

No post today…We’ll be back tomorrow…





There may be some redundancy from recent posts regarding world travel safety, but we didn’t want to miss a thing if we could.
An urgent warning: Singles have been brutally attacked and murdered when meeting a stranger in a nightclub. Do not leave a nightclub with a person you’ve just met. If you want to pursue a relationship with someone you’ve met, arrange a daytime get-together in a busy public place for a beverage or a meal. Do not go to any secluded spot with the individual. Do not go hiking alone or with a stranger(s). Meet with the person only in groups of people you know and trust. If your instincts tell you to run…run as fast as you can!!!
Traveling solo worldwide can be a transformative experience, but prioritizing safety is critical to ensuring your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here are some practical and emotional safety precautions to consider:
Pre-Trip Preparation
Being prepared doesn’t mean being paranoid. Trust the world’s kindness, but stay vigilant. With these precautions, you’ll have the confidence to focus on what truly matters: the incredible journey ahead.
Following the above suggestions doesn’t guarantee your safety, so you must constantly be alert for potentially risky situations. Travel in known groups as much as possible.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, November 21, 2014:
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| A pretty scene in the gardens at the Maui Tropical Plantation. |
When you’re out exploring the world, safety is paramount. Here’s a curated list of essential safety equipment for travelers, covering a range of scenarios from urban adventures to off-the-beaten-path journeys:
Are you gearing up to head into the wilds of Africa? Let us know, and we can tailor some recommendations! With only 103 days remaining until we return to Africa, we are considering the precautions we will again make as we have in the past.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, November 20, 2014:
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With such a lengthy post today on potentially added costs for single travel/supplement, we decided to extend this post topic to three parts. Tomorrow, we’ll cover precautions for single travelers, whether domestic or international. Please check back for Part 3, keeping in mind that many of these precautions also apply to couples and groups of travelers.
Singles often face additional charges while traveling, primarily due to the price of travel accommodations and packages. Here’s a breakdown of expected extra costs that solo travelers might encounter:
While these extra costs can feel like a penalty for wanting to explore the world solo, with strategic planning, they can often be reduced—or avoided entirely!
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, November 19, 2014:
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| “Another boring day in Paradise.” Ha! No boredom here! For more photos, please click here. |


After all these years of posts, we have yet to write about solo travel. As more readers write about the sad loss of a spouse or interest in traveling the world as a “solo traveler,” we felt it was time to raise this as a topic for our site.
While cruising, we’ve often met many solo travelers who enjoy participating in various activities geared toward singles. On occasion, these single events result in meeting another passenger, whether the same sex or not, which results in spending the remainder of the cruise together either as a couple or friends.
Some of these relationships last beyond the duration of the cruise. In contrast, others fade away due to distance from their respective homes and the cost and inconvenience of getting together in the future. Whether or not the passengers connect in pairs or groups of three or more, the experience can leave a pleasant memory of a special time.
Many times, we’d dine with small groups of passengers who’d met at singles events, and they seemed to know one another forever, let alone for a few days. How quickly they learned about one another and developed a commonality of traveling solo with the sense of bravery of venturing out on their own, especially after a period that may have been filled with grief and sorrow after losing a mate.
Many singles didn’t lose a spouse or recently ended a relationship and may have been single for a long time. Some passengers cruise hoping to ” meet someone” more easily than through singles apps, which are constantly becoming more complex and dangerous in some cases.
Today, we’re sharing information about traveling solo and, if you do so, what that can mean for you. We’ll share additional costs and precautions to exercise as solo travelers tomorrow.
The Joy of Solo Worldwide Travel
Embarking on a solo journey worldwide is an act of courage, curiosity, and self-discovery. It’s a leap into the unknown, where the only constant is yourself and your will to embrace what lies ahead. For anyone considering it, the joy of solo travel isn’t just in the places you’ll go—it’s in the person you’ll become.
Solo travel offers unparalleled freedom. You wake up daily with the world at your feet, deciding where to go, what to do, and how long to stay. There are no compromises or negotiations. Want to hike a mountain at sunrise? Go for it. Do you prefer to linger in a café, watching the world pass by? The choice is yours. This freedom allows you to tune into your desires, learning what truly brings you joy without the influence of others.
When you’re on your own, the world can open up. Strangers become friends over shared meals, random conversations, or chance encounters on a train. Without the buffer of a companion, you’re more approachable, open, and likely to connect with locals and fellow travelers. These connections often lead to memorable moments—a guided tour of a hidden gem, an invitation to a family dinner, or simply a story that sticks with you forever.
Traveling solo forces you to rely on your instincts and problem-solving skills. Navigating foreign cities, tackling language barriers, and dealing with unexpected hiccups build a sense of resilience. You learn to trust yourself in ways that extend far beyond the trip. There’s a deep satisfaction in figuring things out independently, proving you’re capable, adaptable, and resourceful.
Solo travel strips away distractions, allowing you to delve deep into who you are. It’s not just about discovering new countries; it’s about finding yourself. Without the familiar framework of your everyday life, you see your strengths and vulnerabilities with newfound clarity. You have time to think, reflect, and grow in ways that the comfort of routine rarely allows.
Traveling alone makes you more comfortable with uncertainty. Plans change, flights get delayed, and sometimes, you take a wrong turn. But in these moments of unpredictability, you find hidden treasures—a breathtaking view you hadn’t planned for, a quirky little shop, or a festival you didn’t know existed. The joy of solo travel lies in the unexpected, teaching you that not knowing is part of the adventure.
Every moment, from sipping a hot chai in a bustling market in India to watching the aurora borealis dance across the Arctic sky, feels more vivid when you’re alone. Without distractions, you can immerse yourself fully in the present. These moments of awe remind you how vast and beautiful the world is and how lucky you are to experience it.
Solo travel isn’t always easy. There will be times when you feel lonely or unsure. But these challenges are opportunities in disguise. They teach you resilience, resourcefulness, and how to find joy in your own company. The pride in overcoming obstacles is one of the most rewarding aspects of the journey.
When you travel alone, you become the author of your story. Every decision, every path taken, is entirely yours. This empowerment is transformative. You return not just with photos and souvenirs but with a sense of ownership over your life, knowing that you can shape it however you choose.
Solo worldwide travel isn’t just about seeing the world; it’s about experiencing it profoundly and authentically, with no one else’s preferences or judgments clouding the view. It’s about savoring the richness of life, embracing your individuality, and discovering the boundless joy of standing on your own two feet in a world full of wonder.
So pack your bags, take a deep breath, and enter the unknown. The joy of solo travel awaits.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, November 18, 2014:
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| Tom got a kick from this old Ford “Woody” displayed at the Maui Tropical Plantation. For more photos, please click here.. |


Yesterday’s post described the annoyance of correcting errors made by companies we deal with. One we failed to mention was a payment we’d made to a credit card company for $6000 at the beginning of November. A few days after our bank sent the payment via BillPay, I logged into the credit card account to ensure the payment was posted as I always do.
Most credit card companies send a message stating they have received the payment, but I always check to ensure the correct amount has been posted based on the amount I entered in BillPay. To my shock, the credit card showed a credit of two $6000 entries.
Immediately, I checked our bank account to see if two $6000 payments had been sent to the credit card company, but that wasn’t the case. Then, I called the credit card company, and they agreed that an error had been made and would correct it promptly. A few days later, I checked again, and only one $6000 payment was posted.
No, resolving this didn’t take long, but it required several steps and a degree of focus that could have been better spent elsewhere. In any case, this is a perfect example of checking and rechecking.
When we order groceries to be delivered each week, I carefully review the bill against the products we receive. I seldom find errors, but I have, on a few occasions, required me to contact the store through Amazon, in this case, Whole Foods. Amazon is excellent at crediting errors, but this becomes questionable now when they report that “shifty” people are taking advantage of their process. This could ruin it for all Amazon shoppers.
As Target shoppers know, they have tightened their return policy over the years when, previously, anyone could return an item, even if it was used, without a receipt. Here is their policy below:
Based on our lifestyle, I rarely return anything. I tend to re-purchase items I’ve used in the past, avoiding the necessity of returns. If I try something new, I only do so when we are in a location where we have easy access to return-mailing the product and a reliable mail service.
In South Africa, sending anything by the postal service isn’t possible. Thus, returning an item would require sending it through FedEx, DHL, or UPS, which is very costly. When we stock up on supplies before heading to South Africa, we check to ensure everything is in order with the items. This will be coming up soon.
While we’re in Nevada for 2½ months, we’ll stock up on anything we may need since a few items we use regularly are available in the country. We’ve often tried using alternatives, but they have been disappointing. Most food items are available in larger supermarkets or have acceptable alternatives. We adjust our recipes accordingly.
That’s it for today, folks. In a few hours, we’ll watch the Minnesota Vikings football game. We won’t be cooking today since we’ve ordered takeaway food, which will arrive at dinnertime.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, November 17, 2014:
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| Kaahumanu Church is a building in Maui on the US National Register of Historic Buildings. For more photos, please click here. |


It’s hard to believe how much time I spend each month fixing errors on credit cards, health insurance bills, purchases, and other financial activities. As a detail-oriented individual, I carefully check every bill or statement we receive, and if I find something wrong, I call immediately to resolve the issue.
It’s either a computer-generated issue or, at other times, a result of human error. Yes, occasionally, it can be my error or assumption that something is wrong when it isn’t. But my rationale is that in the long run, correcting my mistakes and humbly apologizing for my errors is better than ignoring those that aren’t mine.
Whether it’s an extra charge on a bank account, an unknown charge on a credit card, or a medical bill stating I need to pay when my health insurance covers the fees, these issues must all be addressed. If I bothered to keep track of every error correction, it could add up to hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars each year.
Another time-consuming issue is ordering a product that doesn’t arrive on time, is billed twice, or receiving a package in someone else’s name. This happens several times a year. Based on the fact that everything I buy is online. I’d go to Target or a pharmacy for many items in my old life. I don’t do that now, especially when traveling outside the US. There are no Target stores or well-stocked pharmacies, like Walgreens or CVS, in many countries.
When we prepare to travel to Africa, for example, I stock up on certain items I know I won’t be able to purchase there, such as my favorite cosmetic items. Yes, I use cosmetic items and always have and always will. That’s just me, and I doubt I will change anytime soon.
Once, a reader wrote to me suggesting I stop using cosmetics, have a short hairdo, and stop polishing my toes and doing my nails. Go “au natural,” she wrote. That may be fine for many, but not for me. Every morning, I shower and dress like I’m getting ready to go out.
That’s just me; I am sure many can relate while others cannot. I appreciate everyone’s viewpoint based on their personal choices. But it makes us unique when we can choose what suits us as individuals.
Regarding the reader’s comment above, I thanked her for taking the time to write, but I explained what I’ve described here today. We each have the right to choose what makes us feel our best. For the same reason, I eat healthy and make every effort to exercise to maintain health and fitness to the best of my ability.
There’s no magic formula that works for everyone. The wonder of humanity is our unique demeanor, presentation, and viewpoints on many topics. We don’t all have to agree. Those factors, alone or combined, attract us to other people, enabling us to connect, learn more, and enhance relationships with those we know and love and those we have yet to know.
We are interested in meeting new people as we travel the world who exude warmth, a heartfelt smile, and an inviting demeanor, regardless of their style or personal taste. That’s the true magic of it all.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, November 16, 2014:
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This morning, while I struggled on the elliptical, I wondered if it would be easier and better for me to use the treadmill or, at least, to alternate between the two, which I will begin tomorrow. Many seniors and younger people using either of these valuable machines often add an exercise bike to round out their workouts.
It’s been great to use these machines, often available in hotels, on cruises, and in some vacation rental condos and apartments. When we arrive at the condo in Lake Las Vegas, the fitness center has both, plus several other pieces of equipment I will use. At this hotel, the options are limited to elliptical, treadmill, and bike without any other resistance training machines, although there are hand weights, which I have been using.
Choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill depends on your fitness goals, joint health, and personal preference. Each has distinct advantages. Here are some points to consider if you have the option to use either of these
Ideal for: People looking to boost cardio endurance, improve running ability, or burn more calories in a shorter time.
Ideal for: People looking for a full-body workout that’s gentle on the joints or those rehabbing an injury.
The treadmill may be more effective if your primary goal is calorie burn and running endurance. However, the elliptical is an excellent choice for focusing on lower-impact, joint-friendly cardio that still targets multiple muscle groups. Many people alternate between the two for variety and balanced benefits.
Travel requires a degree of fitness, as many venues and tours require walking and, at times, hiking. It’s essential to check the difficulty level of every tour you may choose to ensure your fitness level is commensurate with the advised level of difficulty.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, November 15, 2014:
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We are thrilled to have booked our flights to South Africa for March 1, 2025, 107 days from today. We’ll arrive on March 3, pick up the rental car in Nelspruit, and begin the 75-minute drive on the crazy N4 highway to Marloth Park. We will most likely arrive by 3:00 pm. Fortunately, we’ll arrive in Nelspruit at 12:50 pm, with ample time to drive on the dangerous highway before dark.
A wave of pure joy washed over me when we booked our fights. It’s really happening! We left Marloth Park in April 2023, almost two years ago. It’s hard to believe so much time has passed, but in many ways, it’s dragged on and on, especially spending so much time in hotels.
Once we arrive in Nevada, it will be easier in many ways since we’ll be able to spend time outdoors, walking in the Village to restaurants and shops. Sure, we could stand outdoors or sit on the one available bench, but now it has become cold and windy, and it’s not appealing.
I continue to walk and exercise daily. My cardiovascular health is slowly improving, but my legs still struggle to walk any distance. This may be my fate, but I will continue to force myself to walk daily, hoping to improve. It’s how it is, and I won’t let it keep us from continuing our travels.
For the flights listed below, we checked prices for several days, and the cost listed below is the best we could find, considering that we won’t have that one long 17-hour flight over the ocean, which is always difficult. We prefer that we land in London about halfway through, although the flight from Cape Town is longer than the usual one hour from Johannesburg to Nelspruit.
However, the overall travel time of 28½ hours is tolerable compared to some even more expensive flights, which took almost 40 hours from start to finish, let alone the driving time from Nelspruit to Marloth Park.
Here’s our flight, which we booked at Expedia on our website here
The days can’t come soon enough, but we’re committed to making the best of our remaining month in Cleveland (we leave one month from today!), and of course, we’ll enjoy the 2½ months we’ll spend in Lake Las Vegas. We’re both cheerful and hopeful for the future. Nothing is more beneficial for joyful longevity than planning exciting events for the future.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, November 14, 2014:
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| Calla lilies are always so beautiful, with their yellow and red coloration. For more photos, please click here. |


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