Canary Islands - Lanzerote

Playa de Famara

 Canary Islands - the name conjures up a vision of beauty, peace and tranquillity. We shall see! Getting to the Canary Islands from South Africa involves quite a number of flights and is rather draining when flying "cattle class". For Europeans, the journey is much quicker and seemingly easier. There are 7 main  islands and we will be visiting 3 of these during this trip. It seems crazy that these islands are only 100 km off the African coast and yet we had to fly to Europe to get here!

It is thought that the volcanic island of  Lanzerote could be between 16 and 20 million years old. With an interesting history spanning hundreds of years, with the Canary Islands being part of Spain. Tourism brings in 80% of  the islands revenue so one hopes that the islands continue to attract those seeking the warmth and sunshine! 

Lanzerote is very arid with fields of black and high volcanic peaks. We drove to Playa Quemade for a swim. Scrambling over thousands of rocks to reach some very hot black sand, we embraced the cool waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Topless is OK here - nobody seems to bat an eyelid. One old dear even took off her bathing suit and stood starkers before putting on her underwear!

The buildings are strictly controlled so remain in traditional style, with mainly  white and mainly low rise, which is in stark contrast to the black landscape.

A great stop was the Jardin de Cactus - this garden was established in 1990 and the entrance is unmistakable with a huge metal statue of a cactus at the entrance. Fees are reasonable and a wander around plants from South Africa,  Mexico, Zimbabwe, Chile, Peru, Brazil and Mozambique all make for an interesting display. A white windmill, which can be climbed, dominates the pit in which the gardens are situated. This pit was originally dug by villagers who required the volcanic ash to fertilise their fields. There is a restaurant on site and, with over 1000  species of cactus, it is a stunning place to visit. The town of Guatiza has vast plantations of prickly pear. This plant hosts the cochineal insect, weird as it may seem! The islanders also make some sort of liquor from the fruit. We chose not to explore that avenue! 

If you are on this road and in need of a swim, stop at the village of Punta de Mujeres. There are many small coves with steps or stainless steel hand rails to get you into the crystal clear water. A very Spanish village, with  the locals out in force over week-ends. The day we visited, there was evidence of a concert going to take place as the parking restriction signs were all over the place and the stage was already set up. A great place to be.....!

Orzola has a ferry service to La Graciosa, a beautiful island which begs to be explored, and is best seen from the highest point on Lanzerote. We stopped for a light lunch at El Norte Pescada - great choice for delicious starters of home made fish croquettes and aubergine with honey. They also serve great local draught beer, Tropical.

The drive to Mirador del Rio is an absolute must when visiting Lanzerote. The views over to the island of La Graciosa are simply stunning. This is the highest point on Lanzerote at 474 metres and the views are so stunning that many photos will be taken. With a fresh breeze, one feels on top of the world. The restaurant offers plate glass clear views if you are hungry or thirsty.

 

The land on Lanzerote is harsh and dry - the fields are black with volcanic ash and stone walls protect the vines, yes vines, from the winds. It is incredible that farming of prickly pears and vines do flourish in this very unforbidding landscape.

A must see when visiting the island, is the town of Teguise on a Sunday! Parking is 1.80 Euro and there is loads of parking which tells one that there are also thousands of visitors. I lost count of the number of tour buses that we passed. The market is spread over a huge expanse and I doubt that we covered it all. Loads of bags, jewellery, table cloths, toys and magnets. It is a great place to be if you are interested in clothing or jewellery. We were so lucky to be near the square where the folk dancing takes place. Traditional dance done by enthusiastic locals was the absolute highlight of the morning. The music was superb and the dancers had spirit and great smiles. We decided to sample lunch at a local spot which served Spanish food. Most enjoyable. 

Our next stop was Playa de Famara, (see top of page photo) one of Lanzerote's most beautiful beaches. Being a Sunday, the place was packed and we struggled to find parking. The views from this beach are to die for and it has fairly white sand, not black sand. A fantastic beach of 3 km in length, it provides glorious views over to Isla Graciosa. The locals were out in full force and we cannot blame them for using this beach whenever they can - it is really a magnificent setting. Topless is OK it seems so don't be shy if you feel like exposing your boobs to all and sundry!

The landscape is so weird - black volcanic rock with the odd palm tree thrown in. The vines are all protected by rock walls and it is seldom that one sees any green. We did chance upon some green crops just outside of Teguise  - YEAH!

Round-Abouts are the order of the day here on the island and our friendly GPS lady keeps telling us which exit to take. " Go left on the round about and take the 3rd exit". If we miss this we are told in no uncertain terms to " Turn around when possible" Imagine having to live with her!!!!

A day trip took us to :
The vine growing area of La Geria. Its a fascination sight to behold - black landscape dotted with hollows which are surrounded by semicircular walls. The area is now protected, it covers 52 sq km and the wine is very sweet. There are over 10,000 of these hollows and it makes for interesting landscapes. If you have time to stop, there is a wine museum and one can also sample wines before purchasing.

Yaiza - a small village at the foot of the Montanes del Fuego. Its a pretty little town and is one of the more picturesque on Lanzerote. 

El Golfa is a tiny seaside village with a number of restaurants where service seems to be very slow or totally non-existent. We stopped at Casa Torano, established in 1981....the setting is suberb, the waiter was pathetic - so much so, that we left without eating. The main attraction in El Golfo  is the emerald green lagoon which is reached by following a path up the cliff. The views are stunning with many interesting rock formations. This semi circular volcanic crater is filled with sea water that has filtered thru the black sand and become trapped. The algae causes the green colour which looks so out of place! 

 Los Hervideros, meaning Boiling Waters, is another spectacle of nature. These series of caves and blow holes have been eroded giving rise to crashing white surf at times. Today it was fairly calm - however, the views and intricate holes below the cliffs are worth a visit.

 Timanfaya National Park is a must visit. Entrance fees are reasonable and this includes a  very hair-raising ride on a bus around hair-pin bends on sheer cliff edges. Excellent driver but wow, scary stuff!!!! The colours of the earth are glorious and the ride takes about 40 minutes. One cannot get out of the car except at the restaurant where the guides demonstrate how hot it is beneath the surface.....dry bushes catch fire, meat can be cooked on a natural braai and water poured into the earth erupts as steam within a few seconds. 

By now our nerves were on edge so we headed to the cool waters of Playa Blanca - a very large resort town with many shops and restaurants. The beaches are good and the ferries to Fuerteventura seem regular. A great place to visit or stay. Unfortunately, we did not have time to go back to these beaches - I loved the vibe here and the water is crystal clear and refreshing. 

Our next excursion was to try and absorb some cultural stuff....so we headed for the town of Tahiche to visit the former home of a rather famous citizen of Lanzerote, Cesar Manrique (1919 - 1992). This very talented artist, sculptor, architect and town planner had amazing vision when he built this house in 1968 on the lava fields of  the eruption of 1730 - 1736. 

The house has huge windows looking out to these black lava fields - incredibly striking despite the starkness. But what I truly loved were the tunnels leading downwards where the house was incorporated into 5 "volcanic" bubbles. Cool, white and so tastefully decorated, this is a haven of peace and tranquility with the most incredible swimming pool to complete the picture. Cesar lived here until 1988. So popular, with too many visitors, he decided to move. The house where he spent his latter years  is also open to visitors and clearly depicts  his lifestyle. We did not visit this house  - there are photos in Tahiche and it looks very interesting so do make time if you can - tickets are available in Tahiche. Cesar died in a car accident in 1992 but his legacy to Lanzerote lives on in the height, style and colour of the buildings in Lanzerote. Whilst this does make the villages look very "same, same" it also gives a feeling of space and openness, lacking in the built up areas of Tenerife.

Carrying on with our cultural theme, our next stop was in Tiagua, to visit the museum Agricola El Patio. This shows an old farmhouse from the 1840's with furniture and old implements/farming equipment. This farm became the most successful on the island until approx 1945. They still produce wine - Malvasia, a dry white, a red and a lovely sweet Moscatel. You get a taste of these when you reach the exit. There is an old windmill but one cannot get inside. Whist the history is fascinating, the museum was not as good as many others in other countries so we were a tad disappointed. However, having said that, how anybody manages to grow anything in this stark, volcanic island is a total miracle and should be applauded to the highest degree. It must take guts and determination.

Today, much of the water is via desalination plants and tourism accounts for a staggering 80% of revenue. Fishing is still sound and besides my horrid whole fish (I hate the eye looking at me!!!) it is fresh.

 

Our last stop was in the city of Arrecife. The area around the beaches has a wonderful promenade in both directions, one leading to a small boat harbour. There are a number of small cafes here where you can cool off before heading towards the old fort. The promenade in the other direction goes on and on and we did not make it to the end unfortunately. The area is alive with local life, kids at the skate boarding park, lovers entertwined, couples running, cyclists on the cycle path, kids on bicycles etc. The beaches are not too busy as this is more of a local hang out that a tourist mecca so our swim was pleasant and cool.

Unfotunately, our time on this fascinating island has come to a close - memories? Oh YES!

Good tapas in most places
Great roads
Many round-a-bouts!
Stark beauty, albeit mainly black volcanic rocks.
Really good beaches with clear waters
Wonderful weather

We hope to visit again one day....!

© Judelle Drake

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bradclinphotography

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

www.bradclin.com

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South Africa - Mpumalanga

A very lazy leopard having an afternoon siesta in Kriger Park, South Africa

South Africa has many gems, some hidden and some easily accessible - it's such a vast country with incredibly different landscapes and a mix of climates. Sometimes, the weather can be different just 10 minutes drive away. Or it can be the same for miles and miles.

We recently returned to Mpumalanga - a favourite province for both landscapes and wildlife.
http://www.travelsnippets.co.za/2013/06/mpumalanga-visit-june-2013.html

This 2014 trip was more of an R&R vacation as the past summer season 2013/2014 has been so hectic at Bradclin Portfolio - www.bradclin.com so my thoughts were more on trying to relax away from the business that concentrating on writing a blog!

We chose to fly to Johannesburg and drive from the airport as the airfares direct from Cape Town to Nelspruit are rather expensive. However, this is the obvious choice if you have limited time.
To my mind the best parts of Mpumalanga are in the areas surrounding Nelspruit, White River, Sabie, Graskop, Pilgrim's Rest and Blyde River Canyon. The drive from Johannesburg has many e-tolls (car license number taken and account sent) and other tolls where cash or credit cards are accepted. It becomes quite an expensive journey with all the tolls on the N12 and N4 but the pay-off is a great road.

Kruger Park:
Most visitors to South Africa try to include a visit to Kruger Park in their itinerary. This vast National Park remains one of my favourite locations and there is just nothing to beat the sighting of a wild animal going about it's daily life. Please do remember that the game roam freely - you can drive for miles and see nothing on one day and get to see a vast variety of game on another day. It's perhaps best to stay at a private lodge or take an organised game drive if you have limited time.

The Lion Pride on a Hippo Carcass - not the best pic but this was fascinating to watch.

We first stayed at Ngwenya Lodge, 9 kms from the Crocodile Gate into Kruger Park. Our first drive into the Kruger Park brought many sightings throughout the day (a long 8 hours but it passes so quickly when you spot game!) A most unusual sighting was a lion kill of a hippo near a small waterhole/dam. My theory was that the hippo had lost its way as the pool of water was not large and did not seem to be "hippo" friendly. The lion pride was about 15 strong and they had obviously finished eating as most of them wandered off to seek some shade soon after we arrived at the site. The pride left 2 sentries to guard the carcass and although these 2 looked fast asleep, as soon as the vultures ventured closer, they sprang up and chased the birds away. It was a comical sight and I have never seen so many vultures together before. There must have been at least 30 - 40 birds, all sitting waiting very patiently for the lions to allow them to join in the feast! One bird would slowly venture towards the carcass, all the while keeping an eye on the "sleeping" lioness. The lions allowed them to reach a certain distance and then, BOOM, they would explode into action. Who needs movies, when this sort of scenario is playing itself out?

As with all great sightings, there are many vehicles around so it is only fair to move on after awhile and allow somebody else to get a closer look. I call it "Game Viewing Etiquette" - some people are just road hogs but most park enthusiasts will behave well.

Not the huge rhino that gave us heart failure! He was too fast for a photo!

Driving slowly along, peering out of our windows for game, we all nearly jumped out of our seats when a HUGE rhino exploded out of the bush to the left of us, screeched to a halt in the middle of the road, gave us the evil eye, and then took off like a bolt of lightning. The driver jammed on his brakes even though we were only doing about 30 km per hour and we all sat in silence, simply stunned by this huge beast that vanished as if it had been a ghostly sighting. Far too fast for a photo and just such an incredible experience.  My son, who worked in the Kruger for many years, had never seen such a large animal - it was simply awesome. Rhino poachers cannot have any morals or a conscience of any sort, to mutilate, maim and kill these magnificent beasts purely for their horns. Human nature is sometimes totally incomprehensible.

A lovely sighting at a bird hide, were a group of hippo frolicking in the river. Their huge bodies glisten from the water, their mouths open in wide yawns and their "chatter" is deep, serious and often sounds grumpy. Whilst they look so peaceful, just wallowing around, these animals are one of the most dangerous, accounting for many human deaths. So do not try and swim with the hippos - they are not very friendly!!

The day passed in a blur of animals sightings, changing scenery, wide open spaces or thick bush where one cannot spot anything, meandering rivers, lazy crocodiles and a breakfast stop at Lower Sabie. The restaurants at the Kruger Camps have been rather poor for many years now so it was bliss finding a brand new Mugg & Bean set-up at Lower Sabie - great service, good food, modern facilities and an all-round good experience. Apparently, all the camps are being revamped with either Mugg & Bean or Wimpy. Anything would be better than the oily toasted sandwich we had at Skukuza a few days later.

Nelspruit - Mbombela:
Nelspruit is a thriving town in the Lowveld and has a number of shopping centres, a great climate and enough restaurants to keep most people happy. We always enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Lowveld Botanical Gardens, so we headed off one morning for a leisurely stroll amidst the trees.

Green is one of my favourite colours for relaxation and these gardens are pure green. Boasting a huge collection of trees on the Tree Walk, the signboards make for interesting reading as they give some history, local folklore and medicinal uses. The gardens were original started in 1969 with the official opening happening on 10/09/1971. A must walk is through the African Rain Forest on the Sappi Aerial Boardwalk which also connects to the Visitor Centre where you can break for something to eat at the Kuzuri Restaurant. The Nelspruit Cascade Falls are spectacular, cascading over the huge boulders in the Crocodile River - it's a great photo stop and the boardwalk takes you to many vantage spots. Tons of water from the Crocodile River cascades through a granite gorge to the pools below.

Crystal Springs Mountain Resort:
Our last week-end was spent at Crystal Springs Mountain Resort, high up on Robbers Pass, Pilgrims Rest. Now this is the place for some serious R&R! It's a very large resort with everything on tap.
Restaurant, shop, wood bundles, putt-putt, tennis, squash and a games room. The resort also has wild game and you can choose to drive in your own vehicle or take an organised game drive of about 3 hours. The ranger will give much information so this is certainly worth it. We chose to go in our own vehicle and were lucky to see many giraffe, warthogs, and buck. There are a number of hiking trails - perfect for that early morning exercise in brisk, fresh air! Take hiking sticks or collect these at Reception. I would recommend taking sticks as the hike we did was very stony so the sticks certainly assist with balancing. Being so high up, the nights were chilly so we loved the Jacuzzi and hot pool!
Best to book the Jacuzzi (30 mins) if you don't want to share! They also have a sauna and steam room. We found this a perfect way to end the day. Warmed up, we could head back to the unit to enjoy the evenings tipple in front of a roaring fire!

The Gorgeous Scenery in the Reserve at Crystal Mountain Springs

© Judelle Drake

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bradclinphotography

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

www.bradclin.com

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Nelson Mandela - 18/07/1918 - 05/12/2013, South Africa

Moullie Point Lighthouse, Cape Town

"May Mandela's light forever shine down on the South African people" Judelle Drake

Tribute to Nelson Mandela - 1918 - 2013

Today, 06/12/2013 is a sad day for all South Africans
Our beloved Nelson Mandela, died last night 05/12/2013 aged 95 after a long illness.

As an ordinary South African citizen, I never had the privilege of meeting this icon of our times
However, Nelson's personality, charm, leadership qualities, love of people and great statesmanship shone through always, whenever he appeared on TV.

I just loved that unique voice, those colourful shirts that have become such a trademark that vendors make a living selling them, the joy on Nelson's face at the 1995 Rugby World Cup, his love for all South African sports, his gentleness with children and his quest for a better life for all in South Africa. A truly unique man who became an icon in his lifetime.

South Africa still has many problems to contend with politically but we hope that Nelson's spirit and example will live on as an example in the people of our beloved South Africa.

Some of Nelson Mandela's quotes below:

Unlike some politicians, I can admit to a mistake.

"If there are dreams about a beautiful South Africa, there are also roads that lead to their goal. Two of these roads could be named Goodness and Forgiveness."
If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.

For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.
Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

If there are dreams about a beautiful South Africa, there are also roads that lead to their goal. Two of these roads could be named Goodness and Forgiveness.

I am confident that nobody... will accuse me of selfishness if I ask to spend time, while I am still in good health, with my family, my friends and also with myself.

I was not a messiah, but an ordinary man who had become a leader because of extraordinary circumstances.

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/n/nelson_mandela_2.html#GJZYQfJlVihfdtcM.99

The following history is courtesy of "News 24" 6/12/2013

Johannesburg - Nelson Mandela, the revered icon of the anti-apartheid struggle and one of the towering political figures of the 20th century, has died aged 95.

Mandela, who was elected South Africa's first black president after spending nearly three decades in prison, had been receiving treatment for a lung infection at his Johannesburg home since September, after three months in hospital in a critical state.

His condition deteriorated and he died following complications from the lung infection, with his family by his side.

Announcement

The news was announced by a clearly emotional President Jacob Zuma live on television, who said Mandela had "departed" and was at peace.

"Our nation has lost its greatest son," said Zuma.

"What made Nelson Mandela great is precisely what made him human," he said.

Mandela, once a boxer, had a long history of lung problems after contracting tuberculosis while in jail on Robben Island.

His extraordinary life story, quirky sense of humour and lack of bitterness towards his former oppressors ensured global appeal for the charismatic leader.

Once considered a terrorist by the United States and Britain for his support of violence against the apartheid regime, at the time of his death he was an almost unimpeachable moral icon.

The Nobel Peace Prize winner spent 27 years behind bars before being freed in 1990 to lead the African National Congress (ANC) in negotiations with the white minority rulers which culminated in the first multi-racial elections in 1994.

A victorious Mandela served a single term as president before taking up a new role as a roving elder statesman and leading Aids campaigner before finally retiring from public life in 2004.

 "When he emerged from prison people discovered that he was all the things they had hoped for and more," fellow Nobel Peace laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu once said.

"He is by far the most admired and revered statesperson in the world and one of the greatest human beings to walk this earth."

From prisoner to global peace icon

He was a global cause celebre during the long apartheid years, and popular pressure led world leaders to tighten sanctions imposed on the apartheid regime.

In 1988 at a concert in Wembley stadium in London, tens of thousands sang "Free Nelson Mandela" as millions more watched on their television sets across the world.

Born in July 1918 in the southeastern Transkei region, Mandela carved out a career as a lawyer in Johannesburg in parallel with his political activism.

He became commander-in-chief of Umkhonto we Sizwe (Spear of the Nation), the armed wing of the by now-banned ANC, in 1961, and the following year underwent military training in Algeria and Ethiopia.

While underground back home in South Africa, Mandela was captured by police in 1962 and sentenced to five years in prison.

He was then charged with sabotage and sentenced in 1964 to life in prison at the Rivonia trial, named after a Johannesburg suburb where a number of ANC leaders were arrested.

He used the court hearing to deliver a speech that was to become the manifesto of the anti-apartheid movement.

"During my lifetime, I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society.

"It is an ideal for which I am prepared to die."

He was first sent to prison on Robben Island, where he spent 18 years before being transferred in 1982 to Pollsmoor prison in Cape Town and later to Victor Verster prison in nearby Paarl.

When he was finally released on 11 February 1990, walking out of prison with his fist raised alongside his then-wife Winnie.

Ex-prisoner 46664 was entrusted with the task of negotiating the path to democracy with president FW de Klerk.

Mandela and de Klerk were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 for their role in the ending of apartheid.

After the ANC won the first multi-racial elections, Mandela went out of his way to assuage the fears of the white minority, declaring his intention to establish "a rainbow nation at peace with itself and the world."

Critics said his five-year presidency was marred by corruption and rising levels of crime. But his successors, Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma, have never enjoyed anywhere near the same levels of respect or affection.

In retirement, he focused his efforts on mediating conflicts, most notably in Burundi, as well as trying to raise awareness and abolish the taboos surrounding Aids, which claimed the life of his son Makgatho.

His divorce from second wife Winnie was finalised in 1996.

He found new love in retirement with Graca Machel, the widow of the late Mozambican president Samora Machel, whom he married on his 80th birthday.

"Every time Nelson Mandela walks in a room we all feel a little bigger, we all want to stand up, we all want to cheer, because we'd like to be him on our best day,"

Mandela is survived by three daughters, 18 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and three step-grandchildren. He had four step-children through his marriage to Machel.

His death has left his family divided over his wealth. Some of his children and grandchildren are locked in a legal feud with his close friends over alleged irregularities in his two companies.

GOOD-BYE MADIBA

REST IN PEACE

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

www.bradclin.com

Cape Town - Sea Point Promenade - Cape Town Walking Spot

Three Anchor Bay Beach

If you fancy a long,. interesting walk, park at the V&A Waterfront and walk (or run!) towards Sea Point Promenade.

The views of these city suburbs, with Lions Head and Table Mountain in the background, are tremendous, the sea is gorgeous and blue, the breeze either gentle or fierce depending on the season and it is a great spot for people watching. Thin, fat, tall or short, all sorts enjoy this local attraction and in all weathers as well!

Green Point Lighthouse was the first solid lighthouse built in South Africa and was first lit on 12/04/1824. It's red and white and stands 16 metres tall. There have been numerous lighthouse keepers over the years, the longest appearing to be a Mr J Hopson who manned the lighthouse from 1860 - 1878 - a period of 18 years. Quite an achievement!

Opposite the lighthouse, you can detour into the Green Point Park for stunning local flora plus views of the Soccer Stadium and Table Mountain.

Further along towards Sea Point you have children's play areas, a putt-putt course, then you reach Three Anchor Bay where there is a beach popular with canoeists and jet skiers.

Just past this spot you will find some outdoor gym equipment - that's if you really want to exercise madly before continuing your wander.

The area of the demolished Graaf's Pool

Graaff's Pool was closed some years back (it was a gay hang-out, overlooked by the huge block of flats!) but one can still wander down the old path where we did spot a chap being brave enough to head into the sea for a swim.

Broken Bath Beach

There are a few small beaches along the way - the name I like the most is "Broken Bath" beach. I have no idea where this strange name originated. The promenade ends at the Sea Point Swimming Baths.





There is always some something interesting to see - watch the tandem para gliders launch themselves off  Signal Hill and come floating down, to land gently on the Sea Point lawns. A must-do activity if one is brave enough!

The sea is always an attraction - from stormy winter days where the waves crash over the sea wall, to the calm blue of summer with many boats sailing past.

© Judelle Drake

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bradclinphotography

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

www.bradclin.com

Clipper Round the World Racing

Preparing for the Cape Town to Australia leg

Are you into Adventure Travel?

Then look no further than a dream journey on one of the 12 Clipper Yachts!

This remains one of the world's longest yacht races.

With circumnavigation of the globe taking a full 11 months, this is a challenge like no other. Totalling 15 races, 64,000 km with varying weather conditions, you will become tougher, leaner, hopefully not meaner, and you will either love the life or wish you had never set foot on a yacht! You may need to become a navigator, medic, weather forecaster, electrician or chef plus doing all the deck work on a racing yacht!

Don't be put off - training is provided and you can opt for just one of the legs of the race - approx. 3 weeks e.g. Cape Town to Australia.

Quote from web site: November 2014 "Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, 75, will return to his solo ocean racing roots this November 2014 when he takes part in French single-handed classic, the Route de Rhum on his Open 60 entry, Grey Power. 
The founder of the Clipper Race and first ever man to sail solo, non-stop around the world in 1968/69, will compete in the tenth anniversary edition of the 3,500 mile Transatlantic race  from St Malo, France which starts on 2 November 2014.

Knox-Johnston last did this race in 1982 in his 70-foot catamaran Olympus, better known as Sea Falcon. He is the oldest participant entered so far at the age of 75.
Asked why he had chosen a solo Transatlantic Race at the age of 75, Knox-Johnston responded:
“Participating in the 2013 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Race reminded me how much I enjoy the excitement of an ocean race.  Solo sailing is where I feel most at home – no one else can benefit you or let you down – it is all in my hands. The Route de Rhum is one of the classics – it is a very well-run race.”
The race sees sailors cross the Bay of Biscay late in the year in November before reaching the kinder, yet still squally climes of the trade wind belt before finishing in the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe.
The first edition of the race in 1978 was won by Canadian Mike Birch after a nail biting finish but was marred by the disappearance of French sailor, Alain Colas, who was lost at sea.
The 2014 race is open to mono and multihull boats across four classes with almost 80 entrants. Sir Robin will be racing in the Rhum class and will start serious practice once the current Clipper Round the World Yacht Race finishes in July.
Knox-Johnston will celebrate the 45^th anniversary of his inaugural circumnavigation on April 22 2014. The voyage took 312 days"


The Clipper 2013 were brand new boats, sleek 70 ft with approx. 22 crew plus a professional skipper on each of the 12 yachts.
 Crew ages range from 18 - 73! So age is no excuse!

We were privileged to be able to go on board one of these yacht during November 2013 whilst they were moored in Cape Town prior to their leg to Australia.

Seeing all the food being sorted out in enormous piles - huge cans of baked beans, canned fruit, sweets, salty biscuits, carrots, onions, potatoes, eggs, oranges, corned beef, flour etc, etc plus loads of toilet rolls, was an eye-opener. I don't know if I would know where to start to supply food for 3 weeks to a crew of 22/23. They certainly do not want to go hungry whilst at sea!!

The yachts are built for speed, not comfort so anybody who is the least bit claustrophobic needs to scratch this race off their bucket list. Space is at a premium, with a large section used only for storing all the various sails that are used during the voyage. Engines may only be used to reach the starting point and again once over the finishing line. Man overboard? They may use the engines but will have to log this and return to the point where they started the engines. Hopefully, this never happens.

The "bunks" are purely a place to crash after your stint on deck - no luxury and certainly no privacy! There are 2 toilets on board, one right next to the very tiny galley so smells could well linger......!  So many tins of baked beans!

This race attracts crew from all walks of life and we were able to chat to a few of them. Some have never sailed at all before and it is a dream come true for many.

The total voyage costs GBP 45,000 (subject to change) - this includes training, meals and accommodation. The price is less if you only opt for one or two legs.

Split into shifts of 08.00 - 14.00, 14.00 - 20.00, 20.00 - 12.00, 12.00 - 04.00, 04.00 - 08.00 and then the cycle starts again. Everybody has a turn to do all the tasks on boards so cleaning and cooking also feature. The galley is so tiny, imagination is required.

We met Vicky, the skipper of Switzerland and we met crew on board the Jamaica.


Whilst I am unashamedly a Semi-luxury to Luxury traveller so I would not dream of a voyage in these conditions. However, if you are into crazy, fun, and stimulating adventure, don't suffer from sea-sickness, love small spaces, love meeting like-minded people, then this is an adventure of a life-time that just has to feature on your bucket list!!!

A crew member on one of the yachts mentioned a Tuk-Tuk race across India.
Perhaps somebody could persuade me to do something along those lines provided that I stayed in 5* hotels along the way....but sailing, no way.

But don't you delay - get that application off soon!

If you are interested in doing the Clipper race in the future, then get in touch with the organisers:

www.clipperroundtheworld.com

@clipperrace

We wish all the brave (or foolish??) crew a wonderful experience at sea - there is no doubt that it will change your life!

PS: I have no connection with the organisers - this was just a trip to the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town which turned out to be most interesting!

© Judelle Drake

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bradclinphotography

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

www.bradclin.com

10 Favourite Memories - World Travel

Music, laughter and special experiences make travel such a unique experience for all of us.

Some of my favourite memories: ( not in any particular order)

1- My first sight of the Grand Canyon from a helicopter - the tears just flowed.

2 - Buying an oil painting of the Eiffel Tower after climbing all the way down this icon of Paris!

3 - Riding the ferries in Sydney Harbour and wishing for the courage to climb Sydney Bridge

4 - Walking Lombard Street in San Francisco, so so very tired after long flight

5 - Trying to escape the black-robed Jewish jewelry traders in Manhattan

6 - Being nearly  ridden over and squashed by a bicycle in Amsterdam

7 -  Stumbling upon a tiny Irish pub, filled with Irish people playing their music - not a tourist in sight.

8 - Eating at a great restaurant in Grundlsee, Austria, dripping wet from the rain - and nobody stared!

9 - My walk/hike up Fox Glacier, New Zealand

10 - Eating Provita with Marmite at the top of the tower in St Marks Square, Venice

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bradclinphotography

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

www.bradclin.com

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Thanks!

South Africa - Waylands Flower Reserve, West Coast

Waylands Flower Reserve - Floral Beauty West Coast

(August & September) 

West Coast Flowers need the sun to show off their delicate beauty and today was just the right day for flower viewing with bright blue skies, a moderate wind and brilliant sunshine. We decided to visit Waylands Flower Reserve which is outside of Darling on the West Coast. Delicate and tiny flowers need to be viewed close by and the fields of yellow, white and mauve flowers make an appealing sight for city dwellers cooped up in offices all week long.

This 80 ha reserve is purely seasonal and is supposed to host around 300 species of flowers. It was turned into a reserve in 1922 by Frederick Duckett and the road was built in 1952 by his son. Cattle and sheep graze here during the summer months and in autumn they are moved elsewhere allowing the flowers to grow and bloom for their brilliant display in August and September. The animals are returned to the reserve after the flowers have all died off! An amazing conserservation effort which has been ongoing for approx. 140 years - hats off to the owners of this land that it has been allowed to remain as a West Coast gem and that the stunning flora of the region has been allowed to grow undisturbed. Displays do vary depending on good rains prior to flowering.

There was heavy rain on Friday so the reserve was very wet in many places - have you ever got slurped down a mud hole? It's quite a crazy feeling - whoops, the shoe goes down and you are stuck! Whip it out and carry on only to go down with a huge slurp and sucking sound - this time even deeper so that your shoe has vanished! Oh Sh.... and I still have to go to a restaurant for lunch? I haul my right foot out of this deep mud and slowly venture forth. No - the mud has not given up on me yet and down I go again. By this time, I feel like a royal idiot and start looking around for spectators. Luckily everybody is too far away except for a couple who are looking at me in amazement. What is she doing? So very slowly I venture forth again and whoops, another hole and even more mud. I must say at this poiint that these holes are not visible and the earth looks fine until you step on it! By now I am feeling like a total idiot so VERY carefully I try and aim for dry land.

Once back on the path I have to explain my muddy state to all the friendly people along the road - their kids are cleaner than I am.

It's a topic of conversation anyway and I hope my shoes will recover in the wash tomorrow!

© Judelle Drake

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bradclinphotography

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

www.bradclin.com

Bloggers are not NERDS!!!

Who said Bloggers are NERDS??? Well, I suppose that is debatable when we spend so much time writing about ourselves and our travels in the hope that somebody out there will enjoy our ramblings and perhaps even "follow" us on our travels. Or, better still, make some nice comments!

Blogging started in the late 1990's and was mainly used by individuals up until as recently as 2009.
For many the journey started as an online diary for friends and family and perhaps to ease the concerned families whilst their offspring went back-packing all over the globe.

Today blogging is a buzz word that has everybody wanted a slice of the pie. And why not?
It's fun, you get to share your experiences online with many people in various countries and maybe, they too, will be inspired to travel more and start their own blog. It's the way of the future and personal experience of a country is always better to rely on rather than a rather boring and factual guide-book. Don't get me wrong, guide books play a very important role in travel and I doubt they will ever become redundant but reading a number of blogs about a destination you may want to visit, gives you a first-hand account from people of all walks of life and these stories are shaping the Internet.

I was privileged to be able to attend the 2nd Getaway Blogging Conference held at Upper Eastside Hotel in Woodstock, Cape Town on 04/08/2012 and I can only say "WOW" Blogging has become a profession for many bloggers who have been blogging for 4 years or more and they are lucky enough to be able to travel to many wonderful and inspiring destinations. Amazingly, I learnt that there are International Blogging Conferences held. Time to start saving.......!

Being a "newbie" to blogging (only just a year now) I was enthralled by 4 International bloggers who had been invited to Cape Town by Cape Town Tourism (see what I mean - expenses paid by somebody else!!!)

Keith Jenkins of Velvet Escape - who is unashamedly into luxury travel. Keith is based in Amsterdam, Netherlands and started life in the banking sector. He was not entirely happy with his life and this sector collapsed in 2008, ending his career path. His love of travel and photography started him on his journey of blogging and he has made a huge success of this.

Nellie Huang is a tiny slip of a girl with a passion for adventure so her blog, Wild Junket, focuses on all things linked to crazy adventure stuff. She lives with her husband in Spain, WHEN they are home, which is not often. She was a pleasure to talk to with a bubbly personality.

Matt Long of Landlopers (this is Afrikaans for Land Walkers!) - the English meaning is an "adventurer" which is what Matt professes to be. Very truly American, I am sure he has inspired many Americans to get out of their "USA is bigger and better than anywhere else" mode and start travelling to different parts of the globe. Even if USA is "bigger and better" there are other wild, beautiful, freezing, over-populated, under-populated, or just plain "wow" places to be explored and enjoyed. Having been to USA from San Franscisco right up to Seattle, along the West Coast, and New York on the East, with its endless noise and bustle, Cape Town CBD did look VERY tiny on my return home, so I can relate to the Yanks thinking "bigger" but not always better!

Melvin Boecher has made a name for himself with his very popular web site, Travel Dudes. Apparently, this started after a 3 month journey to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos. Their web site is extremely informative and a passion has turned into a thriving business.  Melvin is very much into Social Media and rattles of words like Facebook,Twitter, Instagram, StumbleUpon, Google+, Pininterest, Flickr. Where does he find the time for all this???

All 4 of these international travellers kept us enthralled by their stories and made my feet extremely itchy to get out there and do more.

There were numerous other speakers who shared their expertise - it was total and overwhelming brain overload - yet so great to be part of something that is exploding today on the Internet. Maybe our stories will outlive us all and become a small part of history.

With my passion for photography, which is an ongoing challenge and always needs improvement, I hope to satisfy the childhood dream of becoming a journalist by rather becoming a better blogger. The journalist "thing" no longer excites me but travel does and sharing makes the experience live on in my memory forever.

Technology has advanced so fast and so quickly in the past few years, that it is a challenge to keep up with all the modern terms - one wonders who came up with the term "Blog" and "Blogger"
We are living and breathing our own history and it is changing minute by minute in this fast-paced realm of the Internet where information is live within seconds and can be shared world-wide. This connectivity can be an extremely powerful tool if used in a positive way. Travel Bloggers are surely the most positive, happy and friendly people - who travels to be miserable?? This connects us to others  and spreads goodwill around the globe - with great results. Perhaps the politicians need to take some lessons in how to spread good cheer and well-being without any bribery or corruption, something rife in many countries today. 

I now wear the badge with pride - even if I am still a rank amateur - I am proud to call myself a "Blogger"!!!!

If you intend visiting Cape Town, you can support me in my "work-to travel" day job of running my "Bradclin Portfolio Accommodation" business by booking with us - every night booked means that my next travel plan gets a tiny, little step closer..........!!!

We love guests nearly as much as travel so that means we would truly love having you to stay!

www.bradclin.com

Please join me on my journeys by becoming a "follower" on this blog and by "liking" our web page and Bradclin Portfolio Facebook page.

You can also tweet at @bradclin1

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

www.bradclin.com