Weather and Camp
Welcome back to Rocktail! Things at Beach Camp happen a little differently, and a major part of our focus is the kiddies. In case you didn't already know - we accept kids of all ages (including babies) and, to set your minds at rest, your little ones are at no serious risk of malaria. Have a look on the left at the 'leopard' spotted this month at Rocktail...

The first quarter of January was particularly busy thanks to the festive season. An interesting thing happened here that we'd never experienced before: over a period of three days the camp composition went from 100% South African visitors to 100% European visitors. And all the while the camp occupancy remained at capacity. The sudden change-over meant a complete change in camp dynamics, from guest interactions and conversations to what activities and meals were popular. The value of such an experience is priceless from a management point of view.

We've been having all sorts of fun with children this month. Our Kid's Room continues to prove its worth as it gives mums and dads some much-needed relaxation time, but without being totally separated from their family. It is likely that we will be hosting dinners for children in the Kid's Room in the near future, which will serve the dual purpose of allowing adults to eat in peace, and giving the children time to simmer down before lights out.

The weather has thrown a few curve balls this month with some really hot humid days, as well as monsoon-type rain showers. The sun has been particularly cheeky because even on days when it doesn't seem likely it takes no more than half an hour in the sun without cream to burn to a crisp. Please, if you are planning a trip to Rocktail, bring the necessary sun protection, and use it!

The long beach walks so enjoyed by our guests just keep getting better with more and more beautiful shells being found. The warm weather also means you can spend long lazy days in and out of the water, be it pool or sea.

Marine Life
Snorkelling has been enormously popular this month - both from the boat and from the beach. The beach snorkelling is truly great as a host of juvenile reef fish have moved into the shallows at Lala Nek. The combination of clear warm water and eye-boggling colours is special to even the most seasoned ocean explorer. The snorkelling from the boat has produced many dolphin encounters recently, but you can read more about this in the Dive Newsletter.

Management are so committed to providing guests with accurate information that we have all taken up a little dive training. So now we know what we're talking about when it comes to diving, and we can even dive with you.

Fishing
The fishing, I am pleased to say, has been quite brilliant this month. If you are willing to put in the effort you will be rewarded! Some highlights this month include two large giant sand sharks, a few blackfin sharks, plenty of big-eye kingfish, plenty of wolf herring and, most unusual of the lot, a 20-odd kg prodigal son! On the fly side, I can't say much as we haven't spent much time tempting the denizens of the deep this month, but with the fish moving as they are there is nothing to stop you.

January has been a great month and, with some luck, February might even be better!