As our older son, Will, is currently in school in Boston, we were scheduled to leave from 2 different destinations, meeting in Dallas, and flying the 8 hour trip to Lima together. We had a small delay in the flight out of Dallas, and as a result, arrived in Lima somewhat after midnight.
Our younger son, Brent, has taught himself Espanol, as many of his college friends were from Spanish speaking countries, and he became our spokesman for the family. He was very valuable, but really, we had enough contacts arranged by A-L, that we would have functioned fine without this bonus. The cab driver that was arranged for us, was there waiting for us, and took us the 30 minute ride over to Mira Flores, speaking ''rapido espanol'' the entire trip.
Arrived at the hotel around 4:00 AM, which made for a trip of about 16 hours from our driveway to the bed in our hotel.
Concerns:
Language --- no problem so far
Taxis --- had read about caution for these, but found at the airport, or the hotel, was just not a problem
Highs: --- Seeing our son. We had not seen him since Christmas
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.