Roughing it easy

After spending 3days in Cape Town, Jim and I flew east to Port Elizabeth. It's funny flying outside of the states where we practically strip naked everytime we fly and a filled waterbottle is a potential weapon. No such rules here. We cautiously boarded the "circa 1974 hand-me-down 737" and drank our water bottles with impunity. Apparently the pilots don't follow the US rules either as we used every inch of the runway for both the take off and landing. After touching down we rented a car and set off to view some wildlife. Nothing like driving a manual on the left side of the road! Our destination was the Bukela Game Lodge. Upon arrival we were greeted by no less than 3 staff who promptly provided us with warm towels and a refreshing beverage. This lodge was a bit over the top--even for two guys who were used to Business Class. Our every whim is catered to by the all too accomodating staff. Twice a day game drives are arranged to allow the guests a chance to see the local animals. When not on a drive, time is spent lounging around a tranquil pool, sipping the drink of your choice or in our case: going mtn biking iin the countryside. Think no cobras! The guests (only 6 others) rolled their eyes at the lycra clad yanks. However, our race was the talk of dinner (you're doing what? Why would you want to do that to yourself?) After dinner the staff honored us with a native song to instill us with courage for our race (of course since we couldn't understand their language Jim and I were pretty sure they were saying something about crazy Americans with shaved legs and far too tight clothing). Anyway we've been having quite a nice time and have seen 3 of the big 5 (elephant rhino buffalo lion leopard) but the big cats have alluded us thus far. Perhaps tomorrow's game drive will prove fruitful. All for now.