Sunday morning – the sky is cloudy but the air is warm, and we are off at 8 AM for Swaziland. On our way Marianna, Barb and Harry led in a brief worship with some additional singing. The boarder crossing was uneventful due to our early arrival and Stuart’s fine preparation. The land in Swaziland is fertile and grows a number of crops, primarily sugar cane which produces much of the income for the country and the ruling King. The biggest danger on the roads is the cows that just stand in the middle of the road.
Our first stop is the candle factory where we had some snacks, watched a candle maker craft a lovely candles, and enjoyed some very different crafts.
From here we continued North past the cannery, and making a brief stop at King Sabhuza’s Memorial. We did not go in but were able to view the centre from the bus.
Then we had a ½ hour walk through the Swazi Market – great fun for all of us, and a challenge to walk the length of the market in that time – there were just so many shops. On from there to the Swazi Glass Factory where they make beautiful items of recycled glass. We saw a wide range of beautiful glass articles, both decorative and practical and there w
as also a woodworking shop and a chocolate factory.
The factory is located on the outskirts of Mbabane – the capital of Swaziland which has a population of approximately 80 thousand. Swaziland gained its independence from England in 1968, and had its own constitution until 1972 then it came under the rule by King Sabhuza until his death in 1986 at which time his son took over.
It just so happened that Rostad Tours provided an afternoon chocolate snack for all aboard the bus – what a wonderful treat!
Then we were off again towards our hotel with the exception of a photo stop at the top of the Maguga Dam.
The drive on either side of the dam was through pine forests which had been planted, and unfortunately had been partially burned during the past year.
While admiring the dam we shared some of our Canadian Gifts and Flag pins with some children who were selling their wares along the road.
Then on to Orion Pigg’s Peak Hotel for our one night stay – we arrived in time for a swim and a nice before dinner drink at the bar –
a few also checked out the gift shop and someone one won a few Rand in the Casino. Our rooms are very nice, the pool cool and the view absolutely magnificent.
Early tomorrow as we head toward Kruger National Park.
Our first stop is the candle factory where we had some snacks, watched a candle maker craft a lovely candles, and enjoyed some very different crafts.
From here we continued North past the cannery, and making a brief stop at King Sabhuza’s Memorial. We did not go in but were able to view the centre from the bus.
Then we had a ½ hour walk through the Swazi Market – great fun for all of us, and a challenge to walk the length of the market in that time – there were just so many shops. On from there to the Swazi Glass Factory where they make beautiful items of recycled glass. We saw a wide range of beautiful glass articles, both decorative and practical and there w
as also a woodworking shop and a chocolate factory.The factory is located on the outskirts of Mbabane – the capital of Swaziland which has a population of approximately 80 thousand. Swaziland gained its independence from England in 1968, and had its own constitution until 1972 then it came under the rule by King Sabhuza until his death in 1986 at which time his son took over.
It just so happened that Rostad Tours provided an afternoon chocolate snack for all aboard the bus – what a wonderful treat!
Then we were off again towards our hotel with the exception of a photo stop at the top of the Maguga Dam.
The drive on either side of the dam was through pine forests which had been planted, and unfortunately had been partially burned during the past year.While admiring the dam we shared some of our Canadian Gifts and Flag pins with some children who were selling their wares along the road.
Then on to Orion Pigg’s Peak Hotel for our one night stay – we arrived in time for a swim and a nice before dinner drink at the bar –
a few also checked out the gift shop and someone one won a few Rand in the Casino. Our rooms are very nice, the pool cool and the view absolutely magnificent.Early tomorrow as we head toward Kruger National Park.
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