Johannesburg, South Africa (March 11-12)

The flight from Seattle to Washington D.C. to Dakar (Senegal) to Johannesburg was fairly comfortable since I flew business class on South African Airlines.  They really know how to treat their passengers and I was quite surprised by the level of attention we received.  The seats have multiple adjusters for every part of the body and also had massage!  When you get on the flight they come around several times offering cocktails (I was very good and only had one glass of champagne), then they set your tray with linen and silverware and serve four courses!  Yes, I sound like a country bumpkin:)  After dinner, they literally pull out the comforters, turn your seat into a bed and tuck you in for the night...never experienced anything like this before.

 I met a lady from South Africa (currently living in Marysville) at SeaTac airport named Jenny.  She told about experiencing the end of aparteid and was very compassionate.  We hung out all the way to Jo'Burg.  When we got to our layover at Dulles, we got to hang out in the S.A. VIP lounge...free food and drink...really nice!

I also met a lovely flight attendant on the plane named Faith Nseula who is from Malawi.  We exchanged contact information and hope to meet in Malawi.   People are so friendly and kind, I have been able to relax and not be sad about the purpose of my travels.  I felt safe and blessed the entire way.  I only wish I looked as fresh and pretty as Faith after many hours in the air...oh well, we are all given different gifts.

I was met at the airport by a lady named Dorothee (she is French) who drove me 50 kilometers to Klip-Els.  She is also going to be taking me to the aparteid museum today and back to the airport on Saturday, all for a reasonable fee.  My cousin Shareen is meeting me tonight and taking me to dinner.  I can't wait to see her!!

Here is a photo of the adorable cottage I am staying in.  This place is incredibly beautiful and peaceful.  I found it on the internet and could not ask for more comfortable accomodations and helpful staff, for a reasonable fee (about $80 per night!)

 I had an English breakfast in the rondavel a traditional South African thatched house.

Dorothy is here and we're off to the aparteid museum!  Hugs and love!