Fun night at Ngwenya with Dawn and Leon…

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A bloat of hippos at Sunset Dam in Lower Sabie.

We’ve been making reservations for four people over the past few months, at La Fera Restaurant at Ngwenya Resort, a short drive outside of Marloth Park, every Thursday for their weekly buffet. We started this routine when our friend Lisa arrived from the US in April, staying for one month.

A young giraffe is grazing in the treetops.

After we returned from the US for granddaughter Maisie’s graduation, friends Kady and Rich arrived from the US, a few weeks later, at the end of June. Once again, we visited Ngwenya every Thursday evening for the buffet. After they left in mid-July, we continued this routine, inviting other friends to join us for the buffet, which filled our four-diner reservations.

The food is consistently fresh, hot, and delicious, and we all enjoy part of the evening on the veranda searching for wildlife on the Crocodile River and reveling in the beauty of the sunset. Once dark, we all head indoors to the restaurant, where a table is awaiting us with “Jessica” written on a reservation plaque.

Hippo mom and youngster walking to the shore.

The staff has come to know us, and we’re treated with good service throughout our evening. However, when we first arrive on the veranda, there’s always a wait for a server to take our drink orders. We don’t complain. We wait patiently.

No, it’s not Jabula, not like the ambiance and playful nature at the Cheers-like bar, exceptional food, and exemplary service. Nor do the owners of Ngwenya spend as much time with us as owners Dawn and Leon do, each time we walk in the door, throughout the evening, and when we finally walk out the door.

A grazing hippo at Sunset Dam.

Last night, we had the fun opportunity to spend an evening at Ngwenya for drinks on the veranda, followed by the buffet with Dawn and Leon filling our two extra seats.. It was such fun to be with both of them, and their undivided attention meant we could laugh and talk without interruption – and laugh and talk we did. It was a lovely and fun evening.

Back at our holiday home before 9:00 pm, we hunkered down for the night, watching another episode of “The Chosen” on Amazon Prime, but I nodded off a few times and will re-watch the episode in the next few days.

A yellow-billed stork at Sunset Dam with two crocs in the photo.

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Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 8, 2015:

Deadman’s Gully in Australia is aptly named, as several runners/walkers have been attacked by crocs in this area. For more photos, please click here.

We’re back from Kruger National Park…We didn’t see much but…

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We don’t often capture good photos of waterbucks, which are usually at quite a distance near the water. With the rivers low now due to lack of rain, it was a treat to see this female. (Males have horns).

Sometimes, we don’t see much in Kruger National Park…

We know the feeling well. The early-morning alarm rings, and with the same groggy enthusiasm of a child on Christmas morning, we shuffle into our clothes, pour water into our mugs, avoiding coffee so we don’t have to pee, and head for the Crocodile Gate entrance. There’s always that buzz of anticipation; today might be the day, “safari luck” might prevail: lions on the hunt, a leopard sprawled on a tree limb with a kill, or even a parade of elephants crossing the road. But sometimes, the bush has other plans.

Sometimes, we don’t see much in Kruger.

We’ve had drives where, after hours of slow rolling and peering into every shadow and thicket, we’ve come up with little more than a distant impala or the flick of a warthog’s tail as it scurries off. Very few elephants, if any, are crashing through the mopane trees. Few, if any, giraffes are elegantly gliding across the road. Just the dry rustle of leaves and the hypnotic rhythm of the gravel/dirt road under the tires.

And yet, we return. Again and again.

A croc resting in the sun on the bank of Sunset Dam.

It’s easy to forget, especially when we’ve been spoiled with incredible sightings in the past, that nature doesn’t perform on demand. The bush works on its own time. Animals don’t pose for our cameras or show up to fulfill our safari checklist. And that’s part of what makes it so magical. The unpredictability is what keeps us coming back—the possibility.

Often, we equate visiting Kruger to fishing…the anticipation is palpable. It’s that hope that keeps us returning.

Still, there are days when even our usually unshakable optimism dips a little. We glance at each other and try to joke: “Well, the impala were particularly majestic today,” or, “That squirrel stole the show.” But underneath, we feel the quiet disappointment. We want that thrill. That excitement. That feeling of sharing a brief moment with something wild and untamed.

Yesterday, we saw very little.

There was one day in particular, not too long ago, when we drove for five hours without a single big sighting. Not a single elephant, buffalo, or cat. The sun was already climbing high, casting its hazy shimmer over the road, and we were starting to accept that this was going to be one of those days. We pulled into a picnic spot, slightly deflated, when a couple nearby casually mentioned they’d just seen a pack of wild dogs minutes ago, not far from where we’d driven. We smiled and nodded, but we could feel it… We’d just missed it.

Egyptian geese enjoying the Sabie River. Note the skull. Can you tell what it is?

That moment—the one that could have changed the whole day—had come and gone without us.

But that afternoon, after stopping at the Mugg & Bean, we took a different loop. It was a road we’d rarely traveled, one with nothing “guaranteed” on it. And as we rounded a bend, there stood a dazzle of zebras bathed in golden light—no roaring lions. No drama. Just peace.

It reminded us that beauty isn’t always loud. The bush isn’t only about the “Big Five.” Sometimes it’s about the quiet things: the sound of a Burchell’s coucal after rain, the shimmer of a lilac-breasted roller in the sun, or the comical way a dung beetle wrestles its ball across the road. These moments, often overlooked, are just as much a part of Kruger’s magic as a pride of lions or a charging rhino.

There’s a kind of humility the park teaches you. You’re not in control here. You’re a guest in someone else’s world. And like any good guest, you learn to be patient, respectful, observant. You learn that not every day brings drama, but every day brings something, even if it’s only the reaffirmation that nature owes you nothing and yet gives you everything.

We waited for this old Cape buffalo (Retired General) to turn his head for a face view, but he wasn’t about to do so.

Some of our favorite memories aren’t about what we saw but how we felt. Like watching the sunrise over the Sabie River, the sky painted in pinks and oranges while hippos yawned below. Or stopping at Sunset Dam and just sitting in silence, miles away from the modern world, letting the bush speak in its own soft language.

Of course, we’ll keep hoping for those extraordinary sightings. We’ll still wake up early, still peer into the shadows, still hold our breath every time a shape appears in the distance. That’s part of the adventure. But we’ve learned not to measure the success of a drive by the number of animals we tick off a list.

Kruger has its quiet days. But those days aren’t empty. They’re filled with reminders…of stillness, of patience, of wonder.

And sometimes, just sometimes, on the way out of the gate after a long, uneventful drive, a leopard will step out of the bush, pause for a heartbeat, then vanish again. And just like that, the whole day shifts. Because in Kruger, you never know.

And that’s exactly why we love it.

Be well.

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

Tom was reading while soaking up the sun for a short period while living at the above house during our stay in Trinity Beach, Australia. For more photos, please click here.

What?…There are Southern Lights, too?…

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Not our photo. Star trails and Aurora light at Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

From Travel & Leisure online magazine, this interesting article:

“The Southern Lights Are Just as Magical as the Northern Lights—and Now’s the Best Time to Catch Them

It is peak season for the southern lights. By Evie Carrick

While the northern lights often steal the spotlight, their southern counterpart—aurora australis—offers an equally dazzling display of its own. It paints the sky green, violet, red, but catching a glimpse requires both good luck and latitude. Like the northern lights, the southern lights are born from solar particles colliding with the Earth’s magnetic field, like during a solar storm.

But unlike the northern lights, which are visible from many places in the Northern Hemisphere, the southern lights are more elusive and notoriously more difficult to see. That’s mainly because there’s so little land near the South Pole to view it from, leaving only a handful of remote spots on Earth to experience this polar light show.

To catch the southern lights, you’ll need to be positioned at high southern latitudes that are close to the magnetic South Pole. And for the best view of the lights, you’ll want to be in a place with low humidity and long, nights (factors that also make for excellent stargazing). Places like Antarctica, Tasmania, and New Zealand sometimes offer glimpses of the elusive southern lights. Still, one of the most compelling places to witness the celestial event is in Patagonia, the mountainous expanse that straddles southern Argentina and Chile.

The Andes Mountains that sprawl across much of Patagonia, and act as the dividing line between Argentina and Chile, offer the right latitude to catch the southern lights’ colorful dance along with spectacular viewing conditions and a mountainous backdrop. The phenomenon is most visible during the austral winter, from May through August, when the nights are long and dark. Amid Patagonia’s stark beauty and solitude, the southern lights often reveal themselves—quietly and brilliantly.

Most southern-lights-seekers come to Patagonia via Ushuaia, Argentina, which is sometimes called “the end of the world” and is part of the southernmost and least populated Argentine province. Ushuaia provides access to Tierra del Fuego National Park and is the starting point for many Antarctica cruises, which is another great place to catch the lights.

With “noctourism”—the growing interest in after-dark travel experiences—emerging as one of 2025’s leading trends, many travelers are setting their sights on the aurora borealis. But the more elusive prize lies farther south. According to Booking.com’s annual travel predictions, more than half of American travelers are now considering destinations with darker skies in hopes of stargazing or catching a cosmic spectacle.

In Patagonia, where the night stretches and the landscape remains blissfully unspoiled, the dream of rare nocturnal discovery feels closer—and infinitely more magical.”

We’ll certainly be watching for the Southern Lights when we are in New Zealand, beginning in December and ending in February. It will be one more exquisite offering from Mother Nature when there’s one breathtaking scene after another in this beautiful country.

We’re off to Komatipoort to grocery shop. It’s been a month since we last shopped there, but we’ve managed to avoid the big supermarket with the little shop here in Marloth Park. But now, we need several items we can’t buy locally. Plus, a trip to the Komti Pharmacy is also on the agenda when we need a few toiletries.

Tonight is Quiz Night and we’re looking forward to another fun evening.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 5, 2015:

Boats docked at the marina in Port Douglas, Australia. For more photos, please click here.

Fabulous evening in the bush with friends….Unexpected visitors…

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Bushbabies only stop by for a minute to eat yogurt and then quickly leap to the trees.

Yesterday afternoon, our friends Lorraine and Michael (who is the cousin of our friends Don and Kathy) arrived for sundowners and dinner. It was cold outside, but we all bundled up and stayed warm after dinner when the temperature dropped dramatically and the winds picked up.

The conversation was lively and engaging throughout the evening, as we discovered we had many common interests in our shared love of wildlife and the bush. This is a common theme we’ve enjoyed as we’ve made many friends in the bush over the years we’ve spent in Marloth Park since we first arrived in 2013.

For the first time, both the thick-tailed bushbaby and the much smaller lesser bushbaby arrived to eat the yogurt. In the recent past, we wrote about the thick-tailed bushbaby when we spotted one here at night, and again, a Jabula on a weekend night.

Here’s our story about the smaller “lesser bushbaby”:

The Elusive Acrobat of the Night: Lifestyle and Habits of the Lesser Bushbaby in South Africa

Hidden in the moonlit forests and woodlands of South Africa, a small, wide-eyed creature lives a life of agility, caution, and clever adaptation. The lesser bushbaby, also known as the lesser galago (Galago moholi), is a nocturnal primate whose endearing appearance belies a complex and intriguing lifestyle. Known for their enormous eyes, velvety fur, and spring-loaded limbs, these tiny tree-dwellers are among the continent’s most fascinating — yet often unseen — nocturnal mammals.

Big Daddy stopped by last night.

Masters of the Night

Lesser bushbabies are strictly nocturnal, meaning they are active only after the sun sets. During the day, they take refuge in tree hollows, thick foliage, or nests made from leaves and twigs, hiding from predators and the hot African sun. As dusk falls, they awaken with energy, grooming themselves and each other before heading out in search of food.

Their massive eyes are not just cute — they are a functional adaptation for life in the dark. These eyes are highly reflective, giving them exceptional night vision. If you’re lucky enough to spot one with a flashlight, the reflection from their eyes shines like twin orbs in the darkness.

Agile Athletes of the Trees

One of the most remarkable traits of the lesser bushbaby is its leaping ability. They are capable of springing more than two meters in a single bound — an astonishing feat for an animal that rarely exceeds 15 centimeters in height. Using their powerful hind legs and long tails for balance, they can leap from branch to branch with incredible speed and accuracy.

Their hands and feet are perfectly adapted for life in the trees. Each digit has a flat pad that helps grip branches, and their second toe sports a specialized grooming claw — a tool they use meticulously to keep their fur in pristine condition.

Tom put a little container of fruit-sweetened yogurt on the platform, and we had a pleasant surprise of seeing both the thick-tailed bushbaby, as shown here, and the little bushbaby as shown in the other photos.

Diet: Sweet and Savory

Lesser bushbabies are omnivores, with a diet that shifts depending on the season and food availability. Their preferred food is tree gum, which they lick from bark using a long, slender tongue. Acacia trees are especially popular sources of this sticky, nutrient-rich substance. To access gum, bushbabies will often bite into tree bark and return later to harvest the sap that seeps out.

But tree gum isn’t their only menu item. Insects — particularly moths, beetles, and grasshoppers — make up a substantial part of their diet. They also consume small vertebrates, fruit, and occasionally flower nectar. Their sharp hearing allows them to detect even the faintest rustle of prey, making them efficient nocturnal hunters.

Communication and Territory

Though generally solitary foragers, lesser bushbabies maintain a loose social structure and communicate using a variety of sounds, scents, and behaviors. Their vocalizations include clicks, chirps, and distinctive “crying baby” calls — the origin of the name “bushbaby.” These calls can carry over long distances at night, helping individuals locate each other or warn of danger.

Here is the “lesser bushbaby,” which we’ve been trying to attract for months, and finally made an appearance last night.

Territorial by nature, males will defend their range from intruding males, using scent-marking and vocal displays to assert dominance. Females, on the other hand, tend to have overlapping ranges and often form close-knit groups with their young or other related females.

Breeding and Raising Young

The breeding season for the lesser bushbaby typically coincides with the warmer months, when food is more abundant. After a gestation period of around 125 days, the female gives birth to one or two infants. Newborns are altricial — born blind and helpless — and are kept in the safety of a nest or dense foliage for the first few weeks.

Mothers carry their infants in their mouths from one sleeping site to another and leave them in hiding spots while they forage at night. As the babies grow stronger, they begin clinging to their mother’s fur and eventually start exploring the branches on their own. Weaning occurs around six weeks of age, but the young may remain close to their mothers for several months.

We didn’t have time to adjust the red eye on the camera.

Habitat and Threats

Lesser bushbabies are found across much of southern Africa, including savannas, woodland edges, riverine forests, and suburban gardens — especially where trees and shrubs offer shelter and food sources. In South Africa, they are commonly seen in areas like the Kruger National Park and Marloth Park, though their secretive nature often keeps them hidden from casual observers.

Despite being classified as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, these small primates face several threats. Habitat destruction due to urbanization and agriculture poses a growing risk, as does predation by domestic cats and owls. In some areas, bushbabies are also captured for the pet trade, which disrupts wild populations and often leads to poor welfare outcomes for the animals involved.

Endearing Survivors

Their wide-eyed innocence and nimble movements make the lesser bushbaby a beloved figure among wildlife enthusiasts. Yet these tiny primates are much more than just adorable faces — they are intelligent, resourceful, and deeply adapted to life in a complex, ever-changing environment.

Norman was captured by the trail cam late at night.

In the quiet of a South African night, while the world sleeps and the stars stretch out above, the lesser bushbaby leaps effortlessly from branch to branch — a silent and enduring symbol of nature’s remarkable creativity.

Tonight, we’re staying in, having a lovely evening and again, a delightful evening in the bush.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 4, 2025:

St. Mary’s by the Sea in Port Douglas, Australia, is situated near the pier and on the ocean, offering fabulous views. For more photos, please click here.

Company coming for a braai…What are the dirtiest parts of a hotel room?…

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Driving around Marloth Park, we encountered this busy garden.

From Travel & Leisure online magazine:

“These Are the Dirtiest Parts of a Hotel Room, According to Housekeeping

Here’s what to avoid next time you check in. By Iona Brannon, Published on July 14, 2025

  • Hotel rooms, even the nicest luxury digs, often look squeaky clean—but some areas of your room may be cleaner than others.
  • High-touch surfaces like phones, remotes, light switches, and carpets can harbor germs.
  • Oft-overlooked items such as barware, ceiling fixtures, and bathtubs may be overlooked during standard housekeeping cleanings.

When you check into a hotel room, the crisp linens and sparkling bathroom might give a false sense of cleanliness. However, seasoned travelers and hospitality professionals know that some of the dirtiest places in hotel rooms are often hidden in plain sight.

Two zebras are in our garden.

Between high turnover rates and limited staff, there’s often not enough time in the day to deep clean every room every day. Enza Laterrenia, head of housekeeping at Canne Bianche Lifestyle & Hotel, explains that under standard conditions, a room is cleaned by a housekeeping pair in about 30 minutes, highlighting the time pressure housekeeping teams often face.

Decorative Pillows 

Maria Diego, a Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and a self-proclaimed germaphobe, says she always takes action immediately when she gets to her room. “Having worked in hotels, the first thing I fling off to a far corner of the room are decorative pillows and any decorative runner that goes along the foot of the bed,” she says. “These never get washed.”

Laterrenia agrees, noting that many hotels wash their decorative elements infrequently.

High-touch Surfaces

For travel advisor and coach Rani Cheema, hotel room phones are the most unsanitary items. “If there’s an actual phone and I need to pick it up, I am grossed out by the receiver,” Cheema says. “I think it’s … the mouth part, because no one’s cleaning that.”

A big tusker on the bank of the Crocodile River, as seen from Ngwenya.

From a housekeeping perspective, carpets are another culprit. “They tend to trap dust and bacteria, making them one of the more demanding items to sanitize,” Laterrenia says.

Cheema, however, notes that many higher-end properties are adapting. “There are a lot of five-star hotels that no longer have carpeting, so it’s hardwood floors or an area rug, and that’s about it,” she says.

Even in luxury hotels, though, thoroughness has its limits. “At higher-end hotels, major touch points like switches, remote controls, and phones get a wipe before every check-in, but I’m still cautious about these spots,” Diego says.

Three waterbucks were resting on the dry Crocodile River bed.

Hidden Contamination Spots

Some of the most overlooked surfaces are the ones tucked away. “I’m also wary of barware inside drawers or cabinetry, anything that might be sitting for prolonged periods or handled by guests unbeknownst to housekeeping teams,” Diego says.

She’s also particular about the bathroom. “I also won’t take a bath in a hotel unless it’s a super luxe five-star hotel, and only if it’s a non-jet bathtub,” she says.”

Laterrenia reveals that certain areas are often overlooked during standard hotel cleanings. “Hard-to-reach spots—such as high ceilings, chandeliers, ceiling fans, curtain rods, and shower heads—are often neglected.”

So next time you check into a hotel, toss the decorative pillows and bed runners to the side, wipe down the high-touch surfaces, and be selective about using the tub. When in doubt, it doesn’t hurt to do a quick clean of your own.”

We often stay in hotels, and I must admit we aren’t as meticulous with wiping everything down when we arrive. However, we don’t recall a single incident where we became sick from a hotel room. Moreover, we’ve become ill from interacting face-to-face with other people. We frequently wash our hands in hot soapy water wherever we may be: hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions.

Now, I’ll set the veranda table for this evening’s dinner guests and finish the prep for starters for sundowner time, after which dinner will follow.

Be well.

Photos from ten years ago today, August 3, 2015:

A small pier for boaters at the marina in Port Douglas, Australia.. For more photos, please click here.

We couldn’t be enjoying this simple life more!…

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View of the Crocodile River from the veranda at Ngwenya.

We’ve lived a nomadic lifestyle for so long now that “home” has become an ever-evolving concept, sometimes a flat in a bustling city, sometimes a beach cottage with nothing but the rhythm of the waves and a good Wi-Fi connection. But right now, as I sit in our holiday home at the big table on the veranda, tucked deep in the South African bush, it feels like we’ve stumbled upon one of the most magical chapters yet.

Marloth Park is not just a place—it’s a feeling. A wild, untamed blend of raw Africa and warm community spirit that never ceases to stir something deep in us. Here, in this dusty little piece of paradise on the southern edge of Kruger National Park, we’ve found both thrilling adventure and unexpected comfort. After years of drifting from country to country, city to jungle, we’re utterly content being here—right now, right in this moment.

The days begin slowly here, just the way we like them. Early morning sunlight spills through the trees in golden ribbons, and the bush comes alive with birdcalls, rustling leaves, and the distant grunt of hippos down at the Crocodile River. Coffee on the veranda has become a sacred ritual, made even more delightful by the frequent wildlife guests. Zebras stroll past like they own the place, and they sort of do. Families of warthogs snuffle their way through the garden, tails held high like tiny antennae catching the joy in the air. Kudu stand statuesque under the trees, and mongooses dart around with endearing boldness, hoping for a leftover scrap from last night’s braai.

Living amongst the wildlife isn’t a novelty anymore—it’s a privilege we don’t take for granted. There’s an intimacy to it, a kind of peaceful cohabitation that makes us feel less like visitors and more like part of something ancient and essential. We’ve learned to walk slowly, to listen more, and to take notice of life’s quiet moments. There’s no rushing here. Just the steady heartbeat of the bush, and we’ve synced our pace to it.

The setting sun as seen from Ngwenya on Thusday evening when friends Carol and Colin joined us with nieces Ursula and Anita.

What makes this chapter even more beautiful is the community we’ve become a part of. Over the years, through repeat visits and long stays, we’ve formed lasting friendships with people from all walks of life, including locals, retirees, and fellow travelers who’ve also chosen this unconventional path. There’s a camaraderie among us, a shared understanding of what it means to be a little bit rootless, a little bit wild.

Social life here is anything but quiet. There’s always something happening; impromptu sundowners with friends, potluck dinners under the stars, trivia nights, conservation fundraisers, and long, lazy afternoons spent swapping stories on verandas shaded by marula trees. These people have become our tribe. They know where we’ve been and where we dream of going next. They celebrate our joys and offer support when things get hard. And despite the lack of a fixed address, they make us feel grounded.

What’s more, there’s purpose here. Conservation is woven into the everyday, from the local volunteers tracking rhino movements to the casual conversations about water and electricity scarcity and wildlife preservation. Living in the bush makes you acutely aware of your impact. It humbles you. It teaches you to tread lightly. We’ve learned so much, not just about animals or ecosystems, but about how to live more meaningfully.

Of course, not every day is postcard-perfect. There are power outages and water interruptions. The heat can be oppressive, and the bugs, well, they thrive just as much as everything else here. But the trade-off is always worth it. When the stars come out at night, clear and sharp in the black African sky, and the roar of a distant lion vibrates in your chest, it’s easy to forget the small inconveniences.

Giraffes in the garden have become a regular occurrence.

Being here has reminded us why we chose this life in the first place. We didn’t want ordinary. We didn’t want predictable. We wanted to feel alive. To live richly, fully, with our eyes and hearts wide open. And Marloth Park gives us that in spades.

We’ve found ourselves falling into a rhythm here that suits us perfectly. Mornings and nights with the animals, working, writing, and planning. Many evenings are spent laughing with friends or listening to the cicadas as the fire crackles nearby. There’s no pressure to be anywhere else. No urge to chase the next destination. We’re content. We’re rooted, not by geography, but by connection, by purpose, and by joy.

We know we won’t stay forever. That’s the nature of this life we’ve chosen. But for now, this is home. A wild, dusty, sun-drenched, zebra-trodden slice of Africa that has captured our hearts all over again. We’ll carry it with us wherever we go next, the sounds, the sightings, the scents, the friendships, and of course, the African sunsets.

And most likely, we’ll find our way back here again. Because Marloth Park doesn’t let you go easily. It lingers, like the smell of woodsmoke in your clothes or the memory of a kudu staring into your soul.

For now, we’re simply grateful. Grateful for the animals that remind us how to be still. For the friends who make this place feel like family. And for the chance to keep living this beautiful, unpredictable, nomadic life, on our terms.

Be well.

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

As we entered Four Mile Beach in Queensland, Australia. For more photos, please click here.

Theme parks on cruise ships…

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Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship with the most extensive amusement and water park.

Theme and Amusement Parks on Cruise Ships: The Floating Fun Revolution

Cruise ships are no longer just about shuffleboard, sun decks, and midnight buffets. Over the past decade, they’ve evolved into floating cities offering increasingly wild and whimsical attractions—none more jaw-dropping than the rise of full-blown theme and amusement parks at sea. The concept may seem far-fetched to some, but for the modern traveler, especially families and thrill-seekers, these onboard playgrounds are becoming a major draw.

What once began with a simple rock-climbing wall or a waterslide has exploded into a seafaring spectacle of roller coasters, surf simulators, go-kart tracks, and immersive themed zones. These floating theme parks redefine what it means to vacation on the ocean, blurring the lines between cruise ship and amusement resort.

Royal Caribbean: Pioneers of Onboard Adventure

When it comes to pushing the envelope, Royal Caribbean International leads the charge. Its Oasis Class ships, such as Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, are not just among the largest passenger vessels in the world—they’re virtual amusement parks.

Royal Caribbean was the first to introduce neighborhood-style layouts on its ships, including areas like the Boardwalk, complete with carousel rides, hot dog stands, and outdoor amphitheaters. The Ultimate Abyss, a 10-deck dry slide twisting down the back of the ship, became an iconic thrill.

But the innovation didn’t stop there. Their Quantum Class ships introduced RipCord by iFLY, a skydiving simulator, and the North Star, a glass observation pod rising 300 feet above sea level. The SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea, features bumper cars, roller skating, and even a circus school.

Carnival: Water Slides and Thrill Zones

Carnival Cruise Line leans into fun with its Carnival Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, which feature BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea. Riders strap into motorcycle-style seats on a track that twists and turns around the upper deck—while reaching speeds of up to 40 mph. That’s right: a real, electric-powered roller coaster circling the top of a ship.

Water parks have long been part of Carnival’s DNA, but they’ve upped the ante in recent years. Their WaterWorks park includes spiraling slides, splash zones, and racing tubes—all perched several decks above the ocean. Combined with the high-energy SportSquare (ropes course, mini-golf, and outdoor gym equipment), it’s a full-scale amusement experience.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Go-Karts and VR Worlds

Norwegian’s Prima and Encore ships are designed with adrenaline junkies in mind. They offer multi-level racetracks with electric go-karts zipping along the ship’s upper decks—where guests can race each other with an ocean view flying by. The track even extends slightly over the side of the ship for added drama.

The Galaxy Pavilion adds a high-tech edge, delivering an entire deck of immersive virtual reality games and rides. Passengers can pilot fighter jets, explore haunted houses, or simulate high-speed racing in a hyper-realistic environment. It’s ideal for families and tech lovers who want more than sunbathing and swimming.

MSC Cruises: European Elegance Meets Family Fun

The MSC World Europa and MSC Seascape have brought the brand into the amusement space, particularly for European travelers. The Robotron, a robotic arm ride that lifts and flips passengers while synchronizing to music and LED lights, is something you’d expect at a land-based theme park, not cruising through the Mediterranean.

MSC also offers dedicated aquaparks, adventure trails, zip lines, and 5D cinemas. Their approach blends European-style luxury with the playfulness of a resort-style family vacation.

Disney Cruise Line: Where Magic Meets the Sea

Disney Cruise Line blends its signature storytelling with cruise ship innovation. Their newest ship, the Disney Wish, offers a “water coaster” called AquaMouse, which combines water ride thrills with immersive animation, sound, and story scenes featuring Mickey and friends. It’s not just a water slide—it’s a narrative ride experience, complete with sudden drops and twists.

Themed zones, such as Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars: Cargo Bay, and Frozen-themed dining experiences, elevate the family cruise into a full-blown magical adventure. It’s no surprise Disney would ace the art of combining theme parks with cruising—they’ve simply shifted their magic from land to sea.

Why the Shift Toward Theme Parks at Sea?

Cruise lines are in fierce competition for younger audiences, multigenerational families, and thrill-seeking vacationers who once might have opted for Disneyland or Universal Studios. Today’s cruise passengers expect more than relaxation. They want Instagrammable moments, adrenaline-pumping experiences, and interactive entertainment.

Moreover, cruise vacations are increasingly seen as cost-effective family trips. Instead of paying for flights, hotels, meals, and admission to a theme park separately, a cruise offers all-inclusive pricing with amusement-level attractions included.

Challenges and Future of Floating Fun

There are unique challenges to building amusement rides on a moving vessel. Engineers must account for weight distribution, ocean motion, and safety standards. Every roller coaster loop and splash zone must be tested for stability, especially during rough seas.

Still, with technology advancing and cruise ships growing larger, we can only expect more innovation. Rumors suggest concepts like indoor ski slopes, escape rooms, AI-driven attractions, and augmented reality parks could be next on the horizon.

Today’s cruise ships are no longer just transportation…they’re destinations in their own right. Theme and amusement parks at sea have reshaped the cruising experience, offering something for everyone: thrill rides, splash zones, family fun, and tech-powered escapes. Whether you’re riding a coaster above the Atlantic or ziplining across a Caribbean sunset, one thing’s for sure: cruising has never been more exhilarating.

On another note, last night, we had a fun evening with friends Carol and Colin and Carol’s two nieces, Ursula and Anita from Pretoria, at Ngwenya for their Thursday night buffet. The conversation was as delightful as ever and left us all with smiles on our faces. Tonight, we’re off to Jabula for more entertainment. We love to be busy socializing on all these evenings!

Be well.

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

As shown in this photo, few swimmers in parts of Australia are in the water, many fearing sharks and stingers. For more photos, please click here.

What are the top ten hiking trails in the world?…Quiz Night with a dress-up movie theme…

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Norman arrived during the early morning, before sunrise, as captured by the trail cam.

Many of our readers are enthusiastic hikers and make a point of visiting the most highly revered trails in the world as they travel. Unfortunately, we don’t hike due to the disability in my legs. Plus, Tom has no interest whatsoever in hiking, let alone embarking on long walks. We have adapted our lifestyle with these realities in mind and have found numerous other ways to enjoy our nomadic way of seeing the world.

Here’s a list of the top 10 hiking trails in the world, renowned for their stunning scenery, challenging terrain, and unforgettable experiences. Each offers something unique, from towering mountains to remote coastlines, historic routes to wild jungles:

Top 10 Hiking Trails in the World

1. Inca Trail – Peru

  • Length: ~42 km (26 miles)

  • Duration: 4 days

  • Highlights: Ancient ruins, cloud forests, and the final arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

  • Best Time: May to September

2. Tour du Mont Blanc – France/Italy/Switzerland

  • Length: ~170 km (106 miles)

  • Duration: 7–11 days

  • Highlights: Panoramic views of the Alps, crossing three countries, charming villages, and alpine passes.

  • Best Time: June to September

3. Everest Base Camp Trek – Nepal

  • Length: ~130 km (80 miles) round trip

  • Duration: 12–14 days

  • Highlights: Himalayan peaks, Sherpa villages, and standing in the shadow of Mount Everest.

  • Best Time: March–May or October–November

4. Appalachian Trail – USA

  • Length: ~3,540 km (2,200 miles)

  • Duration: 5–7 months (thru-hike) or section hikes

  • Highlights: Diverse ecosystems, Appalachian culture, and forested beauty from Georgia to Maine.

  • Best Time: March to October

5. Overland Track – Tasmania, Australia

  • Length: 65 km (40 miles)

  • Duration: 5–6 days

  • Highlights: Alpine moors, ancient rainforests, glacial lakes, and wombat sightings in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

  • Best Time: October to May

    Middle of the night visitors to the garden.

6. Laugavegur Trail – Iceland

  • Length: 55 km (34 miles)

  • Duration: 4–5 days

  • Highlights: Colorful rhyolite mountains, hot springs, black lava fields, and glaciers.

  • Best Time: Late June to early September

7. The Narrows – Zion National Park, USA

  • Length: 25 km (16 miles)

  • Duration: 1–2 days

  • Highlights: Wading or swimming through the Virgin River between towering slot canyon walls.

  • Best Time: Summer and early fall (check flash flood warnings!)

8. GR20 – Corsica, France

  • Length: ~180 km (112 miles)

  • Duration: 12–15 days

  • Highlights: Considered Europe’s most challenging trail—wild, rugged terrain through Corsica’s granite spine.

  • Best Time: June to September

9. The Great Himalaya Trail – Nepal (Full Version)

  • Length: ~1,700 km (1,050 miles) in Nepal (part of a longer route through five countries)

  • Duration: Several months

  • Highlights: Remote, high-altitude trekking through the world’s highest mountain range. One of the most challenging and isolated treks on Earth.

  • Best Time: March–May, October–November

10. Te Araroa Trail – New Zealand

  • Length: ~3,000 km (1,864 miles)

  • Duration: 4–6 months

  • Highlights: Spanning from Cape Reinga in the north to Bluff in the south, this trail encompasses beaches, mountains, forests, and Maori culture.

  • Best Time: October to April.

That’s it for today, folks. We’ll be back tomorrow with photos of dress-up movie Quiz Night.

Be well.

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

On the road to Port Douglas, Australia, every beach along the way has its personality. They may all look like sand, rock, and water, but we find each one to have its unique scenery. For more photos, please click here.

Fantastic braai in the bush, overlooking the Crocodile River…My salad was a huge hit…Here’s the recipe…

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The beautiful Crocodile River view house is owned by Colin and Carol, on the left in these photos. To Tom’s left is Erika (a better photo of Erika is below), and to his left are Dawn, Trevor (Erika’s husband), and then Leon.

Yesterday, we attended a braai at Carol and Colin’s lovely home, overlooking the Crocodile River, with views unlike any others we’ve seen of the river. Unobstructed by other houses and trees, the stunning view of the river, including its bend, provided an expansive vista into Kruger National Park.

There were eight, including Colin and Carol, Erika and Trevor, Dawn and Leon, and the two of us. We’ll all brought meat to cook over the braai, the open fire, a side dish, and our drinks for sundowners. I made my usual Greek salad with homemade dressing, and everyone gobbled it up, insisting that I send the recipe today, which I’ve decided to post here. Once I mention a good recipe of mine, many readers write and request the recipe.

Thanks to Colin and Carol for hosting us! We had a fabulous time!

Erika, Tom, Dawn, Tevor, Leon, and Carol.

Thus, I decided to post the recipe here today and hope that many of you will have the opportunity to try it. I can put all the ingredients together in about 10 minutes. We enjoy this salad every time we cook, even when all we’re having is a protein source, since it’s a meal in itself, filled with nutritious vegetables that can vary based on your taste.

The homemade dressing doesn’t include any bad seed oils or mayonnaise. The amounts of the ingredients in the salad itself can be added without measuring; simply chop and dice, then add the dressing just before serving. It’s crunchy and delicious.

Jess’s Homemade Healthy Salad Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tbsp organic apple cider vinegar (with The Mothers”…unfiltered)
  • 1 tsp sweetener of your choice or more to taste

Place ingredients in a jar with a lid. Shake well, keep chilled, and use to lightly coat salad ingredients, stirring well with a large spoon. Use enough to coat vegetables lightly.

Salad Ingredients (Serves 6 to 8)
  • 4 cups chopped lettuce of your choice
  • 4 cups chopped raw cabbage
  • 12 sliced grape tomatoes
  • 1 large cucumber, sliced
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 large diced carrot
  • 1/2 cup whole pitted black olives, kalamata olives, or other olives of your choice
  • 1 cup cubed (drained on paper towels) feta cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Unfortunately, once dressed, the salad wilts and doesn’t keep well overnight. If unsure, make small batches. It only takes one minute to dress another batch of vegetables. However, ingredient amounts may be adjusted based on the number of servings you prefer. I make about half of the above salad ingredients for the two of us. The leftover dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for a few weeks. Enjoy!

Soon, we’re off to the market to purchase more carrots and apples for Norman. We are determined to keep him well fed with nutritious fruits and vegetables.

That’s it for today, folks.

Be well.

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

This package of crocodile is AUD 15, US $10.91. We never cooked it, but tried it in a restaurant. Tastes like chicken. For more photos, please click here.

Tourism in South Africa in 2025…Sunset over the Crocodile River…

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Sunset from Ngwenya on Thursday night.

With the ongoing negative perceptions of visiting South Africa, there are many positive aspects to consider when you may hesitate to make it your next holiday destination.

Tourism in South Africa in 2025 has surged with renewed energy, following a challenging few years marked by global instability, health concerns, and shifting travel trends. This year, South Africa stands proudly as one of Africa’s premier destinations—an irresistible blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and adventure. From the cosmopolitan pulse of Cape Town to the untamed wilderness of Kruger National Park, the country is reclaiming its status on the world travel map. But what makes South Africa in 2025 so enticing to travelers?

A Post-Pandemic Rebound with Purpose

It’s easy to be amazed by the sunset at this fantastic location.

Following the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2025 has seen a surge in international travel driven by a growing desire for meaningful experiences. South Africa, with its rich tapestry of landscapes, people, and wildlife, is delivering just that. Visitor numbers are rebounding strongly, with travelers from Europe, the United States, and Asia returning in high numbers.

Importantly, there’s a noticeable shift toward sustainable tourism. Visitors are increasingly aware of their environmental and social impact, and South Africa has responded to this trend. Community-led lodges, ethical wildlife encounters, and conservation tourism are now at the forefront, offering more profound and more responsible experiences.

Cape Town and the Garden Route: Coastal Crown Jewels

Cape Town continues to dazzle with its iconic Table Mountain, golden beaches, and vibrant neighborhoods, such as Bo-Kaap and Woodstock. In 2025, the city has sharpened its focus on eco-tourism and urban greening. New walking and cycling routes, solar-powered guesthouses, and community art spaces are breathing fresh life into the urban experience. The V&A Waterfront, always a favorite, now doubles as a cultural hub with live music, food markets, and indigenous storytelling sessions.

Just beyond the city, the Garden Route, a coastal stretch from Mossel Bay to Storms River, is flourishing. Travelers are rediscovering its forests, lagoons, and charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. With well-maintained roads, upgraded accommodations, and immersive tours focused on nature, wellness, and food, the Garden Route is one of 2025’s most popular drives.

Wildlife Wonders and Bush Escapes

South Africa’s safari experience remains unmatched, and in 2025, it’s more accessible and varied than ever. Kruger National Park, still the crown jewel of safari destinations, has expanded its range of guided, self-drive, and luxury camping options. However, lesser-known parks, such as Addo Elephant National Park, Madikwe Game Reserve, and the Waterberg Biosphere, are gaining popularity. They offer quieter, less commercial alternatives for seeing the Big Five and engaging with conservation programs.

Wildlife photography tours, volunteer safaris, and citizen science projects are on the rise, allowing visitors to participate in data collection and animal monitoring. Tourists are increasingly drawn to purpose-driven travel, where their time and money support biodiversity and anti-poaching initiatives.

As clouds obstruct the view, it remains stunning.

Cultural Tourism: Beyond the Stereotypes

While South Africa’s natural beauty often headlines tourism brochures, its cultural experiences are just as captivating. In 2025, there’s a growing demand for authentic, local engagement. Travelers are visiting townships for curated cultural walks, traditional meals, and live performances. Initiatives in Soweto, Langa, and Khayelitsha connect visitors with storytellers, artists, and entrepreneurs who share their lived experiences of history, struggle, and progress.

Robben Island remains a must-see, but new museums and cultural centers across the country are telling South Africa’s story from multiple perspectives. The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) in Cape Town and the KwaZulu-Natal Museum in Pietermaritzburg are helping to rewrite narratives and attract visitors seeking depth, not just sights.

Wine, Cuisine, and Culinary Tourism

Food and wine tourism is thriving in 2025, and South Africa’s Western Cape is at the heart of it. The Cape Winelands, comprising Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, continue to offer world-class wines in spectacular settings, with an added emphasis on organic practices and indigenous grape varieties. Many estates now blend tastings with storytelling, pairing wine with South African history and identity.

Cape Malay cuisine, braais, bunny chow, and modern Afro-fusion dishes are drawing culinary explorers to restaurants and street food markets alike. Durban’s Indian-influenced flavors and Johannesburg’s fine dining scene are both on the rise. Food tours, cooking classes, and foraging experiences are adding a rich, sensory layer to the travel experience.

Safety, Connectivity, and Infrastructure

Tourism in 2025 is expected to benefit from improved infrastructure and enhanced connectivity. Upgrades to airports, roads, and mobile networks make travel smoother. Ride-share services and digital booking platforms are widely used, and even in remote areas, Wi-Fi is more accessible than ever. Load-shedding, the rolling blackouts that once marred daily life, has been significantly reduced through expanded solar energy initiatives, especially in tourism hotspots.

Safety remains a concern in some areas, but partnerships between the government and the private sector have improved policing and tourist protection. Travelers are encouraged to use registered guides, stay informed, and explore within well-supported tourism corridors.

As it began to disappear…

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its successes, South Africa’s tourism sector in 2025 still faces challenges. Climate change is impacting rainfall patterns and wildlife, while economic inequality remains a persistent undercurrent. However, tourism is increasingly being used as a tool for social change—creating jobs, supporting women and youth-led enterprises, and funding education and conservation.

The Spirit of South Africa

What makes tourism in South Africa in 2025 so special isn’t just what you see—it’s how the country makes you feel. It’s the deep roar of a lion at dusk, the warmth of a stranger greeting you with “howzit,” the rhythm of a gumboot dance, and the way a sunset over the Drakensberg turns the entire sky gold. It’s a nation that has survived and evolved, always moving forward, always inviting the world to walk beside it for a little while.

For those who crave connection, authenticity, and awe, South Africa in 2025 is not just a destination, it’s an experience that stays with you long after the journey ends. After spending nearly five of our 13 years of world travel in South Africa, we remain captivated by its wonders.

Be well.

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

This was one of my favorite plants at the Cairns Botanic Garden in Australia. For more photos, please click here.