The Davao Crocodile Park Road Show and Wild Life Encounter at the former site of Boom na Boom in Pasay proved to be very educational. The show is aimed to educate the public how endangered animals deserved to be treated humanely. It is also aimed at the protection and preservation of these animals. It also makes the public to be aware of the role these wild life animals play in the ecosystem.

There I got my first hand experience with fresh water and Philippine crocos. I was able to witness how these crocodiles are fed and how dangerous it is to feed them. They could also do some stunts. I mean they can jump for as high as six feet and devour their targets. I was also held breathless by the tightrope walker who did his stunts above fifty crocodiles. I mean fifty flesh hungry animals.

I also had the chance to have a close encounter with the albino python, the Brazilian boa and the buzzard. I had a moment with the orangutan. I was able to photograph the orangutan with me.

Wild life protection is a thrust which everyone of us should take seriously for the next generations to experience and encounter the wild life species. Wild life is nature's gift to us

Travel deep into Sri Lanka’s tropical hill country and you will find Pinnawala, a magical place home to orphaned and retired working elephants.

The orphanage started in 1975 with just five motherless babies. Seventy-three elephants now live in the twelve acres of lush valley and there are usually two births each year. Some of the original inhabitants have their own children and grandchildren living with them in an extended family group.

Baby elephants drink twenty-five litres of milk a day.  Orphans brought in from the wild must be bottle-fed and each meal takes seven bottles. When you consider that the very young also need feeding during the night, it’s not hard to see why volunteers are encouraged to come and give a hand.   We visited the nursery where babies waited impatiently for the next bottle and the next……….. 

There are a couple of war heroes - Raja, an old blind elephant who lost his sight when he was shot as a youngster in the wild, and Sama who stepped on a landmine when she was two years old, losing most of one leg.  She’s twelve now and doesn’t roam far.  Attempts have been made to fit her with a prosthesis but she refuses to have anything to do with it.

Elephants’ bath time was one of the highlights. At 10 am and 2 pm each day the whole herd, except for poor old Raja, strolls the four hundred metres through the village, past the shops and down to the river.

Here there is a hotel where visitors can sit on the veranda and await their arrival.  The buzz of anticipation as the time approached felt like curtain-up on Broadway!

One by one they wandered into the river, accompanied by the mahouts, or keepers.  It takes two years to train as a mahout.  Part of that time is spent learning how to communicate with the elephants and gain their trust. There are forty commands which to the unpractised ear all sound the same, something between a sneeze and a cough, but which make up a language understood perfectly by the mahout and his elephants.

The elephants clearly loved being in the water.  Some lay down and rolled around, others wandered away from the rest and stood showering themselves.  Some were feeling lazy and stayed stock-still whilst the mahouts threw bucket after bucket of water over them.

Eventually they all headed back.  Last in line was a baby only a few weeks old doing her best to keep up with the rest. Hearing my “oohs” and “aahs,”the mahout asked if I’d like to stroke her.

Would it be okay?  Yes, so long as I approached carefully so as not to alarm her mother who stood watchfully as I gently fondled the little hairy ears.  What bliss!  It was the perfect end to a wonderful experience.

 

My land of birth and my passion.

With so much to offer in one country, I thought I would write a few articles on what I believe to be the most incredible facets of this interesting and diverse nation.

With the environment, and the preservation of it, such a hot topic in today's world, what better place to start than with the world renowned Kruger National Park?

Founded in 1898 by the President of the Transvaal Republic, Paul Kruger, to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this Park that now covers nearly 20,000 square kilometres and has fenceless parkland integration with South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe (this happened when in 2002 it became part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park), is a true testament to what self belief, determination, hard work and the will to conserve our history for future generations can achieve.

Its diversity appeals to everyone because not only is it a nature lover's paradise, but it also has significant historical and archaeological interest too:

• It has an unrivalled diversity of natural life including 336 different types of tree species, 49 different fish families, 34 different amphibian categories, 114 different reptile classes, 507 different types of birds and 147 different mammal genus, not least including the Big Five - Lion, the king of the animal world, Leopard, Buffalo, Elephant and Rhino.
• This all fuses beautifully with both the archaeological world, including impressive sights at Masorini & Thulamela, and the historical world where there is definitive evidence that Homo erectus, prehistoric man, roamed the area between 500 000 and 100 000 years ago and where many artefacts relating to the Stone Age man have been found covering the period from 100 000 to 30 000 years ago (which is quite impressive!), combine this with 100's of bushman (San) rock art paintings found in nearby caves and you have a historical paradise too!

Along with its advanced environmental management techniques which have over years preserved many endangered species of animals including the African Wild Dog, this Park is certainly one to be respected and emulated!

The Kruger National Park wants people to see, appreciate and understand the natural beauty of nature and its inhabitants and wants people to understand how best we can preserve this for future generations. To achieve this, they have set up award winning environmental programmes to teach visitors how to do this including: anti poaching training, game ranger training courses, environmental management courses and of course wildlife photography courses. All of these courses are designed to stimulate tourist's interests in natural preservation and are all accompanied by skilled and trained game wardens and rangers.

Having recently done the game ranger training course - all I can say is WOW! You must do it! It is a once in a lifetime experience and it is totally self satisfying to believe that your contribution might make some small difference in the world. Not to mention how puny you seem pitted against the great forces of nature. It truly is an emotional self learning journey that I believe has made me a stronger person within myself.

If however, you just want to relax and take in the spectacular sights on offer, the Kruger National Park and the surrounding private game reserves have accommodation ranging from basic chalets right up to super luxurious suites that will blow you away. Not to mention all the activities available in the area ranging from: game drives (safaris) in the Kruger National Park, walking trails with game rangers, hot air balloon safaris where you sail majestically above the Kruger Park surveying all below, animal tracking, photography safaris and much more.    

So, next time you want to go on holiday - and with the Rand being weaker against most other currency including the Pound, Euro and Dollar (which makes it a cheaper destination for foreign travellers) - why not think South Africa!

   

Hippos wallow in a hollow pool in the Sabie River - waiting for lunch perhaps?

  

Why walk through the bush, when man has made a perfectly good road for us, say the Lionesses

With a trumpet from the matriach, the stampeed is on! A whole heard of elephants cross the road directly in front of us, while on mother stands by protecting the little ones from us.

     

Get off my turf! This is the very clear message from this loner male elephant.

      

I can see you says the Lioness. Stay back!

Stretch! Thats what I need before we go off on our hunt!

   

Yes, I can still see you - even from up here!

Magical African sunset!

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park

These sanctuaries jointly form the largest contiguous wildlife protected area in the state covering 240 square km.The dense vegetation provides ample cover to wildlife animals like the magnificent gaur, deer, wildboar and many more.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the most popular sanctuaries is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Though small in size, it boasts of a mini zoo, deer safari park, botanical garden and even eco-tourism cottages.Bondla is a paradise for the lovers of eco-tourism. Spend late evenings and nights here for an unforgettable experience. You will feel exhilaration and an uplifting of the spirits. The region is covered with moist deciduous forests with evergreens and canes alongside. Besides the state animal Gaur, the frequently sighted are the panther, leopard, deer, porcupine, ant eater and many other animals.

Cortigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Cortigao Wildlife Sanctuary is representative of the eco-system in the Western Ghats region. Some of the tallest trees in the sanctuaries are found here going up to 30 metres.Nearly 200 species of birds have made their home here and they include the Pied Hornbill, Golden Backed Woodpecker and the Great Indian Woodpecker.

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a treat for all bird -lovers. Located along the river Mandovi it has a dense vegetation of 14 different species of mangoes. During the winter months between November and January migratory birds flock in thousands to feed on the banks of the river at the sanctuary. It is a delight to watch and observe them in their full regalia. Watch towers there provide a truly bird's view of the region in full bloom. A boat ride in the backwaters in the early misty morning can create magic. This is when man is at peace with nature.

There is so much more to explore and discover in wildlife Goa. One can spend the rest of one's life doing just that and still be amazed at the constantly emerging new findings and excitement levels.

If you are lucky to see one consider yourself lucky. My husband and I got to be so lucky on the evening we got married. We got see the biggest owl I had ever seen in my life. It's a memory I'll never for get. The owl stood almost as tall as the front of are truck. The wing spanned was enormous.

There are many other animals out there such as: gators ,wild hogs,wild turkey,and turtles. You never know what you get to see. There are three small bridge to across. If you would like a quiet moment with your loved one . I recommend you go for the ride.

The enjoyment of it is one you'll remember fondly. There are wild plants to see as well. Its nature at its best. If you love nature it is something you will truly enjoy.

Come join us for a visit to Toogood Pond in Unionville. We can assure you that you will have a visit worthy of what is truly a magnificent landscape.

Toogood Pond is one of the most beautiful features of Markham's historic Unionville community. Neighbouring the Varley Art Gallery and scenic Unionville Main Street, the pond is part of Rouge Park, North America's largest natural environment park in a natural setting.

The famous 33-hectare park, which features a marsh and a partially naturalized pond, is home to a variety of birds, animals, and waterfowl. Canadian geese and mallard ducks can often be seen gliding across the pond's rippling green surface. Eastern Cottontail rabbits can also be found around Toogood Pond.

Toogood Pond is known for its many species of birds and geese, especially Canadian geese. This is a great place to take a break from life and enjoy some nature.

For humans, a walkway circles the pond and a meandering boardwalk cuts through the marsh, making Toogood Pond a popular spot for leisurely walks.

This meandering bridge will definitely provide a great view of the scenery.

Toogood Pond is located between Carlton and Kennedy Roads in Markham, behind Unionville Public School. Please join us to make your weekend an unforgettable one.

This is a list of African mammals and I have not broken it down to different sub species, however I invite you to do a little more research into the ones you are interested in learning about.

Aardvark, African hare, African Wild Dog, Baboon, Bat, Bat-Eared Fox, Bongo, Bonobo, Buffalo, Bushbaby, Cheetah Chimpanzee, Colombus Monkey, DikDik, Duikar, Dwarf Mongoose, Eland, Elephant, Elephant Shrew, Genet, Gerenuk, Giraffe, Grant's Gazelle, Hedgehog, Hartbeest, Hippopotamus, Hyena, Hyrax, Impala, Jackal, Kob, Kudo, Leopard, Lion, Mountain Gorilla, Oryx, Pangolin, Porcupine, Ratel, Roan Antelope, Rhinoceros, Sable, Serval, Sitatunga, Spring Hare, Thomson's Gazelle, Topi, Vervet Monkey, Warthog, Waterbuck, Wildebeast, Burchell's Zebra, Gravy's Zebra.

I hope I have listed them all, and fortunately there are some organizations like the African Wildlife Foundation which are dedicated to preserving and saving species which are endangered.This is greatly needed as Africa has already lost many species, man is the greatest threat known to wildlife.

As the saying goes, "you don't know what you have until you lose it". Are we responsible for the Extinction of these African mammals?

Algerian Wild Ass, Atlas Bear, Blue Antelope, Bubal Hartebeest, Canary Island Giant Rat, Cape Serval, Cape Warthog, Lava Mouse, Madagascan Dwarf Hippo, Madagascan Pygmy Hippo, North African Aurochs, North African Elephant, North African Serval, Quagga, Red Gazelle, Robert's Lechwe.

Interestingly enough, the extinction of these mammals corresponds with the appearance of Human civilization, but there is no way to prove that humans are directly responsible.

Come for a visit, stay for the experience.

Experience the grandeur of vast mountain ranges and simplicity of endless waterfalls. Be intrigued with wild and marine life that can be viewed without binoculars. If after coming, all you want is to see it, stay a few days. But I am sure you will agree after being here, it's more than scenery. If you want to truly derive an experience that will alter your life -you need to stay.

Returning to My Home

After thirty years of being away from this remote wilderness it would seem that I was traveling to a strange place, one I had read about in books or watched on television travel shows. The only communication I had during those years with friends from my past experiences in Alaska were yearly updates on annual Christmas cards. Those certainly didn't communicate anything about a void that was missing in my life.

I grew up not really knowing any place as “home”. We moved a lot and I cherished every new place and the broadening horizons provided. But I could never lay claim to one location as a home. Home then simply was where my family was. The closest I came to having a home was a place that is rare and unique. I often times wondered if it was the atmosphere and the people or the captivating wildlife and scenery that made it a treasured place in my heart.

It was a place where friends abound, acceptance is the norm and beauty is a simple word. So simple that by expressing it verbally one cannot convey the warmth of community and majesty that exists.

I moved from my birthplace in Wyoming to Alaska when I was seven. I wasn't anxious to leave behind existing friends, cousins and grandparents I loved dearly. But somewhere inside I yearned for new things and the new experiences that were waiting. I had never flown on an airplane. But in 1969, most people hadn't. This adventure was only the beginning of a life that would change my perceptions forever. As I boarded the wide body plane I left behind a small pickup truck of family belongings that would be shipped at a later date. We left much behind both in a material and emotional sense.

At the airport my Aunt purchased Pez candy dispensers before we entered the plane and embarked on a 3000 mile journey far to the North. The flight did not seem long as it was broken up with a three hour stop over in Seattle. As a child we were in no hurry to get anywhere and loved anything that brought about another opportunity for fun. Three hours to stretch, run and explore an airport that had just finished construction of an underground subway train system. Another new adventure.

After our stop over in Seattle we boarded a flight to an unknown and virtually uncharted territory that had only recently gained statehood. Alaska. It was 1969. The oil boom hadn't really hit hard yet so life was still unsettled and to some uncivilized. Such conveniences as running water and indoor plumbing were not available to all residents yet. Wilderness buffs thrived on living in the “bush”, miles from any hint of civilization and often only accessible by plane, atv or snow machine.

We arrived late in the evening in September. The weather was a bit cooler than where we had left, but not uncomfortable. We were greeted by an eight foot encased brown bearing staring down at us with claws that put an NBA star's fingers to shame and much sharper and deadlier. The airport was small with only one airline serving the rural town of Kenai. The twenty or so passengers who accompanied our flight quickly grabbed their bags and went on their way. My father had moved to Kenai earlier in the summer. He was not there to meet us as he had some problems preparing the gas lines in the mobile home that would be our new house. This would be quite a change from the five bedroom home in a newly developed subdivision that we left behind. Here we sat, a bit apprehensive and certainly uncomfortable with a place so foreign to our previous lifestyle.

The flight this time was a bit different. Things were different than in 1969 and had changed some even since my Flight Attendant days in the 1980's. New technology gave digital flight numbers at the boarding gate. Also quite different from the time I spent as a Flight Attendant, the check in screens for standbys was conveniently displayed overhead with appropriate seat assignments. No waiting to hear your name called and rushing on the plane at the last minute.

This time though, it seemed to be the same diverse crowd that usually traveled to this still remote area; wilderness buffs, a few executives, kids, and those just seeking great fishing holes and an escape from the mundane routine of life. People waiting for the thrill of hours battling and reeling in fish that were often times larger than themselves and hunting game that any sports enthusiast would envy. Trophy animals are the norm and not the exception. Alaska is all about a life that is bigger than yourself. Even if you don't relish the thought of bagging these mighty animals you will want to observe them from your car along with endangered species and creatures that are rare and sometimes inhibited. Animals you probably won't see anywhere else. They are native to the North Country. The animals that inhabit this vast expanse are at home and not particularly bothered by the people who come to watch them. They can be quite shy. Don't disrupt their native habitats; they may not have the social graces to make you feel welcome!

This time my flight to Alaska was four hours long with no stop overs. Even with the modern advances in technology; television shows, computers and movies as opposed to foreign radio stations speaking a language most on the plane didn't understand, the time seemed to drag. There were no playing cards distributed and even the on board popular magazines seem to have gone by the wayside. When we were young we used to play cards (provided by the airline) and impose on the Flight Attendants to help distribute drinks and clean up trash, all just to make the time pass. Imagine paying for the privilege of picking up trash! But a seed was planted that would flourish into a full blown career as a Flight Attendant later in my life. Was it the job or the Alaska experience that fostered such a dream?

I was to returning to the dreamland of my youth; looking for an experience that few ever achieve. It's a world of its own. If you could put a price on memories, I'd be a millionaire. Seeking to return to my childhood I embarked on a journey back to events so profound it ingrained into my being moments that cannot be diminished with time. Is a matter of fact they expand with the passage of time. I am not sure the real experience can even touch what my mind has envisioned took place in my past.

I was coming home. Upon our arrival the first night we were surrounded with stores, hotels and airports that certainly did not resemble the 1969 experience. But there was an essence that was profoundly familiar. Something had not changed. I could feel it.

As a child I remembered sighting moose on a regular basis. Squirrels in the back yard would have been family pets had my pet poodle not chased them incessantly every morning on her trip outside. They would sit up in the trees and chirp down at her while mocking her efforts to climb the tree and capture them.

Hunting licenses were not for single animals but rather you purchased one license for moose, bear, dall sheep and unlimited fish. Fishing on the Kenai river was simple; you just went when you wanted and to your favorite hole. None of the land was privately owned and anyone looking for a morning of excitement was welcome, if you could endure the giant mosquitoes that vied for your hole.

Weekend trips around the peninsula provided more experiences in a small radius than most have in a whole state. The Kenai River was the Salmon capital of the area and Russian culture was present at every turn. Small Russian Orthodox churches were plentiful. Deciphering road signs that were engraved with the native language were fun to try and transcribe. Crabbing on the “Spit” down in Homer, only an hour's drive away, was only half the fun. The other half was riding home with live crabs stored in a large tub of water in the back of our station wagon.

Short cruises out of Seward and Whittier into bays that are filled with marine life and glaciers are a rich adventure. Monumental glaciers, calving into the bay are quite a site. It is Sea World in the wild with marine life and feathery friends that only inhabit these shores.

After spending the night in Anchorage we arose early and inadvertently took a tour of downtown Anchorage. We were seeking a homestyle breakfast complete with native Alaskan sourdough. None of the places we found were touting this specialty so we finally conceded and went to a restaurant with an Alaskan motif - Gwendies. After surveying the menu for sourdough pancakes and only finding one item unique to the state, reindeer sausage, we waited for the waitress to come and place our order. I inquired if they had sourdough, instead of regular pancakes and sure enough they did! Maybe it's just a “given” in this part of the world. Anywhere else would specify this gold panner's delight. Here it seems to be just understood that you can have it.

After winding our way out of the simple and small metropolis we finally were on our way to the Kenai Peninsula. Our tour was really just beginning. About 15 miles out of Anchorage on the opposite side of the scenic Turnigan Arm I spotted a few, what appeared to be patches of snow on the cliff lined highway. Upon closer examination we discovered they were lounging Dall Sheep. They were hard to see from that distance so we pulled out the binoculars and studied the still life. Whoa! Wait a minute, one moved. We watched it for a few more minutes and then moved down the road a few hundred more feet; yes - more of them. This time they were moving and climbing. They are graceful and strong and it is an awesome experience to watch them scale sheer cliffs with ease, totally oblivious to their audience. My excitement was on the rise as I watched more and more of these “patches of snow” come to life. There is something exhilarating about observing wildlife in their native habitat.

We continued down the road being ever alert for more distractions. After just about passing the turn off to a wildlife refuge for injured, abandoned or orphaned animals we made a squealing turn into the entrance, paid our fee and continued the photo/video journal of our animal adventures. Although very easy to spot, these animals mostly wanted to sleep. We saw moose, caribou, Siberian wild boar, porcupine, bald eagle, black and brown bear clubs, muskox, elk, Sitka black tailed deer, a coyote and caged in a dog kennel was small red fox. He had buried himself so deep he was difficult to see except for two small eyes peering through the straw. It was apparent he was not accustom to the human touch and didn't want to experience it.

It was nice to observe them but it didn't have the flair of witnessing them in their natural state. I was glad there is a place for them and didn't regret paying money to support their cause, but they were so docile and passive it would be hard to categorize them as “wild”. Later, as we went to the marine life museum in Seward and I discovered from my readings that studying injured or abandoned animals has a tremendous benefit on understanding their development and migratory patterns. That furthers the cause of saving an endangered species along with helping preserve their homes and their existence.

Across the highway we traveled down another side road to our daily destination. Portage glacier. As with all good things, there must be some disappointment. The glacier itself had receded much from what my childhood memories had recorded and information boards confirmed my memories. It had retreated back. It used to stretch clear down to Portage Lake. A lake choked with icebergs. They were small icebergs, but icebergs none the less and lots of them. Not to let a closed visitor center or a seasonal cruise that had not yet started, deter us from enjoying our stop we did see another ice field that in my mind dwarfed Portage. Maybe it was just because I didn't get to ride the boat up next to Portage glacier, but this ice field was far more magnificent. It draped the canyon walls and was a beautiful site. Pristine lakes, rivers and mountains surrounded us at every turn. Even our most disappointing site was a pleasure to behold.

I had returned to Alaska once- years ago- for a brief stint. Having been a Flight Attendant for several years I retired before my thirtieth birthday and wanted to use my airline travel benefits before they expired. I needed to go home. But with three small children who I needed to leave with family, and a short supply of money, I didn't feel I could be gone long so I looked up an old friend, called her and found I was still very welcome, even after 18 years. Then I caught a flight to Kenai.

On that particular trip I flew into Anchorage on a large jet designed to fly high, too high to see much of anything. Thus, I was anxious for the flight into Kenai. It was a smaller plane and flew much closer to the ground, but I was concerned that because of the time of day I would not be able to see much. I guess I didn't remember as much about Alaska as I would have liked. On June 21, 1992 the sun really doesn't set and although it was 10:00 pm, the view was perfect. What a treasure.

The feeling of returning home on my present trip becomes stronger and stronger. I feel like a salmon on their return journey home. Although not a native born Alaskan, I know my heart and the old adage that “home is where the heart is” proved true. My heart is here. Now that I am home, I don't want to go “Outside” again. The calm, peaceful feelings that the splendor of Alaska brings tugged at my heart strings. The pull is strong. Stay home. What is on the Outside? How could anything compare. Scenery may compare, but nothing touches the emotional state I am experiencing; content, peaceful, and calm.

This vast cold expanse that is large enough to encompass even the strongest and most powerful sentiments could also reach deep and touch you with its simplicity and serenity. Alaska is real, it's not a zoo or a dream. It is real life and one needs to experience it first hand to fully appreciate it. This trip and my last, I was a visitor. Before then we didn't visit Alaska, we lived it and had an experience no tourist can comprehend.

After leaving Portage we continued down a simple back road highway to Seward. Upon our arrival we found it to be a typical harbor town with a jam packed small boat harbor dwarfed by a commercial cruise liner, a princess of a ship. Along side it was an old, well used barge that shipped coal from the mines of Denali on the interior via railway and then transferred it on to a mile long conveyor belt to board the ship. This particular ship's destination we found out was Hong Kong. Alaska is truly a diverse place, serving a multitude of occupations, peoples and needs.

We found a small, clean motel in Seward. The staff was friendly and eager to point out all the places to eat and sites we could see. Alaskan's love to talk about Alaska and share the best of their uncharted world to Outsiders. One point of interest was a waterfall. It was hard to imagine there were more waterfalls after the hundreds we counted on our way from Anchorage. But there were, one's that emptied right into Resurrection Bay. One in particular that was high upon a mountain, only to be seen with binoculars. Alaska is a love affair of a lifetime that never ends, even if you leave.

The hotel staff also shared all the favorite eating spots and so we strolled down the wooden boardwalk and found a cozy little café. After eating tender fresh caught Halibut and Caribou burgers with a very mild wild flavor we retired for the night, anxious to take our long awaited harbor cruise the following day.

We arose early the next day so we could visit the Sea Life Museum in Seward before our real day began. It turned out to be one of the highlights of our day. Once again, witnessing marine life up close and personal can be captivating. You experience their precious faces and massive bodies in a way you just can't have in the wild, being a short time tourist. The museum was very hands on and full of educational opportunities for young and old alike. They had a petting zoo for those who wanted to touch sea anemones and star fish. You could go outside and watch Stellar Sea Lions and Harbor Seals when they surfaced or go downstairs and observe them through their glass enclosed tanks. They were really quite friendly and loved to show off for their guests.

Sea Otters are playful and fun. Lounging on their backs with babies or food on their bellies is an entertaining site. This was a miniature SeaWorld focused more on research than entertainment, but fun none the less.

Ah- we were now ready for the highlight of our visit. The harbor cruise aboard the Star of the Northwest; owned and operated by Major Marine Tours and operated by a friendly and most accommodating and knowledgeable staff.

Boarding began at 12:15 pm from the end of Pier E. The staff photographed us as we boarded the small vessel, well prepared with cameras, rain gear, coats, sea sickness medication and literature galore. What we weren't prepared for was the absolutely clear, beautiful skies, the calm waters of Resurrection Bay and the elegance of the mountain and coves that encompass the Kenai Fjords National Park.

We had come hungry being informed that there would be an all you can eat salmon and prime rib buffet. Thus our original thoughts were focused more on food than listening to the safety presentation. Being a bit apprehensive of the water I did give it some of my attention, just in case!

We exited the harbor and ventured into the fjord. A fjord I discovered is a passage that is carved by glaciers over thousands of years. These passages can then be filled with sea water which allows the marine life to migrate in, ever closer to shores. The snow capped mountains encased the bay and were magnificent as they reached upward inviting the eye to scan for wildlife on its banks and cliffs. Many bald eagles and their nests were spotted, even by the Junior Rangers aboard. One passenger was able to detect a black bear sunning on the side of the hill. Everyone raced to that side of the boat to watch it in hopes it would arise and forage for food. No luck with that one!

A short while later the Captain announced that he had spotted a sea otter just off the starboard side. By the time everyone arrived, it was gone. Patiently we waited to see if he would resurface and sure enough with a little bit of encouragement, he did. He entertained us all while swimming on his back for a few moments before returning to his responsibility of gathering food.

The captain also spotted a Stellar Sea Lion but few witnessed this event and we were reassured by the Tour Guide that we would see plenty up ahead thus we were content to let this one pass. Someone briefly noted the very swift passing of Dall porpoises. Far too quick for many to see.

It wasn't too long before our goal of viewing stellar sea lions was realized. Not one, not two, but too many too count!

It was getting time to serve lunch so tables were called numerically to ensure an orderly effort to distribute the food. True to their word, the food was more than one would expect on a small harbor cruise. Not being a fish lover, I gingerly tasted the first bite. It did not take more than that to convert me. The delicately spiced salmon melted at each bite. After that I might be willing to contend with the bears for their tasty meals. My love of prime rib was overshadowed that day by a fish! Fresh baked sourdough bread and a green salad with the chef's special recipe for dressing were an added delight to the meal. I ravenously devoured far more helpings than is typical for one who usually doesn't get their money's worth on “all you can eat” deals.

The Captain kept us in calm waters for the meal to minimize the potential for risk - in more ways than one. But now it was time to venture into the Gulf of Alaska. The waters were a bit rough, but a very capable crew kept us apprised of tips and tricks to enjoy our trip with minimal to no seasickness. We rounded the last stretch of mountains in Resurrection Bay while learning about and watching a variety of bird species from the Park Ranger.

We were all anxious to enter the deep waters of the Gulf in hopes of spotting a whale. Far in the distance someone announced they had seen a whale spray. Unsure if this was really the case, we moved closer and the Captain indicated he was communicating with a boat that was closer to the spotting and sure enough - it was confirmed. We were on our way to see a humpback whale. Spouting is a good sign, we found out, because it means they are close to the surface and coming up for air. Once you witness the popular splash of the tail, they are diving for food and chances are, they won't surface again for quite some time. Since we didn't see the tail splash we waited. The boat was turned off and we sat quietly in the water. Soon the Tour Guide announced that it had surfaced again at the 1 o'clock position. It provided the guests with ample photo opportunities before it decided to retreat for food.

By now most were ready to start our journey back to the dock. Before leaving the Gulf we enjoyed viewing the Harding Ice Field and Bear Glacier. We didn't take the boat in close at the Captain's request. Even from a distance it proved a sight worth slowing down to see.

After getting a valuable education on glaciers, their properties and the remnants left behind we rounded the corner and re-entered Resurrection Bay. Skimming close to the shore we were easily able to spot a few mountain goats, up close and personal. Another great photo opportunity!

The galley announced the call for dessert. This time those of us at the last tables were called first. What a treat. Being back in calm waters we could enjoy a variety of sweet treats without a thought of the consequences that might ensue.

A short time later we were once again docked in Seward and glad to have our feet on solid ground. A part of me was sad it was over. It left behind a taste for more and a desire to return. I wonder if you ever really get filled up with Alaska?

While on board the ship we were informed there was an active glacier nearby that might be calving. A few miles up the road from Seward was Exit glacier. We decided to drive by and check it out. The drive was nice and the glacier well worth viewing but we were tired and ready to get to our final destination of the day- Kenai.

To really enjoy your Alaskan experience - don't take the crash course that we did! Take time to smell the aromatic bouquet of wildflowers. The rewards of your trip will pay you dividends you can't soon forget.

That will be a return trip for another day later in the summertime. We are worn thin from our short adventure and ready to return to the lower 48. We quickly hopped down to the “Spit” in Homer before turning the SUV north to Anchorage. We had hoped to sample in large quantities some Alaskan King Crab, but they weren't serving it soon enough for my stomach's time table so we had the Mother's Day buffet complete with delicately designed desserts, almost too pretty to eat.

We stopped on the way off the “Spit” and purchased crab to be shipped home so others could enjoy it with us. This would provide a small taste of Alaska for those who couldn't come along.

While visiting a church in Kenai, the speakers shared two sentiments that sum up well all my Alaska experiences.

One - you don't come to Alaska because you like the taste of fish - you come to experience fishing! Come to Alaska to experience what you might not ever experience anywhere else.

And two - probably one of my most profound thoughts throughout this whole experience - the words to the hymn may change, but the theme remains the same. That's Alaska.

We visited Kenya in July. We flew Kenya Airways from London to Nairobi, stayed overnight in Nairobi and headed out into the bush the next morning. The roads are terrible. Seriously. The locals refer to the 'African bone massage' and they're not kidding. We spent most of our driving time on the verge because it was smoother than the road. Expect a 100km drive to take over an hour, possibly over two hours. If you've ever suffered from piles, consider taking a cushion.

Expect also to be swamped everywhere you stop. Take plenty of pencils and notebooks to hand out because the children need them for school and most adults will gratefully accept them. Also expect someone to try to carry for you anything you happen to be holding and to expect a small gratuity for their trouble. These people are poor and they view westerners as moneybags. You may have saved for a year or more to afford this trip, but most of the people you meet will never be able to afford the flight you took. A lot of them can't afford shoes or food and there's no such thing as a welfare state in Kenya. If you can't afford to clothe your kids in Kenya, no-one else is going to do it for you. Take the badgering in good humour and remember that if you own a car or a house you are in the top one percent of the world's wealthy population and therefore the equivalent of an A-list Hollywood celebrity in terms of wealth to the locals. The highest paid workers in Nairobi earn less than the average salary in Britain. Take any leftover euros, dollars or any other foreign currency because there's a good chance it will be accepted.

Take your camera and plenty of film, or memory cards if you've dragged yourself into this century. If you are going on safari, you will almost certainly see the big five: elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards and rhino. You will also almost certainly get a good deal closer to them than you think you will. We were charged by an elephant, chased by a rhino, menaced by lions and a giant tortoise and mugged by monkeys. The monkeys, incidentally, will have you on that they are just sitting there, but don't be fooled. They are watching you and waiting for you to leave your room door open so they can break in and hunt for chocolate bars.

We stayed in Samburu National Reserve, at Lake Nakuru, Treetops and Keekorok Lodge. We sat at the windows of our chalets and watched lions, crocodiles, hippoptomi, monkeys and even a leopard from inside our rooms. In fact, although Treetops is designed for animal watching and is therefore more akin to a large hide than a hotel, we saw only one elephant there, although we did see our only successful kill. If you are including Treetops in your itinerary, take another fleece and be prepared for some hardship. It's cold and damp and you can't get a hot drink outside of the designated tea-time. Remember that you are there to spend the night watching for wildlife and not for a good night's sleep. After the incredibly luxurious accommodation at Samburu, it came as quite a shock. You might want to remember that 'nairobi' is a Maasai word which means 'generally cold' (although in context you would say 'kairobi').

Take long sleeves, long trousers and long boot. If you can get them, I strongly recommend Palladiums. They have strong soles and light canvas uppers and are ideal for hiking about amongst acacia thorns without boiling your feet. Don't go thinking you're going to get a tan. You will, but don't go looking for it. You're at the equator and you will simply burn. You will. I don't care how much sun you can handle. It's the equator. Unless you've been there before, you simply don't appreciate how strong the sun is. Take a wide brimmed hat, long sleeves and plenty of suncream.

Take your nonchalant face. We found ourselves sitting at the bar watching the hippos down below us and sharing a cold drink with a fully kitted out Maasai warrior who was funny and generous with his time and happy to fish out tree snakes for us to look at on the way to and from the bar. It was one of the most surreal moments of my life.

Take your nonchalant face again. The drive up to Treetops is hair-raising at the best of times, terrifying if it's been raining because the road is simply a mud slide that zigzags up the side of the mountain. Worse still, you will probably be in one of at least two mini-buses so you will be able to see the peril that the other mini-bus is in.

If you are booking a safari holiday, the chances are that you are an adventurous sort and not happy to simply lie around on a sunbed all day. Take my advice and be very wary about booking a second destination. Safari companies may include a week somewhere like Mombasa or Zanzibar. If you are going on to Mombasa, consider breaking your week there with a two day mini-safari into Tsavo National Park and try to get a hotel in the city rather than on the beach or you might be stuck in a fairly grotty third rate resort in the middle of nowhere which you can't leave on your own because there are simply no means of transport without the pricey excursions.

You have to have a visa to get into Kenya and along with the visa comes a vaccination certificate which requires a number of potentially unpleasant jobs to earn. You have to take Malaria medication while you are there and usually for some time after you come back. Take mosquito repellent. Oil of Olay produces a skin cream which inadvertently works better than most purpose treatments and is slightly less toxic to humans. Consider taking a chemically-infused mosquito repellent sheet. They can be bought in high street pharmacies and they make a worthwhile addition to your bedclothes because most of the mosquito nets at the lodges are full of holes. Take anti-diarrhea tablets and rehydration salts.

Why now? Virgin Airways have just started flying to Nairobi from London from less than £500 return. There are a number of companies providing safari holidays. We went with Somak but you can also do fourteen day tented safaris for under £500 per person with Travelmoods, bringing your total costs to less than £1000, rather than the usual several thousand. It's worth noting that the lodges at the game reserves cost up to and more than £200 per night to book independently. Look for a tour operator who can give you the option of a balloon ride and breakfast. It costs around £200 but is absolutely one of the major highlights of our trip. I've never had a better hot chocolate and croissant than the one I had in the middle of the Maasai Mara, surrounded by armed guards and watching a herd of giraffe loping across the plain in front of us.