Though this is not on the typical tourist track, we were so blessed to spend time with our friends (second family) in their village of Kirchenthumbach. The time was much too short, but we made the most of every moment, climbing up to the lookout tower on the mountain behind their home for views that reached all the way to the Czech Republic and even Slovakia.
We also happened to time our visit with an annual celebration at one of the nearby castles, complete with a traditional medieval market and fire show. This place was amazing- not many tourists here, but lots of great food, medieval shops (my 9 year old bought a wooden crossbow that seemed more realistic weapon than toy) and as I say, a wonderful evening show.
It was so incredibly hard to say goodbye after a short visit, but we were grateful for the time we had with them, next time I hope to make it much longer!
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
1 day ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.