13th July 2016

It's my BIRTHDAY!!!! YEEEYYY!!

Finally 18! And then I get to spend this special day in such a beautiful country!! And celebrate with wonderful people.

At around 7:30 a.m., Noleen woke me up. When I entered her bedroom, everyone sang for me! My birthday 'cake' was small Red Velvet Cupcakes with candles in them. In South Africa, it is said that if you blow out all the candles at once, you will never have another friend other than the one you have.

After that, we opened gifts. I received a self-made traditional African skirt. In exactly the right colors. I love it!!! And a matching surfer shirt.

To make my day extra special, Noleen and Rowan booked a luxury tent at Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve. Before we leave at 10 a.m., Noleen spoiled me and made my hair beautiful. Like a second mommy.

Arriving at Inkwenkwezi Reserve at 11 a.m., we were driven through half the park by our personal guide to our tent.

After a short unpacking, we went on a little tour because the park is huge! About 100km² in size. On the way back from our tour, the guide took us to lunch. A huge selection of food and huge portions. The service there is really very good and everyone is very very nice. Two ladies working in the restaurant's kitchen sang Happy Birthday to me in an African language. It was beautiful and such an honor!

After lunch, we continued driving through the reserve with the guide and saw many more animals. Before we went to dinner, he took us to the fenced area of the lions, where we were only about 3-4 meters away from them. An incredible experience!

Back at the restaurant, it was very crowded because different artists perform there on Wednesdays. However, it is primarily known for its huge burgers, which are as big as plates! The portions here were also huge and almost impossible to finish.

Back at our tent, we sat together on the terrace and toasted to my birthday once again before going to bed.