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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!
It’s hard to believe that less than a month ago we were in the North Pole, and now we are literally at the opposite ends of the earth. And the Murphys are spread out over three continents right now, as Olivia is staying home, while the girls are still in boarding school. Who would have guessed that just a few years ago we would be living this kind of life? It’s an adventure for sure that we feel very grateful to experience.
Due to a three hour layover, we were forced � to bide our time in the biggest Business Class lounge I have ever seen. I was in awe over the enormous fountain behind us. It’s as big as a tennis court, and covers nearly the entire first floor.
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!