Fine, I Will Do Edits

I am still a bit bummed that I don't love the photos I took in Africa. Especially as Mom has some amazing pictures already posted up on her blog. Jason has great shots too, but since I only had the camera for one day I didn't do so well. (I didn't want to the camera on all those other days. It is just after the fact  that I realized I like the small feeling of prestige that comes from taking good photos.) On one last ditch effort to get something decent out of the pictures I took I decided to put in the, very minimal, work to do some edits. Just basic cropping really, to better frame the image. Here is another attempt:

In The Gaze Of An Elephant

Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa

Photo and Edits by Me

Maybe This One?

The last photo I posted wasn't actually very good - from a technical, and artistic standpoint. (Subject matter wise, running elephants that includes a baby is absolutely awesome.) The colour is a bit dull, the elephants are dark and the detail in their skin doesn't show well. Maybe this is a better photo that I took (of a different set of elephants that we found later on during the drive):

Elephants Take A Drink

Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa

Photo by Me (No edits)

The Good Camera

I only really took photos with the 'good camera' on one day, the last day when I went on the safari with my mom and Jason stayed back at the hotel. I don't really love any of the photos that I got, none are perfect. Here is one that I guess would be one of the better shots I got from that safari:

Elephants On The Run

Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa

Photo by Me (No edits)

Another Extra One

Nothing was scheduled for Monday on the tour since it was the day that everyone flies home, and the flights all leave at different times. For example, Kristen and Noah had a 7pm flight out of Johannesburg and later on Mom, Jason, Tessa, and I had to catch a plane at midnight. It did mean that all of us had pretty much a full day to fill. Here's what everyone decided to do:

-- Jason and Tessa went to the spa next to the hotel for massages, and spent time by the pool

-- Kristen and Noah went to The Cradle of Humanity to the the caves and museum

-- Mom and I decided to do another extra safari, we went to Pilanesberg National Park

Itinerary Update - Soweto Tour

Pre-Scheduled Post: Sunday - Soweto Tour
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) we will ....

After an early breakfast depart on a half day tour of Soweto. Experience a fascinating glimpse of the bustling neighborhood life of Soweto, the most metropolitan township in the country, setting trends in politics, fashion, music, dance, and language. Drive by the former residence of Bishop Desmond Tutu and visit Nelson Mandela's former home, before proceeding to the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, dedicated to one of the first casualties of the Soweto uprising of 1976. Continue to the Apartheid Museum, journey through the racial segregation experienced by millions of South Africans. This evening enjoy a Farewell Dinner with the Tour Manager and fellow travelers.

Phone Photo - Waterfall Fav

I absolutly love Niagara Falls. It is mind blowing each and every time I visit. But Niagara Falls is a Natural Wonder of the World (or at least I thought it was.) It is hard to say it is my favourite waterfall since it is so much more than that. With that, I think I have found a pretty amazing waterfall that might be my top, Bourke's Luck Potholes.

The Waterfalls at The Potholes

Why am I unable to get my horizons straight?

(Photo taken with my phone)

Blyde River Canyon, South Africa

The other stops on today's very long bus ride were also very impressive. Sadly though, God's Window was too foggy to see anything at but the vistas at The Three Rondavels were beautiful.

Itinerary Update - Johannesburg

Pre-Scheduled Post: Saturday - Panorama Route to Johannesburg
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) we will ....

Depart after breakfast and travel to Mpumalanga Province, known as "Paradise Country," driving the spectacular "Panorama Route." Stop to admire the views of amazing scenery along the 16-mile-long Blyde River Canyon, cut deep into red sandstone, and God's Window (weather permitting), a breathtaking, edenic vista at the edge of the escarpment overlooking Kruger National Park. Visit Bourke's Luck Potholes, a series of waterfalls and distinctive rock formations created by countless millennia of water erosion before proceeding this afternoon to Johannesburg.

Can't Stop, Won't Stop

After TWO game drives in Kruger Park today, we still weren't done. About half the group decided to stay for an evening tour as well. A couple of days ago I was asking our guide about doing a safari on our last day, Monday when there isn't anything scheduled and we don't leave until midnight. He mentioned that if we wanted to do an extra safari some people arrange to do a third one in Kruger on their own (not associated with the tour.) Of course we decided to do that! I can't get enough of these animals. And in doing so, tonight we saw a leopard. This means we have seen all of The Big Five. (Though I think The Big Five isn't really a relevant list anymore, but more on that another time.)

Phone Photo - Elephants

Elephants Crossing The Road In Front Of Us

Look at the teeny one!! Also part of the truck got in the shot.

(Photo with my phone)

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Itinerary Update - Kruger National Park

Pre-Scheduled Post: Friday - Kruger National Park Game Drive
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) we will ....

Begin at dawn with coffee, tea, and rusks, a South African dry biscuit, a pre-packed breakfast is also provided. Then, on to Kruger National Park for a thrilling full day open-vehicle game drive. Larger than the state of Connecticut, the park offers some of the best game and wildlife viewing opportunities in the world, and early morning is an optimal time of day. The chance to maybe see lion, elephant, giraffe, or zebra in their natural habitat. After stopping at a rest camp for lunch continue the game drive. With any luck, might even see cheetah and leopard. After the day's excitement, relax by the pool and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Itinerary Update - Swaziland

Pre-Scheduled Post: Thursday - Swaziland Sightseeing and Matsamo Village Visit
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) we will ....

After breakfast, visit the Ngwenya glass factory, where visitors can watch talented glass blowers create a range of enchanting African animals, birds, and fish, as well as tableware, made from recycled glass that is collected by the children of Swaziland. Transfer to the South African border and visit Matsamo Cultural Village, learn more about the Swazi traditions and customs. Enjoy traditional dance and song performances with authentic African instruments as well as traditional Swazi cuisine. Wander through the village with its many traditional huts and interact with the locals.

Overwhelmed With Emotion

Technically our first safari was last nights river cruise,where we saw tons of hippos. But this morning was our first game drive. I have no words to describe the experience but I will try.

I felt very amazed during the boat cruise watching all the pods of hippos in the water. It was a surreal feeling, definitely a 'wow, we are in Africa moment.' Also a very big eye opener - that for large animals, zoos are not even close to recreating their environments in a meaningful way. We also saw crocodiles and monkeys. It was nice that the guide made a point of pointing out the different birds to us too, without Mom having to ask. I am sure her blog will feature the eagle and kite we saw soon, though her camera wasn't working so Jason was in charge of taking the photos. I was very content using our little travel binoculars.

We continued this for the game drive today - Jason with the camera and me with binocs. I am surprised that I am not more into the photography but I like to grab a few shots on my phone and then just watch the animals - they are truly mesmerizing. Right from the first sighting it was like a shot to the heart. I was moved to tears on numerous occasions from the awe of these amazing animals.

From my phone!!!

The zebra look so different than expected when viewing them up close in the wild, the elephant was beyond impressive, seeing monkeys play or the various 'deer-like' species, at each new spot I could have stayed and watched all day. It was a beautiful and overwhelming three hours, and I can't wait for our next one in two days time. Already trying to figure out how to fit more drives in before we have to head home.

Itinerary Update - Hluhluwe-Imfolozi

Pre-Scheduled Post: Wednesday - Game Drive in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, Travel to Swaziland
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) we will ....

After an early breakfast, travel to the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, situated in northern KwaZulu-Natal, which contains an immense diversity of fauna and flora and is particularly famous for its conservation of black and white rhinos. Home to Africa's "Big Five," we may have a chance to see elephant, Cape buffalo, lion, and leopard, in addition to rhino during the morning game drive through the reserve. The park also boasts warthog, crocodile, and antelope. Following the safari, continue to the border of the Kingdom of Swaziland. This independent kingdom within the borders of South Africa is known for its lovely scenery and vibrant indigenous culture. Stop at a handicraft market this afternoon before arriving at the hotel in the early evening.

Itinerary Update - Game Viewing Cruise

Pre-Scheduled Post: Tuesday - Flight to Durban, Game Viewing Cruise on the St. Lucia Estuary
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) we will ....

Transfer to the airport for the flight to Durban. Upon arrival in the early afternoon, drive to St. Lucia. Later, embark on a game viewing cruise on the St. Lucia Estuary. This tidal estuary is home to Nile crocodiles, hippopotami, sea turtles, and even sharks, making it a fascinating and uniquely diverse ecosystem.

Phone Photo - Dassies

Read more about these cute little critters on Mom's Blog. Tessa and her went on the way to their wine tour.

Dassies with babies

Photo with my phone

Top of Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa

Staying On The Bucket List

We had a great time at the shark diving. The cage is attached to the side of the boat and the swells at our anchor spot made it feel like a water rollercoaster when inside. The water was very warm (over 19). I got to be a "double diver" and spent a lot of time in the cage.

All the other participates from our tour, and just over half of the boat got sea sick. Luckily Kristen, Noah, Jason, and I were spared, probably because we took Gravol the night before and right before boarding the boat.

We didn't end up seeing any Great White Sharks, but six Copper Sharks stayed around the whole time and they were beautiful to watch. It was very cool to see them under water and even when watching from the surface it was captivating.

Seeing a Great White in the wild is still something that I would really like to do. I guess we will have to come back!

Itinerary Update - Bit Of A Split Up

Pre-Scheduled Post: Sunday - Cape Town City Tour
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) we will split up ....

Mom and Tessa will join the Winelands Tour along the country's principal wine route to the scenic towns of Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch with tastings along the way.

Kristen, Noah, Jason, and I will take a full-day excursion to "Shark Alley" to experience great white shark cage diving.

Phone Photo - Rainy Day Selfie

City Tour of Cape Town

Jason and I, photo with my phone

Cape Town, South Africa, 2018

Itinerary Update - Cape Town City Tour

Pre-Scheduled Post: Sunday - Cape Town City Tour
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) we will ....

After a leisurely breakfast depart on a half day Cape Town city and Table Mountain tour. Driving to the city center, pass famous landmarks such as the Castle of Good Hope built in 1666 by the Dutch East India Company and City Hall, a splendid baroque building, and of course the Grand Parade. See St. George's Cathedral, the Anglican Diocese of Nobel Peace Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Pass the Company Gardens and the Malay Quarter. The route then leads to Kloof Nek and the magnificent Table Mountain. Ascend to the top (weather permitting) by means of a cable car. At the summit, see wildflowers, the famous silver tree, and marvel at a birds-eye view of the city and its beaches. On a clear day, it is even possible to see Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, on one side, and Cape Point on the other. Descend from the upper cableway station and proceed to the Milnerton Lighthouse. Later, you will have the opportunity to learn the three-billion-year-old story of diamonds while touring the prominent Shimansky Jewelers & Museum at Cape Town's famous V & A Waterfront. The 45-minute tour reveals the origins of diamond mining and includes explanations of color, cut and clarity. Following the tour (or for those who do not wish to participate) stroll through the adjacent V & A Shopping Mall with its endless shopping and dining opportunities before returning to your hotel.

Phone Photo - Saw Penguins!

African Penguins at Boulders Beach
Photo with my phone
The Cape Peninsula, Africa, 2018

It was a fast paced day, I could have watched these guys for hours but we got only about 20 minutes. This photo doesn't do the cuteness justice.

Itinerary Update - Cape Peninsula

Pre-Scheduled Post: Saturday - Cape Peninsula Tour
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) today we will ....

Depart on a full day Cape Peninsula Tour with lunch along the way. Drive to Cape Point at the southwestern tip of the Cape Peninsula, passing steep mountains, secluded coves, and sweeping beaches en route. After a stop at the fishing village of Hout Bay, one of Cape Town's best-kept secrets, continue to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, comprising over 17,300 acres of indigenous flora and fauna, where you may see baboons by the roadside, rheboks, cape mountain zebras, bonteboks and the elusive eland. The native plant life, known as fynbos, forms one of only six floral kingdoms in the world. Following the coastline along False Bay, return to Cape Town after lunch by way of Simon's Town. Here, visit the penguin colonies at Boulders Beach, and continue with a scenic drive over Muizenberg Mountain. Lastly, visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, resting at the foot of Table Mountain, for a short walking tour of the beautiful gardens before arriving in Cape Town. This evening enjoy a Welcome Dinner at the hotel

All Here

Big meet up in Cape Town Airport - just before midnight Friday, with Kristen and Noah's plane landing just 10 minutes before ours. Asked a lady from our Gate 1 Travel group to take the first photo of us all together as we gathered before getting on the bus to the hotel. She got this one of us chatting as we got into position, so it is the actual first shot and I like it!

From Left: Noah, Kristen, Tessa, Jason, Me and Mom

Cape Town Airport 2018

Long Flight

I had been thinking that the 11 hour flight between Paris and Cape Town would be my longest in air. However, Jason kept mentioning my trip to Asia. However, I flew from Vancouver to Beijing so it wasn't as far as doing a direct from Toronto - I didn't think it had been that long.

Looking back in Always Standing it turns out he was right, that flight to China was almost 14 hours long. (According to what I wrote on July 25, 2010.)

Itinerary Update - Travel To South Africa

Pre-Scheduled Post: Thursday/Friday - Travel to South Africa
As per our trip itinerary (bar any issues/changes/complications etc.) today we will ....

Be flying to South Africa!

Kristen and Noah are going separately, through Amsterdam.

Mom, Tessa, Jason, and I will be on Air France Flight AF351 leaving Toronto at 6:35pm tonight, getting into Paris Charles de Gaulle, France tomorrow (Friday) morning at 8:00am. It is about 6.5 hours in the air. The longer flight is a full day one for all of Friday. Leaving Paris at 10:10am and flying AF864 to Cape Town, getting in at 10:40pm. It is over 11 hours of flying (not much of a time change going straight south I guess.

So Soon, So Unbelievable

I can't believe my trip to Africa starts tomorrow! In fact, for Kristen and Noah the adventure has already begun. As I mentioned back when we booked the tour, there are 6 of us going together. Kristen, Noah, Tessa, Jason, myself, and my mom for 12 days in South Africa with game drives and everything.

Always Standing will be buzzing! I have pre-scheduled posts that detail each day on the itinerary. I hope to load pictures and posts throughout the trip as well - we are staying in nice hotels that should have good wifi.

You should also follow along with Vicarious Travelling, which is my mom's blog - set up in a more 'travel diary' style. (Link on the left)

New Milestones

The following photo, and caption, was posted to Taylor's instagram a few days ago:

We measure the moment they take their first steps, first word, first day of school... but it’s the small milestones that make me all mushy. First LEGO set put together ALL BY HIMSELF! #excusemewhileicry #legomania #bigkidsclub

Congratulations Lochlan! And it doesn't look like it was an easy one. It is true that it is a milestone registered by parents (and relatives) and I don't think it is even a small one. Jason was really excited when his nephew reached an age were he could be given 'real' lego instead of the larger duplo style.

He's Basically Ansel Adams

Looking through the photos from Iceland that we took with the 'good' camera (our recently purchased, mirrorless Fujifilm X-T20.) Jason and I try to figure out which of us took which ones. We figure out pretty quickly that the first one was taken by Jason, and he starts admiring it:

Jason: This is why we paid the money to get a nice camera - great shot. The parking lot against those mountains. I really knocked it out of the park here - it is obviously a commentary on the invasion of man into nature, the comparison of rock against machine. The cars, the snow. So good.

Photographic Masterpiece

Taken by Jason, with the Fujifilm

Iceland, 2017

I am sure National Geographic will be calling any minute now. (Though he has a level horizon, so can I really judge?) 

Fresh Start?

A couple of months ago people were making fun of the fact that I wasn't posting very much on Always Standing, and that at New Years I would probably make my usual resolution to start writing more. I don't want to give myself that type of pressure and just hope that I get back to it naturally, especially with my trip to Africa coming up and the posts that will go with that.

I have just gotten through That Awkward Time Between Christmas and New Year's that is super weird. (Though I worked a from home so that kept me a bit on track with the days passing.) I am back to work in the office tomorrow, and I have caught a cold - so not a great start to the year, hopefully it will pass quickly.