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All Posts Categorized as "Travel"

Adventure Africa Kenya

July 31, 2023 by Dianne Hutton

Our arrival in Nairobi was not without some struggles, we had had a long day, and the security was pretty high due to a terrorist attack in 2019. We and our luggage had to go through security at our hotel as well as the airport. Once we got settled, we headed up to the 10th Floor to get a bite and what a wonderful surprise the rooftop was. We found the Sky Lounge, a swanky rooftop bar. There were plenty of comfy lounge spots, colorful bar stools, a beautiful rooftop pool and cool lighting. The spacious open-air terrace had fantastic views of the adjacent Nairobi National Park as well as the city skyline. Another surprise was when we went for breakfast as the main restaurant had a large deck where we could spot wildlife. This got us excited as our next stop was the Safari.

As well as the National Park, Nairobi has several reserves dedicated to the wellbeing of elephants, giraffes, rhinos and more. We visited the Sheldrick Wildlife Center where they rescue and rehabilitate baby orphaned elephants. We enjoyed one hour watching the baby elephants play and enjoy their bottles. The attendants knew every elephant by name and gave a great talk. There were opportunities to adopt and some of the group did. We also got up front and personal with giraffes at the Rothchild Giraffe Center, it was so much fun feeding them.

We also visited Karen Blixen Museum and followed in the footsteps of Karen Blixen as Cindy narrated “When I was a girl in Africa,  I had a farm  at the foot of the Ngong Hills”, The old colonial farmhouse is simple, housing a few items that Karen Blixen chose and once enjoyed herself. There are also the colorful gardens to explore, where several old coffee machines have laid untouched for decades.

After our brief sojourn in Nairobi, we took a short flight in a shuttle to the Maasai Mara. When we landed on the airstrip we gathered our bags from the runway and proceeded to our safari vehicles that were waiting for us. Close your eyes and envision a gentle rolling savannah stretching out as far as the eye can see. Imagine countless wildebeest and zebras grazing lazily right there in front of you. The feeling is humbling and inspiring all wrapped into one. The Maasai Mara is known for the highest concentration of wild animals in the world. More than 40% of Africa’s larger mammals can be found here. However, there’s more to the Maasai Mara than endless plains. The Greater Maasai Mara ecosystem is massive. It amounts to almost 1510 square kilometers. The area is bordered by the Serengeti in the south and to the north, east and west lie Maasai ranches. Although the riverbanks of the area’s three rivers are lined with shrubs and trees, most of the reserve is made up of open grassland spotted by an occasional flat-topped acacia tree. On our trip to the Zebra Plains Camp, about a one and one half hour trip, we started our safari and were amazed at what we saw. With almost 500 bird species and a daunting 47 species of birds of prey, the Maasai Mara’s treetops, bushes and skies are a feast for birdwatcher’s eyes. We saw ostrich, jaunty crowned plomers, beautiful crowned cranes and many more. We also saw buzzards and vultures fighting over their prey and hyenas in waiting. The piėce de resistance was the cheetah stalking an impala, what an amazing sight, and the impala escaped. Our arrival at Zebra Plains Camp was a little delayed but the Maasai warriors were there waiting for us with an impressive show. Our “tents were very comfortable and well equipped with all the necessities. The staff could not do enough and Ruth the manageress was very helpful. We enjoyed three meals a day in a very unique setting and our game drives were unbelievable. In addition to the “Big Five” we spotted the giraffe, cheetah, hippo and zebra. The Rhino was around but illusive to us unfortunately. The drama we witnessed was incredible. Every day, twice a day for three or four hours we jumped into our jeeps and headed out looking for the famous big tuskers and herds of elephants among other big game such as the prides of lions in the park and cheetahs. Early morning drives were worth it as this is generally the best time to spot the wildlife, as the temperature is cool and the animals are still very active, including the big cats, which will be returning from a night of hunting. As with early morning, the evening game drive is often the best time to see the wildlife. The predatory animals begin to stir from their heat-of-the-day slumber, and similarly, their prey become ever more active and alert as darkness falls. Vehicles usually return just before dark in time for a shower, pre-dinner drinks and then dinner. The evenings are often rounded off with a few drinks around the campfire, warming toes and swapping safari stories. The Maasai Mara is the crown jewel of Kenya’s natural reserves and the most visited park boasting dramatic bursts of wildlife on a bright palette of rolling hills, golden savannah, and distinctive acacia trees framing its unforgettable sunsets and sunrises. No one who visits the Masai Mara is untouched by its shocking beauty. Our driver, Paul, took us on an amazing journey and was very knowledgeable and fun to be with. His patience rewarded us with the best photos of our trip and a moment that will forever be etched in our memories.We were six in our jeep and even though we were on their “roads” you would never know it. We traversed mud filled gorges, very uneven ground and had lots of laughs.

Eight of us lucky travelers ended our adventure with a short stay on Diani Beach. Our suites were spacious and beautifully appointed, with a large patio and view and direct access to the beach.  Half our group opted for the beach cottages which were also very cool. The beach was amazing, fine white sand and clear turquois water for as far as the eye could see. It was great to relax and chill out for a couple of days before heading back home to “work”.

Filed Under: News, Travel

Kootenay Golf Trail 2021 Last Leg

July 13, 2021 by Dianne Hutton

The last leg of our Golf Trail is Rossland which has the reputation of being a four season Shangri-La. Spring, summer and fall offers up world class mountain biking, hiking and golfing. We won`t have time to bike or hike but we will enjoy some awesome golf. Canada’s alpine golf courses are some of the most gorgeous greens to play in the world. Redstone Resort, just a short five-minute drive from Red Mountain in Rossland, BC, is one of the Kootenay’s most beautiful courses, featuring unique rocky ravines, interesting layouts, and elevation changes. Set against the backdrop of the Monashee Mountains, the natural beauty is second to none, each hole offers a different postcard view of the surrounding peaks and you never know when the resident wildlife may cross your path.

Anther alpine gem that we are going to play is Castlegar Golf Course. This is a long and beautiful course with many steep hills. It’s designed to challenge and there will be plenty of interesting shots and scenic views during our game. The course is beautifully maintained and the staff are super friendly. Let`s hope we don`t encounter any bears, they have the right of way.

Situated on a plateau surrounded by the Kettle River with an abundance of wildlife and natural pine forest, we will find Christina Lake Golf Course. This golf course started as a nine hole and expanded to 18 holes in 1986. The original and now front nine places emphasis on ball placement and your short game. The back nine, designed by renowned architect Les Furber features large undulating greens, elevated tees and an abundance of strategically placed black sand bunkers and water hazards, that along with the front nine all add to an exceptional and diverse golf experience.

I am sure that in between rounds we will find much to discover. Riding on the longest free ferry amid fabulous scenery, savoring tasty food and craft beers and experiencing vibrant locally focused markets are just some of the experiences we will be able to tell our friends about back home.

Filed Under: News, Travel

Golf and Spa 2019

May 29, 2019 by Dianne Hutton

Our Golf and Spa get-a-way in the beautiful Comox Valley was outstanding. Arriving at the Comox airport gave us a snow-meets-surf kind of vibe and I was wondering how great it would be to live here. We were met at the airport by Kevin and Pam from Ambassador Transportation for our transport to The Crown Isle Resort. What a great start, these people were so accommodating we felt so very welcome , they even made a detour so we could buy some supplies for our room, wine and beer that is and the odd snack.  Our rooms at The Crown Isle Resort were roomy, comfortable and well appointed, we all had great views and balconies. The onsite restaurant served good food and ample portions, Beau, one of the waiters looked after our group very well. After an early check in for most of us and a bite of lunch we headed out for the Kingfisher Hydropath, my Vancouver Island Valhalla. When we arrived we explored the spa grounds, beach and enjoyed the wonderful gardens and flowers, we were sure the flowers were on steroids. We changed into our swimsuits, put on our robes and had time to take a dip in the heated outdoor pool and hot tub and checked out the sauna and steam cave before being led into the Hydropath.
We descended into what felt like an underwater sea cave and followed an indoor circuit of wellness pools. We encountered soothing mineral baths, a waterfall grotto, a scent-infused steam cave, stimulating glacial waterfall (optional!) and more. My favourite ‘station’ was the collection of four human-size tidal pools. We exfoliated and invigorated with a sand and seaweed body scrub which was presented on large scallop shell. Is this what it feels like to be a mermaid? Following the Hydropath we could relax on loungers in a tranquil room overlooking the ocean; it’s pure bliss.
By now we have worked up an appetite, so it was only appropriate to dine on locally sourced fish and fare at Kingfisher’s Ocean7 Restaurant before returning to the resort. We also got to enjoy the Serenity Gardens which were absolutely stunning. In the centre courtyard, there are ponds, streams, beautiful landscaping and winding pathways. Adirondack chairs and gas fire bowls are found throughout the gardens, a wonderful sanctuary to take in the natural panoramic ocean views, passing boats and soaring eagles.
The golf was great and we enjoyed unobstructed views of the Comox Glacier and Beaufort Mountain Range and beautifully groomed gardens and flowers when we were golfing. We played The Crown Isle 18-hole, par 72 award winning course in Courtenay twice and some also played Glacier Greens 18-hole championship course located in Comox
The free day was spent by many people doing many different things. Fifth Street is the local shopping mecca where you can find zany gift shops, timeless book stores, wilderness outfitters, cottage-chic home stores, on point fashions, eclectic coffee shops, restaurants and everything in between. Thanks to Lori Laily’s intel four of us went to the Art and Blooms Festival which was so unique and a perfect time to visit the gardens as many of the more than 3,500 rhododendrons and wildflowers were in full bloom. We enjoyed a fantastic display of work by artists and artisans who set up their booths throughout the nearly 24 acres of informal gardens.
As we strolled the many pathways, enjoying the blossoms and relaxed atmosphere, we discovered an eclectic mix of paintings, photography, pottery, works in wood, stone, metal, along with fabrics, jewellery and unique pieces that can add a touch of art to our gardens.
We dined at some outstanding restaurants and the gourmet fresh local food was a treat. The Black Fin Pub had outstanding oceanfront views and their Banana coconut cod breaded with crushed banana chips, toasted coconut, and mango curry cream was exceptional. Another gem was Locals, it is like an old english cottage situated on the  river with pretty gardens complete with black rabbits. The woodwork is amazing, absolutely beautiful. The food was scrumptious especially the deserts, here were so many choices it was hard to choose.
This location truly is outstanding and we were so fortunate to have the weather gods on our side as we enjoyed sunny skies and warm temperatures.

Filed Under: Travel

Kuala Lampur

January 26, 2018 by Dianne Hutton

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia, boasting gleaming skyscrapers, colonial architecture, charming locals, and a myriad of natural attractions. The Malaysian capital is known for its multicultural community, which mainly consists of Malay, Indian, and Chinese residents. KL is widely recognised for numerous landmarks, including Petronas Twin Towers (the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers), Petaling Street flea market, and Batu Caves, which is over 400 million years old. There are expansive shopping malls like Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC hosting a wide range of upmarket labels from all over the world. There is also the abundance of gastronomic delights – with thousands of hawker stalls, cafes, and restaurants serving every imaginable type of delicacies.
The Saujana Hotel is in the midst of lush tropical gardens with views of the lake or the golf courses. There are two 18 hole courses The Runga Raya and Palm. The Palm Course was carved out of the rugged terrain of a former oil palm plantation and is characterised by dense patches of palms along the fairways and numerous bunkers. The terrain is quite rugged with water coming into play on at least seven of the holes. With the nickname of “The Cobra” this course can be deadly to the scorecards of any golfer. You might get “bitten” as early as the par-3. 2nd which is rated the most difficult par 3 in the country. Miss the green and at best you end up in one of the deep bunkers or if you really get it wrong then your ball could end up in the thick jungle. Even if you do make the green the severe borrows and undulations make a 3-putt almost inevitable. The 6th is one of the toughest on the course with a severely sloping fairway with trees either side and its length requires a long iron or rescue club to a protected green. The 13th is a par-5 which is reachable in two, so they say,  but with an island green you need to very brave to attempt this. Sure sounds like we had better have saved a few balls for this challenge.

Filed Under: Travel

The Golf Gym

April 24, 2014 by Dianne Hutton

Many of us haven’t flexed our golf muscles since the snow started to fall last October. If you are one of those people or someone who is just starting to learn to golf  it is important that we get our bodies prepared prior to heading out for our first game. A flexible body not only translates to  improved performance but can also protect the body from injury. The golf swing requires extreme ranges of motion of the hips, trunk, shoulders, neck and wrists. Reduced flexibility in any of these areas can result in our bodies compensating in some manner which can lead to poor timing, inefficient movement, poor performance and increased injury risk. Prior to getting into strengthening exercises it is critical that we prepare by stretching exercises which should be included before, during and after strengthening exercises. LOWER BACK EXTENSION STRETCH Back Lie on your stomach. Place your hands under your shoulders. Slowly perform a push-up with your arms but let your back, buttocks and abs relax and keep your hips on the floor. Hold 2 -3 seconds and repeat 5 times. HAMSTRING STRETCH back ext Lie on your back with one leg straight and the other hip and knee bent to 90°. Grasp the back of the bent thigh. While keeping this theigh verticle pull the toes back towards the head slowly straightening the knee until you feel a gentle stretch in the back of the thigh. Repeat on the opposite side.

Filed Under: News, Travel

Turkey 2014

December 1, 2013 by Dianne Hutton

Our Turkish adventure combines history, man-made wonders and natural phenomena as well as a vibrant and welcoming culture. We begin our trip in Istanbul where East meets West. Explore Istanbul’s buzzing contemporary art scene and roam the palaces and mosques before journeying into the bizarre Cappadocia. We will be amazed at the bizarre rock formations and will stay in a cave hotel. A unique golf experience awaits us in Antaya, the Turkish Riviera, where stunning scenery and ancient history abide. Sail a gulet along the Turkey’s turquoise coast, moor up to an idylic bay or snorkle in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean. We also experience the amazing white cliff waterfalls of Pamukkale and we can take a dip in the natural hot springs. We will also check out Ephesus, one of the greatest Graeco-Roman sites in the world. Join us to experience a richly historical land with some of the best cuisine you will ever taste, one of the world’s greatest cities and scenery from white-sand beaches to soaring mountains.

Filed Under: Travel

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