Dare to move?

The drivers dared to drive really close up to the animals. This particular rhino on the picture below, tried to attack our jeep just seconds after the snap. Did I mention that the jeeps were fully open?

Beautiful creatures

Safari time in South Africa

A continent apart

Sitting in my bed with a cuppa and hot water bottle and the heater on wheels is standing in the middle of the room. So where am I? Back in Australia on a visit? You would think so hey? But no, I'm somewhere that I find so exotic, very different and breathtaking; in a little bit cold and springy South Africa. I'm away with work on a mobilty scholarship for 10 days in Port Elizabeth, visiting Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.
Yes, yes, it didn't take long before my heart started to long for my boys. In fact, it was already on the second stretch between Amsterdam and Cape Town when it kicked in. But am on day 3 now and it's going ok, better than expected. It is a busy schedule filled with very interesting meetings and work shops and it is all really enjoyable. Upcoming leisure events will be such things as visits to the townships, game reserves and a Sunday lunch with newly made friends here. In many ways, Australia and South Africa are alike with the friendly people, exotic wildlife and very poorly isolated houses :-). PE is also as windy as Perth and offers fantastic seafood. However, you notice very quickly that there are also some dramatic differences which reminds me of how lucky (and spoilt) the Westerners really are. But SA is as we all know in transition and if the cards are played right, there is a bright future ahead. One thing is for sure, I will be coming back to SA as this country can't leave you untouched, which in my eyes makes a place the perfect holiday destination. And next time I'll bring my dear family along as there is nothing that beats enjoying experiences togheter with the ones you hold closest to your heart.