Out of South Africa
Travel to Serondella Lodge, South Africa with the whole family
by Juliana Mitchell
South Africa - to many it still conjures up images of Apartheid, segregation and brutal repression. However in the ten years that have past one would be hard pressed to find it. South Africa has worked hard both politically and socially to exorcise these demons from its past and to the casual visitor they are almost nonexistent. Few countries have managed such a smooth transition from marked separation to seeming integration. Along with the driving force for justice and human rights is the need to compete with other countries in the region for tourism. Shut out during the Apartheid regime, South Africa suffered greatly, and it would seem that the undying dedication of the oppressed finally convinced all that a free South Africa was the only answer. That being said, Apartheid should never be forgotten or belittled, and the valiant efforts of all the peoples must be commended.
Ok, enough of politics, this is a travel website after all, and our dedication is to introduce you the reader to new and exciting and often far-flung places - places that when contemplating a destination, might not necessarily pop to mind immediately.
Africa has long been to dream of adventurers and pioneers, still a place of mystery, of the unknown. Africa has always been a dream of mine, ever since I was a little girl watching national geographic specials, fantasizing of being Jane Goodall or Dian Fossey. When the opportunity presented itself, I jumped at it, although I have to admit daunted by the fact that along with my husband and myself, we would take our four children: a twelve year old, our seven year old twins and our year-old baby.
Africa has many types of safari to offer. There are tented safaris, which move from place to place via small planes. There are private safaris where you set the agenda (again tented and with the use of small planes). There are lodges, both large and small. Each offers its own advantages. For example, if you have unlimited funds, you might choose a private safari, or even a tented safari; however, which with small children, I was hesitant to undertake either of these. We chose a small lodge, which can accommodate only eight people at a time.
Our lodge Serondella (which means "place of the elephant") was perfect for us. At the time, we were there we were the only guests, securing attention unparalleled. We stayed in a family boma, a traditional round house with thatched roof. The three bedrooms were luxuriously appointed with comfortable beds, mosquito netting (a necessity), showers and a living area with a fireplace. There are no telephones or TVs neither of which were needed. We had a small terrace for sitting outside when the weather cooled a bit. We were awaked each morning by the barman at 5:30 am, with a tray of tea and biscuits, and then we were off on our morning game drive.
Our open land rover offered unparalleled views of the "Big 5" - lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino". In addition, we saw impala, zebra, giraffe, crocodiles, hippos, wild dog, baboons, and warthog. Our ranger Donny and tracker Thimba provided a wealth of knowledge on all these creatures and gave a running commentary on our rides. We even made a side trip to the Hoedsprit Cheetah Reserve, where these majestic animals are being kept in captivity for protection and breeding purposes.
Our afternoons were spent relaxing back at the lodge for cocktails and lounging by the pool. While exploring the property, we watched the verdant monkeys play in the trees throughout the grounds. High tea is served at 5 PM with all sorts of delicate pastries and sandwiches. Then it was off again for our evening drives where we often had "sundowners" surrounded by curious giraffe. Back at the lodge, we enjoyed gourmet cooking, either in the main lodge dining room or on the open deck. The lodge also has an open bar with extraordinary South African wine. The dinners consisted of traditional African fare mixed with western dishes. One special night we even had an outside barbeque complete with roaring fire.
Serondella is the experience of a lifetime. The staff caters to your every need, and they love kids! It is a long way from everything, but trust me when I say: the 27 hour flight is more than worth it. It will stay with you forever. After all, why go to Disney's Animal Kingdom when you can see the real thing?
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