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The Red Billed Hornbill

By Chantelle Smtiih
2022-09-28

GoBundu will be issuing a weekly Birding Blog Post. Each post will feature a bird that has been sighted by GoBundu on their travels around Southern Mozambique over the last 16 years, together with a link that takes you to the exact google earth location that the specific bird was sighted. If you are a keen birder keep an eye on GoBundu Facebook page and Blog every Wednesday for specific locations on where you can spot various birdlife.

Red Billed Hornbill

Click here to view the precise sighting location where GoBundu saw a Red Billed Hornbill

This open grassland area is situated between Ponta Malongane and Ponta Mamoli. Other birds that were sighted at this exact location are:

Trumpeter Hornbill
Crowned Hornbill
Stonechat
Black-Collard Barbet
Carmine Bee-Eater
Little Bee-Eater
Burchells Coucal
Black-Crowned Tchagra

Confusable with Tamara Hornbill but is smaller and darker overall, has obvious dark streaking n the face, neck, and throat, and has a pale, not dark eye. Speckled upper parts should obviate confusion with other, larger, red-billed hornbills.

Habitat: Thornveld and savanna.

Status: Common resident.

Call: A series of rapid ‘wha wha wha’ calls, followed by a ‘yuk-we yuk-we’, in calling display the head is lowered but the wings are held closed.

Check in next Wednesday to see the Featured Bird of the Week!

Happy Birding!

Latest News

Quaint Restaurant in Ponta Mamoli

Most people holidaying in Pona Mamoli don’t know that there is a restaurant. Everyone knows that Ponta Malongane, a 20-minute drive south of Ponta Mamoli, is bustling with restaurants. But hidden in Ponta Mamoli is a quaint restaurant run by one of the local men, namely Trevor. When we arrived, Trevor was busy doing maintenance at Cutta Corner and welcomed us with a big smile. One of the first things Trevor asked us was, “Would you like to come and see the fish I caught this morning?”. He goes fishing every morning on his sea kayak, and if he catches fish, they are served as ‘Fish Of The Day’ – so when you order fish at Cutta Corner, you know you are eating very fresh fish! He took us to the back of the restaurant and showed us the Cutta and Wahoo fish that he had caught that morning, each fish was just over a metre in length. Not being a person into fishing, I found the colours on the Wahoo beautiful! This added to a true ethnic experience of eating local! We were advised to try the local 2M beer, which we ended up buying a six-pack of and kept in the fridge at Aloha 7, where we were staying. Going unsaid, these 2M did not last very long! If you enjoy beer, this is a must-try! Trevor came and sat with us while we were having our ice-cold beers and told us his fishing stories, of which some were about him far out at sea catching fish and having sharks swimming around his sea kayak! Cutta Corner (or, as some locals know it, ‘Trevors Place’) is a must-visit if you have booked a Holiday House in Ponta Mamoli, Mozambique! Ask the staff at the house you are staying at to direct you to Cutta Corner restaurant. TIP: Good food takes a long to make – get yourself ready to wait a long time for your meal to be prepared and served – Cutta Corner is a local experience and not a quick dinner. There is a swimming pool at the restaurant too.

checklist

The Ultimate Pre-Guest Checklist: How to Get Your Holiday Home Guest-Ready Every Time

As a holiday homeowner, you know that first impressions count. Guests expect comfort, cleanliness, and a touch of luxury when they step into your vacation home. A well-prepared space can turn a great review into a glowing one and ensure repeat bookings. Here’s a detailed checklist to share with your housekeeper to ensure your holiday home is guest-ready every time! 1. Start with Cleanliness: A Spotless Home is a Welcoming Home Cleanliness is the cornerstone of a great guest experience. Before every new arrival, make sure: • Floors are swept, mopped, and vacuumed. • Surfaces are dust-free, including furniture, windowsills, and shelves. • Windows and mirrors sparkle, letting in light and enhancing views. • Trash bins are emptied, with fresh liners placed in. A clean home shows guests that you care about their comfort and sets the stage for a relaxing stay. 2. Comfort in the Living Areas The living room is where guests will unwind and spend quality time together. Ensure: • All furniture (sofas, chairs, tables) is in good condition and free from stains. • The TV and entertainment systems are fully operational, with remotes in an easy-to-find place. • Wi-Fi works seamlessly, and login details are clearly displayed. A well-organized and inviting living space can create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation or fun family time. 3. Bedrooms: A Sanctuary for Rest Nothing beats a great night’s sleep on holiday. To make the bedrooms guest-friendly: • Freshly laundered bed linens should be placed on every bed. • Ensure pillows and mattresses are clean, comfortable, and odour-free. Remove any stained, old linen from the house and replace it with new linen. And have two sets of linen for same-day turnarounds of guests. • Extra blankets and pillows are available in case of chilly nights. • Bedside lamps work, and airconditioners and outlets are accessible for charging devices. With cosy, well-prepped bedrooms, your guests will be well-rested. 4. Sparkling Bathrooms Guests expect hotel-quality cleanliness in the bathroom. Make sure to: • Clean the toilet, sink, shower, and mirrors thoroughly. • Replenish toilet paper and provide clean towels. Remove all stained or old towels and replace them with new towels. • Ensure there is plenty of hot water and no leaks. • Flush all toilets and check that the water stops running once the cistern is full. A spotless and well-stocked bathroom enhances the luxury feel of your home. 5. Kitchen: The Heart of the Home Whether guests plan to cook up a storm or just make breakfast, a well-equipped and clean kitchen is essential: • Wipe down all countertops, appliances, and the sink. • Make sure all utensils, dishes, and cookware are clean and neatly organised. Remove and replace all chipped crockery and glasses. Ensure there is enough crockery and cutlery for the number of people that your house sleeps. • Ensure the fridge is empty of leftovers and ready for new groceries. • Appliances like the oven, microwave, and coffee maker should be in top working condition. A tidy, functional kitchen is key to creating a home-away-from-home vibe for your guests. 6. Outdoor Spaces: The Perfect Spot to Unwind If your property has outdoor areas, make sure they shine too! Check that: • Outdoor furniture is clean and free from damage. • The pool, if applicable, is sparkling and safe for use. • Braai grills are cleaned. • Gardens are tidy, and any outdoor lighting works to set the mood for evening relaxation. Outdoor spaces are a major attraction for guests, so keeping them fresh and inviting can make all the difference. 7. Safety First: Ensure Peace of Mind Safety is a top priority for your guests, so it’s essential to: • Check that all chairs are sturdy and replace any that are getting old. • Ensure a fire extinguisher is easily accessible and in working order. • Double-check all door and window locks for security. Keep a set of spare keys at the house. • Provide emergency contact numbers and a basic first aid kit. These small steps provide your guests with a sense of security, allowing them to fully enjoy their holiday. 8. The Finishing Touches It’s the small details that turn a good stay into a great one: • Ensure the guidebook or instruction manual for the house is up-to-date with local tips, appliance instructions, and house rules. • Freshen up the home by opening windows to let in the breeze. The extra touch of care will leave a lasting impression on your guests. In Conclusion By following this checklist, you’ll not only keep your holiday home in top shape but also create a memorable experience for every guest. A well-prepared home ensures great reviews, repeat business, and the peace of mind that your guests are happy and comfortable. Remember, a little effort before guest arrival goes a long way in making your holiday home the go-to destination for families and travelers alike! This post should help your homeowners understand the importance of keeping their properties well-prepared for guests and encourage them to maintain high standards. Let me know if you’d like any changes or additional details!

puzzle

Navigating a Beach Holiday in Mozambique with a Newly Blended Family: Tips from GoBundu.com

Blending two families into one is a beautiful journey with unique challenges. A holiday on the pristine beaches of Mozambique, staying in a cozy holiday home from GoBundu.com, offers the perfect opportunity to bond and create unforgettable memories. Here are some tips to ensure your holiday with a newly blended family is smooth and enjoyable: 1. Choose the Right Accommodation Opt for a spacious holiday home that provides both communal areas and private spaces. A holiday home with a swimming pool broadens space options and activities for kids to choose from. This balance allows family members to spend quality time together while also having personal space to relax. GoBundu.com offers a variety of homes for different family sizes and preferences. 2. Plan Inclusive Activities Engage in activities that everyone can enjoy, such as snorkeling, beach volleyball, or exploring local markets. The key is to find common interests that bring everyone together. 3. Respect Individual Preferences Allow family members to pursue their own interests, whether it’s reading a book by the beach, taking a solo walk, or trying out a new water sport. A great way to balance this is by bringing a puzzle and placing it in a communal area of the holiday home. This voluntary activity lets everyone participate as they wish and encourages organic interactions. 4. Create a Flexible Itinerary A rigid schedule can lead to stress and conflicts. Instead, create a flexible itinerary that includes both planned activities and free time. This approach accommodates everyone’s pace and reduces pressure. 5. Foster Open Communication Encourage open communication among family members. Discuss expectations, preferences, and any concerns before and during the trip. Accept all the kids and adults with the emotions that they come with. Allowing everyone to feel their emotions without judgment helps them feel accepted. 6. Include Local Culture and Cuisine Immerse your family in the local culture and cuisine of Mozambique. Try local dishes, visit cultural sites, and learn about the traditions. Create new family unit memories and traditions, like a signature dish that reminds everyone of this holiday. Let new traditions emerge organically over time. 7. Plan for Downtime Holidays can be tiring, especially for children. Ensure there’s enough downtime for everyone to rest and recharge. Whether it’s a lazy afternoon on the beach or a quiet evening at your holiday home, downtime is essential for maintaining a positive atmosphere. 8. Capture the Memories Take plenty of photos and videos to capture the special moments. Encourage everyone to keep a travel journal or create a scrapbook. These keepsakes will serve as beautiful reminders of the time spent together. 9. Prepare for the Unexpected Traveling with a blended family can come with unexpected challenges. Be prepared to handle minor conflicts and be flexible with plans. Keeping a positive attitude and a sense of humour can go a long way in ensuring everyone has a good time. 10. Celebrate the Small Wins Acknowledge and celebrate the small wins, whether it’s a successful family meal, a fun game on the beach, or simply everyone getting along. These moments build a foundation for stronger family bonds. Conclusion Holidaying with a newly blended family can be an enriching experience, especially when done right. By choosing the perfect accommodation from GoBundu.com and following these tips, you can create a harmonious and enjoyable holiday in Mozambique. Embrace the journey, cherish the moments, and make memories that will last a lifetime.