traveltales: THE ARK

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

THE ARK

A Unique Experience

In Kenya I spent an interesting night in the Ark, a unique structure in the forest. An elevated deck overlooking a salt lick and watering hole provided great viewing of animals as they came to drink from the pond and to lick the salt.

A long elevated trestle over the forest floor provided the only way to reach the Ark where one entered directly into reception. Taking my time walking over the trestle I saw many birds and one very large buffalo, who had actually survived a hyena bite/ gouging on its underside. One would not want to tangle with him!

The lounge and dining rooms on the ground level looked out on a stone barrier through very thick non-breakable windows. No need to worry about a big water buffalo barging in while you ate dinner!

On the observation deck it was mandatory to keep all speech to no more than a whisper. All the sleeping rooms were on the second and third levels and each room was equipped with a buzzer. All night long the buzzers went off when animals wandered into the watering hole. Two rings meant large animals, rhino, elephant, or buffalo were present. Three rings indicated big cats had arrived.

I slept in my clothes---well actually I laid down on the bed in my clothes with a blanket on top of me. When buzzers sounded everyone grabbed a jacket or blanket and quietly and quickly headed to the observation deck. It was up and down all night with virtually no sleep, but it was fun and a thrill to see the animals!

I saw rhino and beautiful female lions on that unusual night. The next morning after breakfast we again walked over the trestle to our waiting van. Driving off, suddenly a gorgeous spotted leopard crossed right in front of the van on his way home to rest after a night’s hunt. What a bonus to see the naturally elusive animal!

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Travel Tips

Wet feet, who has rubbers these day? To dry wet shoes put crumpled newspaper inside the shoe and it will wick out all the moisture. If you expect your travels to take you where your feet are likely to be walking in puddles or streams, pack a section of newspaper in the bottom of your suitcase.
In many places in the world the tip is included in the restaurant bill---good to know!
In Europe bathrooms are referred to as WC or toilet. Any other term is not understood.
When hiking, stop to tighten shoe/boot laces before starting down hill.
When traveling by plane be sure to wear all cotton clothing, which today is no problem. In case of fire, man-made fibers melt, cotton burns instead, leaving a clean burn vs one with all kinds of junk melted into it.
Didn't expect a sunburn and have no Rx for it? Dab the area with a cool wet tea bag. the tannin in the tea will reduce inflamation.
I bet you travel with a small bottle of hand sanitizer either in your purse or pocket. Did you know that when you spill something in your lap or wear part of your lunch that a few dabs of hand sanitizer on the spot will make it disappear like magic!
Speaking of shoes, I do not recommend removing them on a long flight. Untie and loosen them. I have actually seen people not be able to get their shoes back on because their feet have swollen during a long flight. Oach!
As painful as it may be limit yourself to two pairs of shoes. You are not traveling to make a fashion statement. Wear your heavest pair which should be a good pair of walking shoes. Pack a lighter pair or sandals.
Make a copy of all your documents and credit cards before leaving home and carry seperately. Also before leaving home leave a copy of your itinerary including hotels and their phone numbers and dates of stay with a family member.
It's always tempting to take a sleeping pill on a long overseas flight, BUT I never do because in the unlikely event of problems I want to have all my senses about me!
Afraid of bedbugs these days? Carry a small squirt bottle of lavender along with your other liquids. Spray your pillow and around your bed and mattress. This will give you a good visual and also repel the little devils.
I carry a couple of aspirin in my pocket and once the plane is in the air I swallow one. I feel this is especially important on long overseas flights to avoid leg problems.
If you do need to do laundry when traveling wring it as dry as possible by hand, then lay the article flat on a bath towel and roll tightly. Unroll and hang. It should be dry by morning.
I carry a small empty water bottle when traveling. I place it in the tray along with my plastic bag of liquids. Once through security I fill it from the water fountain. I always have water to take a pill or a drink when I'm thirsty.
Beware that European bath tubs are very deep and water is often scalding hot. Be careful especially if you have hip or knee problems.
If you're going to be gone more than a few days water your indoor plants well then cover with a large plastic bag tucking the edges well under the pot. If you use a laundry bag simply knot the area where the hanger protrudes. When you return your plants will be healthy and well.
In the largest print possible print your last name and hotel on a sheet of paper and place it on the top of your clothes before closing your suitcase. If your bag gets way laid hopefully it will make it to your hotel.
If you are the owner of the common black bag personalize it by adding various cut outs from colored duct tape. It will be easier to identify than if it carries a bit of ribbon.