Victoria Falls

Our first full day in Africa was fabulous!  We started out the day by stopping to see two ancient Baobab trees, estimated to be between 1000 and 1500 years old.  The largest of the two trees would take 23 people with outstretched arms to circle the tree!!  The trees were fenced off so we couldn’t try it!! We also got a small taste of the local “sales” pitch!  

 Next we went to see and experience the Victoria Falls, known as the “Smoke that Thunders”!  These falls are one of the seven natural wonders of the world and they are breathtaking.  We walked 1.5 km alongside the falls to enjoy views from many different viewpoints.  There is a constant spray in the air anywhere near the falls but there were areas where we got downright soaked!!  The weather was beautiful and warm so the spray felt good.

 After the visit to the falls we went to the “Lookout Cafe” for a lovely lunch. The setting was spectacular as it overlooked the Zambezi River Gorge with the bridge in the background.  The bridge separates the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe.  We also got to see a few crazy people bungee jumping!

 Our next stop was at the Rose of Charity orphanage.  This was both a heartwarming and heartbreaking visit.  This is a very small orphanage that was started by one lady that began by feeding homeless kids.  They now house 23 kids but help out about 75 kids from various situations. We all took a bag full of “goodies” to donate to them.  The most popular were the skipping ropes and it was great fun to watch the kids skipping and smiling.  A few of the little ones were eager to get picked up and we were happy to oblige.  I apologize for the sideways pictures....another “bug” I have to work out! 🙄

On the way back to the hotel we drove through the town of Victoria Falls so we decided to stop at the outdoor market.  Oh my, that was quite an experience!  There was “stuff” everywhere!!  Of course, that means that there were “sellers” everywhere!!  As we walked by the would tell us their name and beg us to “have a look”.  You don’t dare to show interest in something because, if you do, you will likely end up buying it.  Having experienced a lot of this over the years I have developed a technique of smiling and being very friendly while continually moving along, not gazing at any particular object for very long!!  The guide gave us two hours but after an hour everyone was hot and ready to return to the hotel.
When we got back to our hotel the pool felt very refreshing!!  We were on our own for dinner so we all chose to eat at the hotel restaurant, as we are located several miles out of town.  We were once again treated to African entertainers, this time a group of fine arts students performing local music and dance.