We booked our September 14th flight to Spain…Not the easiest route from here…

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Here’s the route we’ll be taking from South Africa to Spain on September 14th.

Finally, we took the time to research flights from South Africa to Spain, which were scheduled to depart in 52 days. It’s incredible how quickly our total six months in Marloth Park are soon coming to an end. Surely, in the future, we’ll return, but for now, we have other plans on the horizon.

We conducted extensive research to find the shortest time and best pricing, ultimately ending up on Expedia.com on our website at this link.

Following is our booking:

Nelspruit to Barcelona

5:20 pm

  • Departs Sun, Sep 14
  • Nelspruit, South Africa (MQP-Kruger Mpumalanga Intl.)
55m duration

6:15 pm

  • Arrives Sun, Sep 14
  • Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB-O.R. Tambo Intl.)
  • Terminal B
Qatar Airways 5699 operated by AIRLINK
Economy / Coach (S)
Layover: 2h 10m

8:25 pm

  • Departs Sun, Sep 14
  • Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB-O.R. Tambo Intl.)
  • Terminal A

5:45 am

  • Arrives Mon, Sep 15
  • Doha, Qatar (DOH-Hamad Intl.)
8h 20m duration
Qatar Airways 1378
Seats 17F, 17H
Economy / Coach (S)
Layover: 3h 10m

8:55 am

  • Departs Mon, Sep 15
  • Doha, Qatar (DOH-Hamad Intl.)

2:40 pm

  • Arrives Mon, Sep 15
  • Barcelona, Spain (BCN-Barcelona Intl.)
  • Terminal 1
6h 45m duration
Qatar Airways 145
Seats 18F, 18H
Economy / Coach (S)

Total duration: 21h 20m

We’d hoped to book a shorter flight, but this was the only option available. No, we don’t look forward to another Red Eye, but from here, it’s unavoidable.

In the meantime, we will continue to live in the moment and enjoy every remaining day in the bush, surrounded by our wildlife and human friends. Today at 4:30, we’re meeting friends Roz and Les at Ngwenya or sundowners on the deck and the dinner buffet inside the lovely restaurant.

We’ll be back with more.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 24, 2015:

A long stretch of uninhabited beach in Cairns, Australia. For more photos, please click here.

Fun and exciting news for wine drinkers…Four years of free wine…For our Spanish readers and residents…

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Free Vectors | Cheers! Wine glass illustration

From Travel & Leisure Magazine online at this link:

You Can Get 4 Years of Free Wine to Help Scientists Study the Effects of Moderate Drinking

A dream job for wine lovers. By Stacey Leasca Published on July 22, 2025

  • Researchers in Spain are conducting the world’s largest clinical trial on the health effects of moderate alcohol consumption, tracking 10,000 adults aged 50–75 over four years.
  • The study, funded by the European Research Council, aims to provide clear evidence on whether moderate drinking is beneficial, neutral, or harmful—but volunteers must live in Spain to join.

Do you enjoy sipping a glass of wine each evening? If so, scientists in Spain are looking for your help—and will give you free wine in exchange.

In May, The Olive Press shared the news that researchers at the University of Navarra’s Alumni Trialist Initiative (UNATI) are currently seeking volunteers to participate in the world’s largest clinical trial on alcohol, aiming to understand the effects of moderate drinking on human health.

As the volunteer intake form explained, participants will be tracked for the next four years to “determine whether moderate alcohol consumption is beneficial, neutral, or harmful to health.”

The research, funded by a €2.4 million (about $2.79 million) grant via the European Research Council, will track 10,000 people aged 50 to 75 split into two groups: one group who will consume alcohol daily (moderate amounts equal to fewer than seven drinks a week for women and 14 drinks a week for men) and the other who will completely abstain from any alcohol throughout the research period.

Those who sign up must be prepared to join either group, as they will be randomly assigned to either arm. Both groups will undergo in-depth health surveys at the start and end of the trial, be asked to join quarterly meetings, and be willing to work with health coaches.

“Policymakers and clinicians are currently perplexed on how to reduce alcohol harms in drinkers, because of contradictory guidelines: abstention is proposed as the healthiest option by many health advocates, stating that ‘there is no safe level of alcohol intake,’ but most nonrandomized studies found lower all-cause mortality and other beneficial outcomes in moderate drinkers than in abstainers among subjects over 50,” the research plan’s abstract explains. “However, potential biases may compromise these latter studies, particularly when effects are null or moderate.” Thus, it’s pulling together its “large pragmatic randomized controlled trial” to really get to what’s what.

“It will provide first-level evidence to confront the harms of one of the most widely used substances by humankind,” it added.

Both groups will receive “gift foods and beverages.” The abstainers will receive “0%-alcohol beer, and extra-virgin olive oil to foster adherence to the Mediterranean diet.” In contrast, the moderation group will receive “red wine (1.5 l/mo) and the same amount of extra-virgin olive oil to foster adherence to the Mediterranean diet as in the other group.”

To avoid any conflict of interest, the free wine will come from a supermarket chain, not from any single winery or alcohol company.

To date, the Olive Press reported that 6,500 participants have signed up, meaning the team is still seeking 3,500 volunteers in the 50-75 age range.

There is, however, one major catch: you must live in Spain to participate. But now’s as good a time as any to move there, right? “

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 23, 2015:

In Cairns, Australia, once we were inside the long, narrow boardwalk, it took us deeper and deeper into the salt marsh. We never saw other people. For more photos, please click here.

Trail cam photos and fun capture from Tom…

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Tom took this photo, a typical early morning for him in Marloth Park, with his laptop ready to listen to Garage Logic, a cup of coffee, and a giraffe.

This morning, I came across an article from this site about the 3-ounce liquid rule at airports and thought it might be of interest to some of our readers.

TSA Hints at Ending 3-ounce Liquid Rule—Here’s What Travelers Should Know

New technology and policy shifts may let travelers bring larger liquid containers through checkpoints. By Michael Cappetta, Published on July 21, 2025

  • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is evaluating whether to increase the volume of liquids that can be brought in carry-on luggage. 
  • DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said the liquid rules could be “the next big announcement.”
  • Currently, liquids are limited to 3.4 ounces or less for carry-on bags.

The nightmare of traveling with liquids could soon be a thing of the past.

Two giraffes stopped by during the night.

From ensuring liquids are in the proper container and size to removing them from a bag when necessary, liquids can cause harrowing delays or even additional screenings. However, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem recently indicated that the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) liquid rules may soon follow the same path as its shoes-off policy, which the agency ended earlier this month.

“But I will tell you, I mean the liquids, I’m questioning. So that may be the next big announcement: what size your liquids need to be,” Noem said during an interview at a summit with News Nation and The Hill. She added: “Well, hopefully the future of an airport where I’m looking to go is that you walk in the door with your carry-on suitcase, you walk through a scanner and go right to your flight.”

When asked by Travel + Leisure to comment on Noem’s remarks, the TSA left the door open to change.

Tom left a piece of chicken for the genet. She enjoyed it.

“Secretary Noem and TSA are constantly looking for ways to enhance security, and improve the travel experience for the public,” a spokesperson for the TSA told T+L. “Any announcements on policy changes will be made through official channels.”

Currently, the TSA requires travelers flying with carry-on luggage to limit liquids, gels, creams, pastes, and aerosols to 3.4 ounces or less and ensure they fit in a quart-sized resealable bag (with some exemptions for medically-necessary liquids, including breast milk and baby formula). Travelers may then need to take their liquids out and place them separately in a bin during screening.

Travelers who are part of the agency’s expedited security screening program, TSA PreCheck, are still subject to the 3.4-ounce liquid rule; however, they do not need to remove these items from their luggage during the screening process.

The TSA, however, has started rolling out new technology at airports across the United States: computed tomography, or CT scanners. These machines create a more detailed 3D image during the screening process, allowing all travelers to keep laptops and liquids in their bags. The technology is also being explored globally in international airports, such as the United Kingdom’s London Gatwick Airport (LGW), according to TravelPulse Canada.

The genet and several giraffes during a middle-of-the-night visit.

However, despite Noem’s comments, it may be years before travelers can take large liquids in their carry-on bags—as in potentially not until 2040, when the TSA anticipates having CT units fully deployed nationwide.

The absolute easiest way to travel with liquids is to put them in checked luggage, where there are no size limits.”

As mentioned above, it may be a long time before these changes take effect and other countries adopt the same new policy.

Tonight is Quiz Night, but we expect the questions for us will be as difficult as last week, when they centered around South African history. The majority of the participants are South African or foreigners who’ve lived here for decades. Nonetheless, we always have a good time commiserating with our teammates and other attendees.

A Big Daddy and a giraffe stopped by this morning.

We’ll be back with more tomorrow.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 22, 2015:

Tom eyeballed an old-fashioned candy in this store in an Australian mall, but didn’t buy a thing. For more photos, please click here.

The tourists are gone!…How are we feeling now?…

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Such an interesting face!

We’ve been traveling the world without a fixed address since 2012. That’s more than a decade of waking up in unfamiliar beds, deciphering foreign street signs, and learning to call strangers “friend” in languages we sometimes mispronounce but always try to speak with heart.

Some people ask if we ever get tired of it, this life without a house or a closet of our own, without a familiar neighborhood bakery or the same barista who knows our name and order. But we don’t. Not in the way they mean.

Yes, there are moments of exhaustion. We’ve waited out thunderstorms in airports with cracked ceilings, gotten lost on dirt roads where GPS dropped off hours ago, and fumbled through visa offices where bureaucracy seems to be the only common language. We’ve been sick in places where pharmacies were hard to find and comfort food even harder, and we’ve had to learn the quiet art of grieving from afar, missing weddings, funerals, birthdays, and spontaneous family dinners. These are not small sacrifices.

But still, we love it.

Three giraffes were in the garden.

We love it because every day feels like a possibility. Because there is something profoundly humbling about being a guest in the world. You become softer around the edges. You listen more. You observe without assuming. You laugh more easily because the best way to bridge the gap between cultures is often humor, especially the kind that comes at your own expense.

The truth is, we’ve built a different kind of home. Not one made of brick and mortar, but of memories and muscle memory. We know how to pack in ten minutes. We can find the local produce market in a town we’ve just arrived in. We know how to read the kindness in someone’s eyes, even when the words between us are garbled and incomplete. That kind of fluency, the one that has nothing to do with language and everything to do with connection, might be the richest thing we’ve learned.

We’ve fallen in love with the slow mornings in Bali, where roosters cry before dawn and the scent of incense drifts through the windows. We’ve found serenity with the majestic views of New Zealand, where the lush green landscape rolls by like an exquisite painting, and the expansive views of the sea. We’ve danced in the streets of South America, where music spills out of every open window, and we’ve shared silence under a starlit African sky so vast it made us feel both tiny and infinite.

Quietly, trotting off.

Sometimes we ache for stillness, for roots. There are days when we long for a sofa or bed we chose ourselves, a proper place to put our stuff, or a kitchen with spices that don’t have to be tossed or gifted every time we cross a border. There’s a gentle grief in that, knowing we’ve traded permanence for movement.

But movement is what keeps us alive. It’s what keeps our hearts curious, our minds expanding. It’s what reminds us that there’s always more to learn, more to see, and more people to meet. And more importantly, more versions of ourselves to become. Travel peels away the layers. It challenges you to let go of assumptions, to meet discomfort with grace, and to live in the question instead of racing toward the answer.

Over the years, we’ve become both lighter and deeper. Our wardrobe fits in two suitcases, yet our emotional toolkit has grown complex and complete. We’ve learned how to say goodbye with sincerity, how to arrive with humility, and how to be okay with the space in between. We’ve watched the sun rise in so many places now that we’ve stopped counting, but we’ve never stopped being moved by the simple miracle of a new day in a new place.

And the people…oh, the people, and the wildlife… Our life is a patchwork of kind souls who’ve opened their hearts, shared meals with us, and made us laugh when we didn’t think we could. They are the beating heart of our journey. We’ve learned that home isn’t a place. It’s a feeling, and it travels with you when your heart stays open.

So, how do we feel after all these years on the road?

We feel grateful. Deeply, breath-catchingly grateful.

Tom was gazing across the Crocodile River at Ngwenya.

We feel privileged, not in the sense of luxury, but in the sense of opportunity. That we get to live this life, with all its complexities and occasional chaos, is something we never take for granted. We feel more connected to the world, even as we sometimes float just outside of its conventions. We feel like wanderers by design, but grounded by purpose.

We still love it. Perhaps even more so now than when we began. Because love deepens with time, it becomes quieter, less frantic, but more enduring. Like the way a well-traveled road feels underfoot, familiar even in its unpredictability.

This life isn’t for everyone. But for us, it’s everything. And as long as there are new paths to walk, unfamiliar skies to sleep beneath, and warm, unexpected hellos waiting on the other side of a border, we’ll keep going.

Because this, this movement, this wonder, this love for the road, ultimately is home.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 21, 2015:

Tom’s haircut in Australia. For more photos, please click here.

Feeding wildlife in the bush…Good or bad?…

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A yellow-billed stork stretching her neck at Sunset Dam.

The lucerne we had delivered yesterday morning to feed the hungry wildlife has long been consumed. At the moment, there are four warthogs: mom and three fast-growing offspring attempting to retrieve every last blade of hay. The animals are hungry. There is nary an edible leaf on a single tree or bush within our view.

It’s cloudy today, and continuous rain for several days would cause the bush to become green, providing food for the hungry wildlife. But, in mid-July, there’s only a 4% chance of rain in Marloth Park. The average rainfall in July is 0.19 inches, or 8mm, not enough to benefit the wildlife.

June was even worse, with only a 2% chance of precipitation. We recall it raining a few times during the month, but unfortunately, not enough to benefit the wildlife. The bush looks brown and dangerously dry. The rains won’t come until October, three months from now.

A giraffe bending to take a drink from the Crocodile River.

Here are some valid reasons not to feed wildlife:

Feeding wild animals in the bush might seem like a kind gesture, but it’s generally considered a bad practice for both animals and humans. Here’s why:

Why It’s a Bad Idea

1. Loss of Natural Fear

Wild animals that are fed by humans often lose their natural fear of people. This can lead to:

  • Increased boldness, even aggression, when approaching humans.

  • Dangerous encounters, especially with large or carnivorous animals.

2. Disruption of Natural Diets

Human food is unnatural and often harmful to wildlife. Animals may develop:

  • Nutritional deficiencies or digestive issues.

  • Dependence on handouts instead of foraging naturally.

    A crocodile is swimming upstream on the Crocodile River.

3. Behavioral Changes

Feeding alters animal behavior:

  • Some species may stop hunting or scavenging.

  • Animals can become lazy, territorial, or aggressive, especially around food.

4. Encouraging Problem Animals

Animals that associate people with food can become “problem animals”:

  • Raiding campsites or lodges.

  • Becoming a danger to people and eventually being relocated or euthanized.

5. Ecological Imbalance

Feeding may increase the population of one species over another, disrupting the delicate balance of the bush. This can:

  • Causes overgrazing or depletion of resources.

  • Harm predator-prey relationships.

    Two birds are conversing atop our birdbath in the garden.

When Feeding Might Be Acceptable

There are very few exceptions, usually under strict guidelines:

  • Rehabilitation centers or sanctuaries, where professionals care for injured or orphaned animals.

  • Experts manage conservation feeding during drought or disease to protect the survival of species.

Even in those cases, feeding is temporary and carefully managed.

The Responsible Approach

  • Observe, don’t interfere. Enjoy wildlife from a distance.

  • Secure your food and trash. Don’t let animals access human leftovers.

  • Educate others. Help spread awareness about the risks of feeding wildlife.

However, Marloth Park is very different from typical wildlife areas.

Why We Feed

  • There are few predators in Marloth Park, which helps keep the wildlife population in check during times of drought, causing a lack of sustenance for the animals.
  • The animals in Marloth Park cannot roam as freely as those in Kruger National Park, as a fence encloses them within this 7,413-acre environment.
  • For those of us willing and able to spend what it costs to supplement the animals’ diet, many of us can’t sit back and watch them starve during the dry winter months.
  • This is a holiday township. Tourism provides a vital source of income for many workers and property owners. Dying and starving animals would deter tourists from making this their holiday destination.

  • A genet as seen from the trail cam last night searching for meat.

When we leave Marloth Park mid-September to travel to Spain, we’ll feel bad leaving the animals without the regular sources of food we provide. But, many other residents and homeowners feed as we do. Hopefully, the rainy season will begin shortly after we leave.

Last night at Jabula, for the first time, we watched the rugby game with many other enthusiastic patrons in the bar. Yesterday, we studied the rules of a game that we weren’t familiar with. Having some knowledge of the game’s rules greatly added to the enjoyment of watching. The South African team, the Steenboks, is in first place in the world league, making the citizens wild with excitement. It was fun for us as well.

Tonight, we’re dining out with friends at Amazing Kruger View. Although it’s cloudy today, we will surely have a good time.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 20, 2015:

Rocky shoreline at Ellis Beach along Captain Cook Highway in Australia, narrowed the farther we drove. For more photos, please click here.

Is it true?…Is it no longer necessary to remove shoes at airport security?…

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A pair of Big Daddies were fighting in the garden. No one was injured. Great photo, Tom!

From Travel & Leisure online magazine, located here.

Did the TSA End Its ‘Shoes Off’ Security Rule? Here’s What Travelers Should Know

The answer is complicated. By Michael Cappetta, Published on July 8, 2025

The TSA currently requires passengers to remove their shoes when going through a security checkpoint. Now, a new report claims the government agency has rolled back this mandate.

A significant disruption to travelers may soon be a thing of the past.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is reportedly rolling back its “shoes off” policy at the security line for general passengers, according to online travel sites.

Travel newsletter Gate Access claims that the TSA will soon allow all passengers to keep their shoes on during the security checkpoint, which will reduce wait times and keep the lines moving more efficiently. “The change comes after years of public frustration over inconsistent airport experiences, long security lines, and a growing debate over the necessity of certain screening procedures,” according to the newsletter’s writer, and former TSA employee, Caleb Harmon-Marshall.

Two kudus are beginning to attempt to gain control.

The TSA did not confirm the news or elaborate on the report. When asked for a comment, the agency told Travel + Leisure: “TSA and DHS are always exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience and our strong security posture. Any potential updates to our security process will be issued through official channels.”

On Tuesday morning, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt seemingly confirmed this massive change in a post on X, calling it “big news” from the Department of Homeland Security.

A waterbuck at the water-sparse Crocodile River. We need rain for the wildlife and to restore the reservoir.

On social media, some travelers shared personal experiences of keeping their shoes on through the security checkpoint. “The agents told me this is a new rule, and so long as your shoes don’t make the alarm go off, no need to remove them,” one traveler wrote on X.

This policy change is reportedly impacting select airports, so travelers shouldn’t assume their airport is one of them. According to The New York Times, New York City’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is among those that will now allow travelers to keep their shoes on.

Zebras are eating the lucerne delivered today, with wildebeest Hal watching, hoping he can participate.

The TSA has previously allowed certain passengers to keep their shoes on as part of the screening process. For example, travelers with TSA PreCheck membership could pass through security screening machines without taking off their shoes. Additionally, passengers aged 75 and older were exempt from removing their shoes during the security process.

The TSA has recently introduced a new program called “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease,” which provides free or discounted TSA PreCheck memberships to veterans and their families.”

Zebras hogged the lucerne for two hours.

_____________________________________________________________________________

“The requirement to remove shoes at airport security checkpoints is being phased out by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This change is part of a broader effort to modernize security procedures and streamline the screening process. The “shoes-off” policy was initially implemented in 2001 after a foiled attempt to detonate explosives hidden in shoes. “

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 19, 2015:

Tom captured this amazing sunset view over the Coral Sea. For more photos, please click here.

Seat squatting at 30,000 feet…

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This is a rainbow agama, which we call “Aggie.” He visits from time to time

On a few occasions, while boarding flights, other passengers have asked one of us to change our assigned seats to accommodate their family. Since we always choose aisle seats across from each other, if we can maintain an aisle seat, we are willing to move.

If moving requires us to end up in a middle or window seat, we are not willing to move, especially since most of our flights are long. Fortunately, we’ve never encountered hostile passengers when we’ve refused. However, recently, there have been countless reports of hostile passengers making a scene on a flight when another passenger refuses to give up their seat to accommodate the needs of other passengers.

In the not-so-friendly skies, a new battleground of etiquette is emerging: the rise of the seat squatter. For those unfamiliar with the term, “seat squatting” refers to the act of deliberately claiming a seat on a plane that wasn’t assigned to you, often without asking or waiting for permission. It’s become an increasingly common issue, especially on full or overbooked flights, and it’s causing friction among travelers, flight attendants, and airlines alike.

The Anatomy of a Seat Squat

A seat squat can take many forms. Sometimes it’s subtle—someone quietly slips into an empty aisle seat, hoping no one claims it. Other times, it’s more brazen—a passenger walks past their assigned middle seat and sits in a coveted window or aisle spot, banking on the fact that the rightful passenger might not show up or will concede to avoid confrontation.

Nola, one of Norman’s grandchildren, has an injury on her side.

In some cases, it’s born of logic. For instance, a person might swap a middle seat to sit next to their partner or take an empty row toward the back of the plane after boarding is complete. But it becomes contentious when it’s done prematurely, presumptuously, or without regard for others.

Why People Do It

There are a few reasons passengers engage in seat squatting:

  • Comfort and convenience: Let’s face it, airplane seats aren’t luxurious. If there’s a better one nearby, the temptation is real.

  • Poor planning: Some travelers failed to choose seats in advance or arrived late for check-in, resulting in them being assigned the worst options.

  • Entitlement or arrogance: A small percentage of passengers feel rules don’t apply to them and that they deserve better than what they paid for.

  • Misunderstanding: Not all squatters are intentionally rude. First-time flyers or travelers unfamiliar with seating policies may not realize that seats are pre-assigned and cannot be negotiated.

    Nathan, Norman’s son, Nina, his partner, and Natalie, his daughter from a few years ago.

How It Impacts Other Passengers

For many flyers, persistent travelers, and seat squatters, it’s more than just a minor annoyance. It’s a breach of basic courtesy. Passengers carefully select seats for various reasons, including extra legroom, proximity to the bathroom, distance from the bathroom, medical needs, or simply personal preference. When someone takes a seat that isn’t theirs, it creates awkward encounters that can set the tone for the entire flight.

It also places unfair pressure on the rightful seat-holder. Confront them and risk a tense situation, or accept a less desirable seat to avoid conflict? Some passengers—especially solo travelers, the elderly, or those with anxiety—might not feel comfortable asking someone to move, even when they have every right to.

And for flight attendants, this issue becomes yet another interpersonal puzzle to solve before takeoff. Cabin crews already juggle tight schedules, safety checks, and customer service. Sorting out squatting disputes is not a role they relish.

Norman was watching his family in our garden.

What the Airlines Say

Airlines are clear: your boarding pass dictates your seat. Many carriers have reinforced policies and now make in-flight announcements discouraging passengers from changing seats until boarding is complete. Some, like budget airlines, use strict seat enforcement as a way to encourage passengers to pay extra for preferred seats.

Technology is also playing a role. Digital boarding passes, real-time seat maps, and check-in reminders give passengers more control over seat selection, but also highlight the fact that those better seats often come at a premium.

Still, many travelers report that enforcement varies. On less crowded flights, some crews are relaxed about empty seats. On fully booked or oversold routes, however, enforcement is tighter, and squatters are routinely asked to return to their original seat.

Is There a “Right” Way to Change Seats?

Absolutely. It comes down to respect, timing, and communication. Here are a few guidelines if you’re hoping to switch:

  1. Wait until boarding is complete: You can’t know if a seat is truly available until the doors close.

  2. Ask permission: If the seat belongs to someone, request a swap. Offer a reasonable trade and respect their answer.

  3. Ask a flight attendant: They have the final say and can help facilitate any swaps without disrupting the boarding process.

  4. Be gracious: If you’re denied a move, accept it without fuss. Remember, comfort isn’t guaranteed in economy class.

    Kudu moms and babies in the garden.

Social Media and Seat Shaming

In the age of TikTok and Reddit, seat squatting has gone viral. Videos of mid-air arguments, passive-aggressive note passing, and dramatic seat negotiations rack up millions of views. Passengers now turn to social media for validation or condemnation of their actions, further fueling the debate.

Some viewers applaud those who stand their ground against squatters; others argue for empathy and flexibility, especially for families with small children or passengers with disabilities. The court of public opinion, like the cabin aisle, can be a tight space.

The Bottom Line

Air travel isn’t always pleasant. Seats are cramped, flights are full, and tempers run high. But courtesy costs nothing. Seat squatting may seem like a harmless move in the moment, but it can disrupt the harmony of a flight and spark unnecessary tension.

Ultimately, it’s about treating fellow travelers with respect. We’re all at the mercy of the same recycled air and plastic snack tray, so claiming someone else’s seat uninvited isn’t just bad form. It’s a sign of forgetting we’re all in this sky-bound journey together.

If you want a window seat, book it early. Or ask nicely because no one wants to start their journey with a standoff over seat 23A.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 18, 2015:

The house is surrounded by lush vegetation, including numerous large coconut and palm trees, as well as an endless variety of shrubs and plants. For more photos, please click here.

A serendipitous bit of fun!…What are dress code requirements for world travel?…

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Nathan, Norman’s son, is chewing on an apple. Love the look on his face!

Yesterday afternoon, we chatted with friends Linda and Ken. It was Linda’s birthday, and we hadn’t communicated for a few months after having houseguests for almost two months, out of three, here in the bush. For our remaining nearly two months in Marloth Park, until we depart for Spain on September 14.

As we discussed our mutual travel plans for September and October, we discovered that the four of us will be in Barcelona at the same time in October, when they’ll have a port of call during their upcoming cruise, and while we are waiting to board our first of four cruises at the end of October, sailing from Barcelona. How ironic.

In the last almost 13 years of world travel, we met up with Linda and Ken, by coincidence, in the following locations:

  1. 2017: Sydney, Australia
  2. 2019: Wales, UK
  3. 2025: Barcelona, Spain

We were thrilled to know that we’ll be seeing these dear friends, if only for a part of the day, once again in yet another location in the world.

Here is Norman, contemplating jumping over the little fence, before he broke his leg.

Continuing on with today’s topic:

When traveling abroad, understanding local dress codes is more than just a matter of fashion—it reflects cultural sensitivity, religious customs, and, in some cases, legal requirements. While many destinations are relaxed about attire, others have specific guidelines that tourists should follow to avoid offense or even fines. Here’s an 800-word guide on dress code requirements for tourists in various countries across different regions of the world.

Middle East and North Africa (MENA)

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are more liberal than other Gulf nations, but modest clothing is still expected in public places. Men should avoid walking shirtless outside of the beach or pool area, while women should cover their shoulders and knees. At religious sites like mosques, women are required to wear headscarves and clothing that is long, loose-fitting. Tight, revealing clothing is discouraged.

Another sunny and comfortable day in the garden.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has strict dress codes rooted in Islamic law. Women are required to wear an abaya (a long, black cloak) in public and are often expected to cover their hair with a scarf; however, rules have relaxed slightly for tourists since 2019. Men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts in public spaces. At religious sites, full compliance with traditional attire is required.

Morocco

In cities like Marrakech and Casablanca, dress is more relaxed, but tourists should still dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and avoid short skirts or shorts. Men should wear shirts in public and refrain from wearing tank tops. In rural or conservative areas, more modest attire is essential.

A giraffe was walking through the garden.

Asia

India

India is diverse, but modesty is generally expected across the country. Women travelers should avoid tight-fitting or revealing clothing, particularly in temples or rural areas. A long skirt or loose trousers paired with a modest top is ideal. Men should wear long pants and avoid sleeveless shirts in conservative areas. Religious sites require heads, shoulders, and legs to be covered for all genders.

Thailand

In urban areas and beaches, clothing is pretty casual, but modest dress is essential when visiting temples and royal palaces. Both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees; wearing long pants or skirts is mandatory. Swimwear should never be worn away from the pool or beach.

Japan

Japan doesn’t have strict dress codes, but neat, conservative attire is appreciated, especially in temples and shrines. Revealing clothing may attract stares in rural areas. Tattoos, which are often associated with the Yakuza, should be covered in hot springs (onsens) and pools.

White-fronted bee-eaters at the birdbath.

Europe

France and Italy

Western Europe tends to be fashion-forward, but generally liberal about dress codes. However, in churches and religious sites, tourists are expected to dress modestly; bare shoulders and short skirts are not allowed. In Italy, some cathedrals may deny entry to visitors who do not meet these standards. In beach towns, walking around in swimwear away from the beach is frowned upon.

Turkey

Though technically a secular country, Turkey has a mix of modern and traditional values. In Istanbul and coastal cities, attire is contemporary and relaxed. However, when visiting mosques, women are required to cover their hair, shoulders, and legs; men should refrain from wearing shorts. Scarves and long skirts are often provided at larger mosques.

Africa (Sub-Saharan)

Kenya and Tanzania

In cities and tourist areas, Western-style dress is prevalent, but modest attire is still appreciated. Women should avoid wearing mini-skirts and crop tops, especially in rural or Muslim-dominant regions such as Zanzibar or Mombasa. When on safari, neutral-colored, comfortable clothing is ideal. Men should avoid shorts in formal or rural settings.

South Africa

Dress codes are generally relaxed in most of South Africa, particularly in urban areas such as Cape Town and Johannesburg. However, when visiting townships, churches, or rural communities, dressing modestly is a sign of respect.

The Americas

United States and Canada

Dress is generally informal, with wide personal freedom. However, in religious settings or formal occasions, modest attire is often expected. In beach towns, swimwear should be reserved for the beach or pool area. Some upscale restaurants and clubs have a dress code that ranges from bright and casual to formal.

Mexico

In major cities and beach resorts, casual clothing is fine. However, when visiting churches or traditional towns, both men and women should dress modestly—no short shorts, tank tops, or crop tops are allowed. For women, a light shawl or scarf is handy for church visits.

Brazil

Known for its beach culture, Brazil is quite relaxed about attire in coastal cities. However, when away from the beach, it’s considered inappropriate to wear just swimwear in public spaces. In churches or government buildings, more conservative attire is expected.

Oceania

Australia and New Zealand

These countries are laid-back and casual, with no strict dress codes. However, beachwear should be confined to the beach, and shoes are expected in stores and restaurants. In Aboriginal communities, modest clothing may be appreciated as a sign of respect.

The Crocodile River, as seen from Amazing Kruger View Restaurant.

Fiji and Samoa

In many South Pacific islands, modest dress is required when away from tourist resorts. Women should wear skirts or dresses that cover the knees and shoulders when visiting villages or churches. Men should avoid going shirtless unless on the beach. Sarongs (also known as sulus) are often worn as a sign of cultural respect.

Lots of kudus and impalas are in the garden regularly.

General Tips for Dressing Abroad

  1. Research Religious Sites – Always carry a scarf or shawl for unexpected visits to religious buildings.

  2. Watch What Locals Wear – Observing how locals dress is the easiest way to avoid standing out or offending.

  3. Avoid National Symbols – In some countries, wearing clothing with national flags or sacred symbols is considered disrespectful.

  4. Layer Smartly – Pack versatile pieces, such as cardigans, shawls, or loose-fitting trousers, that allow for quick adjustments.

Respecting local dress codes isn’t just about fitting in—it’s about acknowledging and honoring the cultures you’re visiting. In some places, inappropriate dress can result in being denied entry to landmarks, attract unwanted attention, or even provoke legal consequences. By packing thoughtfully and dressing modestly when appropriate, tourists can demonstrate cultural awareness and enhance their travel experiences.

This afternoon at 3:00 pm, we have a planned WhatsApp call with Christine, one of our readers from Canada, to answer questions they have about traveling to Africa. We are always happy to assist any of our world-traveling readers. Using WhatsApp, the calls are clear and free.

This evening, around 4:30, we’re heading back to Ngwenya for river watching, sundowners, and their buffet dinner with Louise and Danie. It’s always a delight to get together with the two of them.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 17, 2015:

At the Australian Armory, an  AM113A1 Fire Support Vehicle (Saladin Turret). For more photos, please click here.

Our guests have left…Quiz Night bomb!…Four more days until…

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Last Thursday, we had views from Ngwenya, where the four of us went for the buffet dinner.

This morning, I received a message from Kady. They made it to London, and now the seven-plus-hour layover begins. We appreciate the difficulty of these long layovers and how taxing they can be, especially after getting little to no sleep on the previous flight. Kady will stay in touch along the rest of the way.

Yesterday, the N4 highway was backed up due to road construction, and they had to leave earlier than the planned 2:30 pm. The driver, Shaun, arrived at 1:30, and moments later, they were gone. It was sad to see them go, but with the wonderful life we enjoy here in the bush, it took us no time at all to get back to just the two of us.

Tomorrow night, we’re returning to Ngwenya with Louise and Danie.

By 4:30, we headed to the little market to buy fruits and vegetables for Norman, and by 5:00, we entered Giraffe for dinner and Quiz Night. Hugging many friends we encountered as we entered Giraffe made us smile as usual. South Africans hug and kiss their friends when they see them arrive and leave. It’s a cultural thing and we easily fell into this custom.

Our new friend Noelene, who was joining our team, sat with us at the bar while we sipped our drinks: a Lion beer for Tom and an extra-light wine for me. I stick to two glasses of this light wine when out, which is usually available at most restaurants. However, at Jabula, Dawn orders my favorite, Four Cousins Skinny wine, to keep on hand for me, either red or rosé, both of which I enjoy.

A waterbuck on the Crocodile River as seen from Ngwenya.

On Friday nights, I order a bottle of Skinny wine and drink half of it. The following night, I drink the other half, which they store for me overnight in the fridge. At Zar 220, US$12.27 per bottle, I can enjoy my two glasses at Zar 110, US $6.13 per evening. While we were in the US, a single glass of wine, typically a small pour of 4 to 5 ounces, cost $12.00 to $15.00.

At Giraffe on Quiz night, my two glasses of extra light wine are Zar 30, US $1.67 each for a total expenditure of ZAR 60, US $3.34. For example, our total bill at Giraffe last night, which included Tom’s beer, my wine, two dinners, and tax and tip, was Zar 637.53, or US $35.56. It will be challenging to pay higher prices when we arrive in Spain in two months.

The sun is making its final descent.

Last night at Quiz Night, we were missing Daphne, our usual team member who was busy serving as the quiz mistress, and her husband, Neville, who also usually plays on our team, had to work at his job as manager of Giraffe. As a result, Noelene joined us along with our usual team member, Marolize, leaving us with a team of four.

The questions were 100% South African. We contributed a few answers when it came to the Nelson Mandela questions, but were at a loss for the balance of the questions, with answers only South Africans would know, including the music session. We’d never heard any of the songs, and we offered no help at all. Our team ended up last among the eight teams playing. It was disappointing for us. Hopefully, next week will be about more general knowledge when we’ll have something to contribute.

This morning, we washed a load of placemats and towels and began cooking a pot of mince (ground beef) for tonight’s dinner of taco salads. In a few hours, Tom will head to Nelspruit to swap out the rental car for another 30-day rental. Unfortunately, he has to make the three-hour round trip, but our credit cards only insure us for the first 30 days of a car rental contract.

And then it is gone.

Since we don’t have a car of our own with insurance, our only coverage is through the credit card’s 30-day plan. It’s a byproduct of being nomads who travel the world; in essence, a small price to pay. Otherwise, we’d have to pay a considerable amount through the rental company.

He’ll return by dinner, and we’ll enjoy a quiet evening, dining at the table on the veranda and watching the wildlife. Hopefully, we’ll see Norman again.

The school holidays end this coming Sunday, and the tourists will return to their homes in other locations. Once again, the bush will be calm and peaceful with more and more wildlife stopping by to see us, exactly how we like it.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 16, 2015:

Located on Highway 91 en route to Cairns, the Australian Armour & Military Museum is a popular point of interest for both tourists and locals. For more photos, please click here.

Heartbreaking story of beloved animal…Our friends are leaving today…

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Norman arrived in our garden at 10:30 PM and didn’t leave until midnight, gingerly making his way back over the little fence.

Today, our dear friends Kady and Rich will be leaving Marloth Park at 2:30 pm, when driver Wayland arrives to drive them to the airport in Nelspruit to begin the long journey back to their home in Florida, USA. We certainly understand the rigors of the almost two-day trek with long layovers and uncomfortable flights.

It’s been fantastic having them here with us, with busy days and nights interspersed with an endless stream of wildlife visitors. Their favorite activity was sitting at the table on our veranda, watching the animals come.

Nina, Norman’s mate, seemed worried about him.

The past 24 hours have been a real treat for them and for us, sharing everything with them, which was especially highlighted with a few giraffes visiting so close to the house that they were in total awe, making videos and taking photos of the magnificent animals. It was the first time the giraffes came to call during daylight hours since their arrival 17 days ago.

How serendipitous it was for the giraffes to arrive on their last full day, while the four of us played the card game, Spades, enjoying sundowners on the veranda.

No doubt, with his seriously injured left front leg, he was tentative about leaping back over the fence.

So today, we send them off with love and friendship, along with a plethora of memories they’ll cherish forever, as they’d embarked on their first foray to Africa, surrounded by wildlife and nature they’ve never experienced before. For us to be able to share the wonders of Marloth Park is indescribable.

On another note, the past few days have been harrowing after discovering that our beloved nyala Norman was seriously injured, perhaps breaking his left front leg. The first thing we heard was that euthanasia was indeed a possibility. We were heartbroken. For the past several years, Norman has been a highlight of our time in Marloth Park.

His left front leg is seriously injured.

I found myself giddy each time he arrived in the garden. Quickly, I’d run to the kitchen to cut up apples and carrots for him. Whenever I’ve made salad, I’ve saved a big bowl of vegetable scraps for him, which he loves, particularly the cabbage and lettuce, which are moist and fresh for him.

When Louise heard he’d been seriously injured, perhaps breaking his front left leg, we were devastated, especially when the news floating around the park was that he was to be euthanized. After years of loving this animal, I was beside myself, unable to contain my sorrow.

He was uncertain as to his next move. Wild animals are always on the move by instinct to forage and to avoid potential predators.

Our friends Kady and Rich had already become attached to Norman and his precious family of children and grandchildren. How could this be? Many said, “It’s nature, the way it should be.” But that doesn’t negate the fact that many of us, entrenched in the wonder and beauty of these animals, don’t become attached even when we never have an opportunity to so much as touch them or hold them in our arms.

When he and his family arrived last night, just as we were about to retire for the evening, he suddenly appeared after jumping over the little fence into the garden area where we feed him. Could his leg only be badly sprained if he was able to jump the fence? No one knows for sure since he’d yet to be darted and x-rayed.

Nina and Norman are often affectionate with one another.

When he arrived last night with his family, who stayed for over an hour with his family at his side, we sat out here with him, feeding him a copious amount of apples and carrots. If he stayed well fed, could he possibly survive a six-to-eight-week recovery period? Had he arrived at this late hour to say his final goodbye to the place where he experiences such love and good treats?

We stayed outdoors with him until he finally jumped back over the fence. These wild animals instinctively roam the bush rather than staying in one place. Sure, our resident wildebeest, Hal, and impala, Mac, are here almost all the time, but every so often they wander off for short periods to search for water and possibly other food sources. Mac seldom leaves for more than a few minutes. He lives here.

Nina stayed with him for the majority of the time he was in our garden. The Kids were outside the little fence, watching and waiting for their dad/grandpa.

When Nina and the kids finally left, he made a plan on how he was going to scale the little fence with that injured leg. Watching a nearby Big Daddy, he fluffed up his hair to make himself appear larger. Soon, the Big Daddy took off, and shortly thereafter, Norman did the same.

I didn’t sleep well, thinking of him being euthanized, even to the point of dreaming about him. First thing this morning, after I was showered, dressed, and outdoors, I wrote a text to Deidre at Wild & Free Rehabilitation Centre, who, along with the rangers and Doc Peet, asked her what to expect. Was he going to be euthanized? I held my breath waiting to hear her answer.

Only a moment later, she responded in a voice text, stating that if his health and strength are maintained during the recovery period, he won’t be euthanized. But, it will require a concerted effort by everyone he comes in contact with to help feed him and keep him well-nourished.

It was wonderful having our dear friends Kady and Rich here for 17 days. We will surely miss them.

The park is lacking in food sources for the animals due to months of little to no rain. We will surely do our part to keep Norman well-nourished with the healthy fruits and vegetables we know he loves and are healthy for him to consume. Only time will tell if he can survive the six-to-eight week recovery period. We’ll keep you informed.

Tonight is Quiz Night. Around 4:30, we’ll head out to the little local market, Savemor, to buy more carrots and apples for Norman. We plan to spend all of our evenings outdoors as late as we can to ensure we don’t miss Norman stopping by.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 15, 2015:

There are laws regarding the collection of any pieces of coral in Australia. For more photos, please click here.