Shakaland was an interesting stop-over between our Zululand Tree House stay and our ultikmate Durban destination later that day . . On arrival, we noted the extensive buffet that was arranged and took part in a laptop sitting-on-tree-trunks luncheon. Gregory, our Shakaland guide, filled us in while we nibbled and later described the native custom of getting one’s wish by throwing a rock on a pile.

     Then we met the very rotund Shakaland chief who reportedly kept his Mercedes well out of sight. News to us was the fact that married women were clothed; virgins went topless. Sort of makes sense . . Along the way, we were invited inside a typical native hutment for a look-see and, sadly, didn’t see much . . Then we went to the Big Hut where they separated the men and the women tourists and – chauvinistically – gave the men a taste of a native brew – no winner that, ladies!

     Separated from the men, our Lady CLUB 44’s viewed the all-male native orchestra that provided the musical accompaniment for the all-male war dance ensemble. Throwing a bone to the men, the Shakaland people tossed in a trio of “virgins” (See definition above).