Lesotho

What a wonderful opportunity to see the best of both worlds - Just a quick breakaway from the busy city life. South African nationals however do need a passport to enter Lesotho. We stayed at a Guesthouse "Green Acorn" in Ficksburg - and entered Lesotho at the Ficksburg border. The small towns are very primitive - but as soon as you go into the countryside - what a sight - mountains, valleys, rivers, streams, this is really something to see, and forget about everything. Simply relax enjoying the natural surroundings.

When we entered Lesotho we got the impression that they are way behind - as if life had come to a standstill. The higher you go onto the mountains, the less civilised it became. We came across this small hut - ( with its DSTV dish) and a brand new BMW in front of the hut!! It made us wonder how these people live, as they are miles and miles from the nearest town. The highest peak we have been to was 2,840 km above sea level. Whilst here we found a young boy looking after his sheep - he only had his dog with him and a blanket around his shoulders with his Rubberboots on. This was what he wore even in the coldest climates.

Another highlight of this area is the Avri Ski Resort. About 100 km from the Ficksburg border it takes you 2 hours to get there because of the mountain passes and steep roads. The ski resort makes you feel like you are in the Alpes with a variety of long slopes. Pack yourself a picnic basket when planning to visit the ski - slopes - as the coffee, tea and sandwiches are very expensive. We found that it was relatively easy to hire the ski- equipment at this resort or alternatively you can bring your own. For those who don't wish to ski there is plenty of opportunity to just play around in the snow and enjoy yourself.

Something else that is a must to see is the Katze Dam in Lesotho - but I enjoyed myself too much in the snow and ran out of time so I will keep this for my second trip in September / October when the snow has melted.