8th January 2025

Today is such a sad day as we said goodbye to South Africa.  We had our last Wimpy breakfast before heading to the shops ad starting the usual routine of the crazy last day running around picking up things we need to bring back and the bits that others have requested we bring back for them followed by the best bit - trying to get it into our cases and not go over the case limit, without using scales. It is such fun.

Rose came back from work and we had a farewell drink and chat before we kissed goodbye and headed off to the airport fairly emotionally.  Saying goodbye to loved ones is difficult because the distance is so far and therefore the visits much less frequent.

The airport was utter chaos and by the time we checked in, got through security and passport control, it was time to queue to board the plane - madness.  I was pleased to sit down on the plane despite the 12 hour flight ahead of us and get a glass of bubbles pre take off. 

The flight was absolutely packed - this is clearly the day to leave SA - and by the time the trolly got to us there was a choice of fish fish and fish available. 

Let’s hope the flight is smoother than the one going to SA which had dreadful turbulence most of the way. 

Goodbye South Africa, it has been a wonderful, wonderful visit.