Today was a long day. I made the mistake of working out (which means getting up pretty early). I worked pretty hard on my legs so I kind of felt weak the entire day.
I made sure we were at the airport pretty early. For the Missoula airport, an hour is usually pretty good. We were there about an hour too early. I guess one can never be too careful.
After a nice breakfast we were off. I have decided that I hate flying. I am not scared or anything. I just hate that for an entire day, a person is forced to breathe recycled air, touch and even sleep on things that numerous other people have touched throughout the last 24 hours and that one must smell jet fuel every flight they board. I think that is were half of my hate for flying comes; the smell of jet fuel. In fact, it was so strong when we took off from Salt Lake that I got sick. It was kind of embarrassing. Plus, I haven't done that since I was 12 years old. Now I understand that flying is a necessary part of travel and I like to travel so I guess the price of flying is worth it.
Needless to say, I was very happy when we landed in Atlanta and overnighted there. It was nice to have the break as I know on the way home; it will be an even longer day. We got the shuttle to the hotel and took a taxi to Ruby Tuesday's. After a nice meal and a little Monday night football, we were set to rest for the evening. I am so excited for our trip. I just can't wait to get done flying and finally get there!
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.