Maun Lodge: I know I Maun a lot.

It was with a heavy heart that we left the Khwai Community Camp last Thursday. We were really getting into the swing of things in the bush, and the last thing we anticipated was a return to civilization, but, unfortunately, a broken alternator waits for no man. Anticipating a long and frustrating day, we decided to pack a toothbrush, underwear, and books, and set off for Maun to find someone to repair our darling, trusty steed.

The hundred-odd-kilometre trip took a good 3 hours, but we made it and pulled into Maun Delta (garage). The owner's friendly; we're OLD customers, he said. He is helpful, but informed us that it was a public holiday in Botswana, Ascension Day. Our already overheated morale took a dive, but fortunately, Louw can read minds and assured us that he'd do everything in his power to get us back on the road as soon as possible the next morning. He recommended the Maun Lodge, so off we went.

We arrived there at 17h30, asked for available accommodation, and found many rooms available; we could pick and choose to our hearts' delight. The scenery and local culture around Maun are truly captivating, and I hope sharing these moments inspires readers to explore Botswana's beauty and traditions.

My husband has the pesky habit of always asking for the rack rate and then for the "special" price, believing that an empty bed is lost revenue. Without batting an eye, the unfriendly receptionist said, "No specials." That's it; there was no discussion, but we would consult with the manager after negotiations (any union in the union could get tips here). She returned with an emphatic NO.

We were gobsmacked to say the least. Not even one PULA! And then, to add insult to injury, she had no change when we tendered our cash, BUT she smiled! We ended up paying P17 MORE for the room! That really felt like a slap in the face. My precious is a far better person than I am; he just smiled, shook his head, and headed for the door. Why is it that in Africa we pay international prices, but when it comes to service delivery, we have to shut up and turn the other cheek?

Our accommodation was mediocre, but by then I was thoroughly ticked off. I would love to know whether the two pictures on the wall will ever be straightened. Probably not! The shower was good, and I relaxed after I'd raided the mini bar! Here's another mystery I'd like solved, please. Why do some establishments have bedside lamps that serve absolutely no purpose, except to light up the end tables? Are they just ornamental? Don't decorators read?

When we stay in accommodations, my husband needs three things: 1. Air conditioning 2. Wi-fi 3. Safe parking, two out of three were ticked off the list. Still, I had to giggle when our porter (he didn't carry anything as we drove right up to the front door, to safe parking) nonchalantly announced that "The beauty" of our cottage was that it was cool in summer and warm in winter, so no need for air conditioning—reminding me of the smart Alec in the movie Exotic Marigold Hotel. The Boma Restaurant and Bar is pleasant. It has free Wi-Fi, which makes it the local watering hole. Here, a few people chat; they're all catching up on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, emailing, and possibly checking the exchange rate and their bank balances.

We supped at the Boma, which was a pleasant surprise; our waitress was delightful, she'll go places, I'm sure. The Rasta playing the guitar was sublime. I love local music. On a scale of 1-10, I would, in all honesty, have to give the food a 3-10 (rating it according to its internationally accepted price list). The next morning, we packed up, skipped breakfast, and by mid-morning, we hit the road. I was thrilled to pick up my knitting again, listen to our audiobook, and set off for our bush camp. Everything was right with the world again.

Room Tip: I think the rooms overlooking the river would be nice for a sundowners."