I Think I Will Pass on Dinner

by Jonathan van Bilsen

I find it interesting how certain memories tend to stay with me forever. I remember the very first time I went to the central part of Africa, and stayed at a beautiful lodge, on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. Upon check in, a Porter led me from the thatched roof lobby to my room.

He was forthcoming about life in Africa and I was intrigued, paying little attention to where we were going, other than noting it was along a path, which was lined with a dozen or so mud-brick style, individual units.

When we arrived at the mine, which, of course, was the last one in the row, he showed me in and explained the amenities. It was quite nice, albeit rustic, and as I tipped him, he suggested I call the lobby for an escort to the dining room when I was ready to eat. I looked confused as the dining room was straight down the path.

I no longer gave his heed a second thought, and an hour or so later, I decided it was dinner time. By now, the sun had set, but as I stared down the path, I saw the lights of the lobby and dining area.

I began to walk and, in the moonlight, noticed a massive hedge beside me. I had only passed three huts when I heard a noise on the other side of the hedge. I immediately realized why the porter suggested an escort.

The noise continued, and I was sure it was a lion, ready to pounce at any moment. Thankfully, I made it to the dining room and, in a moment of bravery, decided to glance around the hedge.

I stood in shock when I came face to face with a massive elephant who had been strolling along the other side of the privet. I was about to scream and run when I heard loud bells chiming everywhere.

Suddenly, hotel staff were running in the direction of my hut and carrying water filled buckets. It was difficult to see what was happening, but a faint, orange glow in the direction of my hut, confirmed it was not a good thing.

I heard someone yell “fire, fire.” I froze and prayed it was not my cabin. The staff passed buckets from one person to the next, and I walked briskly in the direction of my room, wondering where the elephant was hiding.

It was not long before the fire was out. It seems two elderly ladies sharing the hut next to mine had left a teapot heater plugged in, which had caused the fire.

I returned to my unit, forgoing dinner, locked the door and looked out the window. Although I saw nothing, I knew somewhere, very close by, a massive elephant was waiting for me to take another stroll. I closed the curtains and slept until morning when I ventured out in the safety of daylight. Oh yes, I did call for an attendant to walk me to the breakfast area.

Jonathan van Bilsen is a television host, award-winning photographer, published author, columnist and keynote speaker. Follow his escapades at photosNtravel.com