We all gathered again in the lecture room
There was much to learn in this briefing today
As we were going to have our first Antarctica landing
The start of great things that will surely come our way
That meant one thing, and one thing only
We are getting closer to Antarctica, for sure
And looming in the distance was a majestic scene
Dramatic, high-cliffed mountains resting on a black shore
Our first landing, penguin colonies were everywhere
And we couldn't believe how deep the snow was when stepping-off the shore
But we didn't hesitate to follow Jenny on this difficult snow path
To see another scenic view, and one worth waiting for
Seals were cuddled together
In a truly magnificent bay
We were surrounded my majestic mountains
And all around us, enormous rocks jetting every which way
What a great day it was
Our first landing with the Aurora crew
We were up close and personal with penguins and seals
A photographer's dream come true
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.