Hermanus

After a two-day wine tasting hangover, we took to the open road and headed towards the ocean once again. Because South Africa is blessed with so much beautiful nature, our next stops involved whales, penguins and some impromptu baboons. 

We arrived 1 hr and 15 minutes later into the town of Hermanus, known for its epic whale watching cruises. The views from our B&B, a 15-minute drive from the town proper, did not disappoint. 

A short stumble out the front door, we were met with nature, nature and more nature. 

The next morning, we made for our early tour with the remarkable Hermanus Whale Watchers. This family-run business has more heart than you could ask for. In a quick turnaround they fitted us with lifejackets, loaded us onto the boat and sought the best viewpoint for the day's whales. The excitement when they did find one was palpable--they may have been more excited than us and we were pretty damn excited. Well, except for Susan, who spent much of the boat ride looking green around the edges. Note for everyone: dramamine is your friend. 

Over our 90-minute ride we saw all kinds of waterfowl and sea life. It started small with dolphins and some ocean-going birds but our patience was rewarded with the sighting of both Southern Right Whales and the mighty Humpback. They moved and surfaced right in front of us, whilst our tour guide maintained a respectful distance. July and August also happen to be the heart of calving season and so not only did we get to see whales but we also got to see baby whales with their mamas, swimming side-by-side, navigating the waters of this calm but appropriately deep bay. Epic. 

Gemma took a few pictures with her fancy camera but my phone was not up for the job. But the memories live on and all I can say is that if you're considering a trip to South Africa and happen to be anywhere near Hermanus, jump on the opportunity. 

In total, we spent two nights in Hermanus and took to reading, ambling and relaxing during the day. Though we'd left Cape Town the incident was still very much on our minds and the seeds of unrest were clear here too. Workers in the local township had gone on strike which left many of the town's restaurants, hotels and B&Bs understaffed. There was clear tension from the management in many of the establishments we walked into. 

So nature seemed a good tonic. 

And South Africa has that every which way you look.