SOLD OUT!!

NYE...in the bush!

The lodge is sold out and there is a party in every bar. People are having a great time and this is life. Even if my camera is no longer in my possession with two years worth of photos.

There's an exciting move happening in January: China. I will be backing up my photos.

Stay tuned...

The Red Lines Mean Gravel Roads

After a great 3 nights in Swakopmund it was off to our last destination in the southern part of the country. But not after fixing our flat tire.

We set out early morning for a rather short 380km drive to NamibRand Reserve near Sesriem. At least it seemed that way on the map. Little did we know that shortly after passing through Walvis Bay with its flamingos were we in for sand, salt and gravel roads. That made our 4 hour journey at 60km/h nearly an 8 hour drive. Damn was I pissed. Rocks on the road. Bumps and rivets. Everything to slow me down and without solution. Slow and easy.

The start of the journey had us driving through sand dunes and by now we were more into rocky terrain with mountains. No matter where you are in Namibia, the landscape is to die for.

After watching the minutes go by we finally arrive at Wolwedans Lodge by which time I had enough of this gravel bullshit and just wanted to get to a cold bottle of Tafel beer. Even at the gate to the lodge it was still another 20km on bad dirt road. But for all of this trouble we were in a truly untouched and unspoiled part of the country.

With its tented rooms surrounded by mountains and sand filled valleys this was a place to take it all in. I definitely recommend this place if you can arrange for a flight in.

Now how will I handle the drive back to Windhoek on these dirt roads?

Off to the Coast.

From Mokuti, we headed towards the coast making a stopover at Erongo Wilderness Lodge. The lodge is just off the beaten track and built in between huge stone croppings. Crazy to think that all the building materials had to be carried up to the site. We even had to be transported to the lodge by a 4x4 just to get over the top.

We spent one night there and were treated to baboons and a beautiful sunset. From our tented rooms (with ensuite) we could sit and enjoy the surrounding serenity. Something that is actually very easy to find in this country.

From Erongo, we made our way to Swakopmund. This was were I had spent my New Year on the beach. We rented a flat and weren't too sure what it would be like. I had some help from our neighbours next to the lodge who helped plan this trip and they recommended a flat over a hotel room. And it ended up being the right choice.

The flat had 2 bedrooms, kitchen, living room and large balcony overlooking the ocean. It even had a garage for the Toyota to sleep in. No doubt the right choice, and much cheaper. I even paid for it!!!

We explored Swakopmund and I was able to get out and wander on my own. A few bars pulled me in and I met some more great people. It so happened that there would be an Oktoberfest that weekend and we were keen on checking it out. With a full band and 100 people, I think the whole town showed up!

Every evening was spent on the balcony waiting for the sun to go down and every night the sunset turned out perfect!

Just before we left Swakopmund our little Toyota suffered its first flat tire.

My House, My Home, My Life

Now it was time to show my parents my life. Where was I spending my last 8 months...without much time off.

Mokuti, just outside Etosha National Park, is 525km north of Windhoek. So the stop at Okonjima broke up the journey. Not to say my 160km/hr+ driving did help speed things up. The roads are straight, smooth and quiet. Not to mention that my first time behind the wheel in 12 months was going to be exciting. Pedal to the metal!

At Mokuti, my parents were treated to a fantastic room and were able to do nothing but relax. The only appointments were for wildlife safaris and of course, the spa. What a way to live. And get this, they saw 87 elephants at one waterhole. Four herds coming together. Quite spectacular.

I introduced my parents to all my new friends and colleagues; Anand, Ina, Chris, Vendi, and the whole bar team, Jackson, Daniel, Patrick, Erenst and Daement. These are the faces I see everyday...every...day.

I did spend some time in the office, but at least dinner was a family event and I think the liked what they saw.

The Fam in Nam

It didn't take much convincing, but my parents finally made it to another continent. I would get some time off and we would explore Namibia and all its treasures.

Their first night was spent in Windhoek to catch up on some sleep and relax for a bit. We had rented a car and our first task was to pick it up. Just as a general note I told my Dad not to expect to much in terms of customer service and punctuality. Sure enough, I didn't have to repeat myself after we finally had the keys to the rental in my hand.

That evening we had a fantastic dinner with colleagues at The Heinitzburg Hotel.

After a night in Windhoek we were headed to Okonjima Lodge. The lodge used to be a hunting farm now turned into a conservation area for big cats and hyenas. Our two nights there really kicked off the trip.

Our first activity at the lodge was to drive into one of the cheetah habitats and search for the cats. Not too much longer and five cheetahs were circling the truck. The cheetah are obviously used to the people and cars so they are somewhat habituated. Still, to see these creatures so close really makes an impression. Most of these cats are either orphans or don't have much chance to return to the wild. Cheetahs are one of the only cats that learn how to hunt from their mother. Other cats can do it instinctively. So when a cub is orphaned it stands little chance in the wild.

The next day would be leopard spotting. Once again, these cats also stand little chance of surviving in the wild. They are all fitted with radio collars to help with the spotting. Now, make no mistake. The conservancy is on a huge farm. And even if you get close enough by radar it still doesn't mean the leopard is out in the open. The first day we had no luck and didn't find anything. We headed out a second time and after traversing a dry river bed, up and over rocks, we spotted a leopard hovering over its warthog carcass. Again, at close range we see how impressive this animal is.

Without any complaints and leaving bewildered and astounded by the first stop of our trip we would head north to Mokuti lodge to relax for four nights before making our way to the coast.

FORE...and a leopard

No rain.

On the upside things are looking much better at the lodge. Guests from around the world are coming and checking out the park and enjoying the sights of Namibia. AND ITS TIME FOR ME TO EXPLORE AGAIN...

I had the chance to tag along with a professional photographer into Etosha National Park last week and it was a great to get off the property again. We headed out at 7h00 and spent the entire morning in the park. Its is a surreal place. Something you can't describe. The waterholes are bringing in all the animals. Amazing to see what most of you have only seen on TV.

The best sightings were of a male lion with its wildebeest kill and a leopard just jumping out of its tree. Amazing...Oh, and the large bull elephant knocking a makalani palm tree for its fruit.

Later that week a few of us tried a new take on golf and took a swing out at the airstrip. No doubt I should have kept up my foursome.

Still in the Bush

So now I really don't have a good excuse. No sharks, no buses and no border crossings.

The lodge is coming to life. Finally all major buildings have been finished and the few remaining projects, IT, pathways and landscaping details are underway. All we need are guests! No doubt we are all waiting for our first full house.

The snake park curator is busy catching snakes, scorpions and freeing snared warthogs. There are bushmen who live around the area and our fences make perfect routes for placing snares on game trails. Definitely a problem and our anti-poaching drives are trying to catch the culprits.

I went on a full moon game drive with another conservation worker. It's quite amazing how much you can see in the bush with a full moon. Even some animals wandering around; kudu, giraffe, oryx, and more. And the birds. There are so many birds here.

It hasn't rained since early March and the bush is slowly thinning and dulling to brown. This is the best time to see the animals as the water holes start drying up and only a few main water holes remain full.

AND...EVERY SUNSET IS OUT OF THIS WORLD! REALLY!

And then the stars...you have to see them for yourself. Learning all new constellations and can't resist looking up every night I walk home. But also down to avoid stepping on anything.

Off to Work

The hotel is still quiet, but we finally have a full management team together. The next few weeks will involve trainings, and setting policies and procedures. Lots of homework for me to do. Buildings are still going up and its exciting to watch the progress in the Boma outdoor grilling restaurant, pool bar, and spa.

Crazy thing last week. I was walking home early in the morning and stumbled across a group of giraffes. Maybe 6 or 8. They saw me and then galloped away, but being so close was amazing.

Then, later on I caught a scorpion in front of my house. Something like 3 or 4 inches long. But now it has gone missing...and all scorpions are poisonous. Bad news.

In the Bush

After spending those last weeks travelling around east and southern Africa, it was either time to pack up and head home or find a solution to stay longer. And here is the solution. While in Namibia I picked up a job at a lodge in Etosha National Park.

Shortly after my visit to Johannesburg I flew back to Tanzania to pick up the rest of my belongings. Augustine kept my room and all of my things in order while I was away. I only spent two days in Morogoro before heading back to Dar Es Salaam to catch my flight to Namibia. It was great to meet the new volunteer staff with YCI and to sit with Jessica and Godfrey. I was craving local food so we went out for some mishikaki and chipsi.

So now I am working and living at a lodge in the middle of the bush. It is still under renovation and will be a spectacular 106-room property when finished. We currently only have a few guests in house, but just a few days ago we did have a tour group of 100 guests. The lodge has an airstrip and most groups fly in. This group flew in on two DC-6 aircraft. Unbelievable machines!The experience so far is hard to describe. Its been almost two weeks and everything is amazing. Last week we had lions roaming the property and there is always the possibility of crossing paths with a spitting cobra or black mamba when heading home after work. Not to worry. The closest medical facilities are only one hour away. I really am in the bush.

Hurray for Che

So the German I met in Swakopmund, Daniel, and I are still exploring Windhoek. Or at least trying not to get robbed. Looks like we might leave soon enough.

Since I've been here I have heard of three people being jumped on the street. One story involves a couple at dinner and from their window seat they can see their car being broken into and some items stolen. This is all during daylight hours. When the dusk settles in the city all the streets are empty. No one is walking on the street.

Last night we checked out a local reggae band at a modern venue. Definitely fun. After the band we went next door to a bar called "El Cubano." Cool small place with flags hanging from the walls, salsa music, Cuban cigars and the staff donning shirts of "Che." Very cool hangout. Different age groups and everyone out for a good time.

What I've learned so far is that its easy to spend money in the city. Better here than in London or Paris.

Etosha National Park

So far the past few days my life has offered some interesting opportunities. You will find out soon enough.

For the time I have been in Etosha National Park. More animals and even more lions. At least 8 or more.

Still enjoying Namibia. Maybe some of you can come and visit!

Short and Sweet.

Leaving Swakop

Well, I finally made it out of Swakopmund, unfortunately. I arrived in Windhoek this afternoon by minibus and am not impressed at all. No breeze and no ocean. But hey, at least there's a mall.

I met a German at the hostel and I'm sure something interesting will plan itself in the next few days. Not to mention the friends I met in Swakop who live in South Africa. Just can't wait to check out and move on.

Stuck in the Sand

Well, according to what the "plan", I should have left Swakopmund 5 days ago. I was ready to leave this morning, but I keep meeting interesting people.

On the way back to the hotel I bumped into a bus driver who was interested in my day and made friendly conversation. I few minutes later I found myself invited to come watch the Under 18 Fistball World Championships. Turns out he was the driver of the Swiss team. I had no idea what Fistball was so I was up for the show. Imagine a form of Volleyball.

There were only a few teams in this fairly new sport; Austria, Brazil, Chile, Switzerland, Germany and Namibia.

Germany took the title for the men and Austria for the women.
Maybe I'll move on tomorrow.

Midnight

Nothing like ringing in the New Year on a beach with hundreds of friends.

We didn't make any reservations for a place to stay on New Years and luck had it that the entire city was booked full. The day we spent sandboarding we asked around and the common answers were to head to Tiger Reef Beach Bar and find a place to sleep on the beach. Maybe even shower in the ocean.

Back in town we still looked around for a room and Lindsey found a nice flat, twice the price. Oh well.

We started off with a few roadie pops and made our way to the beach to take in the last sunset of 2008! This place, Swakopmund, a mouthful to say is really beautiful. Filled with Gemuetlichkeit and all.

We then made it to Tiger Reef and met a few local friends and kept the conversation flowing. It was a pretty easy to talk. About anything really. I don't remember how deep the conversation was, but it was a great night.

The beach was full of people. Tents, bottles and a huge pyramid of wood. After midnight it turned into the tallest flame I had seen. People shot their fireworks and celebrated a new year.

I will stay here just a few more days while Lindsey and Scott head south for more adventure.

Face Full of Sand

Scott, Lindsey and I spent New Years Eve on the sand dunes just outside Swakopmund, Namibia sandboarding.

The dunes are a few hundred metres tall and you are equipped with a snowboard for sandboarding, boots and a helmet. Most of us had minimal experience, but that didn't matter. We were all getting a face full of sand.

We had to walk up the dune with board in hand and attempt to make it down on the board. The last run even included a jump. Intimidating, but fun!

Skeletons

During our time in Livingstone we met a Canadian engineer working in Johannesburg. He was on vacation from Jo'burg and was heading to Namibia. He offered a ride and we gladly accepted. No more buses for now.

We left Livingstone with Scott heading to Namibia. We passed up through the Caprivi strip, lush and green. and a couple monkeys. We drove for a few hours up until dusk. Throughout the park they were treating prevent foot and mouth disease. We had to get out of the car as the sprayed around it and had us step onto to a disinfecting mat.

Now we needed to find a place to stay. Looking through the lonely planet we found a safari camp that was just off the main road and outside the park. Scott's little 2-wheel drive Peugot did well through the sandy terrain and we made it to Ngepi Lodge. We reserved a deck tent for N$225. The lodge is on the banks of the Kwando River with resident Hippos.

The next day we were off again just trying to get as far into Namibia as possible. Leaving the camp in the morning proved trickier than expected as the little Peugeot almost drowned itself in a puddle. Just an inch more and the water would have spilt over the floor of the car. With the help of some local kids and a 4x4 with tow rope, we managed to pull out the sinking car.

Soon after we were back on the road heading into Namibia. After 6 hours we were in a small town called Outjo. We check into a lovely Bed & Breakfast, Dan & Mari. The owner a friendly local and the rooms immaculate. We grilled up some wieners for dinner and finished a bottle of gin before gently hitting the mattress.

Next morning we were treated to a tasty breakfast, bacon, eggs and cereal. Its been a while.

Now we were headed to the Skeleton Coast near Torra Bay on the South Atlantic. I can almost see the Canadian shore on the other side. The landscape was slowly changing from green bush to rock sandstone, to simply sand. Two ostriches were kind enough to say hello. The drive took us right to the coast and salt roads and the little Peugeot made it all the way. No 4x4 needed. Amazing to see so much land with nothing on it. Just bare.

In Swakopmund we are staying at a small backpackers in hopes of finding a place for New Years Eve. Everything seems to be fully booked.