Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Botswana with Judy Bailey

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Judy Bailey's Love for Travel
3. Childhood Memories of Traveling
4. Traveling in New Zealand
5. Dream Destinations Yet to Visit
6. The Beauty of Botswana
7. Experiencing Wildlife in Botswana
8. Tips for Traveling to Botswana
9. The Zambezi Queen Experience
10. Exploring Victoria Falls
11. Diving in the Peruvian Jungle
12. Appreciating the Fragility of Ecosystems
13. Conclusion

Article

Introduction

Welcome to Trip Notes, the New Zealand Herald travelpod brought to You by the House of Travel. In this episode, we have a special guest, Judy Bailey, who has been a part of our lives through television and is known for her humanitarian campaigns and travel shows. In this article, we will Delve into Judy's love for travel, her favorite destinations, and her experiences in places like Botswana and the Peruvian jungle.

Judy Bailey's Love for Travel

Judy Bailey's love for travel began at a young age when her father, who was in the Air Force, was transferred to London. She vividly remembers the excitement of a five-week ocean voyage on an old passenger LINER, arriving in London at Christmastime, and experiencing the magic of a snow-covered city. These early travel experiences sparked her love for exploring new places and cultures.

Childhood Memories of Traveling

During her childhood, Judy's family did not travel internationally for holidays. Instead, they would go to Turangi, near Lake Taupo in New Zealand. They stayed in a simple hut with no running Water, a coal range in the kitchen, and a long-drop toilet in the bush. Despite the basic amenities, Judy fondly remembers the family bonding and the Sense of adventure during those trips.

Traveling in New Zealand

As Judy grew older, she developed a love for off-piste travel and adventure. She enjoys exploring different parts of New Zealand, appreciating the rugged landscapes and the abundance of wildlife. While her siblings had families of their own, Judy often traveled with her husband, friends, or groups of people she didn't know. Each Type of travel experience offered a different perspective and allowed her to Create lasting memories.

Dream Destinations Yet to Visit

When asked about the destinations she still wants to visit, Judy Mentioned Antarctica and the Galapagos Islands. She is drawn to Antarctica's pristine beauty and wildlife, while the Galapagos Islands offer a unique opportunity to see diverse animals up close. Judy's love for wildlife fuels her desire to explore places where she can be surrounded by nature and encounter animals in their natural habitats.

The Beauty of Botswana

Among all her travels, Botswana holds a special place in Judy's heart. She describes it as her favorite country in the world. Located in the Kalahari Desert, Botswana is known for its stunning Okavango Delta, which changes throughout the year depending on the water flow from Rwanda. The contrast between the dry season and the rainy season creates a picturesque landscape of lakes, channels, and islands.

Experiencing Wildlife in Botswana

One of the highlights of visiting Botswana is the opportunity to encounter wildlife up close. Judy recalls staying in a lodge where animals freely roamed, including lions and hippos. Going on open-sided Land Rover safaris allowed her to observe animals like elephants, lions, and rhinos in their natural habitat without feeling scared. The abundance of birdlife and the sheer beauty of the Okavango Delta make Botswana a wildlife enthusiast's paradise.

Tips for Traveling to Botswana

When traveling to Botswana, staying hydrated is crucial due to the fluctuating temperatures. Mornings can be cold, while daytime temperatures reach around 30 degrees Celsius. It's recommended to go on safaris early in the morning and in the late afternoon when animals are more active. In terms of food, Judy enjoyed the local Pan-African cuisine and the opportunity to try game meats like Springbok. The lodges she stayed at offered delicious homemade meals prepared by local women.

The Zambezi Queen Experience

Another Memorable experience for Judy was staying on the Zambezi Queen, a riverboat anchored near the Caprivi Strip. From there, they would venture out in boats to explore the region, which borders Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Namibia. The proximity to Victoria Falls allowed for easy access to this picturesque natural wonder. Judy describes the falls as something out of a picture book and emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with nature during travel.

Diving in the Peruvian Jungle

As a diver, Judy shares her experience diving in the Peruvian jungle city of Iquitos. This unique destination, surrounded by the Amazon River, offers the opportunity to see animals like sloths and snakes in their natural habitat. The abundance of wildlife and the close connection to nature make it a truly memorable experience. Judy highlights the importance of appreciating each little part of the ecosystem and taking care of our planet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Judy Bailey's love for travel has taken her to various destinations, each offering unique experiences and moments of awe. She cherishes her encounters with wildlife in places like Botswana and the Peruvian jungle, and emphasizes the fragility of ecosystems and the need to preserve our planet. Whether it's exploring New Zealand or venturing to far-off corners of the world, Judy's passion for travel continues to inspire others to embark on their own adventures.