What a day! We slept in until 1015 and almost missed bfast. A bit of sun bathing next to the pool, lunch then we met our safari driver Alfred and our two fellow travellers romi and Jenny who are lovely.

A two hour drive to lake manyara took us past many Masai, the local tribe who adjourn themselves In bright red. They herd cattle across the area, and our attention was Drawn to young Masai with their faces painted black and White.

Alfred told us they were 14 yr olds who went to spend 2 weeks with the adults to become men. This is a time of proving themselves and culminates with their circumcision. This involves them standing in a cold river for two hours as part of a supposed attempt at anaesthetic before the deed is done. The youngster then returns to the tribe a man, although "walking like John Wayne" probably doesn't quite cover it !

Alfred also told us of one Masai tribesman who had 30 wives, he would spend one day of the month with each and had about 100 children.

With regard to the Masai I couldn't see the circumcision catching on but the wive thing had potential!!

We drove up a steep incline given by the rift valley which lead to our lodge. What a place, we are lead to our lodge which had a balcony overlooking lake manyra from 4029 feet.

At reception our driver tried to coax me straight into the bar to watch the man utd Liverpool game, not exactly what you expect here in the middle of africa.

I declined so I could head to the room where LO and I enjoyed a honeymoon cake left for us by staff.

We then Went for a dip in the infinite pool which had the most spectacular view over the valley and lake below.

How could I even consider football with such a spectacle on show!

Well safe to say I was in the bar by the start of the second half cheering and whooping with staff who also supported man utd!!

Dinner that evening was incredible with champagne and roses supplied complementary to the honeymooners.

An early night tho as our game drive starts at 8 tomorrow followed by a long 5 hour drive to the Serengeti national park.