Working at Crater

We have been working at the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge for the last 2 weeks. It is icy cold, misty and windy.

We haven't had too much to do in the way of work, as it is a bit difficult to step into other manager's shoes for only a short while.

First day had to hand out a verbal warning to a ranger for leaving a guest at the Manyara Airport. The one of five receptionists (at Klein's we only have who is also our storeman) went awol after he made a massive mistake with the same issue.

Been hosting guests most nights; had Maasai guard of honour (200 people) performing for guests;

Had many a braai with Nick (Lodge Administrator, who has been an absolutely brilliant host). Yesterday we went down onto the Crater floor. It was so dry and dusty, a completey different place to when we last went down in November. We saw some big tuskers, a hyena, about 11 lions and few zebra and the other usual suspects.

Tiff leaves for Kleins today with Jackson and Sakaine. I will stay till the 30th then head back to Kleins for month end. Then we have a meeting with 2 of our directors before going on holiday on the 2nd after a (far too long) 4 month stint of not seeing any civilisation and/or having a proper break from the stresses of this job.

Too many problems with our neighbours that I did not sign up for and I definitely don't get paid enough for. Hunters, guns pointed at guests, bullying, poaching, bribery, back-stabbing and the list goes on........

Anyway, wtf. I/we just need a good solid holiday now, as we are a bit jaded and despondent.

Next blog will have some videos of Jackson at 20 months old and hopefully the next entry after that will be made up of holiday pics and a happier family.

Outta here!