July 2010 Newsletter

MBOTYI RIVER LODGE NEWSLETTER – JULY 2010

Greetings to everyone from a sunny and warm Mbotyi River Lodge, in the heart of Pondoland, on the east coast of South Africa.

The World Cup has finally reached our sleepy hollow where there has been very little build up to the start. No daily newspapers or soccer paraphernalia on sale here.

However, on Friday the 11^{th June}, halfway through the match between South Africa and Mexico everything changed and soccer fever hit the Mbotyi community like a storm. Mbotyi River Lodge had promised the community that they would not miss out on the World Cup and despite a late start, were able to live up to the promise when the technicians finally got the signal, at the venue provided by the Lodge. Since then, this has been packed to capacity with young, old and everybody else. We would like to develop this venue into a user friendly community centre as more funds become available.

Recently we had a surprise visit from 6 men in their respective flying machines! What an incredible sight having 6 helicopters simultaneously landing on our property. There was much consternation in the village and concern for our safety. We were able to assure them that these men were from a helicopter club all having the time of their lives and wanting to experience the delights of our Lodge.

View a short clip of our of our guests leaving in their flying machines

Up until now, we have had the most wonderful weather. The lodge is filled with a cosmopolitan feel of international flavor. Japan, Australasia, America north and south, Europe and Africa have all come together to unwind and enjoy Mbotyi hospitality at it’s best. Guests have been hiking, horse riding and mountain biking. Fishermen are having great success with Shad and a variety of other game fish. The Sardine Run is upon us and in the weeks to come there will be dive operators here with mostly foreign clients. It is always an exciting time for all of us as many ‘a tale of the day is told over the dinner table. Some of the yarns stretch on a little longer as the evening wears on but surprisingly enough, many are substantiated by wonderful photography which is generally shared with everyone who cares to see.

There is still the odd room available during the Sardine Run which stretches well into July. From the 20^th July, we are offering a 10% discount on a 4 night stay at the Lodge. The weather is wonderful during this time with warm sunny days, a little chilly in the evenings, but nothing that a crackling fire and a good bottle of red won’t remedy.