After we left Bathulie, we made our way to Addo Elephant Park where we stayed one night. We took an evening safari ride where we saw kudu, ostrich, cranes, elephants, zebras, warthogs, red harte-beasts, and a leopart turtoise. That evening I tried kudu for dinner and it tastes slightly like beef. Then we headed towards Plettenburg Bay the next morning- but not before stopping by the world's largest bungee jump! Of course I jumped off the bridge...and might I say with quite the excitement! Once those who wanted to jump had done so, we ended at Albergo Backpackers. This was the beginning of our "free travel" (fall break). Our group broke up into smaller groups for free travel for easier traveling and planning. My group stayed in Plettenberg Bay the latest, the scenery absolutely stunning. 
We enjoyed exploring the area and laying out on the beach. It is such a beautiful area. My favorite part was going through the brush that I call the "fairy forest" to get to the beach. Next, my group moved along the coast to Hermanus for the remainder of our free travel. Here we were blessed to see many Southern Right Whales! The whales came so close to the rock bay- I could get a clear perspective of their size and color. I saw whales breaching, playing around, splashing their tales, guiding their calves, and swimming along the shore. I also got to go sea kayaking with the whales (we stayed a good distance away, though). Some girls and I were going to go Great White Shark Cage Diving, too, but it sadly got canceled due to weather. I enjoyed my free travel time even though weather interrupted. I was able to relax, take a break from learning, and meet and build more relationships. I met people from all over the world and locals. I also grew closer to those in my group as I got to know them better. Although I enjoyed free travel and having a break, I was very excited to return to homestays in Cape Town. I had also heard many good things about the city and so I was looking forward to seeing it for myself!
We enjoyed exploring the area and laying out on the beach. It is such a beautiful area. My favorite part was going through the brush that I call the "fairy forest" to get to the beach. Next, my group moved along the coast to Hermanus for the remainder of our free travel. Here we were blessed to see many Southern Right Whales! The whales came so close to the rock bay- I could get a clear perspective of their size and color. I saw whales breaching, playing around, splashing their tales, guiding their calves, and swimming along the shore. I also got to go sea kayaking with the whales (we stayed a good distance away, though). Some girls and I were going to go Great White Shark Cage Diving, too, but it sadly got canceled due to weather. I enjoyed my free travel time even though weather interrupted. I was able to relax, take a break from learning, and meet and build more relationships. I met people from all over the world and locals. I also grew closer to those in my group as I got to know them better. Although I enjoyed free travel and having a break, I was very excited to return to homestays in Cape Town. I had also heard many good things about the city and so I was looking forward to seeing it for myself!
How thrilling to see all those animals! What an experience, a life-changing event every day it seems. Frankly I'm glad the shark thing was canceled! That's just too scary! Kayaking must have been wonderful. Was the beach sandy or rocky? Filled with shells? Was the water warm and tropical blue or more like that along the outer banks? Oh I wish I could be a little mouse in your pocket!
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I can't wait to see your video of the bungee jump, although my palms get sweaty just thinking about it! I'm sorry (I think) that shark diving got canceled, but the whale sighting sounds like it made up for it. What a rare treat to add to an already incredible trip! Is your group planning a Thanksgiving? xoxo Karen
ReplyDeleteWhat a great adventure, Andrew is going to go nuts when I tell him about all the animals you have gotten to see. I am glad you are taking advantage of all the great opportunities. We are hoping to see you during winter break, it has been far too long. We are so thrilled for you, be safe and enjoy. Cath and Andrew
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