Tuesday, 24 February 2015

Saturday 7th February 2015

 Saturday 7th February 2015
Got up just after 7:30. Got ready and showered etc., then went to breakfast at 8:15. Sat with GS and JG. Breakfast was really nice- fried egg, beans, bread and pancake. Obviously not all together! Also- coffee!!
Got ready then went to get money changed. After, we went to the nature reserve- it used to be called Abuko, now I think it's called Eagle Heights. Enjoyed walking round- was a good time to chat to people on the trip who I've barely spoken to before. Saw a crocodile quite far in the distance; then lots of monkeys!! We got to feed them, which was fab. They were super cheeky and stole a whole bag of nuts. 
 
In the same area we saw hyenas; I still think they're cute!
More walking (during which MW and I annoyed AM and MR by singing), then we reached Eagle Heights- the new bit, which the annual Gambia trip has never before experienced! Exciting!! Saw more monkeys (but a different type), then a cheetah and a variety of eagles and other birds. 
 
However, the absolute highlight was THE LION CUB! Absofrickinglutely adorable!! And quite friendly too!! We got to touch it through the bars and it was the best thing. I want a lion!!
Back in the van, and onwards to the crocodile place. I held the wooden crocodile that AA had bought at Abuko/Eagle Heights; had great fun placing it next to people's faces and waiting for them to turn around!
At the crocodile place we looked in the museum (which hasn't changed!), then had a group picture in the elephant tree (this is a tradition- it also hasn't changed!). After that we each had a chance to have our picture taken with the crocodile. Everyone went for it; so proud of our group. 
 
On the way back to the resort we stopped at a shop to get snacks for tomorrow's journey. I've been reunited with my powdered squash- the world is beautiful.
Back to the resort. Changed for the pool, then had lunch (at past 4!!). Sat with AH, GS, MW and SL, which was really nice. Was so good to have a catch up with GS, and to get to know MW and SL a little more!!
Went in the pool. Despite the intense heat, it was freezing! AH and I sat on the edge before getting in- and JG pushed us in! Not impressed!! I didn't stay in the pool for long; got out, dried off and just dangled my feet in with some of the others. We took an adorable picture of some of the group!
At around 5:30 it was time to get packed and ready for dinner/tomorrow. After we were ready, we headed to Reception as AH wanted to use the wifi. My no-wifi resolution lasted all of 5 minutes haha, and I checked social media, but didn't have a chance to reply to anything.
Walked to a nearby restaurant for dinner. I had pizza. Really enjoying the plentiful bread- it gets served before every restaurant meal, and it's always amazing. We were also very amused by the spelling mistake on the menu... Dinner was nice, especially as I sat near AH, JG, AA and Maths- lots of laughter! Also, there was live music and it was beautiful.
Walked back to the resort. The stars were amazing! Felt a little wobbly- very tired. Was so glad to get back to the room and to bed!!