Part 2…The best new luxury resorts around the world…Second place on Quiz Night!…

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A rectangular formation of clouds at sunset.

Here’s the continuation of the fantastic article from Travel and Leisure, found here on their site:

“The Best New Resorts Around the World—Including a Luxe Mexico All-inclusive and an Italian Countryside Escape…continued…

Le Château de Théoule, Théoule-sur-Mer, France

After more than a decade living in France, I’ve seen my fair share of castles, but Château de Théoule is different. Like a cat with nine lives, the building has undergone multiple renovations since its humble start as a savonnerie, or soap factory, in 1630. For this latest reinvention into a 44-room retreat, interior decorator and antique dealer Marie-Christine Mecoen paid tribute to the château’s former owners (who include a Scottish lord and wealthy French silk merchants) with subtle touches. Each room’s design is anchored around a hand-picked antique, so no two are alike. Some are outfitted with sumptuous, draped silk headboards and boudoir-style fringe lamps. My ochre-colored duplex room, dubbed La Valériane (after the flower used in perfume), channeled a 1960s South of France vibe, with floor-to-ceiling gauzy, eggshell-white custom linen curtains, violet velvet armchairs, and rattan palm tree light fixtures. I also appreciated the relaxed location—unlike nearby Cannes, with its international jet-setters, the town of Théoule-sur-Mer attracts in-the-know locals who come to hike trails in the surrounding Massif de l’Estérel mountains, and get away from it all. Doubles from $680. —Lane Nieset

Les Lumières, Versailles, France

It’s easy to feel like royalty at Les Lumières, a hotel across the street from the Château de Versailles. There are gestures to France’s most famous palace everywhere: The gold-plated bar at Le Bar des Philosophes pays homage to Louis XIV’s court outfits, and the hotel fragrance is by Trudon. This Versailles candlemaker dates back to 1643. The 31 rooms and suites are also named after famed French writers and philosophers from the Age of Enlightenment, like Voltaire and Denis Diderot, and explorers, like Navy officer Jean-François de Galaup, comte de Lapérouse. It all contributes to a feeling of learning, knowledge, and contemplation. (There was even a journal in my suite to write in and take home.) I also took advantage of the Dream Machine amenity, a light machine brought to my room for a self-hypnosis experience. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $428. —Robin Allison Davis

Le Mas Candille, Mougins, France

Le Mas Candille, set in the hilltop village of Mougins in the French Riviera, seems to define the area’s storied glamour. With majestic views of the bay of Cannes and the Lérins Islands, it’s easy to be swept away by the scenery. Still, the interiors of this 46-room property, which initially opened in 2001 and has come back to life after a careful restoration by French-Mexican architect Hugo Toro, are just as compelling. Furniture and decor were sourced at Provençal flea markets, and I adored the green carpet and matching drapes in my suite (both custom-crafted by Toro). The Clarins spa was another revelation. After several laps in the indoor-outdoor heated swimming pool, I relaxed in the steam room and braved the cold plunge pool, before an hour-long facial with plant extracts, almost all grown on the property. Well-nourished by chef Romain Antoine’s Mediterranean-inspired feast of langoustine and scallops, I retired to the library to skim the collection of classics. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $532. —Kasia Dietz

Mara Toto Tree Camp, Masai Mara, Kenya

The safari started from the plane. I saw my first elephants while approaching the Ol Kiombo Airstrip, a 45-minute flight from Nairobi. After touchdown, I spied warthogs, Cape buffalo, and Grant’s gazelles—their coats glowing pale yellow in the East African sun—on the drive to Mara Toto Tree Camp, a Great Plains Conservation camp run by safari stars and legendary conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert. They’ve created a feeling of total immersion and intimacy: Mara Toto Tree Camp has just four tented suites on the Ntiakitiak River. Each one, lifted nearly 10 feet off the ground and connected with snaking wooden walkways, feels like a tree house, with all the adventure you could ask for. Of course, the accommodations are exceedingly comfortable, and the fireside dinners of blackened ribeye, herb salads, and creamy local cheeses are delicious. But you’re here for the game drives, which are unmatched. Mara Toto has access to both the Maasai Mara National Reserve and Mara North Conservancy, a part of the same ecosystem, but with a fraction of the crowds. “Privacy counts,” says Dereck. “You have to be careful to avoid the abundance of tourism, but in Kenya, there are more than enough private corners in nature to explore.” I would say this corner is one of the best. Doubles from $1,445 per person per night, all-inclusive. —Nicole Trilivas

Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort, Turkey

Last May, Türkiye’s Maxx Royal Resorts made a showstopping entrance into the luxury hotel scene on the Bodrum Peninsula with Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort. This wildly chic paradise seems to sprout organically from the dreamy Aegean landscape. Low-slung suites and villas, some of which flank the watery edge of a brilliantly conceived, almost labyrinthine pool, unfurl down to a secluded bay and beach. All have balconies or terraces, and many have private pools. The resort is constructed mostly of smooth stone and wood, giving it warmth and elegance. With seven restaurants and four bars, the gastronomy is uniformly superb, eliminating the need to venture off property. Partnerships with Caviar Kaspia, lifestyle hospitality brand Scorpios, and Spago by Wolfgang Puck, among others, offer international cachet. The 62,000-square-foot Maxx Wellbeing Centre is also a dizzying universe of wellness and an oasis of serenity. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $1,129. —Marcia DeSanctis

One&Only Kéa Island, Greece

The road that leads to Greece’s first One&Only resort is not for the faint of heart. The hairpin bends between precipitous valleys and parched hills appear to careen off the cliffs into the sea until you are finally ushered to the top and into a vast, light-filled atrium. From this panoramic hilltop pinnacle, tiers of double-height, glass-fronted villas cascade down to a sheltered cove and beach club. Of course, you could skip the drive altogether and come by speedboat (a 45-minute, adrenaline-fueled ride from the Greek mainland), by helicopter (there’s no airport on Kéa), or even on foot (via a gorgeous coastal trail from Pisses beach). Better yet, charter Stavros, a handsome wooden kaiki moored at the private jetty, for gentle cruises around Kéa’s beach-fringed coastline. Here, it’s all too easy to simply hunker down at the resort and surrender to the blissful isolation and solicitous attention. I spent hours idly watching seagulls from my miniature infinity pool or contemplating the play of light on the hazy hills etched on the horizon from Kosmos bar. A dedicated host is on call 24/7 via WhatsApp to book spa treatments, tennis lessons, diving sessions, or dinner reservations. I found the enormous spa a bit sterile, but the sea-view yoga pavilion motivated me to get in a workout before a long, slow breakfast of kayianas (scrambled eggs with tomatoes, feta, and oregano) and a calming infusion of chamomile blossom. Doubles from $1,672. —Rachel Howard

The Potlatch Club, Eleuthera, Bahamas

In the 1960s, The Potlatch Club, on the island of Eleuthera, hosted VIP guests like Paul and Linda McCartney, who honeymooned at the hotel in 1969. Last summer, it reopened following a meticulous renovation, with 11 suites and cottages scattered across 12 lush beachside acres. Some accommodations are new, some are original, but all are enlivened with era-appropriate accents—cute wallpaper here, a vintage model ship there. Think of it as a Slim Aarons shoot recreated for the Instagram age. Over in the main house, I found McCartney’s lyrics to “Oh Darling” written on a Potlatch Club napkin, framed on the library wall. Doubles from $775. —Flora Stubbs

Princes’ Palace Resort, Büyükada, Turkey

Reachable by helicopter or boat, the 69-room Princes’ Palace is located on Büyükada, the largest of the nine Princes’ Islands off Istanbul, where Ottoman intellectuals retreated in the 1800s. The crescent-shaped hotel’s glass facade is visible solely by sea, making quite the first impression when you dock. The main building’s minimalist design revolves around sweeping views of the water and Istanbul’s skyline, which you’ll see everywhere from the terrace of seasonal, farm-to-table Ema’s Dining Room, where seafood is sourced off the coast and herbs are grown in the on-site garden. When I was one of the first to visit Princes’ Palace in mid-December, it was too brisk to take a dip in the swimmable beach below, but I had a prime view of the sunset from my balcony suspended over the Mediterranean-style beach club and the tiered infinity pools. In Turkey, a hammam is practically a given, but the slate-gray, marble-and-tile one here is an experience in itself, especially when paired with a dip in the sea-facing indoor pool. Doubles from  $675. —Lane Nieset

Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, Salzburg, Austria

In the 15th century, the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg built a grand lodge on Lake Fuschl, in Austria’s mountainous Salzkammergut region. Now, the schloss, or castle, has been reborn as the 98-room Rosewood Schloss Fuschl. Given the property’s lineage, I expected it to be thronged by European elites. But I was pleasantly surprised to find locals and backpack-toting travelers among the mix—one afternoon, I squeezed onto a communal picnic table beside a German family, where we all savored smoked trout and generous pours of grüner veltliner. Doubles from $650. —Siobhan Reid

​​The Store, Oxford, England

There’s a reason why the university city of Oxford has inspired so many generations of children’s authors. The place is a rabbit hole of intrigue. Alas, its tight medieval center doesn’t leave much space for 21st-century facilities, and for decades, it has lacked the hotel that equals its popularity as a destination.

The 101-room Store opened last summer and presents a brilliant solution to this problem. It’s a breezy, modern hotel, complete with a spa (with Oskia products) and rooftop cocktail bar (usually you have to sneak onto a college roof for such a good view). And yet, it still has a bit of Oxford charm, being located in an iconic old building: the venerable Boswells department store, which was open for nearly three centuries before shuttering in 2020. The lobby presents a serene refuge from the tourist hubbub outside, and I found that the Treadwell restaurant offers inventive spins on British classics, like curried chicken pie. Doubles from $373. —Richard Godwin

Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Turks & Caicos

This Marriott Luxury Collection resort, just 10 minutes from South Caicos Airport, welcomes guests with coral stone walkways leading up to the property. Menus at the six restaurants incorporate local ingredients like conch and Bambarra Rum—I’m still thinking about the platters of smoky grilled lobster at Cobo Bar & Grill and Key lime tart piled with marshmallow-soft brûléed meringue at Sisal, the lobby bar and restaurant. The 100 ocean-facing guest rooms have hand-carved furniture, textured wall hangings, and prints from a February 2024 study of the islands’ flamingo population. Individual and couples treatment rooms, an aqua thermal facility with a steam room, a dry sauna, and a salt room join a serene hammam in the spa. Here, a massage therapist eased my sore muscles after days spent bonefishing, snorkeling, hiking, and scuba diving. Across the property, the kids’ club offers daily activities, including guided kayaking, paddleboarding, beach discovery walks, and trips to the School for Field Studies’ Center for Marine Resource Studies, which helps restore Turks and Caicos’ coral reefs. I explored the underwater coral plantings as part of the Snorkel for a Cause program at the resort, which was my favorite part of the trip. Doubles from $726. —Carrie Honaker

Valldemossa, Mallorca

A little-known secret about Mallorca is that you can find more history (and incredible luxury) if you leave the beach and head into the mountains. Enter Valldemossa, one of the newest properties to grace the peaks of the Tramuntana mountain range. Built on the former site of Royal Charterhouse Palace, which once housed guests visiting the village of Valldemossa’s 14th-century monastery, the hotel has preserved that antique feeling. A stone staircase framed by olive trees leads to the main terrace, from which a meandering path will bring you to one of the 12 rooms. The pool is a prime spot to enjoy the views of citrus orchards, and the village below—but a table at De Tokio a Lima, the second location of Palma’s hit Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant—offers an even better perch. Aesthetics aside, the heart of the hotel is the Sanctuary, where guests can receive full-body spa rituals tailored to their individual needs. After arriving for my appointment in the morning, I emerged from the treatment room hours later, having completely lost track of time, imbued with a newfound lightness and feeling fresh to explore the village down the street. Doubles from $365. —Jamie Ditaranto

The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa

When one thinks of Bora Bora, the first image that comes to mind is likely an overwater bungalow positioned over crystal-clear waters. The newest resort on the French Polynesian island since 2017, The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa, is no exception. One of its main draws is its location at the base of Mount Otemanu, offering an unobstructed view. The design, which results from an extensive renovation and rebrand (Le Méridien used to sit on this plot of the atoll), also brings the outdoors in. There are 14 beach bungalows, as well as 128 overwater bungalows—the largest collection in Bora Bora—connected by a winding boardwalk. The vibe is laid-back, but I found the staff’s anticipatory service to be a subtle and welcome part of the stay. For example, on the second day, a server at Tipanier, one of the hotel’s six restaurants, brought our coffee orders as soon as we were seated at breakfast. Snorkeling gear was left outside the door of our bungalow following an offhand comment I made to a waiter about seeing stingrays from our plunge pool. At the spa, the masseuse added a local soothing serum to aid in healing the sunburn I’d gotten on my back. And at Maere, the resort’s signature restaurant, the chef cooked all the courses on seafood night for my mother, who does not eat raw shellfish—a shame, in my book, but one that the restaurant handled perfectly. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $1,000. —Jess Feldman”

Each of these luxury resorts is indeed expensive. But for that special anniversary, wedding, or other celebration, a few days or a week at one of the locations may be the perfect venue. Having the prices for the resorts included in this article was imperative. Thanks to all the writers and reviewers who visited these locations, from which we borrowed the information from the Travel and Leisure online magazine.

On another note, we attended Quiz Night at Giraffe last evening and became part of a new group of six. We would have been in first place, but we all had trouble with the music portion of the quizzes. Nonetheless, we each won ZAR 50, US $2.73 which covered the cost of our entry fee. We had a fantastic time with this group, which we’ll join again next week for 60s Night.

Today and tonight, we’re staying in for a lovely dinner and more exquisite time on the veranda with our wildlife friends.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 7, 2015:

A lagoon at Kealia Beach in Kapaa, Kauai. For more photos, please click here.

Part 1…The best new luxury resorts around the world…

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A lovely view from Ngwenya.

So sorry we didn’t post yesterday. We all have days when we aren’t feeling up to snuff. Over the past few days, I haven’t felt like myself, and I am taking it a little easy. My blood pressure spiked to a dangerous level while my pulse was normal, and I didn’t experience any Afib or other heart-related symptoms.

Typically, I can feel my blood pressure spike for no reason at all. Subsequently, we went to Doc Theo yesterday. After a slight medication adjustment, it is better, but it took the wind out of my sails, and I am still not 100%. Again, today, I’ll take it easy, and hopefully, tonight, I’ll feel well enough to go to Quiz Night at Giraffe, which begins at 6:30 pm.

After the visit with Doc Theo, we headed to Spar Market, where we purchased everything we needed for the next few weeks in less than 20 minutes. Once back in Maroth Park, we stopped at The Butchery to pick up our pre-ordered biltong, which was out of stock last Friday due to the huge number of holidaymakers in the park in April.

The holidays are over, and the tourists have left. Fortunately, we’re enjoying an endless stream of wildlife this morning as we lounge on the veranda. It’s delightful to see our wildlife friends returning to the garden.

There are just the two of us tonight, but dear friend Patty Pan arranged a spot in a group for us. We won’t eat dinner at Giraffe tonight since they don’t have much on the menu that either of us cares to eat. We’ll eat at home early since we have plenty of delicious leftovers in the freezer to enjoy with nothing to do but heat them in the microwave.

As a result, since I’m not feeling creative today, we are sharing a fantastic article from Travel and Leisure, found here on their site:

“The Best New Resorts Around the World—Including a Luxe Mexico All-inclusive and an Italian Countryside Escape…

Travel + Leisure’s 2025 It List.

By Travel + Leisure Editors
Published on April 16, 2025

Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres, Adult All-inclusive, Mexico

Repurposed from a previous life as a mid-range all-inclusive into a Marriott Luxury Collection resort, the adults-only Almare offers a much-needed shot in the arm to sleepy Isla Mujeres, across a peaceful bay from the buzz of Cancun. Here, the vibes are more “summer camp” than seclusion—I joined my fellow guests at morning yoga, mezcal tastings, and even a jog to Punta Sur, the island’s southernmost point. The 109 rooms are spacious and bright; some travelers might find the Mexico-meets-modern vibes a bit too sparse. However, I appreciated the Byredo toiletries, spacious soaking tubs, and sunset-facing balconies. The food was also a hit: all-day restaurant Boga focuses on local fare from the Yucatan, and The Breeze, a lunchtime pool bar, has tacos, ceviche, and an excellent burger. If you like the convenience of an all-inclusive (unlimited drinks!), the charm of a boutique hotel (staff who know your coffee order!), and the reliability of a mega-brand (loyalty points!), Almare has a winning formula. Doubles from $1,025, all-inclusive. —Laura Ratliff

Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, Indonesia

When I arrived at Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, it was pouring, but rain suits the place. The 85-room resort sits in a valley inside the Payangan rainforest, about a 30-minute drive north of Ubud. The primary building, a glassy hilltop structure, houses Kirana, an all-day Indonesian restaurant, and Amerta, which serves fire-roasted entrées. The resort also has a spa, two pools, a lounge, and a bar that serves cocktails made with arrack, a local cousin of rum. Looking out from my villa’s infinity pool after the rain had cleared, I saw nothing but slopes covered with bamboo, banana plants, and palms. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $600. —Hannah Walhout 

Arev St. Tropez, France

“Un rêve” means “a dream” in French. And indeed, a stay at the 50-room Arev—St. Tropez’s newest hideout, set on a leafy, quiet street, but only a 10-minute stroll from the bustle of Place des Lices, feels like a reverie you won’t want to wake from. Spanish designer Luis Bustamante took inspiration from the nearby Old Port, using a nautical, sophisticated, red, white, and blue palette throughout the property. I enjoyed a tasting in the outdoor Champagne Lounge (my bubbles were served from a chic vintage trolley cart). I spent my days lounging by the pool or strolling the courtyards and gardens filled with magnolias, bougainvillea, and olive trees. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $643. —Robin Allison Davis

Atzaró Okavango, Botswana

Atzaró Okavango’s inception began as an unlikely collaboration between Beks Ndlovu, the Zimbabwe-born founder of African Bush Camps, and Philip Gonda and Victor Guasch, the co-owners of the very stylish, design-forward hospitality group Atzaró. The hotel’s lobby bar and connected lounge spaces are filled with an impressive African art collection, from masks to textiles like mud cloth sourced from Benin, the Congo, Ethiopia, and the Tuareg people. The luxurious tents, ranging from 1,740 to 4,130 square feet, have bathtubs and mid-century and antique African furniture. But it’s the safaris themselves, led by some of the region’s best guides (Ndlovu started his career as a guide, so he has managed to attract and train the best) that are the reason to choose Atzaró. The animal sightings are frequent and thrilling, and the resort has fantastic post-safari cocktails; the camp’s resident mixologist might even mix you a sundowner in the bush. Doubles from $690 per person, all-inclusive. —Gisela Williams

Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

From the plunge pool outside my villa at Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe, I could almost reach out and touch the grapevines. Channeling a sense of place in Mexico’s preeminent wine region was a goal for architect Michel Rojkind, who made the valley’s natural beauty the star of this resort. It’s 30 sand-colored villas blend into the hillside and have from one to three bedrooms; each has a fireplace and a wine bar, plus a shower that opens onto an outdoor deck. As serene as my quarters were, the common spaces are where the 16-acre property really shines. I loved stopping for a burrito or a sip of mezcal at Roka, a repurposed Airstream trailer; elsewhere, I found a yoga platform, a spa, a meditation labyrinth, and a temescal. A visit to Pictograma, the resort’s winery, which grows grenache grapes, is essential to any stay. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $599.​ —Nina Ruggiero

Borgo dei Conti Resort, Umbria, Italy

Once upon a time, in the Umbrian countryside, there was an enchanted 19th-century villa, built on the foundations of a 13th-century fortress. It was inhabited by Count Lemmo Rossi Scotti, who spent his days painting and tending to the garden. Fast-forward more than a hundred years, and now that enchanted villa is a luxury resort run by The Hospitality Experience, the hoteliers behind other Italian properties like The Place Firenze and Londra Palace in Venice. Naturally, the villa’s new owners worked to preserve its historic integrity, restoring the frescoes and wood-beamed ceilings, while still bringing it into the 21st century. Maybe it was all the lore surrounding the place, but I did feel a bit like a modern-day countess, whether I was savoring risotto with goat cheese and Mediterranean herbs or cozying up on the sofa in my spacious suite. Perugia, Umbria’s Medieval capital, is just a 30-minute drive away, but don’t be surprised if you feel an almost supernatural pull urging you to stay put and explore the 40-acre grounds instead, perhaps with a picnic in the woods. Surely, Count Rossi Scotti would have wanted it that way. Doubles from $600. —Laura Itkowitz

Clara Arte Resort, Inhotim, Brazil

After more than a decade of anticipation, art buffs can now stay in a hotel at the Inhotim Institute, one of the world’s largest open-air museums, about an hour and a half from the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Clara Arte opened in December 2024 at the edge of the museum’s botanical garden, which features 4,000 tropical plant species and 700 artworks across 24 stand-alone galleries, all designed by distinct architects. Clara Arte’s 46 stilted villas spill down a lush hill by the entrance; São Paulo-based designer Marina Linhares filled each one with stone and wood furnishings that gesture to the landscape. All stays include three meals, a lavish afternoon “tea” with surprisingly sharp Brazilian brut, and the addictive cheese bread pão de queijo. As the sun sets, you listen to the chirps and croaks of the Atlantic Forest, or relax with a caipirinha at the piano bar, which hosts nightly bossa nova music. Of course, you come here mainly to browse contemporary art at the Inhotim Institute, a five-minute walk away. It takes repeated visits to fully immerse yourself in the towering installations, which include big names like Matthew Barney and Yayoi Kusama. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $410, all-inclusive. —Mark Johanson

Dunas de Formentera, Spain

I had ditched my shoes to walk the undulating dunes within an hour of arriving at Dunas de Formentera, a 45-room retreat on the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands. Formentera, a craggy 12-mile spit of land, is a low-key refuge from the party scene in Ibiza, just a 30-minute ferry ride away. The hotel comprises nine whitewashed bungalows, a few steps from the beach with its soft sand and clear water. Its restaurant, Caliu, specializes in wood-fired dishes, like the artichokes with cured egg yolk and ham that became a favorite during my stay. Dunas puts the eco in eco-resort: Hourglasses in the shower keep track of the time, and even the bedside phones are made of wood. I spent my days parked by the saltwater infinity pool, where the cooling breezes were more than welcome in the parched Spanish summer. Doubles from $550. —Julia Chaplin

Gundari, Folegandros, Greece

Folegandros, an unspoiled island about eight miles long, is only a 50-minute ferry ride from busy Santorini, but it feels like another world. High on a deserted clifftop overlooking the Sea of Crete, Gundari would feel radical anywhere. But in this location, the hypermodern hotel feels almost revolutionary. After opening, the property’s 30 cliffside suites and villas quickly became Instagram-famous. But Gundari’s ambitions go far beyond the visual. The main restaurant, Orizon, is run by Lefteris Lazarou, who earned the Athens restaurant Varoulko a Michelin star. Lazarou’s moussaka, made with shrimp instead of the traditional lamb, was light and aromatic; a risotto of brown orzo with Greek cheese, chili pepper, and wine from the nearby island of Lemnos was somehow both wholesome and indulgent. There’s also a striking subterranean spa where an Australian therapist gave me a world-class massage using oils infused with Greek botanicals. Doubles from $654.​ —Flora Stubbs

Hôtel du Couvent, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nice, France

Hidden away in Nice’s Old Town, Hôtel du Couvent is the chic property this coastal city craved. The 17th-century convent—home to the Poor Clare and Salesian orders until the 1980s—got a $100-million renovation and is now a hotel with 88 guest rooms. Mine had Italian flea-market finds and custom furniture made from old ceiling beams. A terraced garden contains more than 300 plant species, many of which supply the three on-site restaurants. Underground is a contemporary interpretation of the Roman baths excavated in nearby Cimiez, with a warm tepidarium, a hot caldarium, and a frigidarium, or cold plunge. The latter was particularly restorative, as was the Negroni No. 2 at Le Bar, in the cloister, which adds beets and strawberries to the classic recipe. It was a subtle reinvention that, like the hotel itself, improved upon the original without losing its soul. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $545.​ —Paul Jebara

Jannah Lamu, Kenya

For decades, on Lamu, a tiny island off the coast of Kenya that has long been fashionable with a certain free-spirited European crowd, the Peponi has been the stylish hotel of choice. Now, thanks to the opening of Jannah Lamu (the word jannah means “paradise” in Arabic), there’s another extraordinary place to stay. This elegant and quirky B&B—with seven accommodations—in the village of Shela is owned and designed by Kenyan designer Anna Trzebinski. Some rooms have stained-glass windows, others have bespoke wood-carved furniture, and all have Trzebinski-designed fabrics. While there isn’t a restaurant on site, there is a decadent breakfast, including sliced avocados, fresh fruit, samosas, and fried donut-like treats called kaimati. The property also recommends several cafes that deliver delicious Swahili dishes so guests can dine on one of the property’s wind-swept terraces. While located on Shela’s main square rather than on the beach, the property offers guests the option to spend time on one of three beautifully crafted traditional boats. There’s nothing like sailing one of the elegant wooden dhows (with a canopied deck covered in pillows) through mangrove-lined channels, then diving into the water, before a picnic of grilled lobster and fish curry back on deck. Doubles from $350. —Gisela Williams

Kibale Lodge, Uganda

Kibale Forest in western Uganda, is known as the best place in the world to see chimpanzees, and there is no better base to explore this underrated part of Africa than Kibale Lodge, a short drive away. The lodge is Volcanoes Safaris’ fifth on their great ape safari circuits through Uganda and Rwanda. Perched high on a ridge, the estate boasts spectacular 360-degree views of the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and greenery of rural Uganda. It is an intimate affair, with just eight papyrus-thatched bandas, each solar-powered and handbuilt by talented local craftspeople. At the heart of the lodge, a welcoming common area encourages guests to gather for drinks and food, including Ugandan specialities and more familiar dishes using local or homegrown ingredients. I swapped safari stories with my fellow visitors over freshly caught tilapia, firinda (bean stew), and dodo (steamed greens), while treks were fueled by freshly squeezed passionfruit juice and on-the-go “rolex” (rolled omelettes). The main draw to Kibale Lodge is, of course, the chimpanzees, but it’s well worth taking the time to enjoy the 150 acres of rewilded grounds here, along with the pool, sauna, and complimentary massages to ease post-trek aches. It’s the perfect sanctuary to retreat after searching for primates in the thick Ugandan jungle. Doubles from $990, all-inclusive. —Gisela Williams

La Roqqa, Porto Ercole, Italy

Giorgio Bonotto, La Roqqa’s simpatico general manager, supplied the words I’d been searching for. I’d arranged to meet him for aperitivi on the hotel’s roof terrace, with views over Tuscan rooftops and a harbor full of bobbing boats. The 16th-century fort that crowns the hill across the bay was soaking up the last rays of the setting sun as he said, “I like to describe La Roqqa as an urban resort in the middle of a fishing village.” I wish I’d thought of that. The contrast between the chic interior design and the refreshing authenticity of Porto Ercole, the laid-back coastal town outside its doors, makes the 55-room La Roqqa such an original arrival on the Tuscan scene. Walk 10 minutes to the port and you’re in a film about small-town Italy, where grandparents and kids stroll along the quay, gelato in hand. Walk, or be driven in one of La Roqqa’s electric cars, 10 minutes in the other direction, and you’re in a dolce vita romance set in a wild, rocky bay where beautiful, tanned people loll on loungers at the resort’s beach club. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $515. —Lee Marshall”

We’ll present Part 2 tomorrow and complete this article. If you’d like to see photos of these resorts, please click Travel and Leisure’s link here.

Although the above resorts are expensive, a traveler might consider a luxury experience during a short stay on their way to other nearby locations. Occasionally, we have opted for a luxury resort, leaving us with exquisite memories of a few-night stay.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 6, 2015:

A fisherman was casting toward the huge surf in Kauai. For more photos, please click here.

A final dinner with old friends…Dining out a lot with much more to come…

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Last night, Don, Kathy, and Kathy’s sister Connie joined us for dinner at Jabula. It was our last evening together before they returned to their home in Hawaii in a few days. We will miss them.

In 20 days, we’ll arrive in Minnesota for granddaughter Maisie’s graduation on May 29. Her graduation party will follow on Saturday, May 31. We’ll have three days to recover from the long journey before the festivities begin.

We’ve decided we won’t be cooking our meals while in the US, so we are staying at a Marriott Residence Inn that will have a small kitchen. Why won’t we prepare meals in a convenient kitchen with a full-sized stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher?

From our past experiences, these short stays, in this case, three weeks, isn’t long enough to warrant buying spices and other ingredients required to make our keto meals. Sure, on occasion, we may order from GrubHub or a similar service, without a delivery fee from our membership in Amazon Prime.

But, overall, we’ll be dining out with family and friends. Undoubtedly, we expect to pay a minimum of US $100, ZAR 1839, daily for the two of us to dine out for dinners, even in the most modest restaurants. The cost will increase exponentially when we take our kids and grandkids to dinner.

We won’t eat out for breakfast since the hotel offers a complimentary breakfast with eggs, bacon, or sausages. We continue to avoid eating lunch, except when we get together with friends or family. On those days, we won’t eat breakfast.

However, to continue on our path of healthy eating and hopefully lose more weight, we will observe the following to maintain our ketogenic lifestyle.

Dining out on a keto diet can absolutely work with a little planning and confidence. Here’s a practical guide to help you stay low-carb without feeling restricted or awkward at restaurants:

1. Choose the Right Type of Restaurant

Some cuisines are more naturally keto-friendly:

  • Steakhouses, seafood places, BBQ joints – Easy to order meat + veggies.

  • Mexican – Skip the tortillas/rice/beans, go for fajitas or taco salads without the shell.

  • Burgers – Ask for a lettuce wrap instead of a bun, skip the fries.

  • Asian – Choose stir-fry without sauce or with minimal sauce (ask for steamed instead of battered). Be wary of hidden sugars in sauces like teriyaki, hoisin, and sweet chili.

  • Breakfast spots – Omelets, eggs, sausage, bacon, and avocado are your friends.

2. Master the Art of Modifying Your Order

Be polite but assertive:

  • Swap starchy sides (fries, rice, mashed potatoes) for a side salad, sautéed greens, or steamed broccoli.

  • Ask for no bread, no croutons, or sauce on the side.

  • Many places will accommodate custom meals if you ask kindly.

Example:
“Could I please have the grilled salmon, but instead of rice, could I get a side of spinach or another vegetable?”

3. Watch for Hidden Carbs

Be cautious with:

  • Sauces and dressings – Often loaded with sugar or starch. Ask for oil & vinegar, ranch, blue cheese, or Caesar (but double-check).

  • Soups – Many are thickened with flour or cornstarch.

  • Breaded or fried items – Stick to grilled, roasted, or baked options.

4. Alcohol: Yes, But Mindfully

  • Stick to dry wines, clear spirits (vodka, gin, tequila) with soda water or on the rocks.

  • Avoid beer, sweet cocktails, and liqueurs.

5. Be Prepared and Stay Flexible

  • Check the menu online beforehand if possible.

  • Eat a small keto-friendly snack before dining out if you’re unsure of the options.

  • If nothing fits perfectly, aim for the closest option and don’t stress – one meal won’t derail you.

6. Speak Up – You’re Not Alone

Restaurants are used to food restrictions (gluten-free, vegan, etc.), so don’t be shy. You might even inspire someone at your table to think twice about their own choices!

Once we leave Marloth Park in September, we won’t be cooking meals again until December after we arrive in New Zealand. In the interim, we’ll continue to be mindful of what we eat and how it’s prepared, if possible.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 4, 2015:

Tom’s hair stood up before a haircut in Kauai. For more photos,  please click here.

Lisa missed it by one day!…We knew they’d eventually come to call…

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Sitting at the table on the veranda, doing my nails, I looked up to see this giraffe, which moments later proved to be eight giraffes.

While Lisa was here for the full month, we often discussed the possibility of giraffes walking through the garden and stopping to graze. It never happened, although she saw many giraffes when we drove along the roads in Marloth Park and Kruger National Park.

However, seeing these magnificent animals walking through the garden of our holiday home is very special. It’s happened many times over the years we’ve spent in Marloth Park, but it hadn’t occurred to us since we arrived on March 3, two months ago, until yesterday early afternoon, one day after Lisa left.

Since no other giraffes had visited our garden recently, the treetops were abundant with leaves that they prefer to eat.

She has since arrived safely back in Florida, and I couldn’t resist sending her photos of these amazing visitors. Although she was undoubtedly disappointed she’d missed this momentous event, she felt satisfied with all she’d witnessed in this magical place.

The giraffes could easily have visited when we were out during the day or evening. Based on our busy schedule while she was here, we often took a short nap during the day and could have easily missed their arrival since they are so quiet. In any case, Tom and I were outrageously excited to see them.

With their heads always in the treetops, getting good face shots of giraffes is difficult.

As mentioned in one of today’s captions, getting good face shots was impossible while they were here yesterday. Their heads stayed buried in the treetops, munching on the remaining vegetation they chose to eat.

Here are some interesting facts about giraffes, some of which we may have shared years ago, but not most recently.

They found as many morsels as they could.

Fascinating Facts About Giraffes

Giraffes are among the most iconic and beloved animals in the world. Their towering necks, gentle demeanor, and striking patterns capture attention wherever they roam. Native to the savannas and open woodlands of Africa, giraffes are not just tall—they’re full of surprises. Here are some of the most interesting facts about these graceful giants.

1. Tallest Land Mammal on Earth
A fully grown giraffe can reach heights of up to 18 feet (5.5 meters), making it the tallest land animal in the world. Males are generally taller than females, with some towering over 6 feet just at the shoulders. Their long legs and necks help them reach leaves high up in acacia trees, which many other herbivores can’t access.

They found a great source of nourishment on the tree line in the rear of the garden.

2. Despite the Long Neck, Only Seven Vertebrae
You might assume a giraffe’s neck has dozens of vertebrae, but surprisingly, it has just seven—the same number as humans! Each vertebra is much longer, around 10 inches (25 centimeters), allowing that signature stretch.

3. Giraffes Barely Sleep
Giraffes are some of the lightest sleepers in the animal kingdom. On average, they sleep only 4.6 hours per day, often in short naps of just a few minutes at a time. In the wild, they often sleep standing up to remain alert to predators.

We love these gentle giants.

4. Their Heart Works Hard
A giraffe’s heart must be incredibly powerful to pump blood up to their brain. It weighs around 25 pounds (11 kilograms) and can generate twice the blood pressure of a human heart. Specialized valves and tight skin on their legs help prevent blood from rushing downward due to gravity.

5. A Unique Form of Communication
For a long time, people thought giraffes were silent, but recent studies show they communicate using low-frequency sounds, or infrasound, that humans can’t hear. They also hum at night, possibly to stay connected with the herd.

They moved throughout the garden as we watched in awe.

6. Tongues Built for Survival
A giraffe’s tongue can be up to 20 inches (50 centimeters) long and is prehensile, meaning it can grasp and twist around branches. It’s also dark blue or purple, likely to protect it from sunburn as it feeds for hours daily in the hot African sun.

7. Each Pattern Is Unique
Just like human fingerprints, no two giraffes have the same coat pattern. Their spots help with camouflage and thermoregulation—patches have a complex vascular system underneath to release body heat.

8. Rapid Newborn Development
When a giraffe calf is born, it drops about six feet to the ground—a rough start to life! But within an hour, it’s already standing and trying to walk, essential for survival in predator-filled environments.

This giraffe was perhaps contemplating a drink from the pool.

9. Giraffes Are in Danger
Despite their gentle image, giraffes are currently listed as vulnerable, with some subspecies critically endangered. Habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict are major threats. Conservation efforts are underway to protect them.

10. They Have a Surprisingly Fierce Kick
A giraffe’s kick can be deadly. Their long, strong legs can deliver a powerful blow capable of killing a lion if threatened.

Last night, we had another wonderful evening at Jabula. It was packed with tourists and locals as the holiday season and school holidays end tomorrow, and people will begin to leave. Again, the locals and Tom and I look forward to many animals returning to our gardens for a quieter and more peaceful bush experience.

Yesterday, we stopped at The Butchery in the Bush Centre to buy more biltong, and they were totally out of any that was dried enough to sell. Biltong hangs on racks to dry and is put into the slicing machine. The thoughtful staff agreed to save some for Monday while they continue the drying process.

Tonight, we’re meeting Kathy, Don, and Connie for our final get-together at Jabula before they return to their home in Hawaii in a few days. We cherished our time together and look forward to seeing them in Hawaii in 2026 when one of our cruises has a 36-hour port-of-call stop.

Have a lovely weekend, and please know that we always think of all of YOU!

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 3, 2015:

This Laysan Albatross chick in Kauai was sitting close to the road, wondering what I was doing. For more photos, please click here.

Back to our lives of two…Lisa is still flying after leaving 18 hours ago…Is it safe to fly on a helicopter?…

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Sunsets over the Crocodile River can be stunning.

It was hard to say goodbye to Lisa after such a fantastic time together. The month she was here sailed by so quickly, with many memorable activities, that we hardly had time to catch our breath. We gave her the option of visiting us anywhere in the world we may be in the future. Most visitors to Africa often say that once Africa gets in your blood, you can’t wait to return. I imagine this notion will befall her as well.

Sunset at Ngwenya.

We had a lovely evening last night. I made a big pan of our favorite dishes, Keto Chicken, Sausage, Mushroom, and Cauliflower Bake, with a Greek salad and keto blueberry muffins, which we enjoyed around 6:00 pm. After dinner, we sat outdoors and headed to our bedroom to stream a few shows on my laptop.

A lovely female bushbuck is resting in the garden. She recently gave birth, and her baby is nearby.

Although I awoke a few times during the night as usual, I slept for eight hours overall and feel fantastic today. Tom did the same. As we’re sitting outdoors at the table on the veranda now, it’s raining in buckets. Besides a flock of helmeted guinea fowls, no animals are nearby, who seem not to mind getting wet.

Today is an easy day. We’ll drive to the Butchery at the Bush Centre to buy more biltong, which we’ve both enjoyed eating while still on our diets. I didn’t lose weight while Lisa was here since we dined out so often. But now, I can focus on home-cooked meals that suit our way of eating.

A cute little yellow bird checks out the seeds in the basket.

Tom is doing great. He has lost 14 pounds, or 6.4 kg, since March 4. His clothes fit better already. He plans to lose another 10 pounds, or 4.5 kg, in the coming months. We’re both feeling better without the extra weight.

On another note, we stumbled across the following article about flying in a helicopter. Many tourists embark on helicopter tours while traveling to embrace the beauty of a particular country/area from the air. Here are some stats from Travel and Leisure that may help you decide on helicopter tours or general travel. Remember that these stats may be very different in countries other than this US.

Hornbill swinging on the seed basket.

“Is it Safe to Fly in a Helicopter? Here’s What the Data Shows

By Stacey Leasca

Published on April 11, 2025

On April 10, a helicopter carrying six people, including the pilot, on a sightseeing tour crashed into the Hudson River in New York City, killing those on board. As the Associated Press reported, the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the incident.

The crash is, without question, a tragedy. But if you’re planning a helicopter ride soon, there is some important information about helicopter safety you need to know.

While the answer to the question, “Are helicopters safe?” is nuanced, a glance at accident statistics shows that the industry has made considerable strides in reducing passenger risk.

Lots of zebras stopped by.

According to 2021 data from the U.S. Helicopter Safety Team, there were 146 helicopter accidents in the U.S. in 2013. In 2020, that number dropped to 94, marking a 36 percent decrease in accidents. In 2013, these accidents caused 61 fatalities, while in 2020, there were 35.

“Having these statistics continue to move in a good direction is a positive, and I applaud my colleagues for all they do each day to make our industry safer,” Nick Mayhew, industry co-chair of the U.S. Helicopter Safety Team, shared in the report. “But we can do better. Zero fatalities remain our goal. Here at USHST, we continue to work on safety enhancements based on the accidents we have analyzed, and we’re regularly developing safety materials to support this effort.”

They were looking at us wanting pellets.

The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) does explain that “The accident rate for helicopters has traditionally been higher than the accident rate of fixed-wing aircraft, probably due to the helicopter’s unique capabilities to fly and land in more diverse situations than fixed-wing aircraft.” It also noted that pilot error can play a role, as pilots attempt “to fly the helicopter beyond the limits of his or her abilities or beyond the capabilities of the helicopter.”

It added that National Transportation Safety Board statistics show that approximately 80 percent of all aviation accidents are caused by pilot error, aka “the human factor.”

Additionally, FAA data shows that helicopter safety has improved; however, it is statistically riskier than commercial airline travel, with commercial carriers often reporting zero or near-zero fatal accidents in most years. This could be due to those pilot errors. Still, it is likely due to the highly stringent regulations and multi-pilot crews on most commercial aircraft, making a much more controlled environment than flying a helicopter.

However, helicopters are increasingly equipped with advanced avionics, terrain awareness systems, and crash-resistant fuel systems, all of which reduce accidents and fatalities by eliminating the human factor.

If you are still interested in flying by helicopter for a sightseeing tour, it’s good to research each company’s safety protocols. If you’re nervous, ask about their pre-flight checks, weather assessments, and pilots’ experiences. Like on a commercial plane, passengers must take responsibility by listening intently to the pre-flight safety briefings to prepare themselves for an accident.”

We’re off to Jabula for another night of socialization and good food. We’ll be back with more tomorrow.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 2, 2015:

This Bird of Paradise is the best example of a bloom that appears to be a bird’s head. For more photos, please click here.

Last night, dinner at Amazing River View…Winding down time with our friend Lisa…

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Sunset at Amazing Kruger View last night.

Lisa has been an easy houseguest for the past month. Her easy-going nature, enthusiasm, and positive attitude made her time with us inspiring and delightful. Our conversations flowed with ease as the three of us sat on the veranda after dinner most nights, listening for every sound in the bush and relishing the wonders surrounding us.

Tomorrow, around noon, Tom and Lisa will head to the airport in Nelspruit for her to catch her flight around 3:00 pm and for him to swap out the rental car for the next 24 days until we depart for Minnesota on May 24. We’re excited to see family and friends, but when the three weeks end, we’ll be excited to return to Marloth Park.

Then, three months later, we’ll be flying to Spain for the next leg of our journey.

As seen from Amazing Kruger View last night: In Kruger National Park, Lesser Masked Weavers are known for building pocket-like nests called “sac nests”. These nests, typically built by the males, are made of grass, reeds, and palm leaves. They are colonial nesters, meaning multiple nests can be found clustered together in a single tree, often near water.

It’s all very exciting to us. Over these past 12½ years, we haven’t lost an iota of enthusiasm in continuing our world travels. We remain in awe of the world around us and the opportunity to see new places, meet new people, and enhance our vast repertoire of outstanding experiences.

It was fun sharing our stories and adventures with Lisa over this past month, as she shared her travels and adventures with us. We never experience silence in our endless conversations, whether we were sitting outside on the veranda in the morning or at night, or out to dinner.

Now, we are looking forward to our friends Karen and Rich coming here for 18 days at the beginning of July. They, too, have never been to Africa and can’t wait for this enriching experience. Karen and I chatted at length a few days ago while I filled her in on some details about traveling to the continent.

Hippos in the Crocodile River.

Today is an easy day. Later this afternoon, we will return to Le Fera Restaurant at Ngwenya Lodge to watch for wildlife on the Crocodile River and enjoy dinner in their restaurant after sunset.

And then, tomorrow, I’ll be busy cooking midday when Tom and Lisa head to Nelspruit to the airport.

That’s it for today, folks. We’ll be back with more tomorrow.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, April 30, 2015:

We never grew tired of this fantastic view of Hideaways Beach and Hanalei Bay. For more photos, please click here.

A fantastic video of rhinos…Interesting rhino behavior…

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We couldn’t be more thrilled to share the video above of the rhinos we spotted in Kruger National Park. With so many rhinos having been poached in South Africa’s national parks, there are few remaining rhinos, as mentioned in a post from several days ago, found here.

Today, we are sharing some interesting facts about rhino behavior that we’ve never posted in the past, which may be of interest to some of our wildlife enthusiast readers and friends.

Rhino Behavior: A Closer Look at the Lives of Earth’s Armored Giants

Rhinoceroses, often perceived as solitary, grumpy, or aggressive, are far more nuanced and engaging in their behavior than many people realize. These ancient herbivores, which have roamed the Earth for millions of years, display a range of complex behaviors that reflect their evolutionary adaptations, environmental pressures, and social tendencies. Spread across Africa and Asia, the five species of rhino—white, black, Indian, Javan, and Sumatran—each exhibit unique patterns of behavior, though they also share many common traits.

One of the most defining aspects of rhino behavior is their territoriality. Adult males, particularly among black and white rhinos, tend to be highly territorial. They mark their territories with dung piles called middens, and also use urine spraying to define boundaries. These signs are not just about marking territory; they’re a form of communication. Other rhinos can learn a great deal from these markers, including the age, sex, and reproductive status of the individual who left them.

Despite their size and strength, rhinos are generally solitary creatures, especially the black and Sumatran species. Adult males are typically the most solitary, while females may be accompanied by their calves for several years. The white rhino is the most social of the species, often forming small groups called crashes. These can consist of females and their offspring, as well as occasionally, subadult males. Even among more solitary species, social interactions do occur, particularly during mating or when young males begin to establish themselves.

Communication among rhinos is surprisingly varied. While they are not known for vocalizing often, rhinos do use grunts, snorts, and bellows to express alarm, frustration, or even affection. Calves will usually squeal or whimper when separated from their mothers. Body language is also essential. For instance, a rhino holding its head high and ears forward may be alert or curious, while a lowered head with flattened ears can be a sign of aggression or defensiveness.

Aggression is a part of rhino behavior, especially when territory or mating rights are at stake. Male rhinos often engage in fierce battles, using their horns, which can sometimes result in serious injury or death. These fights serve a purpose beyond just winning a mate—they help establish dominance and define territorial boundaries. That said, most confrontations are avoided through display behaviors and posturing, which serve as warnings.

Rhinos are also creatures of habit. They follow regular paths to waterholes and feeding grounds, and tend to rest during the hottest parts of the day, becoming more active in the early morning and late afternoon. Wallows—muddy pools where rhinos roll and coat themselves in mud—are an essential part of their daily routine. This behavior not only cools them down but also protects their skin from parasites and sunburn.

Interestingly, rhinos share their environment with other animals in ways that influence their behavior. In Africa, for example, oxpecker birds are commonly seen perched on rhinos’ backs, feeding on ticks and warning them of danger with sharp cries. While the rhinos appear indifferent, this relationship hints at a subtle interdependence within their ecosystem.

Though rhinos are often portrayed as simple or primitive animals, their behavior reveals a deeper complexity. Their ability to communicate, form social bonds, adapt to environmental stressors, and navigate intricate territorial dynamics is a testament to their intelligence and resilience. Understanding rhino behavior not only deepens our appreciation for these magnificent creatures but also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts. By respecting their space and recognizing their needs, we can help ensure that rhinos continue to roam wild landscapes for generations to come.

Late this afternoon, the three of us will head to Amazing Kruger View to check for wildlife on the river and to have dinner. It’s hard to believe that Lisa is leaving in two days, after spending a month with us. We’ve so enjoyed her company and will miss her.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, April 29, 2015:

These pretty pink flowers, Double Hibiscus, have begun to bloom right outside our door. For more photos, please click here.

Part 2…32 tips for making a long-haul flight more comfortable…Delightful dinner at home of a friend in Marloth Park…

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Sunset view from Frits’ veranda.

Today is the continuation of Part 2, 32 tips for making a long-haul flight more comfortable. Please see Part 1 here if you missed yesterday’s post..

“Charge your electronic devices.

The last thing you need is for your iPad to run out of juice one hour into an 11-hour flight. This is especially true if your in-flight entertainment system isn’t working. Remember to keep your charging cables and a power bank nearby as well.

Load up on podcasts.

Listening to podcasts uses less battery life than watching a movie, and they can be more entertaining than listening to music. You can get through an entire flight on podcasts alone.

Frits built a bonfire, referred to as a braai in South Africa.

Stay healthy.

Sitting in a cramped metal tube for the better part of a day, or more, is not suitable for you. Fight off dehydration and blood clotting — your two biggest enemies in the sky — by regularly drinking water, stretching, and walking around the cabin.

Bring what you need to freshen up.

This is for everyone else’s sake as much as your own. Bring toiletries in your carry-on so you can brush your teeth, apply deodorant, or even change your clothes in the lavatory. Also, try to stick to your bedtime routine. Wash your face in the bathroom before you go to sleep.

Get creative.

You rarely get the chance to sit down for such a long time, more or less distraction-free, so why not make the most of it? Bring a notebook, a sketchpad, or whatever else you need to exercise the right side of your brain. Switching activities throughout the flight instead of focusing on just one thing will also keep you feeling fresh.

Frits had a good setup for providing fruit for the bushbabies.

Be productive.

If you have your laptop with you, this might be a good opportunity to catch up on any tasks that need attention. Plus, everyone else on your flight will think you’re a sophisticated jet-setting businessperson. Just remember to download any necessary documents beforehand, in case in-flight Wi-Fi is unavailable.

Befriend the crew.

Simply not being horrible to the flight crew is a given, but you could always go one step further and actively make an effort to be nice. You’ll not only be doing something lovely for the folks who look after you up there, but also increase your chances of preferential treatment.

Pack extra snacks.

Airline food is often scarce, even on long-haul flights, and it’s essential to stay nourished. No need to overdo it, of course, but no one was ever sorry to find a couple of pieces of fruit or granola bars in their carry-on. Ensure the food you bring is not only nutritious but also easy on the stomach, so you’ll feel your best upon arrival.

Bushbaby heading in to get the bananas.

Moisturize your skin.

The dry, recycled air on a plane has a way of making your skin look and feel parched and lackluster. In addition to drinking plenty of water, slather on a bit of extra moisturizer. Use your thickest night cream — the one you reserve for winter. And reapply it throughout the flight.

Elevate your feet.

Sitting with your legs bent and feet on the floor for an extended period can cause pain and swelling in your ankles and feet as the fluid in your body naturally flows downward. If possible, prop your feet up on a special contraption, such as a portable footrest, or even your under-seat carry-on if it’s sturdy enough.

Wear compression socks.

Compression socks help minimize swelling on and after your flight by increasing blood circulation. At a minimum, they can keep you more comfortable, but more importantly, reduce the risk of developing blood clots during a long flight.

Frits was prepping the braai for cooking our steaks using dried used tea bags soaked in lighter fluid. Great idea!

Pack a nasal spray.

Have you ever noticed a generally icky and dry feeling in your sinuses while flying? That feeling is caused by a shift in air pressure and the low humidity in the cabin. Experts recommend using a decongestant nasal spray in each nostril before takeoff and descent to alleviate those symptoms.

Adjust your watch.

It’s essential to adjust to the time zone you’re flying into. As soon as you board the plane, change your watch to the local time of your destination, and then adjust your routine accordingly.

Be selective about your drink choices.

Some passengers enjoy a glass of wine or beer (often free on international flights) to accompany their in-flight meals and entertainment. That said, you probably shouldn’t treat booze as a way to fight boredom or cope with your flight. You’ll end up using those tiny bathrooms far more frequently than you’d like, plus alcohol is dehydrating and could mess up your sleep pattern. Soda can have a similar effect due to the caffeine, and the bubbles can cause you to feel gassy and bloated.

Bring your best conversation.

Many people dread sitting next to a chatty seatmate, but don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with your neighbor if the opportunity arises. You could be seated next to a genuinely interesting and friendly fellow traveler, and talking makes the time pass more quickly.

In no time at all, the fire was roaring.

Pack lots of activities for your kids.

Traveling with children? Make sure you have plenty of activities to keep them entertained throughout the flight. Bring the gaming systems, iPads preloaded with their favorite shows (and headphones), as well as coloring and sticker books. Plus, don’t forget their favorite snacks.”

As for last night, we joined our local friend Frits for dinner at his bush home overlooking the Crocodile River. He asked that we arrive by 3:00 pm to watch for wildlife on the river, and later, at precisely 5:45, as Frits had predicted, the precious little bushbabies arrived to eat bananas he had placed in and around his veranda on the second level.

We were thrilled for Lisa to finally see the little bushbabies, since she had already seen the larger thick-tailed bushbaby in our garden and at Jabula on their veranda at about the same time.

It was a joy to finally see the bushbabies, as we had yet to spot the little ones on our veranda at night. We will try again tonight by placing bits of bananas on the perch for them to eat.

Tom just left to pick up Lisa at the Crocodile Gate after her three-hour bush walk, accompanied by two armed guides and guards. Our dear friend Danie, the husband of Louise, who had booked all the events for her over the past few days, kindly offered to pick her up this morning at 5:00 am to drive her to the gate, as he and Louise get up at 4:30 each morning to begin their busy days.

Today is a national holiday in South Africa, Freedom Day, which is described as follows:

“Freedom Day is a public holiday in South Africa celebrated on 27 April. It commemorates the first post-apartheid elections held on that day in 1994 and the day on which the new constitution was introduced.”

Tonight we’ll roast two whole chickens on the grill with veggies and a side salad while we enjoy more time on the veranda. With holidaymakers here for today’s holiday, we don’t expect to see a lot of wildlife, but we can hope, can’t we?

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, April 28, 2015:

It took considerable time to get this video. Finally, Tom suggested that I keep the camera open and ready, so that when I stood up to take the video, he would stop singing. As a result, part of this video shows the view through the screen door to the lanai, from where I was sitting at the time. Enjoy this simple video with us for the magnificence of Mother Nature and the world around us, whether it’s a little bird or a Goliath rhino. It all matters. For more photos, please click here.

Part 1…32 tips for making a long-haul flight more comfortable…

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A hornbill brought a treat to her reflection in the kitchen window.

With more dear friends, Karen and Rich,  coming to visit us from the US in July, we started thinking about how the flight can be more comfortable for those traveling long distances. Today, and tomorrow, we’re sharing this article from Travel and Leisure online magazine;

“32 Tips for Making a Long-haul Flight More Comfortable…

These in-flight hacks will help you enjoy the journey and feel more relaxed upon arrival.

By Chris Heasman

Whether you’re taking a seven-hour trip across the pond to Europe or embarking on the nearly 19-hour odyssey from New York City to Singapore, a long-haul flight can be tedious and exhausting. The nuisances of time-consuming air travel can range in severity from mildly inconvenient (annoying seatmates, for instance) to downright dangerous (developing a blood clot on a plane is no joke). To make a big journey more bearable, try to maintain your typical routine, stay hydrated, wear loose clothing, and pack an extra snack or two.

Here are 32 (the balance posted tomorrow) of our favorite tips to make long flights as trouble-free and comfortable as possible.

Book your flight early to secure a good seat.

The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing your favorite seat, whether it’s by the window to enjoy the scenery or at the aisle for easy access to the lavatory. However, please note that airlines may change your seat without prior notice.

Consider a seat in the back of the plane.

Your favorite seat probably isn’t in the back of the plane. It isn’t quiet back there, tends to have little leg room, and means you’re the last off the plane when it lands. However, there are perks to choosing a back seat. If you’re flying with an airline like Southwest that doesn’t have assigned seats, you might have better luck claiming a row to yourself or at least an empty seat next to you in the back. Additionally, being in the back allows you to observe which rows don’t fill up ahead of you, so you can claim one of the emptier ones after everyone has taken their seat.

Birds were enjoying the birdbath in our garden.

Use airline miles to upgrade.

You’ll thank yourself when you’re sipping Champagne while reclining in first class after using miles to upgrade your seat. And if you don’t have the miles, this might be the time to splurge for a superior first- or business-class seat. Even upgrading to premium economy will give you priority check-in, extra legroom, and comfortable seats.

Or an angle for a free upgrade.

Arrive early, dress nicely, travel alone, and put on your most winning smile for the best chance at success. Your odds of scoring a last-minute upgrade are better if you have elite status with the airline. Try to carefully time when you ask for a flight upgrade to increase your odds as well.

Adjust your sleep pattern before your flight to ensure optimal rest.

In the days leading up to your flight, adjust your sleep patterns; a few 4 a.m. or 7 p.m. bedtimes should suffice, depending on the time of day you’ll be flying. If your flight is during the day, be well-rested before you fly. If it’s a red-eye, arrive at the airport tired. Trust us on this, though: staying awake for 24 hours before your trip to balance out jet lag doesn’t work.

The word in the bush is that Nyalas Nina and Norman had a baby a few days ago, across the road from us. We’ll be watching for her and her new baby.

Dress comfortably.

Keep it loose and comfortable, and remember to bring layers for when the temperature drops. A cardigan or zip-up sweatshirt is always a good option to have on hand, as you can easily put it on or take it off depending on the cabin temperature. Clothes with a bit of stretch, like men’s sweatpants or women’s leggings, can also help you move around more comfortably.

De-stress before you board.

You don’t want to spend your whole flight buzzing about all the things you have to do or what you might have forgotten. Carve out some time before your trip to sit down with a nice breakfast. Go to the gym. Read a book. Go for a walk. It’s important to relax before it’s time to fly.

Check in early.

The worst start to a long-haul journey is to panic your way through a busy airport, arriving at the gate sweaty and frazzled — or even to miss your flight. Plan to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to check your bags and proceed through security.

Don’t overpack your items.

You’ll need more for a long-haul flight than you would for a short one, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to overfill your bag with unnecessary extras. Keep only the essentials in your item so they’re always easy to find and within reach.

Bring your pillow.

A travel pillow is a staple carry-on item for long-distance travelers. Almost every airport sells them, and looking a little ridiculous with one around your neck is a small price to pay for arriving at your destination without a crick in your neck. Please pay attention to your airline’s restrictions to ensure it doesn’t have to be packed inside your item.

These white-crested helmet shrikes were checking their reflection in the kitchen window.

Wear noise-canceling headphones.

Noise-canceling headphones help block out annoying airplane noise and loud passengers, allowing you to zone out with a riveting podcast or a favorite playlist. If you don’t have headphones, a pair of good old-fashioned earplugs will also help.

Buckle your seat belt over your blanket.

If you plan to sleep with a blanket during your flight, ensure your buckled seatbelt is still visible. In the event of turbulence, the seatbelt light will activate, and flight attendants may circulate throughout the cabin to ensure that everyone is properly buckled up. If they can’t see your seat belt, they will wake you up. For safety reasons and to avoid “airplane ear,” don’t sleep through takeoff or landing.

Pack an eye mask.

An eye mask is beneficial if you’re flying during the day, or if you want to catch some shut-eye before the cabin lights are dimmed. It’s often an airline freebie in basic amenity kits on international flights, even in economy, but typically not on longer domestic flights.

Try to relax.

Do whatever it takes — meditate, listen to calming music, or practice some breathing exercises. Not only will it help you sleep more easily, but it’s also good for your psyche, especially if flying makes you nervous.

Bring a travel blanket, not a regular blanket.

Please don’t bring anything too thick (remember, it must fit in your carry-on), but ensure your travel blanket is sufficient to keep you warm when the plane’s air conditioning is at full blast.

This band of mongooses visits almost daily for paloney and meat scraps.

Download movies onto your tablet or laptop for backup.

In-flight entertainment systems are not always reliable. They sometimes fail, and when they do, you’ll be glad to have something to do, watch, or listen to in reserve.”

One vital tip for travel, especially for seniors, is to wear compression stockings on your long-haul flight to reduce the risk of blood clots. You can purchase these at a low cost through this link. I bought and wear them, not only on long flights but at other times when I know I will be sitting for extended periods.

Typically, flights from the US to South Africa last for 24-40 hours, most of which is spent sitting. It’s essential to get up and walk around the plane (when there is no turbulence) to diminish the risk of blood clots, stiff joints, and painful backs and hips.

We will continue this list in tomorrow’s post with more suggestions. Please check back for more.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, April 27, 2015:

Golden-tipped Anthurium, spotted in Kauai. For more photos, please click here.