Leaving South Africa

Flying to Livingstone, Zambia from Port Elizabeth: we change planes in Johannesburg. The weather is not good, and both of us are looking forward to the upcoming respite from the cold, wet weather. Before we go, South Africa decides to send us off with a fond farewell. A bus takes us from the terminal to the runway, from which we walk outside on to our plane. The cold rain is getting worse. It hails just as we leave the bus. Then, while sitting on the plane, the rain is now mixed with snow. The dark patches under the plane in front of us is not shadow; it is pavement. The rest of the ground is covered in snow/hail. Excellent.


We were wondering if de-icing the wing was necessary, but apparently, not part of the procedure. (view of the wing thru the window)


Only slightly delayed we take off with lots of turbulence. The children on board are laughing with each jolt as if this is just another roller coaster. A fire was built in our lodge at Kwantu every night but the chimney didn't work that well, allowing extra smoke to enter the lodge. Now, in Zambia, we realize that our clothes smell like we have been visiting smoky bars. Upon arrival in Zambia, the sun was shining and the airplane doors opened allowing the warm air in. This is more like the Africa we were expecting. Of course, we will see what Botswana has to offer. - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad