Hike 36: Farewell to The Royal Natal Park

Rain or falls--not sunshine

Steamin'

Peering into the Valley

February 18th

Hello and Goodbye,

It’s time for a holiday as we complete another leg of Hike-About. Throw away the editor’s red pen, wash the smelly boots and head off to Ellie and the children. We left Los Angeles, flying west on December 5th and are due to fly into Los Angeles from the east, still flying west. The world must be round, we think. We doubt whether this discovery will be attributed to us but it is a fascinating thought. In earlier days, it took tremendous courage and skill to circumvent the world. Nowadays, it takes patience and a few ‘bucks’—actually quite a few.

Tiger Falls

Our visit to South Africa was filled with much emotion as we met wonderful people, our family and friends, experienced natural wonders and beauty and of course, spent time with Mom. We feel revitalized about the country and hope to make further visits in the near future. The Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal are regions with fantastic hiking opportunities, something that excites us and is the catalyst for our renewed enthusiasm.

Clothes and body--all in one shower

Our last hike of this phase was in a rather wet Royal Natal Park. The views are spectacular, the hiking is endless but there is something more. It is quiet and tranquil. It struck us as being a place where one could take temporary leave of absence from formal life and refresh oneself in paradise. We stayed in a bungalow for three days that contained the basic amenities we required. However, for the rest, it was quiet but for the many birds (Thendele) singing and chirping, especially in the early morning. The guinea fowl joined us for breakfast on our patio, the baboons were close by, always seeking an opportunity to eat our food.
Sharing the trail or co-existing

Tranquil home for three days--Thendele

We were without internet reach in the camp, so on two occasions following our hikes, we drove into the village where we discovered an internet café. In the various establishments in South Africa where we have used the internet, it provided us with an opportunity to observe and listen to the locals—quite a fascinating experience. One can learn much by just watching—of course, a diet Coke makes it all the more enjoyable.

Our final hike took place under wet conditions. The trail towards Tiger Falls and beyond to the Crack, some eight miles, encompassed jungle like terrain. At times, the grass was not much under six feet high. It appeared that our editor was playing hide-and-go-seek except when she cried out that she had stood on something ‘squishy’. We crossed streams again, stood behind the waterfall and observed the heavy cloud sheltering the mountain ranges. The world is truly a wonder, a fascinating place.

Trees about to take a shower

In a fitting climax to an incredible three-month experience, we spent the afternoon at the Meyerowitz wedding. Russell, son of Aubrey and Sheree, married Amy Schneider. In a nutshell, it was a wedding of pure joy, of simcha, of happiness and celebration that encompassed the essence of Jewish values. The family did themselves proud and we think, Am Yisrael, too. The bride and groom are a delightful couple.

One of my 'all-time' favorites--the climber, too

To those who have kept us company over the last three months, we have enjoyed having you close. Thank you. We look forward to renewing our acquaintances in person very soon—N’H.

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey