Wednesday was a travel day…Now amid more safaris at Kanha National Park…

Posted by worldwide-admin on February 27, 2020 with 0 Comment

Note: All of today’s photos were taken from the car on yesterday’s road trip. No captions needed.

Yesterday, as I wrote this post we were in a crisp clean white SUV with air-con comparable to other vehicles that have been transporting us from one location to another.

It was travel day once again with an expected 5½ hours drive time until we’d reach our destination and yet another safari camp, Tuli Tiger Resort, this time to Kanha National Park where we’d be spending another four nights with two game drives each day.

The drive is interrupted every three or four kilometers by small towns lined with shops and vendors selling fruit and vegetables, clothing, and a variety of tourist goods and household goods for the locals.

Cows, dogs, and goats wander through the streets aimlessly in search of the next meal and women walk with baskets of food and other items atop their heads, while men congregate in small groups discussing the events of the day.

The women wear colorful Hindu costumes impeccably draped and pleated regardless of their income level of poverty. The beautiful garb us unlike any other we’ve seen in the world. Although each town may have its own personality the premise of the Hindu philosophy is evident in every aspect of creating a certain familiarity from town to town.

Once back out on the highway, the landscape is brown and somewhat desolate, scattered with trees and vegetation of one sort or another. It’s winter time here and until the monsoon season arrives everything the grasses remain brown and less hearty for the cows and other animals in search of good grazing fields.

With nary a patch of green for meandering cows and sheep, they often seek out public areas in hopes of food donations from the locals who appear at times to be very generous with their sacred cows. Hindus have a love of all creatures, both human and animals.

People often smile and wave as we pass through. School children in freshly pressed school uniforms play together in the streets without a toy or a ball and yet seem happy and content in their lives.

Their simple life is accepted with a powerful faith not so much as a religion but as a way of life leaving them grateful and accepting of whatever lifestyle they’ve been provided.

We are humbled and in awe of their dedication and their strength as they work their way through any obstacles life presents them. Many have no access to medical care, modern conveniences, clean water, and in many cases such taken for granted commodities such as electricity.

These individuals and families work together however they can to create the best life possible without complaint, without disharmony and without a longing for what could have been.

I often think of all the times I’d grumbled when making a call for customer service to end up with a heavily-accented Indian person on the line, often working in a hot uncomfortable boiler room taking calls for various digital and computer equipment companies all the way from India to provide customer service for companies in the US. Now, I have an entirely different perspective.

In a land of 1.3 billion people there’s is little to no government subsidies such as welfare, food stamps or government assistance. Overall, Indian people are on their own.

We’ve seen fewer homeless people here in India in the almost month we have been here than we saw in an equal time in the US. That speaks for itself and the powerful work ethic and life values imposed by their Hindu strength and principles.

This morning at 5:30 am we began our first morning safari from the resort. We didn’t see any tigers yet but we have five more safaris scheduled at this location, including another today at 2:30 pm.

By the time we return for the afternoon game drive at 6:30 pm, we’ll freshen up for dinner, dine at 8:00 pm and head to bed shortly thereafter. It’s a busy and exhausting day but typical in the lives of wildlife enthusiasts like ourselves.

Have a fantastic day and night!

Photo from one year ago today, February 27, 2019:

The kudus give us “the look,” which means “more pellets please.” For more photos, please click here.

Part 4…Outstanding day in Kruger National Park…A bloat of hippos and babies…Unusual facts about hippos…

Posted by worldwide-admin on May 19, 2025 with 0 Comment

Hippos and crocodiles seem to get along well. Notice the croc near the adult hippo.

Unusual Facts About Hippos: Nature’s Unexpected Oddballs

With barrel-shaped bodies and seemingly sluggish demeanor, hippopotamuses might appear like oversized river cows, lazily basking in the water. But don’t let their sleepy expressions fool you. These massive mammals are full of surprises—some amusing, others downright bizarre. From their physiology to their social lives, hippos are anything but ordinary. Here are some of the most unusual facts about hippos that might change the way you see them.

Mom and two babies were lounging on Sunset Dam’s shore.

1. They Produce Their Natural Sunscreen

One of the strangest things about hippos is their ability to secrete a reddish, oily substance often called “blood sweat.” Despite the name, it’s neither blood nor sweat. This secretion acts as sunscreen and an antibiotic, protecting their sensitive skin from the harsh African sun and infections. The reddish hue may also help camouflage them in muddy water, though the science on that is still speculative.

One adult hippo appears to maintain “watch” while the others rest.

2. They Can’t Swim

Yes, they spend most of their lives in the water, but here’s the catch: hippos can’t swim in the traditional sense. Instead of paddling like other aquatic animals, they move by bouncing off the riverbed. They sink because of their dense bodies and move gracefully underwater by pushing themselves off the bottom in a sort of moonwalk motion. It’s like underwater parkour (Parkour (French: [paʁkuʁ]) is an athletic training discipline or sport in which practitioners attempt to get from one point to another in the fastest and most efficient way possible, without assisting equipment), hippo-style.

3. Hippos Are Surprisingly Fast—And Dangerous

Despite their enormous size (up to 3,500 pounds for males), hippos can run at speeds of up to 30 km/h (about 19 mph) on land for short distances. That’s faster than most humans can sprint. And in the water, they can outmaneuver boats. Combine that speed with aggression, and you get one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. Hippos are responsible for more human deaths in Africa annually than lions, elephants, or crocodiles.

Often, various birds hang around with hippos.

4. They Mark Territory With a Unique “Tail-Spin” Technique

Hippos are quite literal when it comes to marking their territory. They defecate while spinning their tails rapidly, spraying feces in a wide radius to mark boundaries or communicate with others. It’s messy and bizarre, but it’s also a very effective signaling method in the dense vegetation of riverbanks.

5. They Communicate Above and Below Water—At the Same Time

Hippos are incredibly vocal and communicate using grunts, bellows, and wheezes. But what’s mind-blowing is that they can make sounds that travel simultaneously through air and water. This means one hippo can “talk” to another, both above and below the water’s surface simultaneously, an incredibly rare ability in the animal kingdom.

It’s a rare treat to see hippos out of the water.

6. They’re More Closely Related to Whales Than You Might Think

Though they look like pigs or cows, hippos are actually the closest living relatives to whales and dolphins. They share a common ancestor from about 55 million years ago. This evolutionary link is supported by similarities in skull structure, social behavior, and even the composition of the blood sweat mentioned earlier.

One mom was taking a break from the bloat.

7. They Nurse Underwater

Baby hippos are born underwater and can nurse while submerged. Calves instinctively close their ears and nostrils and latch onto their mothers while floating or resting on the river bottom. It’s an adaptation that allows them to stay safe and hidden in their aquatic environment while still getting the nutrition they need.

They are sniffing for possible food finds.

From underwater moonwalking to crimson sunblock and high-speed chases, hippos are an amazing mix of mystery, muscle, and mischief. Often underestimated and misunderstood, they’re one of nature’s most unusual creatures—living proof that you can’t judge a book (or a hippo) by its cover.

Let the hippo remind us that even the slowest-looking animals might be hiding some seriously wild secrets just beneath the surface.

Most often, when on game drives (safaris), we only see hippos in the water. Having the opportunity to spend time watching them on land is entertaining and enriching, and we are grateful for the experience.

It seems the bloat has increased in size.

Seeing these hippos reminded us both of the first time we saw hippos in the wild when we first arrived in the Maasai Mara, in Kenya, in October 2013. We couldn’t resist sharing these hippo photos we took in the first hour we were in the Mara. See below:

Anderson, our safari guide, took us on an unplanned 90-minute safari rather than wait at the airstrip for another couple to arrive on a later flight. This was one of the first photos we took along the Mara River. Our tent is on the river’s banks where the hippos will awaken us with their hysterical morning calls. We couldn’t believe our eyes or our ears. See the post here.

We could sit for hours and watch the hippos’ antics. Their lethargic movements and playful personalities are a pleasure to behold. See the post here.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 19, 2015:

On our final days in Kauai, we spotted almost neon-colored flowers on a walk. For more photos, please click here.

Part 1…The best new luxury resorts around the world…

Posted by worldwide-admin on May 6, 2025 with 0 Comment

So sorry we didn’t post yesterday. We all have days when we aren’t feeling up to snuff. Over the past few days, I haven’t felt like myself, and I am taking it a little easy. My blood pressure spiked to a dangerous level while my pulse was normal, and I didn’t experience any Afib or other heart-related symptoms.

Typically, I can feel my blood pressure spike for no reason at all. Subsequently, we went to Doc Theo yesterday. After a slight medication adjustment, it is better, but it took the wind out of my sails, and I am still not 100%. Again, today, I’ll take it easy, and hopefully, tonight, I’ll feel well enough to go to Quiz Night at Giraffe, which begins at 6:30 pm.

After the visit with Doc Theo, we headed to Spar Market, where we purchased everything we needed for the next few weeks in less than 20 minutes. Once back in Maroth Park, we stopped at The Butchery to pick up our pre-ordered biltong, which was out of stock last Friday due to the huge number of holidaymakers in the park in April.

The holidays are over, and the tourists have left. Fortunately, we’re enjoying an endless stream of wildlife this morning as we lounge on the veranda. It’s delightful to see our wildlife friends returning to the garden.

There are just the two of us tonight, but dear friend Patty Pan arranged a spot in a group for us. We won’t eat dinner at Giraffe tonight since they don’t have much on the menu that either of us cares to eat. We’ll eat at home early since we have plenty of delicious leftovers in the freezer to enjoy with nothing to do but heat them in the microwave.

As a result, since I’m not feeling creative today, we are sharing a fantastic article from Travel and Leisure, found here on their site:

“The Best New Resorts Around the World—Including a Luxe Mexico All-inclusive and an Italian Countryside Escape…

Travel + Leisure’s 2025 It List.

By Travel + Leisure Editors

Published on April 16, 2025

Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres, Adult All-inclusive, Mexico

Repurposed from a previous life as a mid-range all-inclusive into a Marriott Luxury Collection resort, the adults-only Almare offers a much-needed shot in the arm to sleepy Isla Mujeres, across a peaceful bay from the buzz of Cancun. Here, the vibes are more “summer camp” than seclusion—I joined my fellow guests at morning yoga, mezcal tastings, and even a jog to Punta Sur, the island’s southernmost point. The 109 rooms are spacious and bright; some travelers might find the Mexico-meets-modern vibes a bit too sparse. However, I appreciated the Byredo toiletries, spacious soaking tubs, and sunset-facing balconies. The food was also a hit: all-day restaurant Boga focuses on local fare from the Yucatan, and The Breeze, a lunchtime pool bar, has tacos, ceviche, and an excellent burger. If you like the convenience of an all-inclusive (unlimited drinks!), the charm of a boutique hotel (staff who know your coffee order!), and the reliability of a mega-brand (loyalty points!), Almare has a winning formula. Doubles from $1,025, all-inclusive. —Laura Ratliff

Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, Indonesia

When I arrived at Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, it was pouring, but rain suits the place. The 85-room resort sits in a valley inside the Payangan rainforest, about a 30-minute drive north of Ubud. The primary building, a glassy hilltop structure, houses Kirana, an all-day Indonesian restaurant, and Amerta, which serves fire-roasted entrées. The resort also has a spa, two pools, a lounge, and a bar that serves cocktails made with arrack, a local cousin of rum. Looking out from my villa’s infinity pool after the rain had cleared, I saw nothing but slopes covered with bamboo, banana plants, and palms. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $600. —Hannah Walhout

Arev St. Tropez, France

“Un rêve” means “a dream” in French. And indeed, a stay at the 50-room Arev—St. Tropez’s newest hideout, set on a leafy, quiet street, but only a 10-minute stroll from the bustle of Place des Lices, feels like a reverie you won’t want to wake from. Spanish designer Luis Bustamante took inspiration from the nearby Old Port, using a nautical, sophisticated, red, white, and blue palette throughout the property. I enjoyed a tasting in the outdoor Champagne Lounge (my bubbles were served from a chic vintage trolley cart). I spent my days lounging by the pool or strolling the courtyards and gardens filled with magnolias, bougainvillea, and olive trees. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $643. —Robin Allison Davis

Atzaró Okavango, Botswana

Atzaró Okavango’s inception began as an unlikely collaboration between Beks Ndlovu, the Zimbabwe-born founder of African Bush Camps, and Philip Gonda and Victor Guasch, the co-owners of the very stylish, design-forward hospitality group Atzaró. The hotel’s lobby bar and connected lounge spaces are filled with an impressive African art collection, from masks to textiles like mud cloth sourced from Benin, the Congo, Ethiopia, and the Tuareg people. The luxurious tents, ranging from 1,740 to 4,130 square feet, have bathtubs and mid-century and antique African furniture. But it’s the safaris themselves, led by some of the region’s best guides (Ndlovu started his career as a guide, so he has managed to attract and train the best) that are the reason to choose Atzaró. The animal sightings are frequent and thrilling, and the resort has fantastic post-safari cocktails; the camp’s resident mixologist might even mix you a sundowner in the bush. Doubles from $690 per person, all-inclusive. —Gisela Williams

Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

From the plunge pool outside my villa at Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe, I could almost reach out and touch the grapevines. Channeling a sense of place in Mexico’s preeminent wine region was a goal for architect Michel Rojkind, who made the valley’s natural beauty the star of this resort. It’s 30 sand-colored villas blend into the hillside and have from one to three bedrooms; each has a fireplace and a wine bar, plus a shower that opens onto an outdoor deck. As serene as my quarters were, the common spaces are where the 16-acre property really shines. I loved stopping for a burrito or a sip of mezcal at Roka, a repurposed Airstream trailer; elsewhere, I found a yoga platform, a spa, a meditation labyrinth, and a temescal. A visit to Pictograma, the resort’s winery, which grows grenache grapes, is essential to any stay. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $599. —Nina Ruggiero

Borgo dei Conti Resort, Umbria, Italy

Once upon a time, in the Umbrian countryside, there was an enchanted 19th-century villa, built on the foundations of a 13th-century fortress. It was inhabited by Count Lemmo Rossi Scotti, who spent his days painting and tending to the garden. Fast-forward more than a hundred years, and now that enchanted villa is a luxury resort run by The Hospitality Experience, the hoteliers behind other Italian properties like The Place Firenze and Londra Palace in Venice. Naturally, the villa’s new owners worked to preserve its historic integrity, restoring the frescoes and wood-beamed ceilings, while still bringing it into the 21st century. Maybe it was all the lore surrounding the place, but I did feel a bit like a modern-day countess, whether I was savoring risotto with goat cheese and Mediterranean herbs or cozying up on the sofa in my spacious suite. Perugia, Umbria’s Medieval capital, is just a 30-minute drive away, but don’t be surprised if you feel an almost supernatural pull urging you to stay put and explore the 40-acre grounds instead, perhaps with a picnic in the woods. Surely, Count Rossi Scotti would have wanted it that way. Doubles from $600. —Laura Itkowitz

Clara Arte Resort, Inhotim, Brazil

After more than a decade of anticipation, art buffs can now stay in a hotel at the Inhotim Institute, one of the world’s largest open-air museums, about an hour and a half from the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Clara Arte opened in December 2024 at the edge of the museum’s botanical garden, which features 4,000 tropical plant species and 700 artworks across 24 stand-alone galleries, all designed by distinct architects. Clara Arte’s 46 stilted villas spill down a lush hill by the entrance; São Paulo-based designer Marina Linhares filled each one with stone and wood furnishings that gesture to the landscape. All stays include three meals, a lavish afternoon “tea” with surprisingly sharp Brazilian brut, and the addictive cheese bread pão de queijo. As the sun sets, you listen to the chirps and croaks of the Atlantic Forest, or relax with a caipirinha at the piano bar, which hosts nightly bossa nova music. Of course, you come here mainly to browse contemporary art at the Inhotim Institute, a five-minute walk away. It takes repeated visits to fully immerse yourself in the towering installations, which include big names like Matthew Barney and Yayoi Kusama. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $410, all-inclusive. —Mark Johanson

Dunas de Formentera, Spain

I had ditched my shoes to walk the undulating dunes within an hour of arriving at Dunas de Formentera, a 45-room retreat on the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands. Formentera, a craggy 12-mile spit of land, is a low-key refuge from the party scene in Ibiza, just a 30-minute ferry ride away. The hotel comprises nine whitewashed bungalows, a few steps from the beach with its soft sand and clear water. Its restaurant, Caliu, specializes in wood-fired dishes, like the artichokes with cured egg yolk and ham that became a favorite during my stay. Dunas puts the eco in eco-resort: Hourglasses in the shower keep track of the time, and even the bedside phones are made of wood. I spent my days parked by the saltwater infinity pool, where the cooling breezes were more than welcome in the parched Spanish summer. Doubles from $550. —Julia Chaplin

Gundari, Folegandros, Greece

Folegandros, an unspoiled island about eight miles long, is only a 50-minute ferry ride from busy Santorini, but it feels like another world. High on a deserted clifftop overlooking the Sea of Crete, Gundari would feel radical anywhere. But in this location, the hypermodern hotel feels almost revolutionary. After opening, the property’s 30 cliffside suites and villas quickly became Instagram-famous. But Gundari’s ambitions go far beyond the visual. The main restaurant, Orizon, is run by Lefteris Lazarou, who earned the Athens restaurant Varoulko a Michelin star. Lazarou’s moussaka, made with shrimp instead of the traditional lamb, was light and aromatic; a risotto of brown orzo with Greek cheese, chili pepper, and wine from the nearby island of Lemnos was somehow both wholesome and indulgent. There’s also a striking subterranean spa where an Australian therapist gave me a world-class massage using oils infused with Greek botanicals. Doubles from $654. —Flora Stubbs

Hôtel du Couvent, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nice, France

Hidden away in Nice’s Old Town, Hôtel du Couvent is the chic property this coastal city craved. The 17th-century convent—home to the Poor Clare and Salesian orders until the 1980s—got a $100-million renovation and is now a hotel with 88 guest rooms. Mine had Italian flea-market finds and custom furniture made from old ceiling beams. A terraced garden contains more than 300 plant species, many of which supply the three on-site restaurants. Underground is a contemporary interpretation of the Roman baths excavated in nearby Cimiez, with a warm tepidarium, a hot caldarium, and a frigidarium, or cold plunge. The latter was particularly restorative, as was the Negroni No. 2 at Le Bar, in the cloister, which adds beets and strawberries to the classic recipe. It was a subtle reinvention that, like the hotel itself, improved upon the original without losing its soul. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $545. —Paul Jebara

Jannah Lamu, Kenya

For decades, on Lamu, a tiny island off the coast of Kenya that has long been fashionable with a certain free-spirited European crowd, the Peponi has been the stylish hotel of choice. Now, thanks to the opening of Jannah Lamu (the word jannah means “paradise” in Arabic), there’s another extraordinary place to stay. This elegant and quirky B&B—with seven accommodations—in the village of Shela is owned and designed by Kenyan designer Anna Trzebinski. Some rooms have stained-glass windows, others have bespoke wood-carved furniture, and all have Trzebinski-designed fabrics. While there isn’t a restaurant on site, there is a decadent breakfast, including sliced avocados, fresh fruit, samosas, and fried donut-like treats called kaimati. The property also recommends several cafes that deliver delicious Swahili dishes so guests can dine on one of the property’s wind-swept terraces. While located on Shela’s main square rather than on the beach, the property offers guests the option to spend time on one of three beautifully crafted traditional boats. There’s nothing like sailing one of the elegant wooden dhows (with a canopied deck covered in pillows) through mangrove-lined channels, then diving into the water, before a picnic of grilled lobster and fish curry back on deck. Doubles from $350. —Gisela Williams

Kibale Lodge, Uganda

Kibale Forest in western Uganda, is known as the best place in the world to see chimpanzees, and there is no better base to explore this underrated part of Africa than Kibale Lodge, a short drive away. The lodge is Volcanoes Safaris’ fifth on their great ape safari circuits through Uganda and Rwanda. Perched high on a ridge, the estate boasts spectacular 360-degree views of the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and greenery of rural Uganda. It is an intimate affair, with just eight papyrus-thatched bandas, each solar-powered and handbuilt by talented local craftspeople. At the heart of the lodge, a welcoming common area encourages guests to gather for drinks and food, including Ugandan specialities and more familiar dishes using local or homegrown ingredients. I swapped safari stories with my fellow visitors over freshly caught tilapia, firinda (bean stew), and dodo (steamed greens), while treks were fueled by freshly squeezed passionfruit juice and on-the-go “rolex” (rolled omelettes). The main draw to Kibale Lodge is, of course, the chimpanzees, but it’s well worth taking the time to enjoy the 150 acres of rewilded grounds here, along with the pool, sauna, and complimentary massages to ease post-trek aches. It’s the perfect sanctuary to retreat after searching for primates in the thick Ugandan jungle. Doubles from $990, all-inclusive. —Gisela Williams

La Roqqa, Porto Ercole, Italy

Giorgio Bonotto, La Roqqa’s simpatico general manager, supplied the words I’d been searching for. I’d arranged to meet him for aperitivi on the hotel’s roof terrace, with views over Tuscan rooftops and a harbor full of bobbing boats. The 16th-century fort that crowns the hill across the bay was soaking up the last rays of the setting sun as he said, “I like to describe La Roqqa as an urban resort in the middle of a fishing village.” I wish I’d thought of that. The contrast between the chic interior design and the refreshing authenticity of Porto Ercole, the laid-back coastal town outside its doors, makes the 55-room La Roqqa such an original arrival on the Tuscan scene. Walk 10 minutes to the port and you’re in a film about small-town Italy, where grandparents and kids stroll along the quay, gelato in hand. Walk, or be driven in one of La Roqqa’s electric cars, 10 minutes in the other direction, and you’re in a dolce vita romance set in a wild, rocky bay where beautiful, tanned people loll on loungers at the resort’s beach club. Accessible hotel. Doubles from $515. —Lee Marshall”

We’ll present Part 2 tomorrow and complete this article. If you’d like to see photos of these resorts, please click Travel and Leisure’s link here.

Although the above resorts are expensive, a traveler might consider a luxury experience during a short stay on their way to other nearby locations. Occasionally, we have opted for a luxury resort, leaving us with exquisite memories of a few-night stay.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, May 6, 2015:

A fisherman was casting toward the huge surf in Kauai. For more photos, please click here.

Day 5…Kruger National Park…We’re back from another game drive…

Posted by worldwide-admin on April 15, 2025 with 0 Comment

Last week, we spotted a lion with a Cape buffalo kill on the guided game drive.

Here are some facts about Kruger National Park we’d yet to share:

Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s most iconic and expansive wildlife reserves. Located in northeastern South Africa, it spans the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga and covers nearly 20,000 square kilometers (7,700 square miles)—roughly the size of Israel or New Jersey. It’s a major bucket-list destination for nature lovers, safari-goers, photographers, and anyone seeking a wild, immersive experience in the African bush.

With the dense bush, taking photos was tricky.

Highlights of Kruger National Park:

1. The Big Five:
Kruger is one of the best places in the world to see the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—in their natural habitat. Spotting all five in one trip is common if you’re lucky and spend a few days exploring. There are no rhinos in the areas we visit on our safaris. At some point, we’ll drive further north to spot rhinos in a protected area to avoid poachers.

A “parade” of elephants crosses the paved road.

2. Biodiversity:
The park is home to an astonishing diversity of life:

500+ bird species
140+ mammal species
100+ reptile species
Countless plant and tree varieties

3. Self-Drive Safaris:
Unlike many other parks in Africa, Kruger is self-drive-friendly. You can rent a car, grab a map, and set out on your game drive. It’s safe, relatively easy, and gives you total freedom over your safari adventure. We make a point of embarking on a self-drive in Kruger once a week. We prefer self-drive to guided safaris since we can tour at our own pace. We often arrange a guided safari for the extra experience when guests visit.

It’s always exciting to see elephants cross a road.

4. Accommodations for All Budgets:
From luxury lodges like Singita and Royal Malewane to SANParks rest camps (like Skukuza, Satara, and Lower Sabie), there’s something for every budget and travel style. Many rest camps even have shops, restaurants, and guided game drives. Since we have such a lovely holiday home in Marloth Park, we don’t see a reason to pay for the rest of the accommodations in Kruger.

5. Night and Guided Walk Safaris:
Beyond daytime game drives, Kruger also offers night safaris and guided bush walks—incredible ways to see nocturnal wildlife and learn about smaller animals, insects, and plants you’d probably miss otherwise. We are going on a Thermal Night Drive in Marloth Park tomorrow night.

A lone elephant, perhaps searching for the family.

6. Nearby Attractions:
While Kruger could easily fill a trip, it’s also close to scenic areas like the Panorama Route, featuring Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, and Bourke’s Luck Potholes, all of which we previously visited.

We must keep our distance from large male bulls who can easily charge a vehicle and tip it over.

The three of us are going to Quiz Night at Giraffe Pub and Grill tonight. At 5:30, friends Kathy and Don, her sister Connie, and Don’s cousin Sandra will join us for dinner and to play the game. It should be extra fun with our friends.

Have a fantastic Tuesday!

Be well.

Photos from ten years ago today, April 15, 2015:

In Kauai, the sun is waning on a less cloudy evening. For more photos, please click here.

Day 3, Kruger National Park…Guided game drive…Leopard day…excellent night game drive and dinner…

Posted by worldwide-admin on April 10, 2025 with 0 Comment

Of course, the leopard was seen at quite a distance in a tree, which hampered the photos’ quality.

As mentioned earlier, seeing the Big Five is unlikely in this area since the rhinos have been moved further north to more protected areas. Poaching has caused the obliteration of tens of thousands of rhinos in South Africa for many years.

Here’s a chart with rhino poaching statistics from this site:

South Africa: A rhino poaching hotspot

Chart showing rhinos poached in South Africa 2006 - 2024

As a result of moving the rhinos, the likelihood of seeing The Big Five in this area is slim to none. The Big Five are described as follows:

“The Big Five refers to African lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo. Today, the phrase is usually used to market safaris, but it was first coined by big-game hunters more than 100 years ago.”

When sharing a vehicle with other passengers, we can’t sit as long as I’d like to get good shots, as the leopard frequently moves on the tree.

Thus, spotting four of The Big Five, except the rhino, on our morning drive on Monday was quite a thrill to share with Lisa and a joy for Tom and me. But, it isn’t so much about The Big Five as the experience of being in the park and the sightings of many other species, which we’ll continue to share over the next several days, including photos from last night’s night drive and dinner in the bush.

The heaviest wild leopard in Southern Africa weighed around 96 kg (212 lb) and measured 262 cm (103 in).

Today, we only have to run to the ATM at the Bush Centre, and tonight, we’re taking Louise and Danie out to dinner with us in Ngwenya for the Thursday evening buffet. It’s hard to believe the cost of their “all-you-can buffet” is only ZAR 200, US $10.30! Amazing!

We’ll be at Jabula tomorrow and Saturday evenings, so I won’t cook again until Sunday and Monday. It’s fun being so busy with so many activities.

That’s it for today, folks! We’ll be back tomorrow with more photos of our adventures.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, April 10, 2015:

These Angel Trumpets at the Princeville Botanical Gardens are known to be hallucinogenic and abused by some who partake in its effects. We’d seen these flowers in Madeira, Portugal, and had no idea their drug-like properties. For more photos, please click here.

How to prepare to travel to Africa…

Posted by worldwide-admin on March 23, 2025 with 0 Comment

With our dear friend Lisa arriving in South Africa and staying with us for almost a month in Marloth Park, in a mere ten days, we’ve been talking to her about what to bring and what to expect for life in the bush.

After the meal, a little cuddling with Mom was on the agenda.

What a fantastic adventure for her! Preparing for a safari vacation in Africa requires practical planning, packing the right gear, and preparing mentally for an unforgettable experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare that we share with our readers to better inform you of what is required and essential to ensure a positive experience.

1. Choose Your Destination & Safari Type

Africa is vast, and different countries offer different safari experiences. Consider:

Kenya & Tanzania – Great Migration, Serengeti, Maasai Mara
South Africa – Kruger National Park, malaria-free reserves
Botswana – Luxury safaris, Okavango Delta
Namibia – Desert landscapes, Etosha National Park
Uganda & Rwanda – Gorilla trekking

Do you want a budget-friendly safari, a luxury lodge experience, or a walking safari? This will help you choose accommodations and activities.

Bossy never fails to let us know she is here.

2. Check Passport, Visa & Vaccination Requirements

Many African countries require visas (check online for each country’s specific rules).
Some require a yellow fever vaccine for entry.
Malaria prevention is key—talk to your doctor about prophylactic medication.
Other recommended vaccines are Hepatitis A/B, typhoid, tetanus, and rabies (if doing outdoor activities).

3. Plan the Best Time to Visit

The dry season (June–October) is best for game viewing because animals gather around waterholes.
Wet season (Nov–May) has fewer crowds, greener landscapes, and baby animals (but it can mean difficult
Kudus were searching for pellets.

travel conditions).

4. Book Flights & Accommodations in Advance

Safari lodges and tours book up quickly, especially in peak season. Decide:

Lodge vs. tented camp vs. budget safari
Self-drive vs. guided safari
Consider internal flights to avoid long road journeys.

5. Pack Smart: Safari Essentials

Neutral-colored clothing (beige, khaki, olive—no bright colors or black/blue, which attract tsetse flies).
Layers (mornings are cold, afternoons can be hot).
Comfortable hiking shoes and sandals.
Binoculars (essential for spotting wildlife).
High-quality camera (or a good zoom lens for your phone).
Hat, sunglasses, & sunscreen (sun protection is crucial).
Insect repellent with DEET.
Small daypack for essentials on game drives.
Reusable water bottle (many lodges have refill stations).

Zebras, wildebeest, and warthogs stopped by.

6. Prepare for Safari Logistics

Game drives: Expect early mornings (often 5–6 AM wake-ups).
No WiFi in some areas: Download maps, books, and offline content.
Cash vs. card: Bring some USD or local currency for tips and small purchases.
Tipping culture: Guides, drivers, and lodge staff often rely on tips ($5–$20 per day).
After tossing a batch of pellets, all heads were on the ground, scarfing them up.

7. Stay Safe & Respect Wildlife

Follow your guide’s instructions—animals are unpredictable.
Never stand up or make loud noises in a safari vehicle.
Don’t feed or approach animals.
Be cautious about food & water safety—stick to bottled or filtered water.

8. Cultural Considerations & Local Etiquette

Learn a few local phrases (e.g., Swahili: “Jambo” = hello).
Dress modestly in villages or religious areas.
Be mindful when taking photos of people—always ask first.
Finally, they were off.

9. Prepare for Unpredictability

African time is real—things may not always run on schedule.
Embrace the unexpected—some game drives may not yield big animal sightings, but the experience is always memorable.
Go with a sense of adventure—the landscapes, people, and wildlife will make it unforgettable!

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 23, 2015:

At the Princeville Artisan Fair, I was fascinated with this handloom this vendor used to make scarfs, shawls, and wraps. It looked like a fun activity I’d have enjoyed in my old life. Unfortunately, I’d never have room for such a loom in my luggage. The quality of the work was exceptional. For more photos, please click here.

Five places to travel with the current value of the US dollar…Seven days and counting…

Posted by worldwide-admin on December 7, 2024 with 0 Comment

The surf was so strong on the Big Island that we could feel the spray, even from the house.

The countdown has begun. We leave Cleveland one week from today. Yesterday, I packed one bag, and over the next several days, I’ll pack more. It’s easy to pack when we’re driving to our next location when the weight of our bags isn’t an issue. Next time we pack for South Africa, the weight will be important, at a maximum of 23 kg, 50 pounds.

Flying internationally on many airlines, the baggage allowance is two bags each, which helps since I want to bring my frying pan and some kitchen items I’ve accumulated over the past year.

Speaking of South Africa, this morning, I stumbled across the following article about how the value of the US dollar positively impacts travel in some countries, five of which are listed below.

“5 places to travel while the US dollar is strong to get the most bang for your buck

Story by kvlamis@businessinsider.com (Kelsey Vlamis)

The strong US dollar can go further in countries with weaker currencies.
Americans looking for value in their travel plans may want to consider exchange rates.
Here are some popular tourism destinations where the US dollar goes far right now.

The US dollar is strong right now, meaning Americans’ spending in countries with weaker currencies could go further, making it a convenient time to consider taking that impromptu trip you’ve been dreaming about.

Some Americans are already seizing the moment.

“American travelers are looking for value right now,” Amir Eylon, president and CEO of Longwoods International, a market research consultancy that specializes in the travel tourism industry, told Business Insider.

Historically, the value of currencies can influence travel behavior. A weaker currency generally attracts travelers but makes it more expensive for the residents of that country to travel abroad. Likewise, a strong currency can raise outbound travel demand but might deter international tourists from visiting that country.

Eylon said demand for leisure travel is still at record highs, but more Americans say they actively seek value and deals when planning trips. One way to maximize that value is by visiting a place with a weaker currency than the US dollar.

Here are five popular tourist destinations where Americans can take advantage of the strong US dollar.

Japan

Japan is often considered an expensive destination for Americans due to the long flight and accompanying airfare. Still, the weak Japanese yen has fueled a surge in tourism and international travelers visiting the country.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, the country attracted a record 3.31 million tourists in October.

As of writing, $1 was equal to about 150 Japanese yen.

Egypt

Egypt, a common bucket list travel destination, is among the countries where the US dollar goes the furthest right now, according to data compiled by NetVoucherCodes. This British travel deal site analyzes exchange rate trends.

According to the site, the strength of the US dollar compared to Egypt’s currency has increased by 207.5% in the past five years.

Argentina

Argentina’s peso hit a record low this year, making it a cost-effective place for an inflation vacation, as The Wall Street Journal previously reported. An Airbnb spokesperson told the outlet the number of nights booked by Americans in Argentina increased by 40% in the first few months of the year.

According to NetVoucherCodes, the value of the US dollar against the Argentine peso has risen by $1,589% in the past five years.

As of writing, $1 was equal to about 1,012 Argentine pesos.

South Africa

South Africa’s currency has also declined significantly in value compared to the US dollar, making the country’s famous safaris potentially more affordable for wildlife lovers.

According to NetVoucherCodes, the dollar’s exchange rate to the South African rand has increased by about 23% over the past five years.

Brazil

The US dollar will also go further in Brazil, where the Brazilian real recently reached an all-time low. Tourists are taking advantage of the record spending by foreign visitors in the first eight months of the year.

According to NetVoucherCodes, the exchange rate of the US dollar against the real rose by about 22% in the past year alone.

As of writing, $1 was equal to about 6 Brazilian reals.”

Over the past many years since we’ve traveled to South Africa, we’ve enjoyed the benefit of the value of the US dollar, enabling a very affordable stay, including the cost of housing, rental cars, dining out, and groceries.

We hope you have an opportunity to travel to any of the above-mentioned countries to “get a bang for the buck.”

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, December 7, 2014:

Last night’s moon, rising over the sea on the Big Island. For more photos, please click here.

We’re back!!!…Wildlife and other animal myths…

Posted by worldwide-admin on October 8, 2024 with 2 Comments

Many who’ve never been on safari assume tigers in the wild may be seen in Africa. That’s not the case. Most Bengal Tigers are found in the national parks in India. We visited three national parks until we spotted this female. We couldn’t have asked for a better vantage point when we spotted this beauty. See the post for more photos here.

Since commencing our world travels in 2012, we have experienced over 200 safaris, including trips to Africa, India, Alaska, and Antarctica. We have observed that some preconceived notions about wildlife are quickly dispelled upon seeing animals in the wild and conducting considerable research.

Another myth we often hear is that polar bears are found in Antarctica, but this is untrue. Polar bears are linked to the Arctic sea ice, where they hunt their seal prey. The bears are found in five range states: the U.S. (Alaska), Canada, Russia, Greenland, and Norway (Svalbard). Scientists have divided them into 20 populations, some shared by more than one country.

While on a guided safari in Africa, a few tourists assumed warthogs were miniature rhinoceros. We chuckled discreetly while the guide corrected them. When on safaris with other tourists, we keep our mouths shut and let the guide educate the other participants. When we are with visiting friends on safari on a self-game drive, we freely provide the narrative when requested.

However, we’re often taken aback by the misconceptions and myths about wildlife, some of which we share below.

Wildlife myths are often fascinating stories passed down through generations, blending cultural beliefs with nature’s mysteries. While many of these tales may seem outlandish, they reflect humanity’s long-standing curiosity about the animal kingdom. Here are a few interesting wildlife myths and the truths behind them:

1. Owls as Harbingers of Death

The Myth: In many cultures, owls are seen as omens of death. Their eerie calls in the night, often heard when the world is quiet, have made them creatures of superstition. For example, some Native American tribes believed that hearing an owl’s hoot could mean an impending death in the family.
The Truth: Owls are actually beneficial predators, controlling rodent populations. Their nocturnal nature and haunting sounds might have contributed to their mysterious reputation, but there’s no scientific basis for associating them with death.

2. Lemmings Commit Mass Suicide

The Myth: The idea that lemmings intentionally throw themselves off cliffs in mass suicides became widely popular after a 1958 Disney documentary, “White Wilderness.” The film staged a dramatic scene where lemmings were shown diving into the ocean en masse.
The Truth: Lemmings do migrate in large groups, but the “mass suicide” concept is entirely false. When populations become too large, they search for new territory, sometimes leading them into dangerous situations, but it’s purely accidental and not a deliberate act of self-destruction.

3. Sharks Don’t Get Cancer

The Myth: It’s a common belief that sharks are immune to cancer, which has fueled interest in shark cartilage as a potential cancer treatment.
The Truth: While it’s true that sharks rarely develop bone cancer (since they don’t have bones), they are not immune to cancer. They can still develop other forms of the disease, including tumors.

4. Touching a Toad Causes Warts

The Myth: Many people grow up believing that touching a toad will cause warts, probably due to the toad’s bumpy skin.
The Truth: Warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), not toads. While toads’ skin may look warty, their bumps are completely unrelated to the virus that causes warts in humans.

5. Bats Are Blind

The Myth: “Blind as a bat” is a common saying, suggesting that bats navigate purely by echolocation because they cannot see.
The Truth: Bats are far from blind. Many species have good eyesight. They rely on echolocation to navigate in the dark, but their vision plays an important role in hunting during dusk and dawn.

6. Goldfish Have a Three-Second Memory

The Myth: It’s long been said that goldfish have incredibly short attention spans, only capable of remembering things for a few seconds.
The Truth: Studies show that goldfish can remember things for months. They can learn and associate sounds or visual cues with feeding times, demonstrating a much longer memory than the myth suggests.

7. Mother Birds Will Abandon Their Babies if Humans Touch Them

The Myth: Many people believe that if you touch a baby bird, its mother will smell human scent on it and abandon it.
The Truth: Birds have a very poor sense of smell, and most will not abandon their chicks just because a human has touched them. If you see a baby bird on the ground, it’s often best to leave it alone, as its parents are likely nearby.

8. Wolves Howl at the Moon

The Myth: The iconic image of a wolf howling at the moon is deeply rooted in folklore and often depicted in art and media.
The Truth: Wolves howl for communication, not at the moon. They use howling to locate pack members, defend territory, or coordinate hunting, regardless of the moon’s phase.

9. Elephants Never Forget

The Myth: Elephants are often said to have perfect memories, never forgetting a face or experience.
The Truth: While it’s a bit of an exaggeration, elephants do have exceptional memories. This is especially useful in their social structures and navigating vast territories, where remembering water sources and migration paths is essential for survival.

10. Porcupines Can Shoot Their Quills

The Myth: There’s a popular misconception that porcupines can shoot quills like arrows when threatened.
The Truth: Porcupines cannot project their quills. Instead, the quills detach easily when they come into contact with predators. They serve as a defensive mechanism, but there’s no projectile involved.

While in Marloth Park, we’ve seen several bushbucks and other antelope encountering porcupines whose faces and bodies are filled with quills. Here’s a photo we took in October 2022 posted here.

This heartbreaking photo of a precious little duiker who encountered a porcupine,made us cringe in horror. How can she possibly survive these massive injuries? “Porcupines are solitary, slow-moving animals that largely keep to themselves unless threatened. The quills usually lie flat against the porcupine’s body until they encounter a threat, at which point they “puff up” and erect their quills, swinging their spiny tails until the threat either leaves them alone or gets a sharp whack and a face hand, or paw full of quills. Quills are stiff, hollow hairs with microscopic, backward-facing barbs at the tip (like tiny fish hooks), so when they come into contact with flesh.

Of course, there are dozens of myths we haven’t posted here. If you’ve encountered such myths, feel free to share your story.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, October 8, 2014:

We refer to these scenes with holes through the clouds with the sun filtering through as “the eyes of God.” For more photos, please click here.

And the saga continues with a big challenge over the next few days…

Posted by worldwide-admin on August 31, 2024 with 2 Comments

On this date in 2014, our ship was Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas.

There are no words I can write to describe how safe I feel being at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, in the competent hands of professionals, none of which I’ve experienced in the past. Every doctor or technician I encounter has the utmost credentials, exhibits kind and caring service, and treats each patient individually, not just as a number and income source in the system.

Doc Theo, a family practice physician in South Africa, was the only other doctor I’ve ever seen who was so qualified, caring, and competent. I last saw him in April 2023, 16 months ago. Since that time, with escalating heart-related problems, I sought the help of a few cardiologists as we traveled from South Africa to Ecuador to Nevada.

The most accurate test results I received were in South Africa. Still, the cardiologist in Ecuador last October and then in Nevada in March misdiagnosed my issues, according to the tests and doctors I have seen at Cleveland Clinic, only in the past few days. The problems I have with my cardiovascular system are still not fully diagnosed, with many more tests on the horizon that have nothing to do with my valves.

First, I met with Dr. Grimm, a heart “plumbing” specialist. He’d ordered numerous tests, including an angiogram, yet to be scheduled, an invasive test to see the status of the patient’s veins and arteries, done in the cath lab. Yesterday, we were waiting to hear about other tests to be scheduled to complete my diagnosis. I was told to call Dr. Grimm’s office at the clinic to arrange my future appointments.

When I was on hold, the scheduler finally came to tell me my next round of appointments would begin on November 7. I was shocked! Did I not just wait four months to start this process? She explained that many others were waiting ahead of me and that she could do nothing about it.

When I explained my symptoms, leaving me in a wheelchair to get around, I kindly asked her to do better. November 7th wouldn’t work for me. I was very diplomatic. She asked me to stay on hold, and she’d see what she could do. I waited a full 20 minutes to have her return on the line asking if we could get back to the clinic in 20 minutes for an appointment with the doctor who is a specialist in the heart’s electrical systems, an electrophysiologist, Dr. Keogh.

Within five minutes, we were out the door after asking the front desk to order a Cleveland Clinic shuttle, one of which makes a loop in the area hotels from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. Within minutes, the shuttle arrived, and we made it to Dr. Keogh’s reception area.

After we arrived, I checked My Chart to see if the appointment with Dr. Keogh wasn’t until 4:00 pm. It was 12:30 pm. This wait would be better than waiting until November 7th! Moments later, Dr Keogh’s nurse escorted us to his office. He’d had a no-show and could see me now. Tom and I giggle that it was “safari luck,” an expression we’ve always used when we had great sightings on the many safaris we’ve experienced.

Minutes later, Dr. Keogh entered the room, and his expertise and knowledge far surpassed any cardiologists we’d seen in the past. I felt like I was in the best of hands. The first thing he told me was I had to stop taking the dangerous drug Flecainide, which I have been taking for Afib since last October when we were in Ecuador. It was the only afib (for heart rhythm control) that worked for me.

Ecuador doesn’t allow that drug to be prescribed in their country. When I couldn’t any more than the one month’s supply I had on hand, we left Ecuador and headed to Nevada, where a cardiologist said I had terrible valve disease and needed surgery immediately. He didn’t hesitate to prescribe more of the drug until I could have surgery on my valves.

Dr. Keogh explained this drug could kill me with a massive heart attack and I must stop it now. It’s been 26 hours since my last dose. The drug leaves one’s system in about 48 hours, when the Afib undoubtedly will return. When he reviewed all of my tests thus far, and I explained that Flecainide prevented my heart rate from going above 90, the stress test I’d had on Thursday could have been inaccurate.

When we left his office, he said he’d devise a plan for me and get back to me soon. Time is of the essence when I am going to be in what is called persistent Afib within two days when the drug is out of my system. When we returned to our hotel room, my phone rang. It was Dr. Keogh. He decided I needed to retake the nuclear stress test without Flecainide in my system. Then, he could better determine where to go from there, such as a pacemaker, ablation, surgery, or other treatment modalities.

Within minutes, I received a message from My Chart stating I had a new appointment, rescheduled for another nuclear stress test on Tuesday at 9:30 am. It was such a relief, especially knowing by then, I’d be experiencing awful Afib. Dr. Keogh didn’t want me on any Afib drugs for the repeated test. He explained that if the Afib gets too awful, we should head to the emergency room to oversee my care. That was comforting.

Now, I’m scheduled for the angiogram next Friday instead of November 7th. And so it goes with more tests and an upcoming scary few days, especially when we are moving to the new hotel on Monday. Whew.

I can’t express enough gratitude for the love and support I have been receiving from so many of our worldwide friends and readers. You all mean the world to both of us!

To all of our family, friends, and readers in the US, have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend and a happy weekend for our international readers.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, August 31, 2014:

We were on Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas. The following day, we were off on our first tour to Le Havre/Normandy, France, for an all-day excursion to see WWII Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, and American Cemeteries. For more photos, please click here.

Lovely dinner and evening with friend’s home…Home-cooked meals gone by the wayside?…

Posted by worldwide-admin on July 10, 2024 with 0 Comment

Me and Natalie, Chere and Gary’s travel agent, for their upcoming tour and safaris to Tanzania next month.

Many people don’t cook these days, and it was a real treat for us to be invited to Chere and Gary’s home for dinner last night. Since Chere is a licensed dietician/nutritionist, she fully grasps my way of eating. Making a meal suitable for me and favored by others was uncomplicated for her.

The appetizers and meal were delicious, with only a few items I couldn’t eat: the boiled potatoes topped with fresh parsley from Chere’s garden and the freshly baked chocolate cookies she served straight from the oven for dessert. Natalie brought a fantastic cauliflower salad I will make in the future.

Dining at Chere and Gary’s home last night reminded us of how seldom most Americans prepare home-cooked meals, contributing to the fact that this was the first time we had dined at the home of friends since we arrived in Minnesota two months ago.

This topic got me thinking about what has transpired over the past few decades to diminish the desire to take the necessary steps to prepare home-cooked meals for their family members and dinner parties for friends and family.

This trend is attributed to various social, economic, and cultural shifts that have fundamentally changed how Americans approach food and meal preparation. Understanding these changes offers a window into broader societal trends and their implications for health, family dynamics, and cultural identity.

One significant factor contributing to the decline in home cooking is the increasing pace of modern life. As Americans juggle demanding work schedules, long commutes, and various personal commitments, finding time to cook has become challenging. The rise of dual-income households means both partners often work full-time jobs, leaving little time or energy to prepare meals from scratch. Consequently, convenience has become a priority, leading many to rely on takeout, fast food, and pre-packaged meals.

The proliferation of food delivery services and meal kits has also played a substantial role. Companies like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub have made it incredibly easy to order food from various restaurants with just a few taps on a smartphone. Similarly, meal kit services such as Blue Apron and HelloFresh deliver pre-portioned ingredients and recipes directly to consumers’ doors, simplifying the cooking process but reducing the need to plan and shop for meals. These services cater to a desire for convenience and variety, allowing people to enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home without the effort of traditional cooking.

Cultural shifts have also influenced this trend. The rise of food media, including cooking shows, blogs, and social media influencers, has created a culture that celebrates food differently. Instead of emphasizing the everyday act of cooking, these platforms often highlight elaborate dishes and restaurant experiences. This can make home cooking seem mundane or unappealing by comparison. Moreover, portraying cooking as a complex and time-consuming activity can intimidate those with limited skills or experience, discouraging them from trying their hand in the kitchen.

Economic factors also play a crucial role in the decline of home cooking. The cost of fresh, high-quality ingredients can be prohibitive, particularly for low-income households. Fast food and processed meals are often cheaper and more accessible, making them a more attractive option for those on tight budgets. Additionally, the time cost associated with cooking—from shopping for ingredients to meal preparation and cleanup—can outweigh the perceived benefits, especially for individuals with limited leisure time.

Another important aspect is the change in family structures and dynamics. Traditional family meals, where everyone gathers around the dinner table, are less common today. With busy schedules and varying commitments, family members often eat at different times or on the go. This shift reduces the opportunity for shared cooking and eating experiences, diminishing the role of home-cooked meals in daily life.

The impact of this decline in home cooking is multifaceted. From a health perspective, reliance on processed foods and restaurant meals can contribute to poor dietary habits. These foods are often higher in calories, sodium, unhealthy toxic fats, and essential nutrients than home-cooked meals. This can lead to increased rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related health issues. On the other hand, cooking at home allows for greater control over ingredients and portion sizes, promoting healthier eating habits.

From a social perspective, the decline in home cooking can affect family cohesion and communication. Shared meals allow family members to connect, share their experiences, and strengthen their bonds. Families may miss out on valuable quality time together without this regular interaction.

From left to right: Natalie, Tom, Gary, and me lounging and snacking on fantastic appetizers in this comfy social room in their home in Eden Prairie.

Despite these trends, there is a growing movement to revive home cooking. Initiatives promoting culinary education, local food movements, and community cooking programs aim to make cooking more accessible and appealing. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily reversed some of the decline in home cooking, as lockdowns and social distancing measures forced people to prepare more meals at home. During this period, they highlighted the potential benefits of cooking, from improved health to cost savings and the joy of creating something from scratch.

Also, while Americans may be cooking less than previous generations, there is still hope for a resurgence in meal preparation. By addressing the barriers to cooking, such as time constraints, economic challenges, and skill gaps, society can encourage more people to rediscover the value and satisfaction of home-cooked meals.

This morning, I spent the better part of an hour chopping, dicing, and preparing a homemade cheese crust for keto pizza, mainly for Tom rather than me. Instead, I will have a lighter dinner—today’s effort results in making two meals, once for each of us. Tom’s pizza will be enjoyed for a few dinners while I’ll make mine fresh each day.

As mentioned in yesterday’s post, dining out costs have exceeded our food budget. More home cooking may be the best solution, especially while we’re living in residence-type hotels.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, July 10, 2014:

Ten years ago today, we booked the villa in Sumbersari Bali for 2016. For more photos, please click here.