prices for them which I am told are imported from China. One of our group members tried to make a book purchased and was denied. We are later told this is because of the short supply and the books are needed for locals not tourists.<p>The weather forecast is being true to itself and it ends up literally “raining on our parade”. One of the highlights of this tour was to witness the large gathering of college students dancing in public areas to celebrate Victory Day.<p>Unfortunately, they are dispersing as we arrive at one site. The event has been canceled because of rain along with this evenings fireworks.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nQu0aiVTCU0/WZEZWEW55qI/AAAAAAAAQpE/206wN8Gwwrctr9jHXVwut-YLY0XMjAS7QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P7270082%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="P7270082" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P7270082" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_RTaQja5bPM/WZEZWXZnCnI/AAAAAAAAQpI/qtlOpT2uS18oZDwZ6kjy4Ko6QSiQFdy_wCHMYCw/P7270082_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>At a local bar we drown our sorrows with 1-7 full size samplings of North Korean beer along with an odd bar snack, whole dry salted fish that was tough as nails.</p><p>Feeling good it's time for more Tour Bus Karaoke this time with more than just Mrs. Kim participating.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iYunJ9BIye4/WZEZWjSzYwI/AAAAAAAAQpM/e9-xTM5GOtMyinfnomv8ZhfgFaxVKCf1QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P7270084%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="P7270084" align="left" style="float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P7270084" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7G30dw0aTVs/WZEZW7cLgaI/AAAAAAAAQpQ/ZIrkshmM0K8YPapooxwcr_VQ6BwVNa0bQCHMYCw/P7270084_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>A Bar Snack</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>A different dinner experience then I give up about 35 Euros for the ultimate North Korean souvenirs a pair of Pyongyang T-Shirts. I have never spent that much for two t-shirts but then again I doubt I will have the opportunity to get any souvenirs from North Korea at least not in the near future.<p>Another breakfast and just like that my 3 Days and 2 Nights Ultra Budget Tour of North Korea is coming to an end. We are accompanied to the train station by “Back” and “Mrs. Kim” where I am given two samples of North Korean sausages by Mrs. Kim as a kind gesture. As we leave Pyongyang Train Station I have a feeling of sadness but a slim hope that maybe someday I would be able to see “Back” and “Mrs. Kim” again.<p>Five hours or so later we are stopped at the border and the process of crossing back into China begins. Our passports are collected along with DPRK Tourist Visas that are taken back. Some pleasant officials board the train and randomly take a look at our pictures and do selective security wands. About an hour and a half later our train is cleared to proceed on. <p><br><p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OEaFTUPBJWM/WZEZXJL1WkI/AAAAAAAAQpU/REjtQRNRYtg6NS_Z2ADMw4Bi4pXEH0_EwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P7260039%255B4%255D"><img width="351" height="264" title="P7260039" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="P7260039" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OnG93Fnsq0A/WZEZXSqKoyI/AAAAAAAAQpY/R4SHtf0canIO1HxycOI2Dsqzk92xOGjzACHMYCw/P7260039_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><p><br><p>As we cross the Yalu River into Dandong I realize that going in and out of North Korea was not as bad as one might be led to believe.<p><br><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nHOIJsT9tOs/WZEZXrkZ9CI/AAAAAAAAQpc/T4SOMD9DoOgAegnR1Cj_GOipayBqTNfrQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P7260052%255B3%255D"><img width="244" height="184" title="P7260052" align="right" style="float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P7260052" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AAATF1IgXhw/WZEZX74nPjI/AAAAAAAAQpg/O5X6jUMSfaskJ8HbR-Ez-wm68lWBkU7owCHMYCw/P7260052_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>This turned out to be an enjoyable trip and I hope that more people will have the opportunity to visit North Korea.<p>Thanks, Rowan and YPT!DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-66231800525984173622017-08-13T23:28:00.001-04:002017-08-13T23:28:27.471-04:00Pyongyang North Korea<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jqcYXUjjG4g" width="480"></iframe>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-61580056091961471022017-08-13T21:25:00.001-04:002017-08-13T21:26:22.374-04:00China, Tin Hau Temple Hong Kong<p> <p>A stroll along the waterfront from Stanley Market and somewhat tucked away in the corner of an open square you will find a small but intriguing Tin Hau Temple. <p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3b5m7dAbJag/T-88UKn-OeI/AAAAAAAAAZI/y0QzlednFJQ/0623.jpg?imgmax=800"><img width="244" height="158" title="062" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="062" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fi-007jNruY/T-88aZnPngI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/rhXUpU6oyb0/062_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Built by the seafaring people of Stanley Bay in 1767, the temple is a monument to Tien Hou, Queen of Heaven who performed many miracles to save the fishing communities from disasters. </p><p align="left"><br></p><p align="left"><br></p> <p>Today, she is considered the patron deity of the boat people of Hong Kong.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-e02TV2gV26s/T-88bIxWYwI/AAAAAAAAAZY/VzZ9O_K0yoA/0668.jpg?imgmax=800"><img width="375" height="264" title="066" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="066" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LdrXhL0TqqY/T-88hphGDkI/AAAAAAAAAZg/TqAaTZuvGFY/066_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>So if you are overwhelmed by the shopping at Stanley Market or think you have had a spiritual enlightenment from too huge a dose of wasabi then stroll over to Tin Hau.</p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hPEelQ3lw54/T-88iWp3EmI/AAAAAAAAAZo/H3Ef48U11Xo/096-28.jpg?imgmax=800"><img width="244" height="164" title="096 (2)" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="096 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7Tv9FwWHDBg/T-88opN0QsI/AAAAAAAAAZw/eDEI_aCQM8s/096-2_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>The smell of fresh burning incense. The warmth of flickering ceremonial candles along with the sight of beautiful offerings. And maybe your mind will be soothed in a way no amount of shopping can. </p> <p>Priceless.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:f0b6f8cc-e7f3-44a2-acb5-0c256f03d1cd" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="a717e774-610b-4873-93d2-c791099ff160" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYXsadNfzRs&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('a717e774-610b-4873-93d2-c791099ff160'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/zYXsadNfzRs?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/zYXsadNfzRs?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qrQmQsDWDGw/T-88pbZL_tI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/T5F2EKQ4ir0/video13715a91c096%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-53249405809916142412017-08-13T21:22:00.001-04:002017-08-13T21:22:53.103-04:00China, To Stanley Market Hong Kong<p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FACCwenuTqc/T-5uf9w-ZdI/AAAAAAAAAWs/2GhAqp2gDdo/s1600-h/111%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="111" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="111" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GB2QSaPDI2c/T-5ug_bi-mI/AAAAAAAAAWw/LYXx0_vVOho/111_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>The gin is flowing freely as I begin my tour of Hong Kong headed for Stanley Market.</p> <p>I hope someone has bought the juice as I am staring at a huge upside down bottle of Beefeater represented by one of the original British buildings that still grace the Hong Kong skyline.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>The next eye catching building is the Bank of China which for some gives off an oppressive and negative impression because of its architectural design. Either way, the skyline here is fascinating to witness up close and personal. <p><a name="wg0"></a> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WFzN1XqGbRU/T-5uhv6r7YI/AAAAAAAAAW8/SR6ncq-5ir8/s1600-h/079%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="335" height="236" title="079" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="079" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jM1aMt-rbaA/T-5uioNzeUI/AAAAAAAAAXE/y1Ipabcl3mM/079_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>St John’s Cathedral <p> <p>Passing through the Central District, I get a glimpse of the beautiful St John's Cathedral an Anglican church built in the shape of a cross. St John's is located just down the hill from the Peak Tram station, a planned stop later on my tour. <p>Driving down one of the main highways, a street sign is flashing a warning about a cyclone that I hope remains only that, a warning. Despite the high cost of real estate on Hong Kong Island, I am surprised to learn that a huge amount of it is dedicated to the sport of horse racing, a local favorite. <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EWb_PHMR6SM/T-5ujt5f_rI/AAAAAAAAAXM/cl9DW5l6gxU/s1600-h/087%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="087" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="087" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GspaFmD89kY/T-5ukfBt_YI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/0YGhw1vSc8M/087_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>We pass the huge Hong Kong Jockey Club as we leave the Central district behind headed for the Aberdeen Tunnel one the islands most busiest road that links the North and South of Hong Kong. <p> <p> <p align="right">Hillside Cemetery <p align="right"> <p>If you want to visit one of Hong Kong's most popular local attractions then spend a day at Ocean Park which annually draws over 5 million visitors. Located near the Hong Kong police training academy, the park is located on prime real estate which gives nice views of the island. <p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QLGwK70P76M/T-5ulYKA4sI/AAAAAAAAAXc/70R4zaKmCV8/s1600-h/104%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="376" height="264" title="104" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="104" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-F_UMeKsJFOg/T-5umtdSX0I/AAAAAAAAAXg/TEWaLmBmY8g/104_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <p> <p> <p>From my vantage point, I am soon looking at the South China Sea and a beautiful view of South Hong Kong's gorgeous coast line. Here you can take a swim at a few beaches including Repulse Bay one of the more popular and spectacular beaches in the area. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-D5-WRli5FAE/T-5unmkCZmI/AAAAAAAAAXs/y6GvO0ygX00/s1600-h/236%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="236" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="236" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UJn1SrIx1Ss/T-5uomUFZVI/AAAAAAAAAXw/F5rDGqXknQc/236_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Just east of Repulse Bay, I arrive at Stanley a coastal community named after Lord Stanley, the former British War Secretary and 14<sup>th</sup> Earl Of Derby. </p> <p>Stanley is in an area formerly occupied by Chinese pirates but today it is home of the famous Stanley Market and Tin Hau Temple.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vELQRYO6nj0/T-5upfVbzTI/AAAAAAAAAX4/E8dKahae730/s1600-h/094%252520%2525282%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="332" height="234" title="094 (2)" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="094 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aHwvU7sbCxs/T-5uqAOXcrI/AAAAAAAAAYE/Pp9CXv-POZ8/094%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Tin Hau Temple</p> <p align="center"><br></p> <p>For me, Stanley Market turns out to be a bit of a disappointment as I am not into shopping and I never manage to find a guy named Stanley. However, the town is pleasant to walk around and the scenery is quite enjoyable. <p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Wya1Ml9t_Mg/T-5usNrRoWI/AAAAAAAAAYM/j9Bno41POlQ/s1600-h/243%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="243" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="243" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-89F6bjOl2Ww/T-5uszsFolI/AAAAAAAAAYU/dJuZOhosRq0/243_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>At a local grocery store I grab a delicious tuna fish roll and sushi for lunch then make an interesting discovery. </p> <p>One should not be fooled by the small commercial packaging of the wasabi sauce that comes with the sushi. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>I put what I consider a not too generous amount of it on my crab roll and almost created a second set of nostrils as I took my first bite of it. Gulping a huge volume of air, I am fortunate that a fire truck is passing by and sprays me down with a cold beer. <p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AvzII2_QRP0/T-5utyXKv2I/AAAAAAAAAYc/vCt94j0eX3g/s1600-h/067%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="067" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="067" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kXUFdMdGIqE/T-5uu8ukHNI/AAAAAAAAAYk/d0y9qcaE1-8/067_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>My fond memory of Stanley Market will not be the shopping or the scenery but the wasabi! <p align="left"> <p align="left"> <p align="left"> <p align="left"> <p align="left"><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:959f6fcb-8b41-4a3f-8b62-058b11346a51" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="73690de9-c9e2-4986-89c9-482663ed6217" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeDXZaS2M_E&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('73690de9-c9e2-4986-89c9-482663ed6217'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/xeDXZaS2M_E?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/xeDXZaS2M_E?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7YbdkuPUd_w/T-5uv9VuG1I/AAAAAAAAAZE/_kfAfmNt5GY/videoc6ff0c875f46%25255B30%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-6939449951633845532017-08-13T21:20:00.001-04:002017-08-13T21:20:29.970-04:00China, To Hong Kong Island<p> <p>A light rain is falling as I head down a busy Nathan Road to find the No.2 bus that will take me to the Hong Kong Cultural Centre located near the Star Ferry terminal. <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LAkTD0C2Kpg/T-n8PO5EJgI/AAAAAAAAAVI/FMH1omCJw-M/s1600-h/2012-06-20%25252000%25252001%25252000%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="139" title="2012-06-20 00 01 00" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="2012-06-20 00 01 00" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-y3iQBcky5xo/T-n8Wun-5mI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/UfBRyNoeHhc/2012-06-20%25252000%25252001%25252000_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Surprisingly the bus fare is relatively cheap, only HK$4.5 (about US$ 0.50) and comes with a nice double decker view if you so choose. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NzoTvdvYtcQ/T-n8Y-REeDI/AAAAAAAAAVY/p4Mg1s1IM-A/s1600-h/2012-06-20%25252000%25252001%25252050%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="369" height="221" title="2012-06-20 00 01 50" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="2012-06-20 00 01 50" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wpix7s9FVew/T-n8c4t6fHI/AAAAAAAAAVg/dkJYgbA8MMA/2012-06-20%25252000%25252001%25252050_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Hong Kong Island <p align="center"> <p>I am a bit worried about my sightseeing options for the day as “Typhoon 1 Warnings” are posted around the city and I am beginning to feel like it is raining all over the world. From the HK Cultural Centre, I look across Victor Harbor at the skyscraper shoreline of Hong Kong Island. Even with the morning clouds casting a dull gray and moist shadow over the city there is still something spectacular about the view. <p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ndy6kptzkH0/T-n8l8oA9hI/AAAAAAAAAVo/q0OsNjnaWOw/s1600-h/2012-06-20%25252000%25252002%25252006%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="139" title="2012-06-20 00 02 06" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="2012-06-20 00 02 06" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-w8P_wzncjbU/T-n8ppUFyiI/AAAAAAAAAVw/gYYPCwpQ8IY/2012-06-20%25252000%25252002%25252006_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Life in the city and along the harbor goes on as the thump of a helicopter blade beats the humid air and various types of boats cross the harbor in all directions, leaving huge rolling waves behind.</p> <p>I soak it all in as I continue my walk toward the Star Ferry terminal.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-e37sYcjK7zM/T-n8sIQGw1I/AAAAAAAAAV4/yUkfbZ6KhzQ/s1600-h/2012-06-20%25252000%25252001%25252058%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="367" height="220" title="2012-06-20 00 01 58" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="2012-06-20 00 01 58" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-e5ePy0Ll5oc/T-n8uBH4TdI/AAAAAAAAAWA/_2NPDvGh_NI/2012-06-20%25252000%25252001%25252058_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Clock Tower</p> <p align="center"><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>Just outside the Star Ferry terminal is a Clock Tower, a monument to the 1900's Kowloon Canton railroad. Continuing to the ferry ticket window, I am approached by a young man that makes me an offer that is almost too good to refuse. We make a deal and I am headed to the Upper (First Class) section of Star Ferry. <p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xgO3DjMQodQ/T-n8wmcv37I/AAAAAAAAAWI/z71bLpbjLkk/s1600-h/2012-06-20%25252000%25252002%25252022%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="139" title="2012-06-20 00 02 22" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="2012-06-20 00 02 22" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TW7LOO_VqYc/T-n8ySdN9hI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/5x_2r9lZQCQ/2012-06-20%25252000%25252002%25252022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>For HK$300, I am going to see all of Hong Kong that I can within 24hrs. First, I am going to meet a guy named Stanley. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:b9905f28-cb6a-42df-96bd-cba3ac48d55a" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="38037e31-9545-4d7b-9622-8d7d77be6759" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYvVTSKEHnE&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('38037e31-9545-4d7b-9622-8d7d77be6759'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/HYvVTSKEHnE?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/HYvVTSKEHnE?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xXGXFL7_Cm8/T-n81GOHKcI/AAAAAAAAAWg/7bbZLif2G2I/video38bc1984fca4%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-76865681225427966272017-08-13T21:19:00.001-04:002017-08-13T21:19:12.406-04:00Swaziland, Just For Lunch<p> <p>I wake up in South Africa but in a few minutes I am looking at towering mountains touching the heavens in “The Kingdom Of Swaziland”. As a country inside of another country it is easy to dismiss a visit to Swaziland and as I would discover that would be a mistake. <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bhhGHlXQCKI/T-nL7jRWWfI/AAAAAAAAASo/38VxJ9n7VkI/s1600-h/IMG_57523.jpg"><img width="244" height="165" title="IMG_5752" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5752" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hpqVnPj5vR8/T-nL9meIKjI/AAAAAAAAASw/zlAO3Ig3gXk/IMG_5752_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Climbing a steep mountain road that takes me through a beautiful countryside pass fields and fields of logging timber, I am headed to the Josefsdal border crossing.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WXIrMBIq5Ug/T-nMARs1kuI/AAAAAAAAAS4/h927jQxDnKo/s1600-h/IMG_57574.jpg"><img width="347" height="244" title="IMG_5757" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5757" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-auU-aYbQ2lY/T-nMCNSqMCI/AAAAAAAAATA/Bx60SbEAY6o/IMG_5757_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p><br></p> <p>Reaching the border post, the scenery almost seems unreal. I feel like I am in a 1950's movie. Yes, there is a fence and official buildings but there is something cute and antique about this border crossing.</p> <p>“Do you mind giving a policeman a ride into town”, I am asked as I approach the smiling Immigration, Customs, Tourist Board, Swaziland Ambassador, Officer. <p>Of course, I don't mind and she places a call to see if he is still down the road waiting for a ride. Unfortunately for me, he has already been picked up. What a shame. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E_ZGNuJCtQ8/T-nMF-Y2_NI/AAAAAAAAATI/HUiQyEVwI2A/s1600-h/IMG_57593.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5759" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5759" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yizMjfoen9g/T-nMHKtePzI/AAAAAAAAATQ/vsmM6b271Do/IMG_5759_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Leaving the smiles at the border, from miles away, my nose determines my first stop in The Kingdom. Nothing is more appealing in the morning than the smell of fresh baked goods permeating the air.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>I come to an almost abrupt stop at a non descriptive white building just at the beginning of a small town. A smiling owner welcomes me to Swaziland and tells me about his famous fresh baked brown bread. </p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Uoayn_J-qR0/T-nMJSaCB9I/AAAAAAAAATY/g8bfARiO9Pg/s1600-h/IMG_57627.jpg"><img width="244" height="178" title="IMG_5762" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5762" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-h0JPEc7skPM/T-nMKhiWCKI/AAAAAAAAATg/Ppi07WCEKc4/IMG_5762_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>I believe every word he says as I watch a smiling regular customer pick up a loaf or two. If his brown bread is that good then his other baked products cannot be to far behind.</p> <p>A purchase and I am not disappointed just sad as I leave that sweet scent behind.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Arh0rmfEhKY/T-nMMwlxVUI/AAAAAAAAATo/JoN6REk5xik/s1600-h/IMG_57679.jpg"><img width="336" height="236" title="IMG_5767" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5767" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QVkMWbEHAWs/T-nMOAuqJ7I/AAAAAAAAATw/rKOuw3EoSNw/IMG_5767_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p> <p> <p>Navigating along a gravel mountain road with no rail guards and potholes that could swallow a small car like mine, I now know why officially I should not be driving a rental car here. However, I have watched enough episodes of “The Dukes Of Hazards” that I feel confident that I will survive the next eighteen miles even as I share the narrow road with cows, sheep and an occasional logging truck. <p>I am happy when my Dunlops begin to roll over black top and a Colonel's smiling face is a welcomed sign even thousands of miles away from Kentucky. Before long, I am on a hill at a souvenir stop watching a local craftsman demonstrate ancient rock carving using what seems like a one sided miniature pick ax. <p>Green towering mountains, a huge lake which I will cross in a few minutes are just some of the landscape I can see from here, all a part of what makes Swaziland a beautiful country. <p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KmG8NvZhHsM/T-nMR6q09MI/AAAAAAAAAT4/dOlussHDWSM/s1600-h/IMG_57707.jpg"><img width="244" height="166" title="IMG_5770" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5770" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Vi3i0fdfAFk/T-nMTWnFxGI/AAAAAAAAAUA/p5PK0Smrd6c/IMG_5770_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Just as I cross to the other side of the lake my eyes are drawn to a pair of small dancing trees along the highway. I am going too fast to make a sudden stop so I pull a u turn to investigate. <p>Stopping, I am greeted by the solo thumping of a drum that is helping to keep these little dancing trees in rhythm. <p> <p> <p>Even though it costs me a few rands, I am glad I stopped especially when I get one of the trees to smile back at me. <p>A few more kilometers and I am nearing my destination as I travel down a dusty road. It is now early afternoon and apparently school has just let out. I pick up a hitchhiker walking the same way I am headed and although our conversation is sparse, I am good at following pointing fingers. <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xteLiMZGKXs/T-nMWCE4IRI/AAAAAAAAAUI/j9UU9G14mAs/s1600-h/IMG_57753.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5775" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5775" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MkghsJ8EHuI/T-nMXDHgZLI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/TV_CCcSWsLo/IMG_5775_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>I come to a stop at the edge of the road with a slopping valley below me. </p> <p>I watch as my hitchhiker disappears with box of cookies my waistline does not need.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--aV21ylco10/T-nMcSuqDmI/AAAAAAAAAUY/YtKSjj-KQnw/s1600-h/IMG_57864.jpg"><img width="322" height="227" title="IMG_5786" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5786" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Co_rC9jbwV4/T-nMd4zu_OI/AAAAAAAAAUg/d7N_5UAAzUE/IMG_5786_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Swaziland Pot Stew <p align="center"> <p align="center"> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O0A5S7mUh3w/T-nMf2fFIbI/AAAAAAAAAUo/5W4k-dbRhFc/s1600-h/IMG_57843.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5784" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5784" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3DRbQwjxPtc/T-nMgyV3daI/AAAAAAAAAUw/MWO3KG8YBa8/IMG_5784_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Less than five minutes later and I am at Hawane Village, a local restaurant and hotel.</p> <p>A pot stew, a cold beer or two and I have not only seen The Kingdom Of Swaziland, I have just had a great taste of it and it has been more than just lunch.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:0c90df92-3159-45bb-82bb-d75380f658d6" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="000a1243-a492-42be-a8c9-f9294f4441cc" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jU0X4u0-2OE&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('000a1243-a492-42be-a8c9-f9294f4441cc'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/jU0X4u0-2OE?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/jU0X4u0-2OE?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tgLb63yTA3s/T-nMhx7QkeI/AAAAAAAAAVA/HjFcM67-AA4/video2aa47298ab4b%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-80672214131981415902017-08-13T21:16:00.001-04:002017-08-13T21:16:16.674-04:00Thailand, I Ate A Bug<p> <p>This is my second visit to Thailand and even though I am a bit older, I am not sure I am any wiser. What I do know is that I am a little more adventurous (crazy, insane, nuts) and return here to fulfill a challenge I did not have the courage to complete four years ago. <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PUc1Fi6lwgM/T-PhLBC8RWI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/pbiYp-p9-bQ/s1600-h/004%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="004" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OAfCKGPOAaY/T-PhOrvtYsI/AAAAAAAAAQY/so8dkdXWPHo/004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>For some, it is no big deal and most would just hop right up and do it. </p> <p>For me, I still need the courage of a liquid Tiger to face dozens of big black eyes on small stiff bodies steering back at me. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>To conquer, or as some would say “swallow up”, just one of them would be a small victory for me. </p> <p>Along a busy street, I try to solicit a like minded warrior but to no avail. Instead, in exchange for 10 Baht, I am handed a pair of legs and told “me no eat”. However, I am gladly given instructions. “Just bite and pull”. <p>Soon, I am left with just a pair of tiny legs between my fingers. I might as well finish off the job. I can't believe I just ate a grasshopper. Wax on, beer down, wax off. <p>Deep fried and crunchy, not too bad. Maybe you should try one! <p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:1cc8bc3d-3661-4323-b590-adf16ef856ee" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="15878125-2843-4cdb-a88c-52980cd06d99" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCKzGqlMl8Y&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('15878125-2843-4cdb-a88c-52980cd06d99'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/uCKzGqlMl8Y?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/uCKzGqlMl8Y?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8rMg1kUGoDQ/T-PhSSIBxOI/AAAAAAAAAQg/FEugQv605-s/video824153111433%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-32728704152057699902017-08-13T21:09:00.001-04:002017-08-13T21:09:41.338-04:00Mozambique, Something Fishy In Maputo<p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dd23iYoQDtg/T9lmKt3w-YI/AAAAAAAAANo/HVqtiRz1-xA/s1600-h/IMG_5700%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5700" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5700" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QE5yDsgUQtM/T9lmLByqolI/AAAAAAAAANw/2I04LBD2fgQ/IMG_5700_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Clouseau: “I tell you Cato there is something fishy in Maputo”. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p>How wonderfully correct the Great Chief Inspector is in his astute conclusion. However, even he would be pleasantly surprised to discover that “something fishy” is not always a bad thing. <p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fmObJCH2lOk/T9lmMK69kbI/AAAAAAAAAN4/QVt2s3-vIAo/s1600-h/IMG_5696%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5696" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5696" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VMnmz6yBY7Q/T9lmMTfR87I/AAAAAAAAAOA/x12DN5KwHR0/IMG_5696_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>After a nice walk from our hostel, we arrive at the Maputo Fish Market to discover that so far it is all that we expected it to be. </p> <p>The atmosphere is buzzing with noise and chatter as bargains are being made for various selections from the fresh catches of the day.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>Fortunately for me, members of my group understand a bit of the local language and seem adept at bargaining. I enjoy the scenery as they go about making purchases for what will turn out to be one tremendous feast for all of us. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n5B_DShysxg/T9lmOPMnZ_I/AAAAAAAAAOI/gt4WPCWBBBg/s1600-h/IMG_5697%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="353" height="248" title="IMG_5697" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5697" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pciy-5jPvgc/T9lmOjp1dwI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/CfvnyNQmWIM/IMG_5697_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Blue Crabs</p> <p align="left"><br></p> <p align="left"><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mUUVw12KrOc/T9lmPvpugGI/AAAAAAAAAOY/-7JITJFjfwM/s1600-h/IMG_5695%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5695" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5695" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hw_RTiWRnvo/T9lmRxMWTcI/AAAAAAAAAOg/dGNe7Dbq9FQ/IMG_5695_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>From crabs and shrimps to lobsters and fresh fish we are about to have a meal fit for a king.</p> <p>Part of the experience here is to make your seafood selections and then have it prepared by one of the local restaurants located behind the market. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>With our selections completed, a bargain is negotiated with a local smiling cook to prepare our meal. </p> <p>Finding a table in an outdoor covered patio area, rounds of beers are ordered as we converse and listen to relaxing background music. Vendors come by with their wares but none of us are interested in souvenirs. For most of us, our souvenirs are our travel experiences we share like this one. Our group is made up of all different nationalities which makes this an even more fun experience for me. <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ec_TvYvmPJg/T9lmSiV-scI/AAAAAAAAAOo/A4QEBa562kI/s1600-h/IMG_5715%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5715" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5715" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cnK2hll_jsQ/T9lmTOs5aTI/AAAAAAAAAOw/Ka6vKRe6wqM/IMG_5715_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Our food starts to arrive and our smiles could not be any wider as we begin to dig in. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_64iRN7XMH0/T9lmUDE_ByI/AAAAAAAAAO4/EgiF9YKxLAQ/s1600-h/IMG_5705%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5705" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5705" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IKr8d7PNXcs/T9lmUXAzaII/AAAAAAAAAPA/-fk1Ev4TDy0/IMG_5705_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Crabs that were once blue are now bright orange and succulent. I chow down like in my childhood years when I had honed my skills to separate in my mouth the meat from the bones. </p> <p>Fond and delicious memories. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-m7i4CwFXRD8/T9lmVchfY4I/AAAAAAAAAPI/O8ba8Rqo3-Q/s1600-h/IMG_5710%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5710" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5710" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XBNdgh42J2M/T9lmVieO6nI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/wCEP3Pzvvo0/IMG_5710_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>For a group that only met a few hours ago, we are passing plates and sharing drinks and food like a good old-fashioned family Thanksgiving Dinner. </p> <p>Proof that, your family and your home can be who and wherever you chose it to be. </p> <p><br></p> <p> <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GIAQGmX17-E/T9lmWw6PE7I/AAAAAAAAAPY/EFWXv4gce5k/s1600-h/IMG_5714%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="381" height="268" title="IMG_5714" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5714" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ie3cfpjqMPg/T9lmXEfK-7I/AAAAAAAAAPg/GMxxhPkCug0/IMG_5714_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Red Roman Fish <p align="center"> <p>With full stomachs and about seventeen beers later, we all agree this has been an awesome experience. For me, I cannot imagine there are too many places or restaurants in the world where so many people can have such a seafood feast for around US$100. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-G35Yl78MmdY/T9lmYIi9EMI/AAAAAAAAAPo/yhwmissiGsw/s1600-h/Chief%252520Inspector%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img width="100" height="130" title="Chief Inspector" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="Chief Inspector" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2JIetGvGBtU/T9lmYTMYQGI/AAAAAAAAAPw/1VW_0678L88/Chief%252520Inspector_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>If you find such a place, I would definitely have the Great Chief Inspector investigate it because there maybe truly “Something fishy in Denmark”. <p> <p> <p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:8915e30c-9b59-4af7-a393-1ed4b50909dc" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="2f7c86f4-356d-4e92-b2e6-8704e997b473" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxMZar8MZcQ&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('2f7c86f4-356d-4e92-b2e6-8704e997b473'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/zxMZar8MZcQ?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/zxMZar8MZcQ?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ThNvUofZA0Q/T9lmYxrC86I/AAAAAAAAAQI/aJF54BUjqvg/video5f72640bfd01%25255B16%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-79603718739401466552017-08-13T21:04:00.001-04:002017-08-13T21:04:16.821-04:00Mozambique, Down By The Seashore Maputo<p> <p>Leaving the Crocodile Bridge Exit of Kruger National Park, I am less than an hour away from the Mozambique border. During my years of travel I have crossed many borders and I make a bit of a false assumption that this one would not be much different. <p>My Mozambique border crossing experience begins when I am waved aside by one of the many young men soliciting my business to purchase mandatory (rip off) auto insurance. For a fee to be negotiated later he also helps me through the lengthy immigration and customs process. Almost two hours later and about US$100 lighter, I am headed down a pitch black highway for just one experience I am really looking forward to. <p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-J-1EdKY_64E/T9jBznDaBwI/AAAAAAAAALI/z1OB_p6edK8/s1600-h/IMG_5683%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="180" title="IMG_5683" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5683" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mJ3eZavTH4c/T9jB0IppwhI/AAAAAAAAALQ/bhnDPZkaSUY/IMG_5683_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Armed with instructions and helpful information that I received at the border from a couple of expiates living here, I arrive at my destination for the night, Mozambique Backpackers Fatima's. Warned about the night time safety of the city, I limit my initial exploration of Maputo. Returning to Fatima's bar for a local brew, I begin to plan tomorrow's outing, the main reason that I am here. <p> <p> <p>Having breakfast the next morning, I discover that there are few others here with the same shared purpose. With a little coordination, a group of us set off on our somewhat fishy mission that will take us along the Indian Ocean coastline of Mozambique. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-R-RL8TOTLzk/T9jB08Xhh7I/AAAAAAAAALY/hoPANVel4S0/s1600-h/IMG_5684%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="389" height="274" title="IMG_5684" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5684" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-b0QAC_4zZVg/T9jB1aQNPWI/AAAAAAAAALg/jVO842UdR7c/IMG_5684_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Maputo Beachfront <p align="left"> <p align="left">It is early enough in the day that beach area along our routine is just beginning to come to life. <p align="left"> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oy5b026wh8I/T9jB2UPc8KI/AAAAAAAAALo/jV5FlcXaDRs/s1600-h/IMG_5694%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5694" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5694" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NdqK93sDxf8/T9jB24G-HcI/AAAAAAAAALw/WhLM9giD1GY/IMG_5694_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Various local vendors are beginning to set up shop for the day, like fresh fruit stands.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pgw1yA4vPLU/T9jB3TGerrI/AAAAAAAAAL4/7w7bBjWWBwo/s1600-h/IMG_5690%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5690" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5690" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4tSbHHAe9tU/T9jB3hy2UNI/AAAAAAAAAMA/S1WPa4Q-lzU/IMG_5690_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Meanwhile, young girls canvass the streets selling candy and nuts. </p> <p>Looking east, the water and the beach area does not remind of the Caribbean or the islands of the Pacific.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VEwdf30RmTY/T9jB4dvGrSI/AAAAAAAAAMI/d7lgm_E5vRs/s1600-h/IMG_5685%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="367" height="258" title="IMG_5685" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5685" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-iYt3InpSO6M/T9jB4rGiFaI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/7nqOkY6G57Y/IMG_5685_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p><br></p> <p>However, they have a beauty of their own and knowing that Madagascar is just beyond the horizon makes looking in their direction somewhat special. </p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ja8aWG47MnQ/T9jB5kw-msI/AAAAAAAAAMY/3Xq30UuDV4Q/s1600-h/IMG_5729%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5729" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5729" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GC0xaV9oups/T9jB53zGzjI/AAAAAAAAAMg/w0cOZkqVkbI/IMG_5729_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>As the day develops so does life along the seashore as kids begin to bury each other in the sand and groups of locals set up for soccer and volleyball matches.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-auhQG-sWtPY/T9jB6mZ-SOI/AAAAAAAAAMo/0IoXtycntwE/s1600-h/IMG_5725%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="430" height="302" title="IMG_5725" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5725" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BJvsyW0_NYY/T9jB7D7kdSI/AAAAAAAAAMw/sfzqC1gArpY/IMG_5725_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Maputo Fishing Fleet</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Um5PtQTDzxE/T9jB7okFtfI/AAAAAAAAAM4/DmnuPG5u2MM/s1600-h/SAM_1269%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="184" title="SAM_1269" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="SAM_1269" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--6iyGdb9fEg/T9jB8C71BTI/AAAAAAAAANA/Nw49uWp3g4c/SAM_1269_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Just off shore fisherman prepare their boats for a hard day of work. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2dyDNc-UVT4/T9jB9HqPfJI/AAAAAAAAANI/h6mKkRgBoAQ/s1600-h/SAM_1272%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="184" title="SAM_1272" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="SAM_1272" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CPB9D6kwHqs/T9jB9RaUymI/AAAAAAAAANQ/154mUAKl1aY/SAM_1272_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>In less than an hour, we will appreciate their previous day's work. For us, that is something to get excited or maybe even flip out about. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:ccc4ccd6-6ee3-44bc-8a49-3cdfd64bfd0e" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="1e416702-d04c-4c52-861d-22fef27e4d3a" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEQnA95gnGA&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('1e416702-d04c-4c52-861d-22fef27e4d3a'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/qEQnA95gnGA?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/qEQnA95gnGA?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4lK6Ze68rEk/T9jB92Sy-4I/AAAAAAAAANk/tV16fm0Kefw/video5c7b66d28af2%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-48681120697151588252017-08-13T21:01:00.001-04:002017-08-13T21:01:27.657-04:00South Africa, Farewell Kruger<p> <p>As I leave my bungalow at Satara Lodge, I realize that my time at Kruger National Park has been too short. However, I don't feel cheated as I have gotten a good bang for my buck and saw a lot of bucks along with my bang. Although I did not see all of the Big 5, the experience was still well worth it. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nsmZePxJv88/T9eOyU4i7tI/AAAAAAAAAIo/8-8FImtPyv0/s1600-h/IMG_5575%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5575" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5575" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3hU08mNfxsk/T9eOyz-xK2I/AAAAAAAAAIw/RJ7px8SKQo4/IMG_5575_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>I spent my last night on safari where we spotted one of the park's rare animals a Serval along with an African Wild Cat. <p>A different experience as the first thing you spot are sets of green or red eyes staring back at you. <p> <p> <p>I leave the Satara Lodge gate one last time headed for the Crocodile Bridge Exit of the park. Another four hour drive that I am sure will take me eight to ten hours to complete. <p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Rv7qS1seFA8/T9eOz1PEoXI/AAAAAAAAAI4/M5xPugAomTg/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520873%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="367" height="258" title="JNB Trip 873" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 873" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9kk9Qj-ARL8/T9eO0YHLK-I/AAAAAAAAAJA/sT8qNnoWtnY/JNB%252520Trip%252520873_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p><br></p> <p>Down dusty gravel roads with stops at a few well built and protected hides I enjoy many of the animals I have seen before but from a new perspective. </p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-timpPdNSTr0/T9eO1OEaRLI/AAAAAAAAAJI/TPoGILJxNj4/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520890%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 890" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 890" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6NoPz1hWxnQ/T9eO2HK6mSI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/7_1-v6SRLgk/JNB%252520Trip%252520890_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>At one point, giraffes stroll gracefully across the road in front of me. At another, I sit silently and watch Zebras horse-around with each other.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>My drive from the park becomes a reflective time to just stop at many places and watch the animals as if I had all the time in the world to do so. At one point, I am watching a huge elephant in a distant field out my driver's side window unaware that I am being watched from the passenger side of the car. </p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hTuGpFO7UlI/T9eO3ODC9bI/AAAAAAAAAJY/zp6az0y33Iw/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520887%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 887" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 887" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7TuuY26l4fU/T9eO3ybQqGI/AAAAAAAAAJg/KGSDuU3o-KE/JNB%252520Trip%252520887_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>With a sixth sense I look in that direction and another huge elephant is less than twenty feet away from me.</p> <p>It seems like a “Gentle Giant” not disturbed but just curious about my presence. I hope it sensed my awe and admiration.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WoNk6xoR4FQ/T9eO45iDIpI/AAAAAAAAAJo/kLiZLrmeCRU/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520891%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="370" height="260" title="JNB Trip 891" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 891" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yDDLAW9xvsU/T9eO5kBJDfI/AAAAAAAAAJw/Pl2oEswhQRc/JNB%252520Trip%252520891_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <p> <p>My route from the park brings me to a Kruger Park historical marker. I am at a location where in 1903 a solo night horse rider was attacked by two lions and managed to survive. Harry Woulhuter was one very lucky man and park ranger. <p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2ugUcRzZuQU/T9eO67julrI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/3khlrcHjefk/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520905%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 905" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 905" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-d0T9WYUZbmY/T9eO74Pr1wI/AAAAAAAAAKA/6q-RfOn8fhI/JNB%252520Trip%252520905_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>A lunch stop and I find myself eating a Kuduwor Roll. </p> <p>Yes, it is made from real kudu meat and I would say it tasted a lot better than the wildebeest jerky I had earlier in the trip outside of Cape Town.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yBA4TajpaNk/T9eO87eXXpI/AAAAAAAAAKI/auPiOKCkU2w/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520906%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="361" height="254" title="JNB Trip 906" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 906" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-emB_nk57DFg/T9eO9h27r9I/AAAAAAAAAKQ/lH61ZDbX_3E/JNB%252520Trip%252520906_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Kudu Sandwich</p> <p align="center"><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>The sun is again painting the park with it's golden orange paintbrush as I approach the Crocodile Bridge Exit. I have spent my last few hours in the park watching pods of hippos keep cool near a dam as a herd of elephants cross downstream. I have watched as a crocodile patiently waits for an unsuspecting visitor to show up at his favorite watering hole. <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1w7YD8x8PkI/T9eO-VwdSEI/AAAAAAAAAKY/N4uSYMZYoQA/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520916%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 916" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 916" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uPAQlXEtOT0/T9eO-7vcvGI/AAAAAAAAAKg/Yv79CxBYsuY/JNB%252520Trip%252520916_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <p>Elephant Crossing <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p>From a high elevation I have seen the plains and distant lands that make this place special for many. It is one of the more fascinating places on the planet and I am glad I got to make it a part of my travel experience. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-f09X3PEMLCc/T9eO_7cPW1I/AAAAAAAAAKo/xYpebiNvEE4/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520950%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="357" height="250" title="JNB Trip 950" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 950" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DidoVJfX2tU/T9ePARWLFGI/AAAAAAAAAKw/uPC9QnkC8AE/JNB%252520Trip%252520950_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Crocodile Bridge <p> <p>Thanks, KNP. <p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:64cd13fe-7428-4ebc-85eb-a815caddcde0" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="efc3c417-a6eb-4b10-894d-1d31152d71e1" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBaqB3XdVGw&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('efc3c417-a6eb-4b10-894d-1d31152d71e1'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/EBaqB3XdVGw?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/EBaqB3XdVGw?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fBXJ3Hk9t3k/T9ePAwVrmuI/AAAAAAAAALA/osOxErHKZEI/video3227b97aa2c0%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-37461258886824131652017-08-13T20:59:00.001-04:002017-08-13T20:59:30.262-04:00South Africa, Kruger Another Day In The Park<p> <p>The air is still but already warm as I begin my second day at Kruger National Park. A light breakfast and it is time to hit some more unexplored roads. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lVMv4JWbq4o/T9WBEQhcWcI/AAAAAAAAAFY/Yjm4l3wKMT4/s1600-h/IMG_5381%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="180" title="IMG_5381" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5381" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5O9cv8VyWKE/T9WBFD_irUI/AAAAAAAAAFg/J5FmutAUYSg/IMG_5381_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>As if trying to hide, an elephant stands behind a small tree along the highway just outside of the park. However, his huge flapping ears are a dead give away.</p> <p>Unlike most another animals in the park, the elephants do not camouflage very well.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>Easily missed in a discussion about Kruger or safaris in general are birds. It is a mistake to not keep your eyes open for them. <p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xEpFrmUkzA4/T9WBGDwX2cI/AAAAAAAAAFo/Xh1cDTkMUz0/s1600-h/IMG_5385%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5385" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5385" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-addQ8gY9dgI/T9WBGhGDh6I/AAAAAAAAAFw/h0vj5Vzzggo/IMG_5385_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>The park is filled with all kinds of them. In and out of trees or just hopping along the ground, the birds turn out to be enjoyable to watch. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1Ai43Y18asE/T9WBHWFxC2I/AAAAAAAAAF4/4DWbeRUKn_s/s1600-h/IMG_5388%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="349" height="246" title="IMG_5388" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5388" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GHQTiJdGuOY/T9WBH8Q61YI/AAAAAAAAAGA/tbdRK3ACdsk/IMG_5388_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Southern Ground Hornbill <p align="center"> <p> <p>One bird I am fortunate to spot is the Southern Ground Hornbill which is in the midst of a serious declining population. The Hornbill is on the park's Endangered Species List and visitors are encouraged to report their sightings. <p>Part of being able to find many of the unusual sightings in the park comes from the exchange of information with others also doing self drives. An approaching car slows down and I am told there is a family of lion cubs about a mile down the road. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-S2FjDdxTKew/T9WBIw72o5I/AAAAAAAAAGI/i4NmKyoiZlk/s1600-h/IMG_5408%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5408" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5408" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3r1QowRzF5Q/T9WBJcDTobI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/zVXmw6zqVy4/IMG_5408_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Although partially hidden behind blades of dying grass, the group can still be seen resting in the shade.</p> <p>I am sure a protective mother is somewhere around and keeping my distance is probably a good thing.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MKsy1xJIKUQ/T9WBLNRI8OI/AAAAAAAAAGY/FUmoBQWH4Xs/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520696%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="390" height="274" title="JNB Trip 696" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 696" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-To5Sq7BTd5U/T9WBL1SVvMI/AAAAAAAAAGg/Zhb7F5Jkf4g/JNB%252520Trip%252520696_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Steenbok</p> <p><br></p> <p>Is that a poor baby impala all alone? No, it's a steenbok that is often mistaken for one. Due to the almost correct assumption that it is dangerous to be alone in the wild, seeing a steenbok often initially draws the sympathy of most park visitors. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6caXikQ1yco/T9WBM3vSRbI/AAAAAAAAAGo/6vz7bi8R0a8/s1600-h/IMG_5412%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5412" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5412" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AYbWwxcB6QM/T9WBNRIoIaI/AAAAAAAAAGw/VlAb0f3E3LA/IMG_5412_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Another sometimes loner in the park is the wildebeest. However, when he is alone he has ulterior motives. </p> <p>He is looking for a date.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>Even when you hang out in a group like Zebras, it's no guarantee that your back or rear end is covered. One zebra I spot still shows fresh evidence that this can be the case. I guess he is counting his lucky stripes and will have a life long scar to remember his good fortune, at least for now. <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yLJmp9X89Q0/T9WBOZz1hlI/AAAAAAAAAG4/nuRazwXhTQ4/s1600-h/IMG_5455%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="346" height="243" title="IMG_5455" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5455" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mb6VRtZWlak/T9WBO1nxN7I/AAAAAAAAAHA/GHT8AvnjMHg/IMG_5455_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Zebra Battle Scars <p> <p>Circling buzzards tells me that I am near a fresh killing field but I am not fortunate to share their view of the kill. However, what I do find are the remains of some animals that have previously met their devastating fate here. <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UPtt7EJmqo4/T9WBQlfMBFI/AAAAAAAAAHI/pVQT7G5z4Vc/s1600-h/IMG_5482%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5482" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5482" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fGKqMny4pdU/T9WBRfeTu7I/AAAAAAAAAHQ/tLwVRfdVwP0/IMG_5482_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Nearby a loud buzzing fills the air, the source of which is known but unseen. Hidden among the trees are wild locusts that give me the feeling that I am on a table saw. Not the most comfortable feeling in the world but the clear blue skies and surrounding scenery makes the experience manageable. <p> <p> <p>Did you know that impalas play “Ring Around The Rosie”? I am just as surprise as you are as I watch a few of them chase each other around in circles as families of baboons could not be bothered to join in. <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eAwRdZNy63k/T9WBSAnmtHI/AAAAAAAAAHY/jlawOVM0AOM/s1600-h/IMG_5552%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5552" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5552" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-poNoEj7pM4A/T9WBSgWUp1I/AAAAAAAAAHg/2e7rRdzDnPo/IMG_5552_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Speaking of baboons, is there some reasons why they always seem so serious. <p>Spending sometime watching them I am glad to see it is only an adult thing as a couple of youngsters join in their own version of “Ring Around The Rosie”. <p> <p> <p>A stop on the highway as I make my way back towards Satara Lodge and discover that I am being watched by one of the ugliest birds I have ever seen. Unlike the steenbok or the wildebeest, it is easy to see why this guy is a loner. <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XJ7GXHOEiW0/T9WBTOaIB8I/AAAAAAAAAHo/kHQz1ACkCrw/s1600-h/IMG_5561%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5561" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5561" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xU7LuHPPGUE/T9WBTbEfFeI/AAAAAAAAAHw/GprQX2Pt0zY/IMG_5561_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>I don't think he gets many dates. No doubt he is a big supporter if not The President of “The Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Beholder Fan Club”. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cvJ44cMhfEU/T9WBT7ixn3I/AAAAAAAAAH4/E552VEX7iyg/s1600-h/IMG_5569%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="395" height="278" title="IMG_5569" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5569" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PXQREdXyL70/T9WBUYaXlbI/AAAAAAAAAIA/D74zsDNJ6qA/IMG_5569_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Kruger National Park Sunset <p align="center"> <p align="center"> <p>The sun begins to set as I arrive back at my bungalow and this evening it is a beautiful one across Kruger as it heads west. To catch and enjoy it, I go along the perimeter fence of the park and come across an almost scary surprise. A hyena with a gaping mouth filled with drool is casing along the fence. It passes by so quickly, I only manage to capture it in a flash. <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pf5mEvQkgs0/T9WBU1dvsGI/AAAAAAAAAII/nJoyYs8Q8HM/s1600-h/IMG_5565%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="IMG_5565" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_5565" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bBl48wi_WSM/T9WBVRflAlI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/f45nCgjgHtw/IMG_5565_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>This maybe the beginning of one hunt in the darkness of Kruger National Park. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:30ef4580-82ea-40d6-8a51-aacefba4d4f4" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="f43accf8-80aa-4536-80b5-3194d86a9b81" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGwfEYsf6yE&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('f43accf8-80aa-4536-80b5-3194d86a9b81'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QGwfEYsf6yE?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/QGwfEYsf6yE?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IuWGbrf8EoM/T9WBVjyseZI/AAAAAAAAAIg/Dk1O-gSySMM/videoe0dd4d8afb95%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4096385056174530127.post-28198855499063045672017-08-13T20:54:00.001-04:002017-08-13T20:54:45.648-04:00South Africa, Kruger National Park Day One<p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bd55ZqC8a8A/T9OT9o3MC_I/AAAAAAAAABA/UvNhNr12xpY/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520543%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 543" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 543" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-78gPR4KwiQA/T9OT-1PoVAI/AAAAAAAAABI/IFGV1VgTjhY/JNB%252520Trip%252520543_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>After spending the night in Nelspruit, I wake up excited to head to Kruger National Park. A few hours of carefully getting lost through small South African towns and I end up at the Numbi Gate entrance of the park. A brief informal registration and I am made aware of the parks rules along with what to except for the next few days. </p> <p> <p> <p> <p>I am told it is about fifty miles to my accommodations for the night and that I should allow at least four hours to get there. Since there is no driving in park after dark I will have to manage my drive time accordingly. <p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TvbJHh_9ZBg/T9OT_iagP5I/AAAAAAAAABQ/BOyJkjKMi7k/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520544%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 544" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 544" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lMLWL7VhuA8/T9OUAVinuuI/AAAAAAAAABY/AUtftsxLdYQ/JNB%252520Trip%252520544_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>It is not long before I am welcomed to the park by a family of impalas that dash across the highway in front of me.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DCsRqU1VEQk/T9OUBLzhSFI/AAAAAAAAABg/japzG4PTj9c/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520550%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="343" height="241" title="JNB Trip 550" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 550" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SS1a5VE5SFo/T9OUBu_93aI/AAAAAAAAABo/JN4cR88k8Ao/JNB%252520Trip%252520550_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> </p> <p><br></p> <p>A detour loop and soon I am watching some of the most feared and unpredictable animals in the park taking an early morning bath. A herd of water buffaloes are getting cleaned up before starting their day. </p> <p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KRmw5Gvx4BE/T9OUCNzIOmI/AAAAAAAAABw/jWbnUOo5R8w/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520559%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 559" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 559" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-e7Wo7JS6ZlE/T9OUDyGV_FI/AAAAAAAAAB4/z3DkkStBmQk/JNB%252520Trip%252520559_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Next, it's a mother warthog with her kids followed by an almost never ending sightings of the park's other residents just mere feet from the highway.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2QwYN8PFdRw/T9OUEWz_Q_I/AAAAAAAAACA/4AL8nM5gExY/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520574%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 574" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 574" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WKk-qXfXjFo/T9OUE3ea0tI/AAAAAAAAACI/j_rDqyuxgss/JNB%252520Trip%252520574_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>A brief stop and I am surprise to find some dude is staring me down like a wild animal. In the end, I think he is just as curious about me as I am about him. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TYHITuJEFwI/T9OUFp_58FI/AAAAAAAAACQ/LqiO6X9tf0U/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520584%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="343" height="241" title="JNB Trip 584" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 584" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sAeuG0NmcyE/T9OUGHIwyQI/AAAAAAAAACY/SWUvj2A7dpg/JNB%252520Trip%252520584_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p> <p> <p>A pause at a roadside marker and it is hard to imagine that had I been here a few years ago, at six feet tall I would be almost submerged under water. It is a vivid reminder of the contrast of the seasons here. This time of the year is the dry season. However, during the rainy season many of the roads in the park become impassable. <p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-53t7XH2V8xA/T9OUG0WU5AI/AAAAAAAAACg/1i01TkAXjH0/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520593%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 593" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 593" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wuFf9fE9LNU/T9OUHMCoAgI/AAAAAAAAACo/aLp_TVyvHDo/JNB%252520Trip%252520593_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>An almost dried up waterhole provides yet another sign of the sometimes harsh conditions here. A hardly visible hippo has taken claim to an area of it as few birds occasionally drop in for a drink. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KfEvbT3vUWk/T9OUH_j0hBI/AAAAAAAAACw/juXhTrcEhFI/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520595%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 595" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 595" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jRgp8ELbzbM/T9OUIdJmd4I/AAAAAAAAAC4/Mz4vQJQpOVk/JNB%252520Trip%252520595_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Meanwhile, an eagle watches from above probably waiting for an unsuspecting meal. </p> <p>Giraffes and elephants become common sightings in the park as I continue my drive towards Satara Lodge. <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-skyfKAYuQgs/T9OUIrpE4ZI/AAAAAAAAADA/2hFAOCVpnL8/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520610%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="376" height="264" title="JNB Trip 610" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 610" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WFwtcZAFLek/T9OUJAfAroI/AAAAAAAAADI/aRLtR-pH3i4/JNB%252520Trip%252520610_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Kruger National Park Hitchhiker <p> <p>Kruger National Park is not the place that one would expect to pick up hitchhikers but I do. Feeling a bit uncomfortable, I keep a clear distance between us but he seems to be enjoying the ride as we cruise along about thirty miles an hour down the highway. I guess it is easy to hang onto a windshield when you have six legs. <p>A few days ago when I arrived in South Africa I was given an introduction to the Baobab Tree. Now, I am less than a mile away from seeing a real one. However, I have to wait patiently as a huge obstacle is in my way. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-D5qGqFUV7Lw/T9OUKPrjVHI/AAAAAAAAADQ/zu-qc6eu6jc/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520619%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 619" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 619" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-B-grHfqHUQk/T9OUKmzT_eI/AAAAAAAAADY/hOT20uJD0D8/JNB%252520Trip%252520619_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>After about ten minutes my patience wears thin and I feel the urge to move on. Putting my car in gear, I begin to inch forward hoping to not get noticed. Not taking kindly to my actions I am a lot closer and almost face to face with more tons of gray wrinkle skin than I ever hope to encounter again. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p>Fortunately for me, my ignorance is forgiven and I don't end up like a cigarette inside of a crushed beer can. </p> <p>Leaving tons of bones and flesh in the distance, I catch my breath and I am soon fascinated by rolling poop. Well, to be politically correct it's rolling dung. Watching another level of nature at work leads me to plagiarize one of the more old school sayings with a new twist. <p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-viFIWxXjvvs/T9OULGFnBfI/AAAAAAAAADg/V_6wMGHrdFo/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520624%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 624" align="right" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: right; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 624" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6WEo_Ob8tlA/T9OUL6YNtyI/AAAAAAAAADo/X-zflKlfCcY/JNB%252520Trip%252520624_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>What's one animal’s dung is another one's dinner.</p> <p>Rollin, Rollin, keep them dungs rollin... Rawhide! </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p> <p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yj77CLghGT8/T9OUNrndwfI/AAAAAAAAADw/fwAGU4DOB2s/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520636%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img width="345" height="243" title="JNB Trip 636" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 636" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-A0p7-UYWT-c/T9OUOQQ8UQI/AAAAAAAAAD4/elopC0DBNSE/JNB%252520Trip%252520636_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>The Tree Of Life <p> <p> <p>Looking ahead in the clear blue sky, something seems a mist as the world seems upside down. However, this is normal as I am looking at the Baobab Tree. Symbolic to many Africans, the Baobab Tree also known as “The Tree Of Life” seems to be growing upside down as it towers over the neighboring vegetation. <p>A short drive from the Baobab Tree I arrive at the fenced in and gated Satara Lodge. What would have been a straight four hour drive has taken me almost ten. At the front office I complete another registration process then head for a cute round bungalow that is well equipped. The ice cold air conditioner is welcoming. <p> <p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wCJxIHMw0cM/T9OUPRm_LcI/AAAAAAAAAEA/0Woy8ohEhaQ/s1600-h/JNB%252520Trip%252520639%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img width="244" height="164" title="JNB Trip 639" align="left" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; float: left; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="JNB Trip 639" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7w-ew5QGMS0/T9OUQGv9lMI/AAAAAAAAAEI/cZn-tiKXAzQ/JNB%252520Trip%252520639_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>A little wine down and I walk across the lodge to watch some outdoor theater. Playing on the big screen is one of those films that fascinates and attracts all of us to Africa and the untamed part of life. A nice way to end the night.</p> <p>The only thing missing, popcorn.</p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:8a90865b-c85f-4025-bdb9-62cd4655843e" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; float: none; display: inline;"><div id="6602f051-538d-4888-8b96-7b51ae8c553e" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32Sfn4x8zxg&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><img onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('6602f051-538d-4888-8b96-7b51ae8c553e'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/32Sfn4x8zxg?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/32Sfn4x8zxg?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt="" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-X-GSkk1fyb0/T9OUQVcU51I/AAAAAAAAAFU/vCgbHg9_HsE/video9789c2fbc6f7%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" galleryimg="no"></a></div></div></div>DMBTravelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12504495937218727589noreply@blogger.com0