I had mixed feelings about entering South Africa. Excited as I have read and heard wonderful things about the country. We are now close friends with many south Africans. But also nervous, everyone knows of its recent history. I remember free Nelson Mandala marches from my childhood.

Everyone we had spoken to said South Africa is perfectly safe for tourists and it is. But it feels different to the rest of southern Africa. I have never felt afraid in any part Africa I have visited, (except intentionally when white water rafting) but we had been told to keep our guard up.

As we entered SA via Martins drift its beauty became evident. Miles and miles of beautiful countryside and well tendered farm lands growing all sorts of produce.

The roads are perfect, not a pothole in sight and we make good time turning of the main road towards our campsite. The first indication of South Africa restless side is a sign “No stopping, car jacking area”. It seems so out of place surrounded by such natural beauty.

After many days and a lot of driving we gratefully pulled into our campsite. Tent pitched with a river view. We settled down for two days relaxing. 

The boys were in there element. Freedom from the car and a choice of multiple swimming pool and a really fast water slide.There was no rain and plenty sun shine. Holiday at last.

We also needed to get our massive pile of washing done. I loaded it into the car to take to reception.  I don’t think the laundry lady could believe it. My boys do seem to generate an disproportionate amount of washing at the best of times, but after many days camping in the rain it was even a lot for us.

I spent some time chatting to the laundry staff who I found refreshing up front. In Zambia unfortunately a lot of Zambian workers are submissive, they out of what they believe is respect avoid talking to you purely based on social ranking. But these ladies were easy to chat to, we laughed about our children and how dirty our clothes were. It was refreshing. My children wanted to play with theirs doing what kids do chasing, digging and hiding. When Lego boy invited one of the kids back to our tent for some food the mother said something which took me by surprise…. “I’m sorry she can’t, they are not allowed, I will get in trouble”.  So it appears there are boundaries based on class and wealth here as there is in Zambia, something I have never got used to.