Hope you saw last blog!! Check it out two in one day!!On from Bath to Stratford Upon Avon – Shakespeare Country, first stop was Anne Hathaways’ house, wife of William Shakespeare.  The cottage was where Anne grew up and where William and Anne had done their courting.  The house still had the original courting chair as they used to call them centuries ago.  Anne was 7 years older than William when they had to get married William only being 18 years of age. The cottage was set on a few acres of land with a lovely woodlands, apple orchard and statue garden.  We spent a few hours there, a very pretty place and then on to our B&B.  A walk into town across the River Avon and a few more stops at William Shakespeare destinations, house where he died, home of one of his daughters and Husband and the cemetery where the family is buried.  That night we had dinner at one of the Calluccio restaurants which completed another lovely day.    A drive to Mary Arden’s farm, mother of Shakespeare, the next morning which was a few miles out of town.  This farm was a working farm with people dressed in period clothing, cooking food from the period from animals still being raised there today.  It was amazing how the upstairs bedrooms filled with smoke as they cooked their meals on the huge open fires.  It is said that they all slept sitting up because the devil would take them if they slept lying down, we thought it would be more from smoke inhalation I think that was a cause as well.  The people working on the farm were real Shakespearians and they spoke with such passion when telling you about the family and the surrounding properties. We then headed back into town and went to Shakespeare’s birthplace which completed the Shakespeare picture.   Unfortunately the theatre was closed for an upgrade not reopening until next month.  We then walked along the river and watched some locks in operation and checked out the narrow boats dotted along the banks.   Wednesday we decided to head towards Blackpool and before we left as always the host at the B&B asked where we were heading to and we said Blackpool.  Great he said they have a light show there, good and we told him about the one that we had seen in Hong Kong, no he said it won’t be like that – oh we thought how could it be that different, anyway he said just keep in mind it can be a bit tacky.  Tacky we thought, we thought that we had seen tacky but no all was revealed when we arrived in Blackpool.  Probably our interest with Blackpool came from Coronation Street when Vera & Jack went there for their summer holidays and that should have told us a story – oh a bit of fun to be had ahead.   Luckily we hadn’t prebooked accommodation; this was one day that I didn’t mind.  We could not believe it, bigger and more brash than Brighton, B&B’s, arcades, Piers oh and once again we can not forget the Fish n Chip shops all the way along the promenade.  The promenade stretched along probably more than 5 kms.  We headed down the south end of the beach and decided we had better get somewhere to sleep, I was thinking I might just like to head out of town hehe.  The first hotel I went into seemed ok, 84 quid for the night with breakfast, no wifi in rooms though, I could try a newer hotel down the road they would have wifi in the room I was told, that’s ok I thought, would I like  showed me the room, oh my gosh no I wasn’t going to stay there.  I quickly gapped it out the front door dived into the car, gave Steve the bully and we promptly smoked it out of their car park to drive down the road and see if we could find this new hotel.  Luckily we did and when I went into see if I could get a room I asked the girl was the room nice, she looked at me strangely and said this is a new hotel, how many stars, 4 was her reply and the price was right so all was good for the night.  We got our gear and went to our room before heading out to walk the promenade and find somewhere for dinner oh and not to forget the lights which were turned on at 8.00 pm and we could catch a tram if we wanted to run the length of the promenade.  Actually out of our bedroom window was Pleasure Island theme park and we had a roller coaster screaming past our window every 5 minutes but that was fun to see.   In Blackpool although one beach they have a number of so called beachless beaches.  South beach, Pleasure beach, Myrtle Beach and North Beach.  If it was indeed Pleasure Beach I have never seen so many unimpressed people in my life, ….happy….NOT!  Geez these people look rough.  Never seen so many Mohican haircuts in my life, not even in a 1960s western movie.  Mind you the weather has cooled so that maybe why.  Virtually every shop sells Blackpool Rock, that is the candy with the writing down the inside; I remember that from my childhood days, best price seemed to be 7 pieces for 1 pound.  The entire waterfront wall to wall hotels or B&Bs, some very sad looking indeed.  Then the streets leading off the promenade were all B&Bs too, literally thousands of them and what was interesting was all the people on motorized scooters, it’s big business here we came across 3 shops within a small area.  Unfortunately with some of these sad looking people comes the gambling, the Arcades, the amount of bingo outlets calling you in, and the buy gold for cash shops that were everywhere.  We have been to Amsterdam where they have legalized cannabis and seen the culture and we have now been to Blackpool and seen what the pokey machines and arcades draw in – it’s not a great sight.   Well yes even we got sucked into the gambling, only a small amount but we needed to go to the toilet and Coral Island looked ok, well the machines, the lights and the music draws you in.  All that money could be yours just sitting on the shelf ready to fall off we must be able to win.  As you all know that we are pretty tight I thought I would chance a pound 50, 2p pieces that go into a machine with shelves moving back and forth, first haul we only lost 12p then it was all gone hey well we had a bit of fun, but you look around and see these old punk rockers with babies in pushchairs and you think how sad, what a way to spend a day.   Anyway plenty of fresh air and walking probably about 20ks one day was done in Blackpool and the lights were great, we will attach some photos, once again it is time to move on.  Next stop Edinburgh in Scotland.  

Tue Oct 05, 2010 Hi from Scotland - do you like the hat & hairdo?  Having fun will update blog again soon!!


Thu Sep 30, 2010 We’re on the road again -  Monday morning and we are heading out of Brighton and as yet we don’t know where we will end up today but  we are heading west and the plan is to be in Padstow by the Wednesday 22nd so we have a couple of days to get there.  We agree on Dorchester as the destination and arrive in town around 3.00 pm after a couple of stops on the way.  Now where to stay, well the GPS has this great little tool that finds accommodation so we have a look, there appears to be heaps of places 10 kms south  so lets try there.  Neither of us knowing where we would end up and were a bit apprehensive, we arrived in this place called Weymouth pronounced Wimith by the locals.  This is a seaside town, fantastic; streets of B&B’s, which one do we pick who knows but lets have a go.  First one unsuccessful - she had a room but don’t think she wanted anyone staying so then 2 along into the next one.  As I was walking in a bloke came running in and told me it was the best B&B along there, great this would do and we have a room with a view but only for one night as it was rented but we could move to another room tomorrow if we wanted to stay.  Our room had a little table in the window and we looked out to sea, very nice.    After being cooped up in the car all day we headed out for a walk along the promenade, this place also had the Punch & Judy cabins for puppet shows, the candy cane painted sheds on the beach, game arcades, deck chairs for rent but without the sophistication and the crowds of Brighton.  We stopped at one of the stalls for a coffee and did some people watching then headed further up the road where we found a great shopping area, some of the streets were lined with flags Steve could not believe it, very kitsch. We then went down to the wharf for a wander around, a very interesting little place.   We then headed back to the B&B this was our first experience so weren’t quite sure of the protocol.  Well they appear generally to be owned by couples & it’s interesting it seems that one fronts the people and the other is in the background doing the cooking etc.  We went back down the road for dinner to this funny little place not too far away but had a great meal for 12 quid, also met some people there who filled us in on what was worth doing the next day   Tuesday we thought Weymouth was definitely a place for another nights stay so let our host know at breakfast, ok great but we would need to move rooms, that’s fine, oh no she came back in and said a booking had come in over  night so we would need to go but she ran down the road to one of her friends and we were in another B&B with a room with a view, so before we knew it we were moved down the road and good for another nights accommodation – so time for the sight seeing.   First stop was Swanage to the weekly market, then a walk into the town where they run a tourist steam train from Swanage through to Corfe Castle.  We stood and watched them loading coal on to the engine and then walked to the train station.  Next stop was Corfe Castle; this had been the setting and inspiration for Enid Blyton when she was writing her Famous Five books.  A stop at the local Tea Rooms to try Clotted Cream & Jam Scones – beautiful, yaar ummm.     Next to Lulworth lullith as the locals say Castle and on the way a sign that says Lulworth Cove so figuring that the castle is in the same direction head there.  What a gem of a find, no castle that we can see but it seems that everybody comes here.  The surprise of our lives there are 100s of cars in the limestone carpark and big grass overspill park too.  We see this limestone pathway up the cliff edge to the top and decide to the tackle it.  What a stupid move, heaving and perspiring like a couple of boxers in the 12th round we stagger to the top, obviously very steep.  The view was immense and worth the walk, at this point we kid ourselves that we have used all the calories in the jam and cream scones so a drink is deserved.  Another gem is the cove, no sand here though but hardy people braving the rocks for a lie in the sun.  We pass a little fish shop and I mean little, selling all sorts of what we do not see at home.  Smoked sprats, well they are bait at home but I am going to catch some at Pauanui and smoke them. Big Turbot for sale at 19 quid a kilo, jellied eels and all sort of strange stuff.  Now to the local for a drink and I get the drinks in, Janet the usual wine and a cider for me.  Then we decide that we are hungry again after all the exercise so we have to have a Cornish pasty.  You just have to have a pasty when in Cornwall, so a pasty with cider or wine is great I can tell you.   I had seen a cider museum on the way today so we called in there on the way home.  Great to see but their cider was shocking.  Needless to say that we did not purchase any of that brand.  Back to wimith as they say.    Another new venture today and off to Padstow – Rick Stein country for all of you who watch the food channel -.  What a hoot of a place a quaint fishing village specialising in crabs and lobster, with thousands of tourists thronging the tiny streets.  Accommodation is tight so we call in to the tourist info centre, they assist.  Rick Stein is huge here and has taken the town to a real destination to visit, it appears to us if it wasn’t for him it would be some sleepy smelly hollow.  He owns so much of the town, 5 or 6 restaurants and shops for a start.  Mind you he knows how to charge!  We find a great B&B up the hill and it is great .   We tried to book into one of the restaurants but couldn’t get in till 9.30 pm too late .   Back across the road to further explore the village and guess what?  Time for something to eat so we take in a late lunch and decided on the English favourite and had fish and chips, really nice too.   A guy is on the street outside his Pasty shop disposing of the balance of the days stock at 1.50 pound each, well we decide that we will have these for dinner tonight and buy a couple.   Today it is my birthday and as breakfast is served in your room with all the nice table setting and the gear etc we break out a bottle of Moet which just happened to be chilled and had a great Champagne breakfast.  What a great start to the day.  We decide on a quiet day today and just walk the village exploring and book in for dinner tonight.  Dinner was fantastic with the both of us having lobster.  All I can say is that NZ Crayfish beats it hands down for flavour and taste, we still enjoyed it though and ate them like true Kiwis and just left a pile of dust on the plates.   So Padstow was great but it was time to move on to Bath today.  Lots to see in Bath and our drive took us down very skinny lanes in some beautiful villages.  We stopped at a farm shop for a coffee and the produce on offer was immense.  It is strange to drive down such skinny roads with the trees and bush etc right on the road.  We had to reverse up a couple of times because two into one does not go and I do not want to damage the car.  We find our B&B for the next few days and it is off to the city center to find our bearings.    This place is beautiful, very old and simply lovely, we are in the city center in a matter of minutes walk and we have booked a Stone Henge tour and need to find out where it leaves from tomorrow morning.  That sorted we start our usual snooping of the city, walking, looking, photographing etc, noting places that we need to come back to, to spend more time on.   Breakfast is late tomorrow after we leave for the henge so Janet arranges for toast in the room.   We duly arise early and are quiet getting ready so that we do not disturb any other guests, how very considerate of us, then……it could only happen to us….you guessed it at 6.30am we are cooking our toast and the smoke alarm decides to wake up and because it is awake decides to wake the whole place.  I am sure that these things are louder when things are quiet, do you know how hard it is to stop these once they start screaming.  Needless to say we settled the jolly thing down furiously waving towels etc and scampered for the day.  Beats having an alarm even if you don’t want one.  I recall a pommy television program, neighbours from hell, maybe we will feature?   It is cooler these days, a lot cooler in the mornings under 5c and we find our way to the Mad Max tours meet point.  Stone Henge was incredible, unbelievable and all of those words.  The day was brilliantly sunny and fine but with a freezing breeze cutting like a knife across the henge. We wandered around with our whisper telling us all about the different aspects of the henge.  There are other henges around and we saw a wooden henge and all sorts of stuff.  On to Lacock lacuc in roman times and we had lunch here in a very old pub, the George Inn dating from 1361.  This is also the village where parts of Harry Potter was filmed and also the movie Pride and prejudice, Wolfman and The other Boleyn Girl.  We passed Cley Hill which is the sight of very many UFO sightings.  What nobody tells you is that most are seen after the pub closes of an evening and most were from  a commune in the 60s’.  We also saw the limestone horses carved out of the hillside, not so much carved as the soil scraped off and one of them known as the Westbury White Horse. We also saw many Neolithic burial mounds.  Then on to Castle Combes which was a very small village where as it happened  Steven Spielberg was making a movie.  I can tell you that it is going to be called Warhorse.  This had to be the best value tour on offer in the world at 30 pounds for the whole day, thanks Mad Max Tours.   Sunday was spent walking the town and we went to the Roman baths.  Now that is a place to see, unbelievable engineering 2000 years ago.  Well worth the entry fee.  We then walked alongside the Avon River across the Pulteney Bridge built with shops along both sides with views through the shop to the Avon.  We also found the original Sally Lunns house which is the oldest house in bath dating from 1462, we even booked in for dinner here and have dinner served in a traditional Trencher.  A trencher is a wooden board a with bread base, used before metal or ceramic plates were invented.  One mops up the meal juices and cleans the plate with the bread trencher.  You are allowed to lick the plate as these were not washed and usually had the owners name carved into the back.  Who would want to use something that someone else had cleaned by licking?   Yuk!

Robert and Liz off to New Zealand 13 December 2010

MandB's african adventure25Thu, 23 Aug 2007
Hello everyone, we are back in blighty and this is our final blog entry! 

After Sue and Dave left we headed to Luderitz, on the coast in Namibia. Really spectacular coastline and diamond country, so went sparkly hunting�

We had our first wedding anniversary at a seafood restaurant called Ritzys (to those Swansea-ites � how appropriate is that??).  Instead of bubbly we celebrated with a luminous green bottle of lemon twist� probably the cheapest anniversary meal in history (16 quid!)�

Visited the eerie ghost town of Kolmanskop, which was once a wealthy Victorian diamond mining town.  Now a big sandpit (check out Matt swimming in the old swimming pool)�

Next stop was a gorgeous spot on the Orange River� Unfortunately we hit rain (first in 3 months) so spent most of our time huddled up in our �lapa� (outdoor kitchen).  Despite the rain we managed to squeeze in a lovely walk along the river. Very amazed by all the different types of rocks!...

We crossed the border into South Africa and headed to Port Nolloth, a very sleepy little fishing town on the coast.  Spent our time exploring the coast line, fishing, collecting mussels and keeping warm and dry in our seaside bungalow�

We stayed in a wendy house in Springbok for a couple of days, and went in search of the famous Namaqualand wild spring flowers� and we found them in the Namaqua National Park � breathtaking�

We camped at the bottom of a stunning mountain waterfall near Vanrynsdorp and nearly turned to ice cubes in the freezing cold water, very invigorating�

Feeling duly refreshed we drove onto the Cederberg Mountains.  The rivers were all in flood, it was orange season and thermal pyjamas were totally essential�

Spent a day hiking up to the Maltese Cross � incredible views and snow!...

Next stop was Paternoster, a gorgeous fishing village. Unfortunately it rained the whole time so we only got one piccie...

Last camping spot of the trip was in Saldhana Bay.  We loved the West Coast National Park � very unique with herds of game surrounded by loads of beautiful wild flowers�

Matt was thrown into a fit of depression by this sign (Kaapstad is Cape Town)�

His depression deepened after saying goodbye to our beloved Beast�

And could only be cured by a week partying with the wonderful Georgie Davis and her student buddies in Cape Town!...

Boo hoo � very sad to end one of the most amazing experiences of our lives� (so far!) 

Hoorah � hello family! 

So there it is, M&B�s African Adventure.  Thank you all for reading, commenting, emailing, visiting, putting us up, generously giving and generally being a great support team, we couldn�t have done it without ya!Loads of love us xxxx

Thursday August 23 2007MandB's african adventureThu, 23 Aug 2007 Fri, 20 Jul 2007
Hello everyone, we've had a wonderful month with Sue and Little Dave in Namibia - here's the story...

Sue and Dave flew to Windhoek, and we spent a day wandering round the historic city...

It wasn't long before we awoke the beast and set off north on our road trip...

First stop was Waterberg Plateau Park, walked to the top of the plateau for a great sunset, and walked back down for several sundowners in the great colonial bar.  Sue and Dave had their first camp fire meal, even though the chef was slightly sloshed...

We headed to Etosha National Park for a few days, saw loads of animals and had great fun bundu bashing...

Travelled further north into the bush with a stopover at Nakambale 'tented camp' run by the local community...

Reached the Angola Border and found gorgeous spot on Kunene River for a few days camping, fishing, walking, and a fabulous sundowner river trip...

Check out this record breaker...

The girls enjoyed scintilating after dinner conversation...

Finally reached our destination, Epupa Falls, a breathtaking and untouched place.  We arrived for full moon, so after a dip in the pools, we found a fab spot for a long sundowner and moonupper session...

On the way South again and we stopped over at Ongongo Bush Camp, where we had a dip in the natural spring before bed.  The next morning we were bombarded by a crazy dust storm as we packed up... urg

After 12 days of camping (and everything full of dust) we were all looking for some luxury, so stopped for a couple of nights at The White Lady in Uis, where we watched the sun rise over Brandberg Mountain...

Feeling refreshed we headed towards the incredible Skeleton Coast, had a great day exploring the beach and seeing the masses of seals and jackals at Cape Cross colony (it honked!).  We stopped at Henties Bay for the best seafood meal of the trip...

We stayed in Swakopmund for a few days, in a cute pink bungalow, and explored the great town and ate alot of fresh fish...

Matt and Dave spent one day deep sea fishing, on a boat called Casanova.  They caught loads and brought home Cob and Blacktail, for a great bbq.  Meanwhile Sue and Bonnie shopped and visited the Crystal Gallery... perfect day for everyone!

The next day we all had a real treat, a sunrise hot air balloon ride.  It was a fab wedding pressie from Andy, Mich and boys. Thank you so much guys, it was stunning and finished off perfectly with a champers brekky...

The dunes just outside Swakopmund were a perfect sundown spot (poor Sue was slaving away at the laundrette!)...

Last night in Swakopmund we had a great meal at The Tug, overlooking the ocean...

We had an eventful trip to Sesriem, amazing passes, world famous apple pie and a puncture...

We had to stay in the Sesriem overflow campsite (aka dustbowl), but we escaped to the nearby posh lodge for a great dinner.  It was all worth it for the fantastic sunrise and morning wandering in the dunes.

We had an unplanned stopover at Hardap Dam on our way South, and finished off the rest of the sea fish in a great curry.  It was such a great place we decided to spend more time there on our way back up...

Stopped over at a crazy animal orphanage.. cheetahs, meercats, eland, warthog and a three legged pug all wandering around the camp.  We saw an amazing sunset at Quivertree Forest and clambered around the Giants' Playground...

Eventually we arrived at our most southerly destination; Fish River Canyon.  We stayed at Ai Ais, bathed in the Hot Springs, saw spectacular views of the Canyon and had a great afternoon at Canon Lodge where we bought loads of cheese, kudu and lamb...

Arrived back at Hardap Dam where we booked into a luxury bungalow for three nights of relaxation and good food (spot the kudu fillet). It's a really peaceful place with lots of birds and wildlife, and although the fellas could see loads of fish, they didn't catch one!...

The trip ended back in Windhoek, and we celebrated both our wedding anniversaries with a lovely meal out and loads of champers...

Matt didn't want his folks to leave so kidnapped Little Dave...

More food (!) for our farewell lunch, before we dropped off Sue and Dave at the airport.  We were both very sad to see them go, the last month has been just brilliant...

Only a month left now til we are back in rainy ole blighty, can't say we are completely looking forward to it, looking forward to seeing you lot tho!Lots of love us xxxxx

Friday July 20 2007MandB's african adventureFri, 20 Jul 2007 Tue, 19 Jun 2007
Hello all, it's been three weeks since our last post, and we've been pootling around Botswana (mostly in 4x4 through deep sand!).  We started in Kasane where there were some very friendly birds in the campsite (they liked our muesli)...

We had a great wedding pressie from Carol - a sunset river safari on the Chobe River - saw loads of animals coming down to the water to drink and cross (millions of elephants) and the most beautiful sunset.  Thank you very much Carol - it was great!...

Next morning we began our journey through Chobe National Park.  We spent two nights at Savuti Camp, smack bang in the middle, a hard 8 hour drive through sand for Mr Staggy.  Knackered when we arrived and needed to see something spectacular there to make it worth the trip... which we did... (Chobe is known for it's abundance of elephants, and Savuti is renowned to have the only pride of lions that eat them).  We had a great time, made great friends (Toby, Alex and Olly) and defended our tents against an intruder...

Next stop was Mankwe Bush Camp, where we treated ourselves to a meal out... in the open air restaurant - it was freezing - but at least the trifle kept cold!...

We had a few days in Maun to stock up (nothing exciting to photograph), before heading north to Shakawe Fishing Lodge in the Okavango Delta (guess why we chose that place?).  First night we met Elena and Matt who run the campsite, after a few beers and a few more we headed out on Matt's boat for a full moon croc hunt - check out the size of the brute we caught... (promise he wasn't hurt and was returned safely to his mum)... 

Matt caught his first Tigerfish - what a whopper!  It's the angle that makes it look small...

Went out fishing on Okavango River a few times with Matt during our stay.  Staggy had great fun and landed 11 Bream...

We set off next across the Makhadikhadi Pans - massive salt pans in the Kalahari where there used to be a huge lake.  Crazy landscape, random sprouts of grass, floating ostriches and masses of nothing...

We spent a night at Kubu Island, a rock outcrop in the middle of the Pans, with loads of baobabs and history.  It was a really beautiful, peaceful, isolated place, a fave spot of the trip...

From one extreme to the next, Leroo La Tau Camp is on the edge of Makhadikhadi Pans National Park, and is infested with elephants, zebra and wildebeast - very noisy!  We didn't get much sleep while the elephant was shaking nearby trees. Matt had a go at repairing the damage...

Another great wedding pressie in Botswana from the lovely Chloella.  We stayed at Dqae Qare game farm in the Kalahari - owned and run by San bushmen.  We went on a great foraging bushwalk with Dina, her husband and her sister, and struck gold with a set of massive tubers...they were pretty delicious...if you're really hungry... Thanks so much Chloe, your gift has given us the skills to survive in the Kalahari (at least for an afternoon)...

Now in Windhoek, Namibia (an awesome city) waiting for Little Dave and Super Sue (Matt's folks) to arrive on Thursday morning.  Then we head off for a month around Namibia, we're very excited!

Love from us honeymooners

Tuesday June 19 2007MandB's african adventureTue, 19 Jun 2007 Thu, 24 May 2007
Hello all, we've just had a fab 2 weeks in Zambia - here are some of our piccies...

We started with 3 days at South Luangua National Park (wedding present from the Trenberth Clan - thanks so much guys).  The campsite was amazing - tent in the trees (to keep us safe from the animals) hippos and crocs in the river, elephants and hyenas strolling through ... lush.

Matt decided that his head was looking unnaturally big for his body, so removed his David Bellamy beard...stage two (handlebar moustache and lamb chop sideys) freaked Bonnie out too much so had to go...

Had the most amazing freebie - Matt made friends with a fellow Kenyan; Glenton Coombes who just happened to be flying his chopper around the park for a few days... guess what we did the next afternoon... 3 hours over the park, to northern plateau and back while the sun set... amazing... (see if you can spot the elephants crossing the river)...

Next morning we were up early and in the park for sunrise, saw lots and lots - elephants, puku, crocs, hippo, giraffe, impala, and many more. Also had a few hairy 4x4 moments...

That evening we did a fab night drive (first time), it was great fun not driving ourselves and we saw lots of stuff - lions, hyenas, gennet cats, mongoose...

...and very excitingly, a leopard... (yes it IS a leopard).  We have a great night vision video of it for anyone who wants to dispute our poor photographic evidence...

Matt even squeezed in a spot of fishing before we left - perfect three days, thank you so much to the lovely Trenberths for the wedding pressie...

Headed off towards Lusaka, with a stop off at Luangua Bridge... where Matt found a puff adder that was hanging out by our tent... it didn't last long when the guard found out...

No photos of Lusaka cos we were busy eating out, going to cinema and shopping... ahh civilisation...Next stop was Siavonga on shores of Lake Kariba for a couple of days - lovely beach, nice for chilling out.  Visited Kariba Dam while we were there, bloomin huge wall... pretty spectacular... for a wall...

Drove to Livingstone where we had another great wedding pressie; White Water Rafting on the Zambezi thanks to Sam and Stuart.  Amazing, crazy, very fun day, Bonnie fell in and we both got very wet.

Us all geared up and clambering into the gorge...

One of the first rapids...

Some more great shots...

Another rapid sequence...

Matt finished off the day by having a go on the rescue kayaks... had to be saved while trying a roll... he eventually got the hang of it...  Massive, huge thank you to Sam and Stuart for a really great day, we loved it!

After a day of recovery, we headed to Vic Falls... totally stunning... and wet as you can see...

After a quick change in the car park we spruced up and waltzed into The Royal Livingstone for a super posh lunch on the banks of the Zambezi... a real splash out, lush...

Only two weeks in Zambia, but really fab.  Off to Botswana this afternoon, will have new number there - we'll let you know it asap.Lots of love and big thanks us xxx

Thursday May 24 2007MandB's african adventureThu, 24 May 2007 Wed, 09 May 2007
Yes, hello, we are still alive and the beast is still roaring...

After our last update we received an unexpected call from two Kenyan baboons (Sam and Guy) and a Scottish giant (Callum) and drove back up to Cape Maclear to hang out with them (check out Matt's 'fro)...

Had a couple of days of kayaking and snorkelling in the lake - lots of fun...

Matt and Sam had a day's fishing from kayaks and as you can see caught some real monsters...

After a few days at Cape Maclear, we headed up the lake shore, stopping at Nkhotakhota pottery for a yummy lunch (in our new team hats)...

Set up camp at Makuzi Beach (check out Sam's hi tech tent).  Lovely day swimming and posh meal in the evening, as a farewell to the boys...

After boys left, we decided to make our way to Mt Mulanji (in South) for Bonnie's b'day.  First stop was the Viphya Forest; Luwawa Forest Lodge, where we walked, fished and had lovely sundowners on the dam...

Tragically... their dog took a dislike to our tent and woke us at 6am by ripping through the fly sheet... gutted... as you can see, local tailor came to the rescue (sort of)...

Next stop was Liwonde National Park, kind of disappointing on the animal front, but lovely sundowner spot overlooking the river Shire, (can anyone identify this bird for us - it was HUGE)...

Stopped overnight on Zomba Plateau, at a Trout Farm with cute little forest huts... roaring fires all night...

On 1st May we did the final leg on a brand new highway that has been dedicated to an iconic African leader who has been a beacon of light for Africa's development and democracy...

Arrived at Mt Mulanji (highest mountain in central Africa), just in time for Matt to get some fishing in (and get line stuck)... 

Early on 2nd May Bonnie was ready with her war paint to face the mountain...

It was a stunning hike, with breathtaking views... but bloomin hard work.  Took 6 and a half steep rocky hours to get up to the CCAP hut (built out of cedar in 1899 so currently on it's last legs).  Bonnie got an early bday pressie to keep her head warm on the mountain and we spent the evening toasty by the fire, and looking forward to seeing a spectacular sunrise on Bonnie's bday...

hmmm, if the sun rose, we didn't see it.  Woke to heavy mist, which cleared as we walked down the mountain.  Hot by the time we reached the bottom, so jumped straight in the river to cool off... 

That afternoon, Bonnie got more pressies and in the evening we had the most amazing Stagg Chicken Curry (Yes, Matt managed to get hold of a chicken on the mountain), followed by birthday cake and posh chocs... yum...

Wow, mammoth update!  We have been in Lilongwe for a little while now, Matt's infection returned and he has had a few days of R and R to recover.  Tomorrow we'll head over the border into Zambia, first stop South Luangua National Park.  We have loved Malawi, one of our fave countries, but very excited to be seeing somewhere new.

Lots and lots of loveUs xxx

PS. For anyone who is interested, we also visited Nyika Plateau (worth it) and Vwaza Marsh (not worth it), but lost the photos!

Wednesday May 09 2007MandB's african adventureWed, 09 May 2007 Wed, 09 May 2007
Yes, hello, we are still alive and the beast is still roaring...

After our last update we received an unexpected call from two Kenyan baboons (Sam and Guy) and a Scottish giant (Callum) and drove back up to Cape Maclear to hang out with them (check out Matt's 'fro)...

Had a couple of days of kayaking and snorkelling in the lake - lots of fun...

Matt and Sam had a day's fishing from kayaks and as you can see caught some real monsters...

After a few days at Cape Maclear, we headed up the lake shore, stopping at Nkhotakhota pottery for a yummy lunch (in our new team hats)...

Set up camp at Makuzi Beach (check out Sam's hi tech tent).  Lovely day swimming and posh meal in the evening, as a farewell to the boys...

After boys left, we decided to make our way to Mt Mulanji (in South) for Bonnie's b'day.  First stop was the Viphya Forest; Luwawa Forest Lodge, where we walked, fished and had lovely sundowners on the dam...

Tragically... their dog took a dislike to our tent and woke us at 6am by ripping through the fly sheet... gutted... as you can see, local tailor came to the rescue (sort of)...

Next stop was Liwonde National Park, kind of disappointing on the animal front, but lovely sundowner spot overlooking the river Shire, (can anyone identify this bird for us - it was HUGE)...

Stopped overnight on Zomba Plateau, at a Trout Farm with cute little forest huts... roaring fires all night...

On 1st May we did the final leg on a brand new highway that has been dedicated to an iconic African leader who has been a beacon of light for Africa's development and democracy...

Arrived at Mt Mulanji (highest mountain in central Africa), just in time for Matt to get some fishing in (and get line stuck)... 

Early on 2nd May Bonnie was ready with her war paint to face the mountain...

It was a stunning hike, with breathtaking views... but bloomin hard work.  Took 6 and a half steep rocky hours to get up to the CCAP hut (built out of cedar in 1899 so currently on it's last legs).  Bonnie got an early bday pressie to keep her head warm on the mountain and we spent the evening toasty by the fire, and looking forward to seeing a spectacular sunrise on Bonnie's bday...

hmmm, if the sun rose, we didn't see it.  Woke to heavy mist, which cleared as we walked down the mountain.  Hot by the time we reached the bottom, so jumped straight in the river to cool off... 

That afternoon, Bonnie got more pressies and in the evening we had the most amazing Stagg Chicken Curry (Yes, Matt managed to get hold of a chicken on the mountain), followed by birthday cake and posh chocs... yum...

Wow, mammoth update!  We have been in Lilongwe for a little while now, Matt's infection returned and he has had a few days of R and R to recover.  Tomorrow we'll head over the border into Zambia, first stop South Luangua National Park.  We have loved Malawi, one of our fave countries, but very excited to be seeing somewhere new.Lots and lots of love

Us xxxPS. For anyone who is interested, we also visited Nyika Plateau (worth it) and Vwaza Marsh (not worth it), but lost the photos!

Wednesday May 09 2007MandB's african adventureWed, 09 May 2007 Wed, 09 May 2007
Yes, hello, we are still alive and the beast is still roaring...

After our last update we received an unexpected call from two Kenyan baboons (Sam and Guy) and a Scottish giant (Callum) and drove back up to Cape Maclear to hang out with them (check out Matt's 'fro)...

Had a couple of days of kayaking and snorkelling in the lake - lots of fun...

Matt and Sam had a day's fishing from kayaks and as you can see caught some real monsters...

After a few days at Cape Maclear, we headed up the lake shore, stopping at Nkhotakhota pottery for a yummy lunch (in our new team hats)...

Set up camp at Makuzi Beach (check out Sam's hi tech tent).  Lovely day swimming and posh meal in the evening, as a farewell to the boys...

After boys left, we decided to make our way to Mt Mulanji (in South) for Bonnie's b'day.  First stop was the Viphya Forest; Luwawa Forest Lodge, where we walked, fished and had lovely sundowners on the dam...

Tragically... their dog took a dislike to our tent and woke us at 6am by ripping through the fly sheet... gutted... as you can see, local tailor came to the rescue (sort of)...

Next stop was Liwonde National Park, kind of disappointing on the animal front, but lovely sundowner spot overlooking the river Shire, (can anyone identify this bird for us - it was HUGE)...

Stopped overnight on Zomba Plateau, at a Trout Farm with cute little forest huts... roaring fires all night...

On 1st May we did the final leg on a brand new highway that has been dedicated to an iconic African leader who has been a beacon of light for Africa's development and democracy...

Arrived at Mt Mulanji (highest mountain in central Africa), just in time for Matt to get some fishing in (and get line stuck)... 

Early on 2nd May Bonnie was ready with her war paint to face the mountain...

It was a stunning hike, with breathtaking views... but bloomin hard work.  Took 6 and a half steep rocky hours to get up to the CCAP hut (built out of cedar in 1899 so currently on it's last legs).  Bonnie got an early bday pressie to keep her head warm on the mountain and we spent the evening toasty by the fire, and looking forward to seeing a spectacular sunrise on Bonnie's bday...

hmmm, if the sun rose, we didn't see it.  Woke to heavy mist, which cleared as we walked down the mountain.  Hot by the time we reached the bottom, so jumped straight in the river to cool off... 

That afternoon, Bonnie got more pressies and in the evening we had the most amazing Stagg Chicken Curry (Yes, Matt managed to get hold of a chicken on the mountain), followed by birthday cake and posh chocs... yum...

Wow, mammoth update!  We have been in Lilongwe for a little while now, Matt's infection returned and he has had a few days of R and R to recover.  Tomorrow we'll head over the border into Zambia, first stop South Luangua National Park.  We have loved Malawi, one of our fave countries, but very excited to be seeing somewhere new.

Lots and lots of loveUs xxx

PS. For anyone who is interested, we also visited Nyika Plateau (worth it) and Vwaza Marsh (not worth it), but lost the photos!

Wednesday May 09 2007MandB's african adventureWed, 09 May 2007 Sun, 15 Apr 2007
Hello lovely people,Wow seems like ages since we were in Tanzania, but will start this update from there... in Tukuyu, last stop for us before the Malawi Border.
Funny town, surrounded by Tea Plantations, so we went on a Tea Tour.
Run by a local cooperative of small farmers... whose tea (or a bit of it anyway) goes into Teadirect teabags.
One of our guides, the lovely Mama Cecilia
(seen below plucking with us) has
been to Britain
a couple of times during fairtrade fortnight... she thinks ole blighty is very cold and people there are lovely.
Tea tour was lots of fun, and very educational too... we picked tea, walked to the big tea estate, then Mr Ngella (lovely chap, piccy with Matt below) showed us the sorting and drying processes in the factory.

That evening we could only find one place to pitch our tent, at the Lutengano Moravian Centre, some sort of pastor training centre... very strange place, got lots of stares while Matt was cooking dinner.
Had to pitch tent in the college quad!

First stop in Malawi was Sangilo Beach... ahhhh.
Gorgeous.

After a few days of beachside chilling we headed up the mountains to Livingstonia... old missionry town - like preserved
scottish village from 18th century... with great bakery in mud hut! Camped on edge of the world...as you can see.
Could see the curve of the earth, plus the most amazing sunsets, starry nights and sunrises.

Next stop was Makuzi Beach - back on the lake, for a few more days of chilling out (hmm, and some washing)

We spent easter weekend at Kande Beach, big backpacker resort type place, loads of whiteys... overland trucks and volunteers and expats... all a bit scary for us after weeks of isolation!
hid in the hammocks for three days.

Next stop on the lakeshore was Senga Bay, found great little garden campsite called Cool Runnings, played frisbee and volleyball with newfound friends. Then Guy Lawrence (kenyan buddy) arrived with friends.
So had silly night of too much gin and kuche kuche beer, finished with three fellas having massive playfight on beach... or were they just attacking matt?

Sped up rest of Malawi trip so that we can meet Guy and Sam and others in Zambia, so had couple of nights at Cape Maclear (bad road in meant beast's brakes
needed some tlc on arrival).
Saw amazing sunsets and went diving!
THANKS EMMA!
Fantastic wedding pressie.
Bonnie's first time in the scuba stuff, loved it.
Great great fun, saw lots of cichlids... fish only found in lake malawi (or might be exaggerating.. phez?)
was like being in giant aquarium.
PS notice Matt's hair experiment has now extended to beard growth too - soon we'll only be able to identify him by examining his feet.

Matt was not feeling too well the next day so we gave in to temptation when we found a cute forest lodge on the Zomba Plateau... amazing views again,
aswell as a posh room and great food paid for out of the emergency treats fund (thanks ma xx).

We're now in Blantyre, Matt on the mend, and we're loving the opportunity to stock up with goodies from shopping malls (they have cadburys)!

Lots and lots and lots of big loveus

xxxxOn 04/15/07MandB's african adventureSun, 15 Apr 2007 Wed, 21 Mar 2007
Hello again,

After driving through Mikumi NP, we stopped at Baobab Valley (lots of Baobab Trees as the name suggests!).
Matt made friends with Toto the Maasai guard... and guess what...went catfish fishing! (he was very sad to see us go).
It was hot hot hot there... but lots of v pretty birds.

Next stop was Riverside Campsite just outside Iringa - much cooler... infact Bonnie had to buy some more jeans (see below).
The rains have started so we cracked out our homemade awning... Matt did some more fishing, this time with lovely Able - getting continually stuck on the same bloody branch!
Bonnie has found an occupation to keep her busy on the river bank... making a patchwork throw... Sarah (Able's wife) helped her get started.

After 5 days at Riverside, we headed to Kisolanza Farm (thanks for the recommendation Dinko - we loved it!).
Still raining, but had a little hut to make home.
Also discovered how to make much longed for toast - hoorah!
We could buy
their own
veg and meat at this brill place - had a great bbq.

Matt was taken fishing by Ryan an 11 yr old zim boy, and Freddy and Emmanual.
He caught 22 Tilapia (yes Tom... that's two twos!) which
were shared out among the farm workers.
We had a yummy chowder that evening with the 2 biggest.

Sewing is addictive... even Matt is getting enthused about the patchwork!

Matt's bday on the 16th March - had special breakfast of sausages (very rare) and eggs - thank you Jill.
Then a day's fishing (this time together!) at a small dam on the farm - very beautiful, and a bit of an adventure to get to.
Not so many this time - 7 (bonnie wasn't such a good worm hunter as Emmanual).

After our day of fun, the bday evening started, kicked off with Kenya Cane sundowners.
Then had yummy three course meal and a bottle of wine, specially prepared for us - MASSIVE LAMB CHOPS!!!
done crispy like mr staggy likes too!
Entertained ourselves with the parsley sprig (that's chest hair and a gammy eye).
Chocolate birthday cake too. All in all a cracking bday.
Thanks Jill for dinner too.
(Mindy - can you spot the Tshirt?).

Next morning, when packing up the tent, we found
that our mat had made a tasty meal for some termites...

Arrived at Utengule Coffee Plantation in time for the 6 Nations games on Saturday.
Gutted by the results (that's Matt, not Bonnie).
Had four days swimming, walking, playing tennis, and sheltering from the storms... it has seriously been raining.
Note the first piccy below - Staggy has turned into a Twitcher!
Bird book, tick.
Binocs, tick. Anorak, tick!

Off to Tukuyu (tea plantation area), then into Malawi probably in a week or so.
We'll have a new number there, so will let you know it asap.
Meanwhile, date for your diary... we're coming home on 18th August... see you then!lots of love

usxxxx

On 03/21/07MandB's african adventureWed, 21 Mar 2007 Wed, 07 Mar 2007
Hi all, Sorry taken so long for the latest update - speedy computers are pretty tricky to find in Southern Tanzania!
Got lots of piccies of our great three week holiday with Bonnie's ma and aunty mindy, starting with their very exciting arrival...

Had a day planning our route on the coast near Dar Es Salaam..

Before heading northwards to the Usambara Mountains where we stayed a couple of nights at Irente Farm... and saw the fabulous Irente View...(Ma clearly has an abnormally small head!)...

Drove on to Mto Wa Mbu grabbed some pink bananas (this piccy's for you Jacob!), swam in the pool, Matt joined a band...

Day at Ngorogoro crater.. we were up super early to see sunrise over the crater, saw all the animals, including v close encounters with elephants and lions... ma got a bit hot at the brekky spot - inventive use of kikoy!

Back to Arusha, where Ma treated us to a posh dinner...

Then on to Soni (in Usambara Mountains again), great spot of Kili on the way, picked up groceries on side of road, found most amazing place to stay - Maweni Farm.
Got Ma and Mindy in a tent!

Perfect, Matt did a spot of fishing when we arrived, rather meagre supper of three small fish between the four of us...

The next day was far more successful...yes you did count correctly Tom, that is 13 tilapia in the bowl...they made a great biryani!

Had 5 chilled days on Kendwa beach in Northern Zanzibar - lots of beautiful sunsets, yummy seafood and general lazing,
apart from Matt's burst of unexpected energy with a kayak
(also spot
him asking local fisherman where the sea is)...

Last few days with Ma and Mindy were spent
in Stone Town -
shopping, mooching round crumbling lanes and a educational spice tour...

After saying a v sad good bye to Ma and Mindy, we're now
heading towards Malawi (very slowly).
Spent half day trying to find illusive campsite up Uluguru Mountains (had to turn round and go back down, only
to stay in posh colonial hotel!)

Next day drove through Mikumi National Park (Tanzam Highway goes straight through it - v cool freebie!) didn't expect to see anything this exciting... (here's three of the 17 elephants we saw!)

Currently in Iringa, where we'll waste a few days chilling by the river Ruaha. Oddly enough place seems way more full of americans doing missionary work than africans!!!

Lots and lots of love us

xxxxxOn 03/07/07MandB's african adventureWed, 07 Mar 2007 Sat, 10 Feb 2007
Hello lovely everyone.
Here is our last installment from Keeeenya!

Had a day at the Ewaso River with Jethwa boys and girl and Tom.
Lots of catfish were caught!

The next day we headed back to Lake Naivasha for some camping and a lovely day walking round Crater Lake Nature Reserve.

That evening was Colm D'Olier's
24th bday party.
Sundowners and singing by the lake, followed by yummy bbq and lots and lots of gin.

We drove to Lake Baringo for a couple of hot hot hot nights and days. Didn't manage much more than doing our washing and lazing by the next door pool.

Cooking on open fire was perhaps not our best idea (mega hot evenings)!
Staggy tried a bit of fishing, but not a sausage.

Eventually got round to visiting Matt's old school; The Banda.
He was in his element, and spent all our daily budget on second hand sports kit (very retro)...

Had a great night out in Gilgil, with long lost buddies Katie Davis and Mike Aung (teachers at Banda's rival school). The next day their school Pembroke
played hockey against Banda, and despite Katie's dodgy ref-ing, Banda wiped the floor with them....spot Matt's retro tracksuit top!...

The next night, had a big farewell evening in Nairobi... so hungover the next morning that we had to delay our departure til the next day!
(Also, had to stick around to watch Jonny the God Wilkinson.)

On way to Dar we stopped off for a couple of nights at Kari and Tim's house in Mtwapa (on the coast).
Had chilled day by their pool (with Ross, Kari's bro and Chilli their three legged dog) and lovely pizza and icecream dinner out...

The next day we crossed the border into Tanzania, and are now in Dar Es Salaam, waiting for Bonnie's Ma and Aunty
Mindy
to arrive... only 2 hrs 40 mins to go!!
V V excited.

New tel no. if anyone is bored at work and wants to text (still lovin the international texting) is +255 786 877 411.Lots and lots of love

usxx

On 02/10/07MandB's african adventureSat, 10 Feb 2007 Wed, 17 Jan 2007
Hello all, Here's a few bonus shots from last week's update... due to technical difficulties got left off the last blog entry (Matt and Sam waterskiing on Lake Naivasha, JJ in his stag do outfit and whitewater rafting on the stag do)...

Now on to our recent exploits.
As you all know, Tom and George stayed on in Kenya for an extra week.
Once Tom was out of hospital we headed to Timau at the base of Mount Kenya; crossing the equator on the way

where we camped...

walked...

had a go at hand carving some bowls...

cooked
on, and kept warm round
open fires and our new jiko (charcoal stove)...

celebrated 9 yrs since
we met (thanks Tom
and George for the yummy cake, delish curry and very sturdy
jiko box!)

Searched in vain for some trout fishing opportunities (apparently they've all been 'washed away'!), at last found Tana river loaded with tilapia and catfish, where the boys spent a very productive afternoon and morning (more productive for Matt than Tom!
- sorry Tom, couldn't resist)
while the gals sunbathed!...

Thats all for now folks, thanks for all the comments and emails.
We're gonna be in kenya til early Feb when we're meeting Bonnie's ma and aunty mindy for three weeks hol in Tanzania.
Not sure what we'll be doing til then, maybe a bit of farmin, more walkin, fishin, and some serious budgeting (waxed way too much cash over xmas!).
In case you don't have it our phone no. in Kenya is +254 720526157.Loads and loads of lovin

usxxx

460106164bcd9On 01/17/07MandB's african adventureWed, 17 Jan 2007 Thu, 11 Jan 2007

Hello everybody,

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone!

Back on the blog again after a month in Kenya � been very busy having lots of fun with Kenyan and Brit buddies.
Here�s a few piccies of the shenanigans we got up to in early December (Partying with Kiro, Sam, Jay, Franco, Pablo and families and lots of other long lost Kenyan buddies, watersking on Lake Naivasha, living with the Jethwa�s, JJ�s whitewater rafting stag do, visiting Daphne Sheldrick�s elephant orphanage, and last but definitely not least � our posh night at Nairobi Serena Hotel � thank you so so much for that pressie Abeed and Alex, it was fab!)�

We had Christmas in Nairobi with the Jethwa�s (thank you so much for having us Claire and Batuk) and must not forget the Nimmo clan (JJ�s inlaws).
Chrissy day finished with a great party at the Davis�s house, where a plum eating comp was played (M came 2^nd)�.

Our lovely buddies; Tom, George, Toby, Karen, Ant, Katie and Lou arrived on 27-28^th Dec.
We all headed to Diani Beach for New Year and JJ and Lucy�s wedding celebrations (and.. deep sea fishing, snorkeling, chilling by the pool, bbqs, cooking together, beach days, dhow fishing, Batuk�s great curry for New Year dinner etc).�.

After New Year we headed up country with the Brits for a safari � camped on Lake Naivasha, ate lots of cake during high tea at Elsamere Conservation Centre, walked in Hell�s Gate gorge, saw lots of animals in Nakuru National Park and had sundowners at the Tundo�s�

Ant, Katie, Lou, Tobes and Kaz have all headed back to ole blighty, but Tom and George had second thoughts and have extended their holiday for another week.
Unfortunately with all the excitement Tom got sick and had to visit Karen Hospital (for 2 days!).
Here�s a piccie of him in his private suite�

We�ll be setting off for Mount Kenya this afternoon, with George and Tom for a bit of wholesome walking and fishing after our boozy Christmas and New Year.

Loads of love us

On 11/11/07MandB's african adventureThu, 11 Jan 2007 Thu, 14 Dec 2006
Righty ho everybody, the final installment of the Moreton Sisters� Chapter of our trip� We have some more great shots from our time in Ngorongoro Crater (including the frisky Ostrich and monkeys who broke into the car and stole our bread despite the whooping Dinko)�.











After the crater we made our way back to Dar, via the Usumbara Mountains where we stayed at a great little farm (Irente Farm) which made its own cheese, bread, fruit juice cereal and jams � mmmmmmmm� Whilst there we went for a walk to the �famous Irente View Point� on the one day a year that it is shrouded in mist!

After we got back to Dar we headed to Zanzibar where we spent a couple of days on Kendwa Beach (North Zanzibar) to top up the girls� tans before they headed back to old blighty�.



















Our last night was spent in the Dhow Palace, a very posh hotel in Stone Town, with pool, aircon, roof top restaurant, Rosemary and Thyme on telly need we say any more. It was our wedding pressie from Dinks � thank you Dinko it was brill!!!

After that we headed back to Dar and the girls flew home, leaving two very sad truckers behind. It was great to have both of them with us, reminded us of all our wonderful friends back home. We are now in Keeeeeeeeeeenya, but you will have to wait for the next blog for that one. Love us On 12/14/06MandB's african adventureThu, 14 Dec 2006 Wed, 29 Nov 2006
Hello lovely peops.
Well we've had a fab 2 weeks with the wonderful wonderful Moreton Sisters.
Here is part one of the fun (part two to come, when dinko has downloaded the rest of the piccies - no pressure dinks!).
First day with the girlies, our camera got nicked, so blog is coming to you courtesy of 'dinky downloads'.
We started the trip with a day at the beautiful Kipepeo beach lodge, south of Dar.
Lounged, swam and bought lobsters for M to curry for our dinner.

Next day we set off in the beast to the North.
Girls got settled in the back seat, and promptly snoozed most of the way!
Stopped off to get some
veggies from the best veggie stall we've seen so far, and stayed over at Pangani River Camp, where we spotted bushbabies before bed, and were protected by an askari (guard) with a bow and arrow!
Becca didn't sleep too well, dreaming about the crocs and hippos in the nearby river (we were assured that they only come in October... hmmm)

Got to Arusha National Park for the next afternoon, where we saw loads of monkeys and giraffes (plus all the other usual suspects).
Lush views of Mount Meru (phez - we thought of you standing on the top... in your intrepid explorer pose).
Had yummy picnic of peanut butter and chevda
sarnies.

That evening had our first drinkies of the hol in Arusha's Maasai Camp - plenty of G & Ts... acrobats were performing and we all managed to stay up til 11pm - incredible!
Becca and Bonnie chose the rubbish beef and banana stew (imagine a bowl of bananas, with gravy).

Entered Ngorongora Conservation Area
the next afternoon, and were greeted with the most amazing view from the first viewpoint... so so breathtaking.
Spent the night in the rather basic Simba A camp on the edge of the crater... had to dig out jumpers for first time in months - but a stagg sausage stew and a few mugs of wine soon warmed us up!
Don't worry mum and mindy, we've located a more luxurious option for your visit!
Up at 5am, we were the first people down into the crater that morning.
Almost missed our first sighting of a lion (we were too busy looking at the pretty weaver birds!).
Incredible sight in the early morning light, very very special.
The rest of the day was just as incredible.
Picnicing by the hippo pool, weaver birds pecking around in the car for crumbs, loads of grazing zebra, buffalo, wildebeast, 2 lions eating a kill, dinko spotting 3 elephants in the forest (making up for all the rocks she spotted during the day)
and a couple of ostriches getting a bit frisky!

Thats all for now folks.
More to come soon.

We're missing the chrissy excitements here, so have bought ourselves
new camera and windup LW radio - let's hope World Service broadcasts the Archers!Big big festive love from us

xxxOn 11/29/06MandB's african adventureWed, 29 Nov 2006 Tue, 14 Nov 2006
Hi all, are you sitting comfortably?
then we shall begin.

Next update starts in northern mozambique; Pemba, where we spent a few days on the beach chilling, and waiting for full moon so that we could embark on our
2 day border crossing adventure (needed the tides to be high so that the vehicle ferry would beable to carry us and the car across the Ruvuma River into Tanzania).
While there we got the beast
serviced (see the piccy of M greasing the beast's nipples!).
Also hooked up with a Dutch couple - Florence and Frans who were planning the same route, we travelled in convoy over the border in case of any emergencies (see mums stagg and miners, we are being very careful!)

Had an overnight stop in Mocimboa do Praia, after an 8 hour drive.
Been getting very handy with the camping gear, as you can see.
Tea in plastic cups and 1-pot stews are our speciality.

The next day we were up and outa there at 7am in order to reach the river in good time for high tide.
Had to do some serious 4x4 bush driving (40KM in 2.5 hrs) mainly over sand,
with a couple of stream crossings thrown in.
M had to wade across the river (1KM) and jump on the back of a wobbly bike for 5KM to the
tanzanian border where the ferry man was taking a nap!
He arranged
for the ferry to come
get us
in exchange for some paracetamol (and a few dollars) then had to cycle and wade back (on the return journey
a local informed him that there are plenty of crocs and
hippos in the river..eek).
Ferry crossing took 1 hour, port was dug out of the mud bank on each trip.

Arrived in Mikindani in South Tanzania in the dark that evening.
Was a lush lush, chilled out, friendly place and so we stayed longer that we had planned.
Gate crashed the very posh hotel - old german boma restored - had some very expensive dinner there and chilled out by their pool.
This piccy is from the top of the
tower.

Drove north over a dreadful bumpy road to Kilwa, old arab ruins on island.
Very very beautiful and atmospheric, got all arty with the camera.

Another awful road up to Dar from Kilwa, this time in the pouring rain, oh joy.
Car and we survived tho (3.5hrs for 54 km... lots of big puddles like this one)

Atlast, we have arrived in Dar, at the airport this very mo, waiting for dinko and becca... v v excited.
Here's a couple of piccies of us in the campsite on the beach that we've been staying in, and matt and Frans doing some 'post-awful-roads' car maintainance.

Love you all lots, til next timexxx

On 11/14/06MandB's african adventureTue, 14 Nov 2006 Thu, 02 Nov 2006
Hello all, more piccies of our adventure.We had a fab few days camping in Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Swaziland - which has been set up to allow people to walk through out the whole sanctuary. Saw tonnes of animals, birds, did breathtaking early morning walks and fed bushbabies on bananas in the evening. Try and read the sign in the picture where Matt is on all fours - it will all become clear!!

After Swaziland, we crossed the border into Mozambique and have been trying to communicate in Spangloportugeseish! Headed to the capital; Maputo. Spent a couple of days there, sorting out boring stuff (visas etc) highlight was dinner at the fish market. After lots of bartering we chose lobsters and tiger prawns and nice chap grilled them and served with chips.... so so so delicious!

A day's drive north (and two dodgy police stops - cost us 50quid in bribes - grr) took us to Tofo. We had a few days chilling on the beautiful beach, and eating fresh seafood from the market (and matt's fishing line!). Very chilled. Bonnie discovered how yummy sugar cane is...

After another day's drive further north, we arrived in Vilanculos - gateway to the Bazaruto Archipelago (Marine National Park thingy). Lampy, we swopped our theatre trip for a day trip on a dhow to Margaruque Island - snorkelling and delicious barracuda and crab lunch - hope you don't mind... it was really fabulous (and couldn't find anything good on at the theatre!). Thank you! Dad Stagg - check out the size of the Cowry shell (we did put it back carefully!)...

After chilling on the islands, we faced a three day mega-journey up to Isla Do Mocambique in North Moz. 5am-5pm driving every day, serious heat, crap potholed roads - or sometimes no road at all, and lots of peeing on the side of the road. Had to catch a ferry across the Zambesi - Matt had to do some very aggressive drving to get our car on, competing with big trucks (3rd time it worked!), used our fab mozzy net for the first time - thanks very much Danny and Amanda - kept us free of bites (except when bonnie kicked it open in middle of night!), and drove bridge across the sea to get to our destination; Isla.

Isla do Mocambique was capital of Portugese East Africa from 14th century... so lots of amazing grand old colonial buildings, crumbling and ignored by locals. Really fascinating to wonder through the streets, and inspired us to take lots of arty shots (don't worry won't put them here!). We camped in a local's courtyard (see black and white piccy). The bread picture is from the night market, which we loved. The last two piccies are us on the roof catching sunset.

On 11/02/06MandB's african adventureThu, 02 Nov 2006 Wed, 25 Oct 2006
Hello All you lovely people,

We are currently in Mozambique, after having travelled from Durban, up the coast of SA, and through Swaziland.

These piccies cover our first close encounters with big furry animals in St Lucia Wetlands and Hluhluwe Umflozi National Game Reserves (in SA just before entering Swaziland).
More recent ones to come in near (ish) future... Spent one day driving through the St Lucia Wetlands National Park, and on the St Lucia Lake.
We tallied 6 rhinos... we thought was pretty impressive (photos were all a bit dud tho)...

However, the next day driving round Hluhluwe Umflozi National Game Reserves we spotted 26 rhinos and 18 giraffes!.... and got charged by one of them - spot the hastily taken photo as Bonnie floored it away from the huge stressed out daddy! (Matt wanted to go back for more photos, bonnie refused).
Tonnes of other game, here are some of the best shots..

almost forgot...

Lots of love from usxxxx

On 10/25/06MandB's african adventureWed, 25 Oct 2006 Mon, 09 Oct 2006
Hello all,It's been ages since our last update, as the pixies ran off with our very important digital camera leads... hmm.
But now we're in the big city of Durban, it's all sorted.
Hooray!

So, after Oudtshorn we headed on to Knysna, where we spent a day quadbiking in the Featherbed Nature Reserve.
Thanks very much to Anthony and Katie, it was great fun!..

Next day, we saw some dolphins!
Overlooking the stunning Knysna Heads (headland in piccy below is the Featherbed NR)...

We drove on to Natures Valley, and found the most lush place and stayed at Wild Tongue Backpackers - which had the most amazing views.
We saw sunrise from our bed (you can see our toes at the bottom of the
photo!)...

Had a few days chilling, and then on the first sunny day set off on a walk to Salt Water Cove - a secret bay - so secret that...

we took all our clothes off and...

went for a swim! There are also brill piccies of Bonnie, but she's not up for having naked pictures on internet!Had a mammoth journey to get to Hogsback (mountain village).
Went on some amazing walks (with the three doggies - Matt loved it!), saw waterfalls, snuggled by the fireside, went fishing (Tom this piccie was taken for you! Matt
maintained his fishing record and caught '0')... and had way too much to drink one night (bar bill = 450 Rand... 1 beer costs 8 Rand!)...

Despite the hangovers from hell, we made it the next day to Buccaneers at Cintsa (Toby and Ant will know the place).
Crashed there, but were up the next morn for kayaking before brekky!...

After brekky we headed up the coast to Coffee Bay.
Were looking forward to seafood and surf lessons.
Unfortunatly, there was a massive storm so no crayfish to be had.
We had a really fun surf lesson... but was in the pouring rain and driving wind... so no piccies - Sorry Anne!
But thanks very very much, we loved it... was hilarious falling off the board in the torrential storm!
We've already been practicing at other places... M is showing much more promise than B (surprise surprise!)

Found ourselves at
an Eco Friendly backpackers in Mpande next.. called The Kraal.
No running water, no electricity, down a dirt track in the middle of nowhere.
M headed off with a couple of local boys to catch fish, while B chilled in the sun (finishing yet another book).
We had a great bream for lunch - well done Mr Stagg (he caught 2...small ones...the big ones all got away...)

Mammoth 9 hour drive up to Lesotho for our pony trekking trip.
Spot the washing line in the car...

Had a little walk up Mt Moorosi (where the Brits slaughtered hundreds of Basotho
- for a change)...

Then headed on further into the mountains, to Malealea Lodge, where we were treated to the honeymoon suite and a bottle of bubbly...

Next day we set off on a 3 day pony trek in the mountains - Thanks very much to Toby and Louisa - what an amazing experience... stayed in two villages, very basic mud/dung huts, no water/electrics, incredible views, steep mountain passes, v strong tiny horses, matt did wonders to produce a lush dinner using only baked beans, tinned veg and soya mince...
we know, twas a miracle!Spot the...

Farting drunk local old biddy who got us lost on the way to the waterfall Mountain village we stayed in

Gilbert our guideMatt's masterpiece dinner

We're now in Durban, after brief stops in Kestell - Free State town, and Drakensburg Mountain range (sorry no photos).
Plans for the next couple of weeks include St Lucia, Swaziland and then into Mozambique... might be
a while before the next update.Miss you all lots

Bonnie and Mattxxxx

On 10/09/06MandB's african adventureMon, 09 Oct 2006 Mon, 18 Sep 2006
Hi all here is the latest... While we waited for the border paperwork to be completed on the beast we drove off to Stellenbosh and did a cracking wine/cheese tasting tour (thanks very much Bill..it was brilliant - 4 vineyards, 25 wines, lots of cheese and a great lunch!!)...




It was all a bit too much for Bonnie, who had to have a little kip after...

We headed to the Cape Penninsula for a couple of nights camping, lovely walks, beautiful views and random african penguins..





Last night in Cape Town, saw amazing sunset on the beach at Table View...





Eventually got the beast on the road, drove Route 62 to Oudtshoorn. Stopped off for a coffee at Ronnie's Sex Shop..

Oudtshoorn is the Ostrich Capital of South Africa, so Matt had a go at riding one (apparently he was a natural!)..

Next day we visited the fantastic Cango Caves and did a bit of potholing through some tight squeezes (named; the coffin, the letterbox, the chimney)...


That's for now folks Lotsa love UsSouth Africa On 09/18/06MandB's african adventureMon, 18 Sep 2006 Mon, 18 Sep 2006
On 09/18/06MandB's african adventureMon, 18 Sep 2006 Wed, 06 Sep 2006
Right people time for another update...We walked up Lion's Head for sunset (becoming a common theme!), Chrissy P check out the head torches...

We drove around Cape Point with Neil (the bar man from our backpackers) Simon and Dave (two of our new buddies). We were supposed to catch crayfish, until we found out that it was the closed season and we were also dropping our lines in a nature reserve!!

As usual Baboons bring the traffic to a stop as they chill in the road..

The gang..Simon, Dave and Neil...

We have sorted our vehicle (1995 Toyota Hilux 4x4)
to drive to Kenya and while waiting for the mechanic to finish checking it over we headed
off to Swellendam for some R&R from our hectic life (!)
in Cape Town. Swellendam is the 3rd oldest town in SA sitting on the edge of the Marloth Nature Park and Bontebok Game Park. So we cracked open our wonderfully snug and comfy tent (forgot to take photo's - sorry LSC people - will do next time promise!) put on our walking boots and hiked into the Marloth Park...

We also hired two bikes one day and cycled to and around the Bontebok Park (named as it main breeding park for Bontebok in the world - Antelope type animals which were nearly extinct - 17 left at one point), which was hard work on our non bike legs...

We are now back in Cape Town waiting for our car to be ready (literally in 10 mins!!!) so
the next update will have photos of the beast.

Love you all loadsM&B

South Africa On 09/06/06MandB's african adventureWed, 06 Sep 2006 Tue, 29 Aug 2006
This is the story so far.....

Our room in Daddylonglegs....

1st morning we climbed Table Mountain...

Then moved to Green Point...

We visited Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens with our new friend Simon (who you would all love)...

Sunset at Camps Bay...

Followed by Springboks back at Big Blue Backpackers...

24th August -
1st month anniversary dinner at Madame Zingara (thanks 'Alf Pint Murphy, spot the blue dancing monkey woman and the green garnish)...

Hiked up to Signal Hill with our 'travelling buddies' for sundowners...

So there you have it the story so far.

Love you allM&B

South Africa On 08/29/06MandB's african adventureTue, 29 Aug 2006 Sun, 27 Aug 2006
Hello, We're gonna have a go at this blogging whatsit... seems like it might be better than emailing, we'll try to get our photos on here soon...

off to the beach now!love

b and m

How Twitter Can Enhance Your Travel Experience

Whether you're a regular

Twitter user like me or if you've never

Tweeted before, Twitter can dramatically

enhance your travel experience, and the

great thing is you don't have to be an

expert in order to benefit.


This is a trick that I've

been using for about two years now and

below is a list of some of the ways my

travel experience has been enhanced by

Twitter:

We’ve arrived!