Askari Lodge and Spa, South Africa

      Here is a big fellow we met at Askari Lodge and Spa to the Northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa. There are very comfortable chalets around a pool and pond, as well as a large lodge for meetings. Askari means "mentor" or someone older and wiser who teaches you about life. Indeed, the animal reserve and facilities are designed to do just that. There are game drives and expert guides. If that is not for you, there is a spa. They also host weddings in a lovely chapel. But, don't confuse its four-star amenities with a lack of seeing the animals of southern Africa. This is a facility in the wild with animals walking around. There is a strong security force to protect you and the animals there. While we also went out in tents in the Kalahari, there was plenty to experience in a more civilized setting.