GEM - Four Seasons Serengeti, Tanzania

Watering hole - The moment I arrived (and coming from a tented camp) I felt like I had reached an oasis in the middle of the desert. Sitting on the beautiful leather chairs while enjoying a cold beverage, I went through the check-in process.  I was escorted to my room with unsurpassed views of the Serengeti Plains on my balcony, feeling as though I was the only on there.  I returned to the main lodge and explored the amazing artwork including a wall of handmade baskets and then settled into the library with it's dark wood, pool table and chess, all with a colonial feel. I then ventured out to the pool, had a local beer and gazed onto the plain noticing a herd of elephants coming to the watering hole just in front of the pool. My jaw dropped as I enjoyed my beverage while watching these magnificent creatures. I also shared an incredible moment as it was my birthday and was surprised at dinner with a Masai tribe serenading me with a song ending with their version of happy birthday. As I was presented with a cake, I fought back tears and finally understood the phrase 'You first head to Africa because of the animals, but you return because of the people'.