What’s happening at the Newark Airport in New Jersey, USA?…

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Two hornbills were enjoying the seeds from the above-ground tray in the garden.

With many of our worldwide readers traveling this summer, we felt it was imperative we post an update on what is transpiring at Newark Airport in Newark, New Jersey, USA, that may impact travel plans. When flying back to the US from anywhere in the world, we may have a layover in Newark.

There are quite a few mongooses in this particular band who visit almost daily.

Fortunately, for our upcoming flight in 12 days, our layover will be in London, but unfortunately, it will last nine hours. We’d rather have such a long layover than be stuck in an airport due to technical or infrastructural issues, especially when we don’t know when we’ll be in the air again.

Thus, today’s less-than-exciting post aims to alert those who have booked or are booking travel plans to be aware of potential delays and, if possible, reroute to other airports. This may be an added issue with many flights booked as non-refundable/non-changeable, but it never hurts to check to determine your options. As the Travel and Leisure online magazine article indicates below, “Some airlines are offering free flight changes for travelers who are nervous about flying into the hub.”

“Newark Airport Faces Another Radar Outage (Again)—What Travelers Should Know

By Michael Cappetta, Published on May 9, 2025

  • Another outage of air traffic control radar and communications equipment happened at Newark Airport in the early hours of May 9.
  • The airport has been struggling with mass delays and cancellations after a similar outage on April 28.
  • Some airlines offer free flight changes for travelers nervous about flying into the hub.

Just days after air traffic control communications and staffing levels caused cancellations and delays at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), an FAA spokesperson confirmed to Travel + Leisure that there has been another communications outage at the New Jersey airport. 

Although very common, seeing starlings in the garden is always pleasant.

“There was a telecommunications outage that impacted communications and radar display at Philadelphia TRACON Area C, which guides aircraft in and out of Newark Liberty International Airport airspace,” an FAA spokesperson shared in a statement to T+L. ”The outage occurred around 3:55 a.m. on Friday, May 9, and lasted approximately 90 seconds.”

According to FlightAware data, several commercial and cargo flights landed between 3:07 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. EDT; however, no safety or mechanical issues have been reported on those flights.

“That’s absolutely terrifying,” one traveler shared in a Reddit post about the recent incidents.

The news comes just days after the FAA acknowledged recent issues and said it would be “slowing arrivals and departures” at the airport to ease congestion and manage safety. The Department of Transportation also said it would be working toward additional hiring of air traffic controllers and technology upgrades of antiquated systems.

We spotted a grazing waterbuck while driving along the river.

“The FAA is taking immediate steps to improve the reliability of operations at Newark Liberty International Airport,” the FAA said. “This includes accelerating technological and logistical improvements and increasing air traffic controller staffing.”

Airlines are providing additional flexibility with travel waivers for travelers who feel uncomfortable flying into Newark Airport. For example, passengers on United Airlines booked to fly to or through Newark from May 6, 2025, to May 23, 2025, can reschedule their trip or fly to nearby airports such as LaGuardia (LGA) or Philadelphia (PHL), according to a recent advisory.

JetBlue also offers a waiver on flights through May 14 and the option to rebook to fly to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).”

Let’s face it…long flights with unforeseen flight delays can seriously affect the joys of traveling and those traveling for business and personal reasons. Each time we embark on a long flight, we can’t help but keep our fingers crossed that all goes as planned, safely arriving at our destination without incident.

It’s easy to get caught up in horrific stories from the zealous media, which often create stress and fear for flyers. We make every attempt to travel with confidence, tolerance, and patience.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 12, 2015:

This morning’s view from our lanai in Priceville, Kauai, while it rained off and on. 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.

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.

An exciting nocturnal visitor…Soon, Tom leaves for Nelspruit to pick up Lisa at the airport…Tom’s fun night out without me…

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Last night, our trail cam picked up this photo of a genet. We’ll start putting meat out for him. “A genet is a member of the genus Genetta, which consists of 17 species of small African carnivorans. The common genet is the only one in Europe, and it occurs on the Iberian Peninsula, Italy, and France. Genet fossils from the Late Miocene have later been found at sites in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Morocco.”

What a delightful sighting on the trail cam last night while we slept. This genet stopped by inspiring us to leave meat out for her or him in the future. As carnivores, they’ll eat any meat, raw or cooked.

Most nights, the trail cam picks up sightings of the same wildlife we take photos of during daylight hours. As a result, we only post unusual sightings from the trail cam.

With no luck finding meat, he ended his search and jumped off the railing. Genets are carnivores, like other feline species.

At the moment, Lisa is in a long immigration queue in Johannesburg, unsure if she’ll make the Airlink flight to Nelspruit. Tom won’t leave for the airport until we hear from her that she made the flight. If not, she’ll have to take the 4:00 pm flight, arriving at 4:50, which is cutting it close for driving on the N4 before dark. The sunset is at 5:50. Driving on the N4 in the dark is too dangerous.

We’ll wait to hear from her about whether she will make the flight. As of this writing, the flight leaves in 40 minutes.

At this table, from left to right, is Sidney, his wife Patty Pan, Lorraine, Michael, friend Don’s cousins, all of whom we know. Tom played trivia with this group.

Last night was unusual for us. Tom went out without me. I would have gone to “Trivia Night” at Giraffe, but I was suffering from a gastrointestinal issue, which resolved overnight. We had committed to Patty Pan, who coordinates the event each week, that we’d both come since there were limited seats. It made sense for Tom to go without me.

He left the house at about 5:30 and returned at 9:30. They started playing at 6:30 and continued until just before he returned. I stayed in the bedroom watching movies while he was gone. He said he had a great time during the game. Since it was April Fool’s Day, many participants wore hilarious costumes and hats, as shown in today’s photos.

We don’t recognize anyone at this table since the men are dressed like women due to April Fool’s Day!

We just heard from Lisa that she made it through immigration and picked up her one piece of luggage. She’s now waiting in the security queue, which is also long; Tom won’t leave until we know she made the flight. Oh, dear.

I’ll start chopping and dicing once Tom leaves for the airport and I upload this post. For dinner, I am making a chicken peanut stir-fry with rice and a salad. I’m making enough for two nights, and then on Friday, we’ll all go to Jabula for dinner.

Tom recognized some of these participants but not necessarily by name.

It will be a fun month with Lisa here with us. It’s so enjoyable for us to share the wonders of the bush with friends. No word from her yet. Will update her arrival tomorrow!

Be well.

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

On a walk in Princeville, Kauai, I was enthralled by the view as I approached our condo (not shown in this photo). For more photos, please click here.

Exciting airline WiFi changes…Our friend Lisa is on her way, after several delays…

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While driving along the fence between Marloth Park and Kruger National Park, we spotted this lone elephant, which is included in all of today’s photos.

The following is an article from Breaking Travel News found here.

“United Receives FAA Certification on Starlink Aircraft and Schedules First Commercial Flight for May

United announced that the FAA had approved its first Starlink-equipped aircraft type and that the first commercial flight was planned for May, less than eight months after the deal was first announced.

The FAA issued a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the Embraer 175, and the airline expects the first commercial flight to be onboard a United Express Embraer 175. United’s rollout of this new technology continues to accelerate, with approximately 40 regional jet installs planned monthly and the expectation that the entire two-cabin regional fleet—more than 300 planes—will be completed by the end of the year.

She seemed content to lounge in the water rather than swim, which elephants often do. They are excellent swimmers.

In addition to securing the STC, United will also run a beta test of the new technology on select flights between now and the first customer flight in May to ensure all aspects deliver an incredible onboard experience for passengers.

“We know customers are going to love this experience, and we think it will give them yet another reason to choose United,” said Grant Milstead, United’s Vice President of Digital Technology. “We’re working closely with Starlink and the FAA to finish installs on our regional fleet this year and bring the best inflight experience in the sky to more and more people.”

United will work with Starlink to secure an FAA STC to install Starlink on every United aircraft type, getting the new equipment (e.g., Embraer 175)—more than 16 regional and mainline aircraft models in total. According to the FAA, the process to secure each STC can include design, installation, testing, and submitting the package for FAA approval.

With the hot weather, we were surprised we didn’t see more elephants in the river.

Earlier this month, United unveiled the Starlink install process, underscoring the technical operations benefits of the equipment, including size and weight and ease of installation and maintenance. The Starlink system, when compared to non-Starlink equipment, allows for a faster and simpler install, is lighter, requires less fuel to operate, and is more reliable and weather-proofed.

Starlink access will be free for all MileagePlus® customers and include game-changing inflight entertainment experiences like streaming services, shopping, gaming, and more, thanks to Wi-Fi speeds up to 250 megabits per second (Mbps), which is 50 times faster than current regional aircraft speeds. Membership to MileagePlus is also free, and people can sign up now at united.com/starlink.”

She was at quite a distance, which impacted the quality of the photos.

Surely, other airlines will follow suit by upgrading their systems to offer the same benefit to their customers. This would be a big bonus since we’d love to be online during long flights without paying outrageous fees. Of course, I imagine the airlines will increase costs over time to compensate for this change. That’s what they do.

Today and tonight, we’re following Lisa’s flight path, hoping she makes her connections and arrives as planned. She had a rocky start, with a three-hour traffic delay on her way to Orlando Airport and a flight delay for her first flight from Orlando to Frankfurt. She is staying in close contact with us. It’s her first time in Africa, and we hope for a seamless experience.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, April 1, 2015:

This sunset in Kauai made us squeal with delight! How magical! For more photos, please click here.

Finally, we’re off to South Africa tonight!…

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Agave plants in Hawaii can grow these snake-like protrusions.

It’s been a busy few days. At 10:00 am on Saturday, we only have to pack the clothes we are wearing, change into our travel clothes, weigh the bags, and load the condo’s luggage rack. A moment ago, I ordered an Uber SUV for $102. It was pricey, but we have more luggage than usual and needed to ensure enough room for our large checked and carry-on bags.

Once we eventually leave South Africa in September, we will discard one of the large bags, leaving us with three bags with carry-on, our usual load. We’ve read stories about nomads only traveling with backpacks. We could travel lighter if we didn’t stay in locations for extended periods.

Every nomadic traveler has to decide what works best for them, and for the past 12 years, this system has worked well for us. We have no complaints. With luggage carts and porters in most locations, we manage just fine.

When we arrive at Nelspruit/Mpumalanga/Kruger Airport on Monday, we’ll use their free luggage carts to load everything into the rental car and be on our way. Tom suggested that if we are exhausted, we stay overnight at the lovely hotel at the airport. However, many times we arrived in Nelspruit, we’ve managed to make the 90-minute drive, arriving in Marloth Park before dark, which is vital since driving on the N4 highway at night is dangerous due to rampant crime and carjackings.

Am I anxious to travel this far after so long? A little, I suppose. Luckily, the two legs of the journey each are 10 -12 hours long, with a layover in Heathrow for 1 hour 40 minutes and then Cape Town for almost 3 hours. Although we don’t like layovers, they allow us to move around freely and recharge a little.

If we get lucky and can get empty seats next to us, we can lay down to sleep on the flights. But, these flights are usually packed and we’ll unlikely encounter such a situation aboard the planes. Neither of us is very good at sleeping sitting up, although we may occasionally nod off for a few minutes.

Well folks, that’s all I have for today. If time allows, I will update our itinerary along the way. If you don’t see a post, we’ll return on Tuesday, March 4, about eight hours later than usual, due to the time difference.

Thanks for all of the thoughtful well wishes!

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 1, 2015:

It’s no wonder the chicken proliferates and hang out at the beaches when surfers and bathers can’t resist feeding them their lunch. No one seems to mind the chickens and roosters, instead finding humor in their presence, as we do. Fr more photos, please click here.

We’re back!…Hot, hot, hot!…Four days and counting!…

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Unusual tree trunk at the Botanical Garden in Kauai, Hawaii.

Yesterday was a busy day. To use the food we had on hand, I made taco salads (no shell) using organic, grass-fed ground beef, two small jars of green olives, which I sliced, grape tomatoes I cut in half, one whole yellow onion chopped, diced celery, grated cheddar cheese, and homemade Greek yogurt salad dressing.

After cooking and draining the ground beef, I seasoned it with keto taco salad seasoning and one can of low-sugar tomato sauce and let it cook for another 30 minutes on low heat to absorb the flavors. Once it cooled, I put it in the refrigerator with portions to be heated in the microwave at dinner time.

There was enough meat, cheese, and vegetables to last for three nights, and we’ll do takeaway (delivered) meals for the remaining four nights. Our flight isn’t until 10:20 on Saturday night, so we’ll order food in the late afternoon to ensure we’ve eaten before the flight, which may or may not provide food on this late flight. Plus, most of the items they serve on flights aren’t suitable for my way of eating.

Once we arrive in Marloth Park on Monday afternoon, it will have been a long haul before we eat dinner again. We’ll be fine, as always. Going without eating for a day or more is not a big deal.

Yesterday, I packed most of my clothes, and we weighed my bag. It’s at the 50-pound maximum. Today, I will pack another bag of supplies. After being in the US for so long, we accumulated several items we’ll be able to use in Marloth Park during the six months there, which includes two stays, three months each, less the time we stay in Minnesota in June.

When we eventually leave South Africa, we will have to donate the items in the overflow extra bag and return to three checked bags: one clothing bag for each of us and one supply bag, our preferred maximum. When we go to the US in June for Maisie’s graduation, we won’t need to bring everything, only enough to last the two weeks we’ll be in the US.

The cooling system in the condo isn’t working. I awoke at 3:00 am from being too hot when we went to bed on Sunday night. I got up and saw the thermostat reading that the indoor temperature was 90F, 32C. Today, a repairman was scheduled to arrive at 8:30 am, and now it is 9:3,0, and no one has arrived. We’ll see how that goes.

The aircon isn’t working. When we set it to 70F when we went to bed, it was 90F when I got up sweating at 3:00 am to discover this. Hopefully, the HVAC person will be here soon.

As soon as I upload this post, I will return to work on the packing. I prefer to do a little each day rather than all at once. Gosh, it’s hard to believe we’ll be flying away in only four days!

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 25, 2015:

Barking Sands Beach is located on the west side of Kauai on the Pacific Missile Range Facility grounds. This beach is part of a 17-mile-long stretch that extends from Polihale Beach to Kehaka Beach, close to the end of Highway 50. For more photos, please click here.

New fears of flying…How can we avoid terror in the skies…See video below…Seven days and counting…

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This is the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge, which is located near the condo we rented in Princeville, Kauai, for four months in 2015.

Experiencing a fear of flying, especially after recent aviation incidents in 2025, is entirely understandable. While air travel remains statistically one of the safest modes of transportation, the clustering of events can heighten anxiety. Here are some strategies to help manage this fear:

1. Understand the Nature of Recent Incidents

Experts explain that the recent series of aviation accidents is due to “random clustering,” where multiple incidents occur in a short period purely by chance. This can alter public perception, making air travel seem riskier than it statistically is. Despite these events, air travel remains the safest mode of transport.

2. Educate Yourself on Aviation Safety

Gaining knowledge about aviation safety can provide reassurance. Understanding the rigorous training pilots undergo and the strict maintenance protocols aircraft follow can help alleviate fears. For instance, pilots are trained extensively to handle various in-flight situations, ensuring passenger safety.

3. Practice Anxiety-Reduction Techniques

  • Implementing relaxation strategies can be beneficial:
  • Controlled Breathing: Deep, rhythmic breathing can help calm the nervous system.
  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Focusing on the present moment can reduce anxious thoughts.
  • Visualization: Imagining a successful flight and arrival at your destination can create a positive mindset.
  • These techniques can help manage anxiety before and during flights.

4. Limit Exposure to Distressing News

Continuous exposure to news about aviation incidents can amplify fear. Consider moderating your consumption of such news, especially before a flight, to maintain a calmer mindset.

5. Seek Professional Support

If your fear significantly impacts your life, consulting a mental health professional can be beneficial. Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) have been effective in addressing phobias, including the fear of flying.

6. Engage in Pre-Flight Rituals

Some individuals find comfort in personal rituals before flying. For example, a traveler shared her practice of using holy oil to bless the plane before boarding, which provided her with a sense of control and peace. While such rituals are personal and may not appeal to everyone, they can comfort some.

7. Focus on the Purpose of Your Trip

Shifting attention to the positive reasons for your travel—such as visiting loved ones, exploring new places, or professional opportunities—can help divert focus from anxiety and remind you of the benefits of flying.

Remember, while recent events can be unsettling, air travel remains exceptionally safe. Implementing these strategies can help manage your fear and make flying a more comfortable experience.

For additional expert advice, consider watching the following video:

It’s not possible for us, with the upcoming two travel days to South Africa, not to be somewhat concerned. However, we both will rely upon statistical data to provide peace of mind and reduce anxiety. We will be in the air for almost 24 hours with multiple layovers. Worrying for such an extended period is pointless.

Be well.

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

This guy explained the roasting process at the Kauai Coffee Company. For more photos, please click here.

For now, we’ll continue to post travel news updates that may save you time and money…

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Ten years ago in Kauai, Hawaii, we began to experience the joy of watching, almost daily, the Laysan Albatross couples nesting with their single eggs, which eventually hatched while we observed the chicks growing, planning to fledge months later. It was an experience we’ll never forget.

There are only 34 days until we leave Nevada for South Africa; with little activity happening on our end as I continue to recover from this two-week virus, we don’t have a lot of news to share. I should be back to normal within a week and be able to return to working out, after which I’ll feel even better.

My son Greg and his girlfriend Heather arrive here in 11 days, and I plan to be up to the flurry of activities that will ensue while they are here for five days. Once they leave, it will only be a few weeks until we start packing and preparing to depart. The month of February will fly by.

As a result, most of our upcoming posts will consist of the latest travel news that may impact your travel experiences, expenses, and booking processes. Unfortunately, I don’t have the time and stamina right now to delve into more detailed topics. Once we settle in Marloth Park, we’ll post stories and countless photos of the world around us.  We can hardly wait.

One of our dear readers/friends, Lisa, wrote that we don’t have to be concerned about our readers judging our content. Few have said anything negative or pressured us to add more entertaining content during quiet times. Thanks, Lisa, for the vote of confidence. Of course, our goal is always to provide interesting and fun content.

For today’s bit of current travel news, this article may be of interest to those considering travel during Spring Break:

“American Airlines Has Spring Break Flight Deals to Cancun, Miami, and More — Starting at Under $200

A variety of popular destinations are available. By Michael Cappetta

Published on January 25, 2025

As cold winter temperatures cover much of the United States, airlines discount prices for spring break getaways. 

American Airlines recently published hundreds of discounted airfares under $200, spanning the spring and early summer travel season. Best of all, the destinations include a variety of popular locations, including Cancun, Las Vegas, Miami, Orlando, Phoenix, and more. 

Travel + Leisure spotted a variety of discounted fares including: 

  • Chicago, IL (ORD) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX) from $177
  • Dallas, TX (DFW) to Cancun, Mexico (CUN) from $277 
  • Los Angeles, CA (LAX) to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico (SJD) from $263
  • Philadelphia, PA (PHL) to Las Vegas, NV (LAS) from $145
  • Philadelphia, PA (PHL) to Miami, FL (MIA) from $179 
  • Raleigh, NC (RDU) to San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO) from $298

The airline also has several discounted flights to Miami, FL from Boston ($127), New York – LGA ($179), Washington – DCA ($158), and other locations throughout the winter and spring break season.

American Airlines has also discounted tickets to other popular spring break getaways, such as Los Angeles (LAX) to Tucson, AZ (TUS) for only $193, or Minneapolis, MN (MSP) to Destin, FL (VPS) for only $197. 

While many flights depart from one of American’s hubs, such as Dallas or Philadelphia, travelers can use an interactive tool on the website to select their home airport and desired budget to find discounted flights. For example, when entering “Kansas City, MO,” travelers can see options to fly to Austin, Denver, New York – LGA, or more at a price under $200 round-trip. 

For travelers looking to set sail on the sea during spring break, American Airlines Cruises division offers bonuses of up to 10,000 miles and other perks on select upcoming bookings. Travelers could also use the discounted domestic flights to save on tickets to and from a cruise port. 

The Dallas, TX-based airline has also been marketing international flight promotions, including round-trip European tickets for under $500. The discounted flights come as American has also begun new European routes, including flights to Madrid.”

For our readers living outside the US, it may be worthwhile to investigate special Spring Break rates offered through airlines you may use most frequently in your country. However, some of these rates may apply if visiting the US is part of your travel plan.

Thanks again for stopping by.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 26, 2015:

Our new friend Richard gave us the gift of The Majestic Albatross by Robert Waid, a neighbor whom we later met, as we began to experience the wonder of the Laysan Albatross in Kauai. For more photos, please click here.

Updated information on ETA (electronic travel authorization) fees for the UK…

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Hanalei Beach in Kauai.

On January 7, we posted new information about the UK requiring ETAs (electronic travel authorization) even when only flying through on a flight layover. This policy change would directly impact us when we fly to South Africa on March 1. See our post here.

We had noted the calendar to apply for the UK ETA in plenty of time for our upcoming flight in only 35 days. Now, we won’t have to.

Their new policy, which went into effect on January 8, 2025, received much criticism from flight passengers who never left the airport during a layover. According to the article below, the ETA for transit passenger layovers will not be required. However, all other listed requirements will remain the same.

Weirdly, the UK is proposing an increase in the ETA fees, established on January 8, as described below:

From Travel and Leisure

“The UK Is Dropping Its ETA Fee for These Specific Passengers — What to Know

It also is proposing an increase in the fee just weeks after launch. By Alison Fox

 Published on January 21, 2025

The United Kingdom has proposed raising its electronic travel authorization (ETA) fee just weeks after it went into effect. Still, it will no longer require it for transit passengers not leaving the airport.

The ETA fee, which went into effect for most travelers on Jan. 8, including those from the United States, currently costs £10 ($12.28) to apply. However, the UK has proposed raising the cost to £16 ($19.65).

With that, the UK government said last week that travelers no longer need to pay if they do not pass through border control. (Which isn’t necessary for many layovers such as our case).

“As part of the government’s Plan for Change, ETAs will deliver a more streamlined, digital immigration system which will be quicker and more secure for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year,” the Home Office wrote in a statement. “However, following feedback from the aviation industry, the government has agreed a temporary exemption for passengers who transit airside, and therefore do not pass through UK border control.”

Following the announcement, Willie Walsh, the director general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), said he opposed the increase, calling the proposal and its timing “bewildering.”

“If implemented, it would be a self-inflicted blow to the UK’s tourism competitiveness,” Walsh said in a statement. “It’s time for the UK government to see the big picture. It has everything to gain by making the UK a more cost-competitive travel destination — including the substantial tax revenues that travelers generate. It makes no sense to discourage high-cost visitors even before they set foot in the country.”

Beyond the UK, the European Commission plans to roll out its own electronic authorization system, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), sometime this year. The fee will be €7 ($7.27).

The US also has its own Electronic System for Travel Authorization (or ESTA), available to travelers from countries with a Visa Waiver Program. The application fee for ESTA is $21.

This is one less step required for our upcoming fight, although they list the layover exemption as temporary.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, January 25, 2015:

The boat launch at Hanalei Beach, Kauai. For more photos, please click here.