Kenya bound

So we're soon escaping our winter wonderland for a warmer holiday celebration in Kenya.

We're going upscale, starting with our business class flight. We're using miles, and the miles difference between coach and fully reclinable business class plus access to business class lounge made it a no brainer.

A night at the Sarah Ford Youth Hostel and Bordello in London will find us at the Mall Tavern near Notting Hill Gate breaking bread with various and sundry lowlifes and deadbeats that we know in London.

A short 9 hour flight the next day and we'll be in Kenya.

Nairobi means Chez Bender for 2 nights, then off to the granddaddy of Masai Mara camps, located on the spot where the former British colonial governors (hence the name) and purportedly Teddy Roosevelt chose to set up camp way back when, and the area where Big Cat Diary is filmed.

Then to John and Katrina's wedding in Gilgil, between Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha, staying at Malewa Ranch.

Two days later, we meet back up with the Benders just down the road at Malu Lodge (careful, there's music) for Christmas before heading back home.

Lots of moves. But then, lots to see and do as well.

So it's upscale, but that's only because I have an ulterior motive in convincing Katherine (although she's already convinced) that we should consider a tour somewhere in Africa.

And, because we have insiders working on our behalf, we aren't paying near the costs listed on the websites. It's not what you know, it's who you know, ya know?

And so, come year end, we'll have photos of elephants and lions and whatnot...and maybe a monkey or two.