Tuesday 9/5/17 Johannesburg

Yesterday was a long day of being on the plane.  We got up early and went to breakfast at the hotel before getting on the airport shuttle at 6:20.  We got to the airport in plenty of time - Lana even had enough time to do a little shopping!!!  Our flight to Africa was long, but smooth.  I sat next to a couple from Amsterdam going on holiday to South Africa.  They were being brave to rent a car and go traveling on their own.  Lana sat next to a young man from South Africa who gave her a few tips on local dining specialities.  Our OAT driver, Gordon, met us at the airport and made sure we were all set with the hotel before leaving.  I must say, OAT does a lovely job of taking care of their guests.  Gordon told a few funny stories about things that have happened while looking for animals in the bush.  In one of them, he picked up a woman for a drive to a bush camp and asked her if there was anything she needed before their drive.  She mentioned that she needed a new hairbrush.  He said that was fine, but what happened to your old one.  She said that a baboon stole it!  He said she could have easily gotten it back by looking for the most well groomed baboon in the bunch. Our room was lovely and we were tired, but I did have a little trouble falling to sleep, but when I did, I was out for the count!  I can't give you any impressions of the country as it was dark when we got in last night and from looking out the window this morning, the view is of any anonymous city.  Later this morning we will fly to our first safari camp so am looking forward to getting out into the bush n seeing some of the country.  I do have to say that the breakfast buffet at the Protea Hotel here is extensive.  There were various stations for omelets, bread, juices, fruits, sushi, etc.  Your finished plate was whisked away as soon as you ate your last bite.  The staff is well trained and very friendly - lots of big smiles.  So . . . if there is wifi at Thornybush, I will get back on to let you know what happens to the rest of the day.