A dramatic cloud formation at sunset over the Drakenberg foothills

This is the part no traveler likes; sitting at the airport to fly home.
Even though I am looking forward going back to Oz, my mind is still in Africa. It just was the smart thing to do, postponing my travels with Zimba. There is lots to do and see in Australia, enjoying summer with all its splendour. Kayaking, fishing and camping with my mobile home Troopy and meeting new and old friends.  I am confident to pick up some work for a few months too, a financial boost.
Still, the adventures of the last 6 months are still circling in my head.

The ‘braai house’ in Maarmanshoek, Free State

From Pilansberg National Park, I drove straight to the farm near Memel I know well. Dirk and Dina’s home. Welcomed with open arms and ‘welcome home’, it really feels like home from home. Thanx thanx and thank you so much again, Dina and Dirk.

Grass fires are common this time of year, Maarmanshoek, Free State

This is where the journey with Zimba started, that is where it ends, for now.

Sunny driveway, Maarmanshoek

I used the time to clean out and organise Zimba with the help of farm hand May. Looking fab and clean again, my wee zebra. It is fair to say, that this road trip would have been somewhat different with a different vehicle. Not only did Zimba attract only positive attention, but is easy and fun to drive, even on tricky or difficult tracks.

Zimba cleaned out, Maarmanshoek, Free State

I could always rely on his performance. We are a funtastic team and I am looking forward for my next adventure with him to complete the Southern Africa circle, hopefully in March next year.

The stallion of the farm, Maarmanshoek, Free State

A big thank you to the Stevenson family, who have put up with me the first 10 days on my arrival. It was an easy and relaxed start to South Africa,just what I needed. I am happy to know, that I have met some fantastic people along the way, who made this adventure even more fun, for a short, or a longer moment in time. Thanx to everyone following my updates and photos with happy and cheeky comments. It sure kept me entertained on this side of the world.

South Africa is a beautiful country with lots of friendly people. As pretty as it is, it is frustrating and challenging. Challenging itself most of the time, losing lots of time and therefor lots of money. The saying ‘time is money’ sure makes an impact here, not in the positive direction. But, this is Africa. And anything can happen. As annoying as it is most times, it is part of this African adventure. I missed my bus this morning by about 5 minutes and had to drive Zimba up. Not the way it was planned, but the way it turned out. Etihad airlines had issues with my Australian permanent resident visa and almost didn’t issue me a boarding pass. I told them I am not going anywhere, my visa is correct, my ticket is correct, end of story… and all over sudden the visa showed up… not a good day to travel, it seems…

A chilly but clear starry  night at almost full moon gave a breathtaking view in darkness.

Clear skies over the farm, bright stars shining, Maarmanshoek, Free State

So, for now, it is Totsiens South Africa, or how I like to call it: Braai,braai.                     I’ll be back!