So I promised myself to wake up this morning at six in order to make up for going to bed at 9pm. Eleven hours later, we finally awoke at 8am and headed down to breakfast. I think we may have needed the rest because we only slept for 30 minutes here and there on the redeye flight yesterday. Nine didn't seem so early either when it gets dark between six and seven.
The continental breakfast was simple but so good - toast or fresh baked muffins with fresh squeezed juice and coffee. Then we hopped on one of the shuttles into town to explore a little. Funny thing was that we didn't see as many people as we expected. It was hot out and we realized that at this time of day before noon most people were out on excursions in the water or smart enough to stay in the shade.
Back at Victoria House, we ate lunch and relaxed again in the sun. It was nice to see that there was such a variety of patrons at the hotel - newlyweds, older couples, young families, single travelers, a group for a family reunion, and Gene Simmons with the lovely Shannon Tweed. He waved to us all and bid us a good day as they carried out his luggage. Excitement for the day! Back to my book and soaking in the sun on the beach.
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.