out of kingdom

Italy! Why are you so enthralling? In less than three years, we’ve already been here four times! And yet each visit always seems fresh and new.

This time we are in Milan and the Lake Como region, which is way up north on the border of Switzerland and Italy…just in case anyone is as geographically impaired as I am.

Home of high fashion, the Last Supper, and swoon worthy movie set locales; it’s not a bad way to start summer vacation. Buon giorno Italy! It’s so nice to see you again! 🇮🇹

Is there anything nicer than Italy in the summer? Umm, no…not really.

 

This is especially true if you spend it in Lake Como. Everywhere you look are scenes like this.

 

The water is amazing, magnificent splendid…and freezing.

 

The sun however, is sublime. The weather in Lake Como is perfect during June.

 

The Grand Hotel Tremezzo where we are staying is a mixture of old world charm…

 

And vibrant Italian whimsy. The lobby looks a little like Alice in Wonderland.

 

But the rooms are unabashedly traditional. It checks all the blocks of perfect hotel aesthetics for me…antique furniture, real keys, and wood floors.

 

And the view is not bad either. See that pool? It’s actually a floating pool that is set into the lake itself. Water on water…amazing!

 

Swimming in this pool is the strangest sensation because it actually moves while you are in it.

 

And even though it’s heated, the water is cold because it’s set in the lake. We whiled away the morning playing and sunning ourselves on the floating pool/dock.

 

You know what elevates a good hotel into a spectacular hotel? A full on candy bar in the lobby!

 

This was really cool and fun! Even Brian and I had to indulge.

 

And we couldn’t resist having lunch on the loveliest terrace in all of Lake Como.

 

Lunch did not disappoint with hand made pasta and Italian wine. Add to that the beautiful lake, and you have the makings of a perfect afternoon.

 

You want to hear something crazy? In England it’s illegal to have hot beverages in public vehicles. BUT in Italy you can rent a power speedboat without a license!

 

And so we did! That’s right! For two hours going full throttle, we raced along the Lake Como coastline driving our own speedboat,and having the time of our lives.

 

Seeing Lake Como from a boat is indescribably spectacular.

 

Even I took a turn driving. First dog sled driving and now this! Who would have guessed?

 

Mostly Olivia and I just let Brian drive though. We sat in the sun and just enjoyed the ride.

 

I hope Olivia remembers this moment.

 

It was definitely something out of a storybook.

 

Everything from the gorgeous landmarks…

 

To the million dollar villas set against the blue blue water, and golden sunshine…it was the highlight of the day

So how do you top off an afternoon like that? Gelato of course!

 

And maybe a little shopping. I indulged in some Italian sheets.

 

And Brian found something to indulge in himself-a shop dedicated to small batch whiskeys from all over the world.

 

And then it was Aperitif time. Ordering one bottle of beer gets you an entire board of antipasti

 

Finally, after a full day, we return back to our hotel on the lake.

 

Reliving the day, taking in the night air…

 

And falling in love with Italy all over again.

 

 

 

 

So part of our vacation here includes daily massages. Yes, you heard me right. Everyone gets a complimentary massage here EVERY Day!!!!!

While for some people this would be paradise, for me not so much. I am not into massages. I do not enjoy stripping down naked and being kneaded and pummeled to death.

However, I have to admit here it’s a bit different. They have all kinds of massages that I didn’t even know existed like Indian head massages, gentle face massages, and even soft foot massages where you can be fully clothed but still get some pampering.

 

It’s impossible not to be relaxed here.

 

And to thoroughly enjoy just doing nothing.

 

I bought this dress for Olivia on day 1, and she has insisted on wearing it every day. Here she is quite proud of her little star tattoo.

 

This is the “after” photo of our massages. Obviously I opted for the Indian head one this time.

 

Brian is all smiles after getting beat up by his masseuse.

 

And even though the resort is full, you would never know it from this idyllic shot. It’s so peaceful and sublime here.

 

Most of our time is spent in our villa, which is definitely not peaceful, but somehow still sublime.

 

We spend hours and hours playing in the water…

 

Talking, laughing, and just enjoying each other’s company…with the magnificent ocean view as our backdrop.

 

Of all my kids, Paige is the most sun crazy. Even at the crack of dawn she is up and ready to take full advantage of all the daylight hours.

 

But there are lots of lovely spots on the resort to enjoy…like this cozy swing that Grace found under a cool palm tree.

 

Behind us are the “over the water villas.” We thought about staying in one of those, but are so glad we chose the pool beach villa instead.

 

One of Olivia’s favorite spots is this cool swing that is just the right size for her. It overlooks the ocean and is in the perfect spot…

 

…the Coral Bar. So every day Brian gets a drink (or a few) and Olivia keeps him company on her swing. It’s a win-win situation for both of them

 

I haven’t talked much about the restaurants, but they are all consistently good. We are not picky eaters, but we do enjoy good food, and the resort does not disappoint. There is always something for everyone. And the restaurants are gorgeous. This is the Thai restaurant complete with pagoda and lily pond.

 

And this is the way to the Italian restaurant. We are late to every reservation, but can you blame us? It’s impossible remember your destination when this is your journey.

 

One of the best things we ate was this board of charcuterie. It consists of something called “Pata Negra” or Jamon Iberico de Bellota, an exquisite ham from Spain that is made from pigs whose diets apparently consist of enchanted acorns and unicorn tears. Soooooo Goooood! This may be my all time favorite food!

 

All the meals are European style and made up of multiple courses. They are very leisurely and relaxed. And for some…a little too leisurely.

 

Dinners are a little dressier…but not much. We love eating under the stars with the ocean breezes.

 

But I’m not going to lie. It’s the water here that is magical.

 

Ever changing in color depending on the day.

 

Somehow it always manages to be just the right temperature.

 

And even when we aren’t in the ocean, but just drifting aimlessly along…

 

It’s the water that captures our hearts and imagination.

 

 

 

One of the things I love most about traveling is the immense learning opportunities that arise. Not only about other cultures, but about our own abilities and even our limitations. This holiday has been no exception. Our family has learned so much…mainly that we suck at wake boarding, paddle boarding, crab racing, and sunset fishing. Of all the activities sunset fishing has to be the worse. Not only do we have no patience, but turns out some of us are actually afraid of live fish! It would have been an epic fail, except for the staff whom I suspect felt sorry for us and “threaded the needle” so to speak in order to give us a semblance of success. It doesn’t matter though. All our failures gave us lots of opportunities to laugh at one another, and enjoy the experience of being “collectively bad” together.

Sunset fishing and we are ready to catch the “big one.”

 

Sunset fishing is a misnomer. The fish don’t actually bite until dark. But going out early gives us an excuse to enjoy the sun and sea.

 

And luxuriate in the spectacular sunset atop our boat.

 

Brian and I in a moment of pure relaxation. This is harder than it looks when you have three kids

 

In a moment of quiet, Brian and Paige revel in the peacefulness of the sun slowly descending into the sea.

 

And then it’s fishing time. At first Olivia is very excited. 

 

Before long though, everyone realizes fishing is actually boring. That’s Grace reading her Kindle and Paige fast asleep sitting up.

 

The staff get a bite and let Olivia reel it in, but seeing the fish close up scares her, and she nearly drops her first catch.

 

However, Olivia quickly gets the hang of it, and before long becomes an expert fisherman. That’s a white snapper by the way.

 

And before anyone comments, YES! I did go sunset fishing in my traveling dress. I think it’s obvious I’ve never been fishing before. How would I know what to wear? But it’s fine-laugh it up. All my family definitely did!

 

Earlier in the day the girls and I go on a wake-boarding lesson. I am only there for emotional support.

 

The girls however, can’t wait to try their hand at this fun and “new to them” adrenaline inducing sport.

 

They are actually terrible. At one point, I ask, “Are my girls the worst students you’ve ever had?” The instructor smiles, but refuses to answer.

 

But you know “Murphys never quit!” And eventually…it happens. Success!

 

A very fun afternoon full of frustration and failure that ends in triumph!

 

Paddle boarding is another story. Amazingly enough, I turn out to be the best paddle boarder in the family. And except for the fact that I can’t stop, start, steer, turn or control my speed in any way…I am a natural.

 

Then it’s Crab Race time and now you know where the girls get their fierce competitive spirit. Yes, that’s Brian with his game face on ready to annihilate his competitors…aka, his children.

 

Paige trying to pump her crab up with a pep talk and last minute coaching.

 

Olivia is confident her crab will win. But we don’t. We even lose in the Loser Round.

 

But it doesn’t matter. We have such a fun day just playing…

 

Laughing…

 

Loving…

 

And enjoying…

 

Each other! 

 

 

It’s Spring break and the Murphys are finally all together again! Poor Paige and Grace flew the grueling route from Chicago to Saudi, just to hop on another plane immediately after. But this time we’re off to the Maldive Islands for fun filled family vacation!🌴

Getting to the Maldives is complicated, but as tourism is their only economy, all the transitions are smooth and fairly easy. Although we do have to utilize commercial planes, sea planes, high speed boats and even traditional wooden vessels to reach our destination, it’s totally worth it!

So far we have been here less than 24 hours, but Paige has already informed me she is “never going back.” And honestly, I really can’t blame her. It’s beyond beautiful here!

Situated in the Indian Ocean between Sri Lanka and Africa, the Maldives is located near the equator off the tip of India.

 

Hard to believe we traveled 12 hours to get here, but we are ready for our adventure.

 

The Maldives is an archipelago of over 1190 islands forming 26 coral atolls, and a population of over 300,000 people living on 202 islands.

 

Our first vision of our island home for the next seven days…and it’s impressive.

 

Olivia inspecting our lovely villa with the infinity edge pool and our very own private beach.

 

A less than auspicious beginning…this was front page news the day we left…Swine flu epidemic in the Maldives. Yikes!

 

Olivia however, is not worried.

 

Our first time taking a sea plane. It’s fun but cramped.

 

And when I say cramped, I mean very very tight!

 

The plane lands right on the water and we disembark on a floating dock.

 

 

We are immediately picked up in one of these traditional wooden boats.

 

 

It’s very somehow quite relaxing to see them chugging slowly across the blue waters.

 

Brian happy and relaxed we finally made it after a lot of delays and near misses.

 

This is the walkway to the lobby…and it’s like nothing we’ve ever encountered before.

 

Paige and Olivia are obviously thrilled to be here.

 

Checking in, and the girls enjoy their welcome drink…and toast to a great vacation.

 

The lobby is conveniently located adjacent to the Aqua Bar-a fabulous over the water lounge with magnificent views.

 

Before checking into our room, Brian and I had to indulge in a cocktail (or a few) while our kids run off to explore.

 

Our 2 story villa is spacious but not at all precious. Perfect for a family!

 

This is the lovely lane to our villa. It’s nestled amidst lush settings in the front and the ocean in the back.

 

We enjoy breakfast in one of the four restaurants on the resort.

 

And then Grace and Olivia play in our private pool.

 

While Paige relaxes on the beach just steps from our villa.

 

Olivia loving all the “cocktails.” She likes to sit right next to the water because it’s so cool…

 

…To watch all the exotic sea life swimming right underneath her feet.

 

And the “over the water” swings are fun too.

 

We embark on a local village tour again utilizing one of the many boats. And look how blue the water is!

 

A spot of shopping…

 

…and meeting locals. This guy prepared fresh coconut for us which the girls had never tried before.

 

Paige being cheeky.

 

Olivia never gets tired of riding the boats. She loves the ever changing view riding along the water.

 

The view I love the most though is above…Seeing all my girls together again!

Although the wedding is over, our African adventure is not. Since we’re already here, we decide to tag on an African safari in Kruger National Park to end our holiday. Remember when I said Africa is big. Well, it’s bigger than big. Just Kruger by itself is over two million acres. As a result, we have to fly, but this time we take a tiny charter plane. Am I scared? Yes! Do I need Dramamine? Definitely!

My first safari and I feel my Karen Blixen dreams turn to dust. Turns out no one on safari actually dresses like they are “Out of Africa”. Mostly everyone is in cargo shorts and trainers. It’s sad! I was so looking forward to re-creating that era of British Romanticism. But even though my naive vision is not even close to reality, the wonderment of South Africa is altogether real! It’s a singularly rare and beautiful country that cannot be recreated on television or anywhere else but here!

We arrive in Ngala, a private game reserve that borders Kruger National Park, safe, sound, and all in one piece. What a relief!

 

To get there we had to take this tiny PC -12 plane which barely seats a dozen people. I purposely ate almost nothing and swallowed a couple of Dramamine before getting on this baby. 

 

Because Africa is so big, flying in private planes to get around is commonplace. This was my first time, so of course I was super excited…and nervous. 

 

We land without incident, and our guide (Steve) was at the runway to meet us along with a very large herd of impala.

 

And we’re off-my first Safari!

 

The lodge where we are staying is lovely.

 

Right in the midst of the bush, is a magnificent British Colonial inspired hotel lodge.

 

I fell in love with all the traditional and romantic British details and decor.

 

Obviously Angela was blown away too.

 

Lunch is immediately served, and it is top notch.

 

Delicious offerings that are beautifully laid out tempt even the pickiest eater, which of course I am not.

 

Leg of lamb is perfectly roasted.

 

Locally grown fresh salads and vegetables accompany the main offering.

 

And of course antique silver and real China make everything taste better.

 

The entire dining area is open to nature, and look who comes to visit us!

 

Impala are indigenous deer and very abundant here. Personally these two are quite bold in my opinion, since I am told they are delicious.

 

And then we are escorted to our room which is decorated in that Romantic British campaign style. So gorgeous!

 

Here’s the bathroom! I actually squealed when I saw this.

 

It’s a completely private bath with glass walls and an outdoor shower in an enclosed garden.

 

And just like in England, at 4 pm, it’s time for tea. I love how everything is so traditional and civilized amongst the ruggedness of the land.

 

Our first official game drive and the weather cooperates with us. January is the wet season, so we are lucky for the dry sunny afternoon.

 

And our guide who I’ve taken to calling “Handsome Steve” and our tracker “Shy Harold.” They are with us every step of the way and know the area like the back of their hand.

 

Right off the bat, we see a giraffe calmly staring at us.

 

And zebras aplenty just going about their business.

 

This is actually rare, but we even find a lioness cooling in the shade.

 

And even more rare, we are swept up in a hunt with a pack of wild dogs running down their prey. We see the entire kill before our eyes. It’s gruesome and mesmerizing at the same time.

 

These dogs are the most successful hunters of all predatory animals, and kill the impala in less than six minutes. I don’t think I will ever forget seeing this “circle of life” scenario unfold before my eyes.

 

And in another nod to British civility, “Handsome Steve” takes us to a dry riverbed and makes cocktails for everyone while we watch the sun set. Notice the tablecloth and crystal tumblers.

 

“Shy Harold” who is an expert tracker tells us fascinating stories as we enjoy gin and tonics and watch the sun go down.

 

This is impala biltong-South African deer jerky. It’s quite spicy but delicious with drinks.

 

We watched the sun go down far away from these wild dogs, and then drove home for dinner.

 

Dinner is served in the Boma. A boma is usually a corral for cattle, but here they glam it up for us.

 

An African braii with local game like kudu (similar to venison), and other mouthwatering meats are grilled to order. Eating outdoors under candlelight and oil lamps make dinner seem extra special. What an incredible day!

 

“And Beyond” is the travel outfitter we used for this trip, and that name is so fitting because so far Africa has definitely been an adventure…& beyond!

 

 

 

 

So what started out as a quick wedding weekend turned into an adventure of a lifetime. What’s shocking to me is that I had such low expectations to begin with. I blame my friend Tom Bassett who only ever described Africa to me as a “fun time.” When I pressed him, Tom would just shake his head and remark, “I can’t explain it, there’s just something about Africa. You’ll like it.” That’s not really much to go on.

And even when other people would recount to me their safari adventures, it never sounded like anything that spectacular. Just the usual “Lions, tigers and bears, oh my” sort of descriptions. I remember thinking to myself “Have these people never watched Animal Planet? Can’t you get the same experience from watching television?” Well, turns out the answer is no.

 

This is why mere words are not enough to adequately describe Africa. Every time you turn around, you see sights like this.

 

On our final night Handsome Steve and Shy Harold organized an outdoor cocktail party under the stars for us. They pulled out all the stops like this outdoor “powder room” complete with porcelain sinks and fresh towels.

 

Having a knowledgeable and entertaining guide is imperative to a good safari. If he also happens to be good looking, and can make a mean gin and tonic, all the better!

 

Even though our “cocktail party” consisted of nothing more than a few drinks, and simple snacks like freshly cooked South African sausages, homemade potato chips, and dried mango-it far surpassed any fancy 5th Avenue penthouse affair.

 

These lions were so close they actually touched our fender as they walked by. This is why Animal Planet cannot compete with the real thing.

 

And these funny water buffalo hip bumping one another made us laugh. The Abbott and Costello of the jungle.

 

We even saw the elusive leopard taking a leisurely nap in a tree. Don’t be fooled though, these animals are fierce predators.

 

They are also unbelievably smart and strong. See this carcass hanging from a tree? That’s the handiwork of the leopard. He kills his prey, then drags the body high into a tree so that other predators cannot steal his kill before he is finished eating it.

 

High powered binoculars are a must because we looked for not just big things but even tiny tiny animals like bush babies and minuscule birds.

 

We traveled in these high end fully kitted out land cruisers that can take on any kind of terrain.

 

Our guides spoiled us making “Ranger Specials” (hot coffee spiked with Amarula) every morning for us…and always with proper tablecloths too.

 

It wasn’t alway “Go, go, go!” At times we stopped just to enjoy the surrounding landscape and cool morning breezes.

 

Angela and I at the local watering hole in our matching safari hats. Even though the boys mocked us mercilessly, we were glad to have them. They are a must on safari.

 

Three days on safari and I fancy myself an expert tracker. Accompanied by my driver, Handsome Brian, I search for the Big Five.

 

After the morning game drive, we return to camp and relax in any of the beautifully decorated spaces to read or nap.

 

Angela and I even chilled out in the fabulous lodge pool one hot afternoon.

 

The pool is actually three pools each at a different temperature. And just like Goldilocks you can find one that is “just right” for you.

 

Then it’s time for lunch in the gorgeous dining room.

 

It’s really fun to meet other guests and trade stories with one another. Our friends, Thomas and Joan, from Scotland are in their 80’s and traveling the world. I hope this is Brian and me when we get to this age.

 

And then we get ready for another thrilling game drive. At over 36,000 acres, there is no way we can see it all or get bored here in Ngala.

 

And the sights are just unreal…like this huge lion who was just lying in the sun taking a nap right in front of us.

 

We go from the biggest animals to the smallest learning all kinds of wonderful things about them.

 

But it’s not just animals we see. Handsome Steve shows us the Marula nut from which my new favorite drink is made from. Angela and I even eat the Marula and love it. Brian thought it was terrible, and Tom would not even try it.

 

And we learn about herbs. This is called Bushman Fever Tea and is used as medicine. It is a wonderfully fragrant leaf that smells like a cross between lemon and eucalyptus.

 

We drive over anything…crossing through river beds, jungle, and steep cliffs.

 

And even when we don’t see any animals, it doesn’t matter. Just the unending vista before you takes your breath away.

 

So really, how do you adequately describe the African safari experience? I think for me, I will always remember Africa as the love of a shared experience…to a destination unknown…

 

…for an adventure beyond!

Destination weddings are great fun for two reasons. Usually the destination is pretty awesome, and with the exception of the wedding, guests are pretty much left to their own devices for entertainment.

Since the ceremony did not start until late afternoon, we all decided to visit a cheetah reserve for fun. I have to admit this is not really my idea of fun. I have a healthy respect, bordering on fear of most animals, so seeing hundreds of them all congregated in one place, locked up in homemade fences is not really my cup of tea. But I was wrong.

It was a perfect day for a wedding in South Africa.

 

The bride and groom are radiant.

 

Maria was so beautiful. It brought tears to my eyes.

 

The chapel was built high up to accentuate the marvelous views. It was so high, I felt as though they were getting married in the clouds.

 

So lucky to get to share in Paul and Maria’s special day.

 

After the wedding, cocktails were served on the lawn.

 

Nothing like a wedding to make you sappy for your husband.

 

Saudi selfie!

 

And then it was time for the entertainment.

 

African tribal dancers gave us an incredible singing and dancing performance.

 

And I even revealed my Zulu inner self to the world.

 

A lavish reception ensued, followed by more dancing and partying well into the night.

 

Best wishes and congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Key!

 

Earlier in the day we went to a Cheetah and Endangered Animal Reserve. Even though it rained, the weather could not dampen our spirits.

 

This sign however, made me less than excited.

 

There are less than 8,000 cheetahs left in existence, and this reserve cares for and tries to breed over 100 of them.

 

The Egyptian vulture is completely extinct in Africa. This is the bird that is seen depicted in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. They are only found in Egypt and one other country nowadays.

 

Wild dogs are the second most endangered species in the world. There are less than 400 left in existence. They are the most successful hunters of all the predators including lions, tigers, etc…killing over 99% of all their prey.

 

Look at this! Cheetahs are so much bigger in person than on television. This one was almost as big as a table.

 

You can’t tell, but I am totally scared in this picture. Cheetah tip: Never pet a cheetah’s stomach because they are very ticklish.

 

And don’t get too close to them while they are eating.

 

This is a spotted hyena. “Aren’t they supposed to be ugly?” Yes, they do turn ugly after one years old. This one is just a puppy, so it’s still cute. But don’t let this adorable face fool you. They are vicious, and can actually kill lions just like in “Lion King.” Mustafa is real.

 

There is so much to do in South Africa, but it’s hard to tear yourself away from just sitting and taking in surroundings.

 

 

Brian and I have been lucky enough to be invited to a wedding in South Africa this weekend. A chance of a lifetime right? And yet I initially declined, not because I don’t love Paul and his bride, but because I know for a fact that Africa is full of monkeys 🐒.

But Brian was determined to go. And in order to “sweeten” the deal, he upgraded us to business class. This turned out to be a great idea because Africa is actually enormous and very far away. It took us 16 hours to fly to Johannesburg! That is almost as long as it takes to fly to the United States!

 

This lounge is actually two stories high with super sized over the top architectural details like this magnificent staircase. Brian however, is really only interested in the bar which also happens to be massive.

 

Getting ready to board at 3:00 am, and happy to be with our friends Tom and Angela Bassett. But then who wouldn’t be
happy? We just spent a delicious three hours at the lounge bar with unlimited free alcohol and are completely kid free.

 

Flying at 3:00 am after working all day is no fun. Qatar Airways tries to ease the suffering with complimentary pajamas and convertible seats that turn into beds.

 

It feels weird to wear pajamas on the plane, but it’s actually great for late night flights. We were so tired, everyone skipped the inflight meal (who wants to eat a five course meal at 3:00 am anyways?), and just went right to sleep.

 

Arriving in Johannesburg and my first elephant sighting. And while the the airport is quite modern, Passport Control was torturously slow and painful. It was worse than Saudi-and that is saying a lot.

 

Of course we had to make a detour to Duty Free where I got a chance to discover one of Africa’s most famous specialties-Amarulla. This local drink is made from the nut of the Marulla tree and tastes remarkably like Baileys. We immediately buy two bottles.

 

We are staying at a fabulous destination wedding hotel/venue sight called Leopard Lodge.

 

It’s high in the mountains lush and green with all manner of plants, trees, and vegetation.

 

The hotel is well decorated and designed to seamlessly blend the exterior and interior spaces together.

 

I really love the African style architecture combined with the carefully manicured lawns.

 

It’s a dichotomy of styles – linen tablecloths and antique silverware juxtaposed with grass roofs and gravel floors.

 

This beautiful patio is enclosed with a canopy of trees overlooking spectacular mountains and a gorgeous lake. It’s like you are inside and outside at the same time!

 

All the Saudi guests exhausted from the long journey, but thrilled to be here.

 

On our way to our room which turned out to be a lovely cottage nestled among the trees.

 

Our home is this very rustic abode made of wood and straw. It reminds me of the Three Little Pigs!

 

Beautiful with simple furniture, wood floors and grass roof, it is elevated and almost like living in a treehouse.

 

The view however, is anything but simple. From our balcony, the mountains and lake welcome us to Africa.

 

The girls at the rehearsal dinner. We are treated to a traditional African braii. This means barbecue!

 

The location could not be more lovely. Brian and I taking a stroll and enjoying the night air. Even though it’s summer, the temperature is very pleasant and in the mid 80s.

 

We got to try all kinds of African specialties which I have never had before, but thoroughly enjoyed.

 

Even the youngest guests had a nice time.

 

Brian with the bride and groom and their adorable son.

 

Here barbecue or braii is taken very seriously. This resulted in an amazing feast with all kinds of grilled meats and other delicious offerings.

 

And for the first time I tried Pap. It looks like mashed potatoes, but is actually corn that has been ground to powder and cooked. It’s delicious and a daily staple in Africa.

 

South Africa is also known for its wines. We indulged in many fine varieties all evening long.

 

The boys enjoying the excellent food and drinks.

 

We stayed up late into the night celebrating Paul and Maria’s upcoming nuptials, in this very beautiful place.

 

And then it was back to our cozy cabin to relax and enjoy our first night in Africa. So far I love it! And the best part…not a single monkey in sight!